5 Simple and Affordable Sustainable Hair & Beauty Swaps

When it comes to sustainable living, small swaps in our daily routines can make a significant impact.

The beauty industry often relies on, toxic ingredients, synthetic fragrances and single-use plastic packaging – but with a few intentional choices, you can elevate your routine, protect the environment, and embrace healthier, toxin-free alternatives. So, here are five sustainable hair and beauty swaps that I love and use daily:

1. Glass Nail File

Why it’s better: Unlike traditional emery boards that wear out quickly and are often thrown away, glass nail files do not wear down so are endlessly reusable. They’re made from tempered glass, which is gentler on nails and prevents splitting or peeling.

Benefits:

• Eco-friendly: No more disposable files cluttering landfills.
• Healthier: Provides a smooth finish, reducing the risk of nail damage.
• Affordable: A one-time purchase that lasts for years.

Tip: Store your glass nail file in its protective case to keep it in top condition for the long haul.

2. Oil Cleanser

Why it’s better: Many commercial cleansers contain harsh chemicals that strip your skin of its natural oils. Oil cleansing uses natural plant-based oils to gently dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while nourishing your skin. If you have oily or spot-prone skin, don’t worry—“like dissolves like.” Using non-comedogenic oils like almond oil or sunflower oil can actually help reduce the appearance of pores without clogging them. Personally, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the visibility of my pores since switching to oil cleansing.

Benefits:

• Eco-friendly: Skip the plastic bottles and choose oils sold in glass or refillable packaging.
• Healthier: Free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and sulfates. Natural oils are also rich in vitamins and antioxidants that are great for your skin.
• Affordable: Multipurpose oils like jojoba, almond, or sunflower oil work perfectly and are may already in your pantry. Many oils, such as sunflower oil, are also very budget-friendly, making them accessible for everyone.

How to use: Massage a small amount of oil onto dry skin, then wipe off with a damp reusable cotton pad or washcloth.

3. DIY Deodorant

Why it’s better: Conventional deodorants are packaged in plastic and often contain questionable ingredients like pthalates and synthetic fragrances. DIY deodorant is easy to make at home with just a few natural ingredients – many of which can be found in your kitchen cupboard!

Benefits:

• Eco-friendly: Zero-waste when stored in a reusable jar.
• Healthier: Avoids toxins and synthetic fragrances.
• Affordable: Made with pantry staples like coconut oil, baking soda, and cornstarch.

Try my recipe for DIY Deodorant here!

Pro tip: Add a few drops of essential oils for a natural scent.

4. Oil Heat Protectant

Why it’s better: Many heat protectants come in aerosol cans or plastic packaging and contain silicones that can build up on hair. A natural oil, like almond or avocado oil, can double as a heat protectant without the waste.

Benefits:

• Eco-friendly: No single-use plastic packaging.
• Healthier: Free from silicones, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances. They are also nourishing and can help repair dry and damaged hair.
• Affordable: A little goes a long way, making it cost-effective.

How to use: Apply a very small amount of oil to damp hair from mid-length to ends before styling.

5. DIY Dry Shampoo

Why it’s better: Aerosol dry shampoos often come in non-recyclable packaging and can contain synthetic fragrances and harmful propellants. A DIY version is completely natural and actually, works better too.

Benefits:

• Eco-friendly: Zero-waste when stored in a reusable jar.
• Healthier: No artificial fragrances, talc, or toxic propellants.
• Affordable: Made with just a few kitchen ingredients like cornstarch & cocoa powder (for darker hair).

Check out my recipe for DIY Dry Shampoo here!

Tip: Apply with a makeup brush for precise application and blend with your hair brush. You can also add it to a pepper shaker.

Small Swaps, Big Impact

Transitioning to sustainable beauty doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With these five swaps, you can reduce waste, embrace non-toxic alternatives, and save money while still treating yourself to effective, nourishing products. Each choice you make is a step toward a healthier home and planet.

Which of these swaps are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your results!