Can I recycle empty makeup containers?

Yes, many empty makeup containers can be recycled — but only if they’re fully cleaned and made of recyclable materials. Check for the recycling symbol on the packaging. Programs like TerraCycle and some beauty brands’ take-back initiatives can help you recycle hard-to-process materials like pumps, caps, and compacts.

How do I safely dispose of expired skincare products?

If your skincare products have expired or changed in texture or scent, dispose of the remaining formula in the trash (not down the drain) to prevent contamination. Clean and recycle the container if possible. For glass jars or bottles, rinse them before placing in your local recycling bin.

Which beauty brands have recycling programs?

Several beauty brands now offer recycling or refill programs, including MAC (Back-to-MAC), Lush (Bring It Back), and Kiehl’s (Recycle & Be Rewarded). Some retailers like Sephora and Credo Beauty also host in-store recycling drop-offs through TerraCycle partnerships.

What’s the most eco-friendly way to get rid of beauty products?

The most eco-friendly approach is to use up products completely, rehome unopened items, and recycle packaging responsibly. For items that can’t be rehomed or recycled, dispose of the contents in household waste and clean the packaging before recycling or upcycling it creatively.

Can I donate unused beauty products instead of throwing them away?

Yes — unopened, unused beauty products can often be donated to local shelters, community organizations, or mutual aid networks. Always check their donation guidelines first, as some may only accept certain categories like hygiene items or skincare.

How to responsibly dispose
of beauty products

The Beauty Products Disposal Guide: Reduce Your Waste

Expired? Broken? Unshareable? Learn safe, sustainable tips to reduce your environmental impact when saying goodbye to beauty products.

A hand holding a serum bottle over a pink garbage bin.

Not every makeup or skincare product can be rehomed and that's okay.

At Glou, we believe sustainability isn't about perfection; it's about making mindful choices at every stage of a product's life. Whether it's expired skincare, broken packaging, or formulas that can't be safely shared or rehomed, there are still ways to reduce your environmental impact when saying goodbye.

This guide will help you toss responsibly — so nothing goes to waste unnecessarily.

🧴 Step 1: Know What Can’t Be Rehomed

Some beauty products simply aren’t safe to pass on, even if they look new. These include:

Opened mascaras, eyeliners, or liquid lipsticks (bacteria risk)
Expired or separated skincare formulas
Used potted products (like balms or creams that require dipping fingers)
Aerosols or pressurized containers past their expiry date

If in doubt, use our Beauty Product Toss or Keep Checker and/or Beauty Product Freshness Calculator — it’s your best guide to knowing when a product’s shelf life has ended.

♻️ Step 2: Separate Product from Packaging

Before tossing anything, take a moment to de-package responsibly:

Empty and rinse containers when possible (a quick wipe is enough for oils or serums)
Separate components — lids, pumps, glass jars, plastic tubes.
Remove mirrors or magnets from palettes before recycling.

Even small steps like this can make a big difference in ensuring materials actually get recycled.

🌍 Step 3: Recycle — But Do It Right

Most curbside recycling programs don’t accept small beauty containers or mixed materials. But don’t worry — there are better options:

Terracycle: Offers mail-in programs for hard-to-recycle beauty packaging.
Nordstrom Beautycycle & Credo: In-store drop-offs for empties (any brand).
Back-to-MAC, Kiehl’s, Lush, Origins, and more: Many brands have take-back or refill programs.

Tip: Before tossing, search the brand name + “recycling program” — you might be surprised at what they accept.

🔥 Step 4: Dispose Safely

If recycling isn’t possible, make sure disposal is safe:

Liquids: Don’t pour down the drain — instead, pour into absorbent material (e.g., paper towels) and throw in household waste.
Aerosols: Empty completely before tossing.
Nail polish/removers: Treat as household hazardous waste — dispose through your local collection facility.

🌱 Step 5: Reduce Future Waste

The best way to minimize beauty waste? Buy consciously and use what you already have.

At Glou, we’ve made it our mission to help you do exactly that — from resale guidance to smart shopping insights. Before your next purchase, check the Glou Guide to see if it’s something you’ll truly love (and finish).

💬 Together, Let’s Rethink Waste

Disposing of beauty products responsibly is just one part of sustainable beauty. Whether you’re rehoming, recycling, or retiring your stash, Glou is here to guide you every step of the way — helping beauty lovers everywhere shop smarter, waste less, and care more.

FAQ: Sustainable Beauty Products Disposal

Can I recycle mascara wands?

Mascara wands are too small for standard recycling but can be repurposed! Many wildlife rescues accept clean wands to help remove debris and parasites from animal fur. Look up Wands for Wildlife for donation options.

What should I do with expired perfume?

Perfume is considered a household hazardous product because of its alcohol content. Do not pour it down the drain. Instead, bring it to a local hazardous waste disposal facility.

Can I recycle pumps and droppers?

Most pumps, droppers, and caps contain mixed materials that curbside programs can’t process. Separate what you can (e.g., remove metal springs) or send through programs like Pact Collective or Terracycle.

Can I recycle beauty samples or mini tubes?

Not typically — they’re often too small for sorting facilities. Collect them and drop off at a beauty store recycling program that accepts all packaging sizes.

What’s the best way to dispose of nail polish?

Nail polish and remover count as hazardous waste. Don’t toss them in the trash or pour them out — take them to your local hazardous waste collection point.

How can I tell if a product is expired?

Check for changes in texture, smell, or color. The open-jar symbol (🫙) with a number (e.g., “12M”) tells you how many months after opening the product remains safe to use. Still not sure if it's expired? Our Toss or Keep Checker and Freshness Calculator are your best guides.

How to responsibly dispose
of beauty products

The Beauty Products Disposal Guide: Reduce Your Waste

Expired? Broken? Unshareable? Learn safe, sustainable tips to reduce your environmental impact when saying goodbye to beauty products.