The Problem with Plastic Skincare Packaging (And Our Solution)
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We’ve all been there. You grab a new skincare product, use it, and toss the tube into the recycling bin without a second thought. But did you know that many of those tubes might not be as eco-friendly as they claim?
The Hidden Issue: Plastic Skincare Packaging Is Often Not Recyclable
Plastic packaging in the beauty industry is everywhere, but it’s rarely as sustainable as it seems. In fact, only 9% of plastic ever produced is actually recycled, according to a 2021 study by Science Advances. The rest ends up in landfills, incinerators, or our oceans.
A significant reason for this is the mixed materials used in most skincare tubes. Many tubes are made from a blend of plastic and other materials, like aluminium, making them extremely difficult to recycle. These tubes can contaminate the recycling process, reducing the effectiveness of recycling systems. Even if a tube is stamped with a recycling logo, it doesn’t guarantee it will be properly processed.
This means that well-meaning consumers who dutifully toss their empty tubes into the recycling bin might not be helping the planet as much as they think. It’s estimated that 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans every year, and personal care packaging is a significant contributor to that growing problem.
The Environmental Toll of Plastic Packaging
The impact of plastic packaging isn’t just about what happens after you throw it away. The production of plastic itself accounts for 4% of global carbon emissions, a figure that’s only set to increase as plastic production continues to rise.
Plastics are derived largely from fossil fuels, which contribute directly to climate change. And most plastic packaging isn’t designed to be reused or recycled—further intensifying the environmental burden.
Additionally, microplastics are now present in nearly every ecosystem on Earth, from the Arctic to the Mariana Trench. A study in Environmental Science & Technology found that microplastics are found in over 90% of bottled water and can even be absorbed through the skin, causing harm to both human health and the environment.
The Solution: Cardboard Packaging That’s Truly Sustainable
At Obvs Skincare, we knew we needed to take a different approach. Our Organic Balm in a Tube is packaged in 100% recyclable and biodegradable cardboard—no plastic involved.
Cardboard packaging is naturally renewable and can be easily recycled with other paper products. In fact, 97% of cardboard is recycled globally, making it a far more sustainable option than plastic. Unlike plastic, cardboard doesn’t pose a risk to the environment because it decomposes quickly and doesn’t leave behind toxic residues or microplastics.
Our cardboard tubes are made from responsibly sourced paper, which reduces the environmental impact of production. By choosing this option, we’ve reduced the need for petroleum-based plastics, and we’ve ensured that the packaging won’t contribute to the plastic waste crisis.
Better for Your Skin, Better for the Planet
But that’s not all. When you choose Obvs Skincare, you’re choosing more than just eco-friendly packaging. The Organic Balm in a Tube is crafted with 100% certified organic ingredients—and absolutely no harmful synthetic chemicals.
One of the biggest advantages of using organic ingredients is that there are no microplastics inside or out. Many conventional skincare products, especially those with synthetic ingredients, can contain microplastics that end up in your skincare routine—and ultimately the environment. But with our organic balm, you won’t find any tiny plastic particles being absorbed by your skin or flushed down the drain.
Organic farming methods also have a significantly lower environmental impact. According to the Soil Association, organic farming emits 48% less carbon and uses 60% less energy than conventional farming. So, choosing organic skincare not only helps your skin but also supports the planet by reducing harmful chemicals in our ecosystems.
The Bottom Line: A Skincare Solution That’s Truly Sustainable
When you choose Obvs Skincare’s Organic Balm in a Tube, you’re making a choice for your skin and for the environment. Our biodegradable, recyclable packaging is a small but important step toward reducing our reliance on single-use plastics and cutting down on pollution. And with our organic, microplastic-free formula, you’re ensuring that your skincare routine is as clean and sustainable as possible.
It’s time for skincare to evolve, and we’re excited for you to be part of the change.
Because the last thing the planet needs is another plastic tube.
