Zero waste skin exfoliating soaps and creams

As we age, our skin cells turn over less and less, and all dermatologists say that regular exfoliation is a good idea. In most cases, more important than moisturiser. This can be done in two ways:

Kleen exfoliating soap (handmade in Kent) is vegan with no palm oil, and sold in zero waste packaging. It also has an integrated rope, to hang in the shower.  So no need for a slatted soap dish.

Avoid shea butter for allergies (choose unscented creams for pregnancy/nursing).

If used, wash off items containing cocoa butter or zinc oxide (in sunscreens, deodorants, cosmetics) off skin before letting pets kiss you.

If your kerbside doesn’t recycle, recycle beauty packaging (including pipettes) at Boots or Superdrug stores. 

Physical exfoliation can be as simple as using a facecloth or loofah (on your body). Or it can include made products like scrubs made with exfoliating ingredients from oats to coffee grains.

Chemical exfoliation is a bit more advanced. It likely has better results, but you have to be careful as some brands use a lot of chemicals. You’ll likely see these listed as AHA or retinol creams.

Sbtrct solid skin exfoliator (plastic-free)

SBTRCT solid willow bar facial exfoliator is a zero waste bar sold in sustainable packaging, made with natural ingredients. Created by the former execute of Bulldog Skincare, he decided to create his own zero waste vegan beauty brand, which has fabulous reviews.

This is made with willow bark (a gentler alternative to salicylic acid) and upcycled rice powder, to lift away dead skin cells and decongest pores. Buy the starter kit, then just refills after.