How to Sort Cosmetic Packaging Responsibly

Cosmetic products are an integral part of our daily lives, but their packaging can be a challenge for sorting and recycling. Sorting cosmetic packaging properly is essential to reduce their environmental impact and promote a circular economy. Here is a practical guide to correctly sort your beauty product packaging.

1. Glass Packaging

Perfume bottles, cream jars and other glass containers are easily recyclable.

• To do : Place glass packaging (bottles, jars) in the glass sorting bin, removing plastic or metal pumps or caps if possible.
• To avoid : Do not throw makeup mirrors or glass lids in the glass recycling bin; they should be thrown in the household waste bin.

2. Plastic Packaging

Plastic packaging can be recycled, but it depends on its type and shape.

• To sort : Shampoo bottles, shower gels and other rigid plastic containers are generally recyclable. Rinse them before placing them in the sorting bin.
• Beware of flexible packaging : Tubes of cream or toothpaste, often made of several types of plastic, are not always recyclable. Check local guidelines or use specific collection points.

3. Aluminum Packaging

Aluminum is a recyclable material, but it is important to prepare it properly before throwing it away.

• To sort : Aluminum tubes, such as certain masks or creams, can be put in the sorting bin if they are empty and cleaned.
• Tip : Crush the tubes to save space and make them easier to recycle.

4. Cardboard Packaging

Cardboard boxes, cartons and cases are mostly recyclable, but they must be sorted correctly.

• To do : Place cardboard boxes and cases in the paper and cardboard sorting bin.
• Don't : Be sure to remove any plastic wrap or other non-recyclable items before throwing them away.

5. Pumps and Stoppers

Pumps and caps can be made of various materials, making their recycling complex.

• Sort separately : If possible, remove plastic or metal caps and sort them separately, according to local guidelines.
• Non-recyclable : Most pumps (e.g. spray, dispensers) contain an internal metal spring which makes them generally non-recyclable. They should be disposed of in household waste unless your local collection point accepts them.

6. Plastic Labels and Films

Plastic labels and plastic films that sometimes cover products are not recyclable.

• To do : Remove plastic films and labels if possible before disposing of the main packaging. These items should be placed in the household waste bin.

7. Specialized Recycling Programs

Some types of cosmetic packaging are difficult to recycle with household sorting, but specialized programs can take care of them.

• In-store collection points : Many cosmetics brands such as Sephora, Nocibé or Marionnaud offer collection bins for empty packaging.
• Brand Recycling Programs : Some brands (e.g. Lush, Kiehl's) encourage the return of packaging for recycling and sometimes offer perks in return.
• Terracycle : In partnership with several brands, Terracycle offers collection points to recycle products that cannot be sorted in conventional bins, such as lipstick tubes or mascaras.

In Conclusion

Sorting your cosmetic packaging properly is a simple but essential ecological gesture. By following these steps and using specific collection points, you help give a second life to your beauty products while reducing your environmental impact. Adopting these responsible sorting habits actively contributes to the preservation of our planet.