[BE:SSOBLY]How to Dispose of Cosmetics: The Complete Guide to Recycling Makeup and Skincare Waste Responsibly
Do you know how to properly dispose of your used cosmetics?
Simply knowing the correct method of disposal can make a significant difference for the environment. This article provides a clear and responsible guide to cosmetic waste separation and recycling.
Does the disposal method vary depending on the type of cosmetic?
Yes. Disposal depends not on the product contents, but on the material of the packaging.
Examples include: plastic, glass, metal, paper, aluminum, etc.
- Check the material and separate accordingly.
How should cosmetics be thrown away?
- Check the recycling mark on the bottom or back of the container.
- Decide between recycling and general waste: If marked recyclable, separate accordingly; if not, dispose of as general waste.
♻️ This mark is the key criterion.
Should the contents be emptied?
Yes. Recyclable containers must be emptied first, especially lotions or creams.
Remaining contents should be absorbed with tissue or newspaper and thrown into general waste. Avoid pouring them into the sink or toilet, as ingredients like surfactants or preservatives can pollute water.
How should you clean the container?
Instead of rinsing with water, it’s better to wipe with dry tissue or cloth to prevent the release of microplastics and chemicals into water systems.
🚫 Avoid washing cosmetic residues down the drain.
Disposal Tips by Container Type
Tube (e.g., sunscreen, hand cream)
- Squeeze out remaining product, cut open the tube, and wipe the inside.
- Some tubes contain aluminum—check the material.
Stick-type (e.g., lipstick, lip balm)
- Freeze for 1–2 hours to remove contents easily.
- Often mixed materials; separate as much as possible.
Powder-type (e.g., eyeshadow, blush)
- Mix leftover powder with a bit of oil before disposal to reduce airborne dust.
- Brushes go to general waste; packaging depends on the material.
Pump-type (e.g., shampoo, cleanser)
- Pumps are typically non-recyclable → general waste.
- Main container can be wiped and recycled (avoid overuse of water).
Aerosol (e.g., mist, hairspray)
- Release gas completely before disposal. Puncture the can if necessary.
- Main body goes to metal recycling; plastic cap should be separated.
How long can you use expired cosmetics?
Cosmetics can easily breed bacteria due to their water and oil content. Products applied to lips or eyes require careful hygiene.
- Lip products (lipstick, tint, etc.): Use within 6 months
- Eyeliner, mascara: Within 6 months, as they touch the eye mucosa
- Skincare products (toner, lotion): Within 1 year after opening
- Essence: Within 6 months due to concentrated nutrition
-
Discard immediately if discoloration, clumping, or odor occurs
What if there’s a lot of product left?
- Lipstick: Can be used to polish silver items
- Toner/Skin: Effective for cleaning glass or mirrors
- Sunscreen: Useful for removing sticker residue
- Essence/Lotion: Can restore shine on leather bags
- Eyeshadow: Reusable in DIY crafts or card decorating
⚠️ Only reuse if the product is in good condition. Expired items should be discarded.
Environmentally Conscious Product Choices
Not only ingredients, but packaging waste is a major environmental issue. BE:SSOBLY introduces products with sustainable packaging and ingredients.
BE:SSOBLY Product Example
- Jeju Botanical Sunscreen SPF50+ PA+++ 50ml
- Plastic is used only for the cap, while the body is made from specially processed paper, allowing disposal as general waste.
Choosing eco-friendly packaging is a small but meaningful way to reduce environmental impact.
Before throwing away cosmetics, take a moment to follow proper disposal practices—it benefits both your home and the planet.