The cosmetics industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, making it apparent that women (and men too!) are very self-conscious of their physical appearance. But the truth is that most of us have never given thought to how our daily beauty regimen may be affecting the environment or our bodies. Although the bathroom is often considered a sanctuary for some, it may be exposing you to more dangers than you’re even aware of! Now you can learn how to turn your bathroom into the perfect safe-haven by incorporating these simple tips for a more green beauty routine:
1. Conserve Water
About 75% of the planet’s surface is covered with water but only 1% is available for the human population. Needless to say, it is important for everyone to conserve as much water as possible – especially in the bathroom, where 70% of our water consumption occurs. Conserve water by limiting your shower time and turning off the water while brushing your teeth. Not only will you save a few extra dollars on your water utility bill, you’ll be saving gallons worth of water too (A four-minute shower uses approximately 20 to 40 gallons of water!) In addition, you may want to consider investing in a low-flow shower head which will cost you only $10.
2. Save Energy
Instead of using ordinary light bulbs in the bathroom, switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, if every U.S. household replaced just one regular incandescent light bulb with a compact fluorescent light bulb, it would prevent 90 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, the equivalent of taking 7.5 million cars off the road. Not only do compact fluorescent light bulbs use approximately 75 to 80 percent less electricity, they last up to ten times longer than incandescent bulbs
3. Avoid Disposables
Did you know that 2 billion disposable razors end up in U.S. landfills each year? To minimize the impact on the environment, use reusable and refillable razors rather than plastic disposable razors which are non-biodegradable. Using a reusable razor rather than disposable ones turns out to be cheaper in the long run and provides less clutter in the bathroom. In addition, when applying makeup, use your fingers and/or brushes rather than disposable sponges and q-tips. Many makeup artists prefer to use their fingers for blending in foundation, cream eyeshadow, and even lipgloss because they can reach tiny places with ease and they provide a smooth looking finish. Word of warning: make sure your fingers are clean before touching your face!
4. Recycle makeup containers
Instead of just tossing that empty plastic compact into the trash, inquire and take part in a makeup recycling program. MAC has a “Back to MAC” recycling program which allows you to trade in six MAC containers for a free lipstick of your choice. These aren’t cheap lipsticks either ladies – each lipstick normally sells for $14, so all the more incentive to recycle! You can also contact your local drug store, beauty store, or recycling center to see if they accept any empty makeup containers.
5. Cruelty-Free Cosmetics
Every year, cosmetics companies kill millions of animals to test their products. However, the FDA does not require animal testing for cosmetics, and alternative testing methods are widely available. Support brands such as Avon, The Body Shop, and Mary Kay, who use humane non-animal testing methods to ensure the safety of their cosmetics. Click here http://search.caringconsumer.com/ to find a complete list of companies that do and do not test on animals. In addition, look out for the Leaping Bunny Logo on the packaging of your cosmetics. This is the only internationally recognized logo that guarantees no animal tests were used in the development of the product.
6. Beware of Toxins
Our skin is extremely permeable and many of the products we use on our skin are absorbed and deposited into the circulatory system. Since makeup products are not always tested for safety, some may contain extremely toxic ingredients that may be harmful to your body. Beware of the following three chemicals:
Parabens: This preservative can be found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, cleansing gels and personal lubricants. Parabens are rapidly absorbed, but a certain amount of parabens remains stored in human body and has been linked to breast cancer and hormone disruption.
Talc: Talc is found in many pressed powders, and even in some eye shadows and foundations. Studies show talc to be similar in structure to asbestos and can increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
Phthalates: These chemicals are found in most hair sprays, deodorants, nail polishes and perfumes, and are believed to cause damage to the endocrine and reproductive system. Phthalates are banned in Europe, but not in the U.S. or Canada.
To ensure your cosmetics are non-toxic, you can check out http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com and search by product, company, or ingredient.
7. Try Organic Makeup
Avoid feeding your body harmful chemicals by switching to organic, natural companies that create beauty products made from minerals, plant oils and flower extracts. Suki Pure Skin Care, Dr. Hauschka, and Juice Beauty are a few companies who have developed an all-natural line free of synthetics and petrochemicals. I, myself, have recently started using Bare Escentuals’ line of mineral makeup and noticed my skin looking clearer and more radiant. Since organic cosmetics do not contain any synthetic ingredients, they are less likely to cause acne, irritation, or blackheads.
Origins was so inspired by our own Linda Wells's October Editor's Letter, where she called out cosmetics companies for all their wasteful packaging, that they decided to do something about it. Something very big. The nature-loving beauty brand is launching the Return to Origins Recycling Program tomorrow (happy Earth Day, peeps!)—and that means all 130 Origins stores and hundreds of their department-store counters will now be happy to recycle any and all used cosmetic packaging you bring in—from any brand. And they're givin' away free stuff to get you there! 
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