Makeup & Skincare Containers
Recyclable?
Blue Bins & Chutes
Other Recycling
Recommended
Trash
Unfortunately most of these containers cannot be recycled.
Alternative
Tips & Suggestions
Ask stores how they are recycling take-backs!
Most in-store “recycling” take-back schemes are just for marketing: an attempt to get you back in the store to buy more. They often come with an extra incentive ("Recycle with us and get a coupon for 10% off!").
These companies do not disclose how they are recycling. And how could they if the container is not recyclable?
Most are just throwing collected containers into the blue bin and hoping for the best. There's a word for that: wishcycling.
So when you participate in these schemes, you may be facilitating wishcycling.
So…. ASK the store HOW they are recycling!
Alternative
Freecycle / Give Away
Beauty Containers are welcome by Terra SG for upcycling.
Double check with them that their drive is still on before going down.
Terra SG
Info & Insights
These containers can be either plastic or glass. With few exceptions, neither are recyclable. The kind of thick, heavy-duty glass used for high-end moisturisers is not recyclable glass. Likewise, a lot of makeup products use non-recyclable plastic (usually #6 or #7).
The exception to this is that some companies may use PET or HDPE plastic pump bottles for moisturisers… but these are typically not possible to clean properly. Oily containers with residual product are not suitable for recycling.
What about the makeup itself?
Due to hygiene concerns, used makeup should be thrown away.
In late 2022 Casket Fairprice held a drive for used cosmetics but this is unusual. We don't know if this will be an annual thing.
