I know, I know. I’ve been talking a lot about skincare lately, but I feel like I have finally started to crack the code on what my skin needs.

And that is more attention and moisture. But this doesn’t mean I have to sacrifice trying to create less waste and being vegan. There are a TON of products that fall under neither of these categories, and that makes the decision making process that much easier.

I’m not here to claim I’m some perfect vegan, zero-waste, minimalist saint. Ha! I’m not. And to be honest I find a lot of judgement and negativity in theses different communities if you’re not “perfect".

Accept the fact you’re not going to perfect, you’re going to make mistakes and unfortunately people are going to call you out along the way (well, maybe not if you don’t post your adventures online).

Here’s the process I try to go through when finding new products:

+ do I need it?

+ can I make it myself, or is it something I already have?

+ can I get it in a recyclable, or better yet, reusable container?

+ what are the ingredients?

+ was it tested on animals?

And here’s how you can make a more step-heavy skincare regimen as vegan and zero waste as possible.

If you can get products that are multifunctional that’s a great place to start. For example I’m currently using primrose oil for three of the “steps”.

Step 1, 9 + 10 — I use primrose oil at the beginning if I need to remove mascara or makeup, which isn’t often, then I use it as the very last step to add extra moisture to everything.

Step 2 — I’m going to be trying out Dr. Bronner’s Soap when I use the last few bits of a Pacifica cleanser (it came in a plastic bottle, but was vegan)

Step 3 — I use baking soda or coffee grounds for exfoliators.

Step 4 — I use masks from lush, where they have a reward recycling program for the containers.

Step 5 + 6 Aren’t zero-waste because they came in plastic, but in the future I could make them, or find an option not in plastic

Step 7 — The next serum I’m getting comes in a glass bottle

Step 8 — I don’t currently have an eye cream, but if I do get another one I will first look into making it myself.

A post that inspired this thought process was Zero Waste 10 Step Korean Skincare Routine from the blog, Paris to Go. If you want some real skincare inspiration go read that post.

And while some people may think to be a minimalist you have to just keep your skincare to a cold splash of water on your face once a day, I know most women need more than that. Especially in the winter.

And to be honest you can make all of your skincare products at home, but this combination of products has been working out really well for me.

To end, don’t forget that staying hydrated, nourished through diet, and the importance of elements like sleep and exercise all have on your skin.

So get out there and radiate my friends!