Much of the cosmetic packaging that has been cast away is recyclable. From compact mirrors (which can be repurposed for art, craft and décor projects) to metal lids/caps, steel/aluminum cans, glass, plastic and cardboard (all of which can sometimes be dropped into a recycling bin with the regular plastic, newspaper, cardboard, glass and metal).

Disposal of personal care products, and makeup, is also responsible for contamination of fresh and ocean waters in industrialized nations, since water treatment plants are unable to break down the majority of the toxins that we put into them. All cosmetics (make-up, shampoo, lotion, nail polish and remover etc…) should be treated as hazardous waste.

There are a few stores that sell environmentally friendly cosmetic products that are also contained in refillable vessels. This avoids the wasteful excess packaging typical of many cosmetics. For example, instead of buying shaving cream in expensive aerosol cans that are only used once, try using old-fashioned shaving soap, which is less expensive and last much longer than cans.

Here’s how you can  get rid of leftover product:

1. Donations: When you’ve got an unopened package of makeup that has yet to expire, consider donating it to the local women’s shelter or career center so that other women can make use of it
2. More information here: http://www.ecolife.com/recycling/household/how-to-recycle-cosmetics-makeup.html and here: http://www.postconsumers.com/education/how-to-recycle-cosmetics/
3. Some, usually higher end, personal care companies actually offer not only the ability to bring containers back for recycling but also incentives to do so
4. Recycling to reduce waste
5. Many cosmetics containers may have other uses that you can recycle them into. From larger eye shadow tins to small bottles, you may find that you have needs that could be met with your own cosmetics containers
6. Take to hazardous waste depot