6 Simple Sustainable Beauty Swaps For A Greener Autumn

Most of us have enjoyed the long hot summer, which made a welcome change from the disappointing wet seasons we’ve seen in recent years. Whatever you make of the record breaking temperatures and torrential downpours, the more extreme and unpredictable climate is a reminder of the challenges of global warming.

We can all make a difference to the future of the planet in our daily choices: these might seem insignificant, but collectively small actions become powerful. As we reset our routines for September, it’s an ideal time to rethink how sustainable our everyday choices are,  including the beauty products we use.

The beauty industry is notorious for its environmental footprint. From single-use plastics to harsh chemical formulations, many products leave behind a trail that affects not only our skin and hair but also the planet. 

However, making small, conscious swaps doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated, and is often much better news for the condition of your skin and hair. If you’re ready to embrace greener habits this autumn, here are some simple yet effective changes you can make.

Switch to plant-based, vegan skincare

The first step in a sustainable routine is choosing plant-based, cruelty-free products. Animal testing and animal-derived ingredients not only harm animals but also carry a heavier environmental toll. By choosing Vegan Society registered and certified cruelty-free products, you’re supporting brands that value ethical beauty from start to finish.

Plant-based formulations are rich in natural antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, making them highly effective without the need for synthetic fillers. Plus, vegan body products are gentle on sensitive or mature skin, which often craves more nourishment as the weather cools.

Choose refillable or recyclable packaging

Every year, billions of plastic beauty containers end up in landfill. Autumn is a great time to switch to products packaged in glass, aluminium, or biodegradable materials. Some brands now offer refill schemes, which allow you to keep the original container and simply replenish the product inside.

Look out for products that make recycling easy: pump-free bottles, aluminium caps, or biodegradable tubes. When packaging is designed with circular use in mind, your beauty routine can stay just as luxurious while being kinder to the planet.

Phase out single-use beauty tools

From cotton pads to disposable wipes, single-use beauty tools are one of the biggest sources of waste in daily routines. This autumn, replace them with reusable alternatives.

• Reusable cotton rounds are soft, washable, and last for years.

• Bamboo face cloths are eco-friendly, naturally antibacterial, and work beautifully with gentle cleansers.

• Silicone applicators can replace disposable sponges or plastic spatulas.

Not only do these swaps save money in the long run, but they also cut down on unnecessary waste heading to landfill.

Opt for multipurpose products

Autumn tends to bring busier schedules as schools and universities start a new term, and businesses prepare for the most profitable quarter of the year. Multipurpose products simplify your routine while reducing the number of items you need to buy and store.

For example, nourishing balms can work as lip care, hand cream, and cuticle rescue in one. A lightweight oil can double as both a facial treatment and a smoothing hair serum. Fewer products mean fewer bottles, less packaging, and less waste overall.

Prioritise waterless or low-water formulations

Many traditional shampoos, cleansers, and lotions are up to 80 per cent water, and a drain on a resource that is becoming increasingly scarce. Furthermore, processing and shipping water-heavy formulas adds to the industry’s carbon footprint.

This season, consider switching to waterless concentrates like shampoo bars, solid cleansers, or powdered masks. These products are highly effective, long-lasting, and significantly reduce packaging. Plus, they’re ideal for travel if you’re planning autumn getaways.

Support transparent, ethical brands

Not all “natural” or “eco-friendly” claims are equal. Greenwashing — when companies market themselves as sustainable without true commitment or demonstrable proof — is widespread in the beauty industry. A key swap to make this autumn is choosing to support brands that provide full transparency.

Look for certifications like Vegan Society, Cruelty Free International, or Soil Association Organic. Brands that openly share their sourcing, ingredient lists, and sustainability commitments are more likely to be making a genuine difference.

By making simple swaps in your autumn beauty routine, you can protect the planet, support ethical businesses, and nurture your skin and hair at the same time.

Whether it’s switching to vegan skincare, choosing refillable packaging, or adopting multipurpose products, every conscious choice adds up. This September, take the season of change as an opportunity to refresh your beauty habits in a way that’s both eco-friendly and empowering.