3-Step Guide to Decluttering Makeup & Skincare Products
Camilla Vaiani- Apr 20
- 8 min read
Updated: May 2
Decluttering isn't just about tidying up — it's about perspective. In a world that's increasingly fast-paced and full of distractions, we often find ourselves surrounded by objects that take up both physical and mental space. Every item we hold onto might symbolize a past decision, an unfulfilled promise, or a memory that's occupying space we need for the present.
Decluttering — the art of letting go of the unnecessary — isn’t simply a way to organize your home. It’s a genuine path to improving your quality of life. It’s not about tossing things out randomly; it’s about understanding what truly deserves a place in your life. By eliminating what no longer serves us, we make space for what truly matters: relationships, wellbeing, and personal growth.
In this article, you’ll find a practical 3-step guide to decluttering your makeup and cosmetic products.
Quick Summary
Decluttering means letting go of what's unnecessary — like expired or unused cosmetics — and making room for something else, especially positive energy. It can boost mental wellness and also help reduce your environmental impact.
A 3-step process is essential to tackle decluttering in a mindful and effective way. The key is to identify what to keep, toss (especially expired products), and what can be donated or sold — and knowing you’ve helped someone in need adds a layer of kindness to your routine.
And don’t forget the mantra: Buy less, buy smarter. Stick to essentials that truly benefit your daily routine and wellbeing. To save space (and money), opt for hybrid or multifunctional beauty products.
What Is Decluttering and Why Does It Matter?
The term “decluttering” comes from the English verb to declutter, which means removing clutter. It refers to the process of clearing your life of what’s unnecessary, excessive, or just taking up space.
We often hold on to things because they’re tied to memories or emotions, fearing that letting them go means losing part of ourselves. But the truth is, memories live in our minds, not in our drawers. Letting go can be liberating — it creates space for new experiences (La Repubblica, 2023). So, why is decluttering so important?
There are two main reasons:
Mental wellbeing
Decluttering has proven mental health benefits. A Princeton University study found that reducing visual clutter can lower stress and increase happiness. An organized space is linked to feelings of calm and clarity, while clutter is associated with confusion and irritability (Forbes, 2023; Saxbe e Repetti, 2009; WebMD, 2024; EverydayHealth, 2023).
Environmental impact
3-Step Guide to Decluttering Makeup and Skincare
Decluttering your beauty products is like clearing your mind — a small act with a big impact. Here's a simple 3-step guide to help you get started and invite fresh harmony into your routine.
Step 1: Analyze and Categorize
Lay out all your beauty products in one place.
Group them into categories like skincare, makeup, hair care, and fragrance.
Do a quick scan to spot anything that’s expired, rarely used, or no longer suits your needs.
Step 2: Ask the Right Questions
Step 3: Organize and Buy Smart
“Toss or Donate”: Dispose, Donate, and Recycle
Your bathroom shelf probably hosts three kinds of products: your go-to essentials, the glam items for special occasions, and the background players you barely touch.
But even forgotten products deserve a second chance — why not donate what you don’t use?
Globally, there are organizations ready to give new life to gently used or unopened cosmetics (The Guardian, 2022; Allure, 2019).
SapoCycle (Switzerland): repurposes discarded hotel soaps into life-saving hygiene products.
Beauty Banks (UK): collects hygiene and beauty products for people experiencing poverty.
Beauty Bus (USA): provides terminally ill patients with beauty support — they even accept sealed products past their expiry date.
Project Beauty Share (USA): redistributes donated products to women facing abuse, poverty, or addiction.
Share Your Beauty! (USA): accepts new, unopened cosmetics and personal care items to support women and teens in crisis.
When it comes to the “toss” pile, correct disposal is crucial to avoid environmental harm. Never pour cosmetic products down the sink or toilet — they can contaminate water supplies. Check if packaging is recyclable (glass, plastic, and metal often are), and always clean containers before recycling.
At Lebubè, we’re committed to sustainability: most of our hybrid cosmetics come in recycled and recyclable packaging.
You can also take advantage of brand recycling programs, where companies collect their used packaging and often reward customers with discounts or gifts. For tricky items like nail polish, perfume, or products with harsh chemicals, it’s best to bring them to specialized collection centers or recycling points (Recycle Coach; Beauty Heroes, 2020).
“Keep” Products: How to Organize What Stays
Now, let’s talk about the items you're keeping. A well-organized beauty space isn’t just prettier — it makes your routine faster, easier, and more enjoyable.
Group by category
Keep makeup, skincare, haircare, and fragrances in separate sections.
Sort by usage frequency
Use clear containers
Maximize vertical space
Rotate seasonally
Label everything
Use small organizers for small items
Highlight expiry dates
Invest in a vanity organizer
Buy Less, Buy Smarter
The first step to reducing waste is simple: buy less, or buy smarter. “It’s about decluttering and investing in slightly more ethical products,” says sustainability consultant Celeste Tesoriero. “They may cost more upfront, but you save in the long run by buying less.”
Avoid impulse buys — the beauty industry is designed to tempt you. If you need one nail polish, don’t buy the set of three (The Guardian, 2022).
Smart shopping means opting for multifunctional or hybrid products — two different but complementary approaches to simplifying your beauty routine and minimizing waste. Multifunctional products do more with less, saving you time and space.
From Lebubè, we love:
Lip and Cheek: a 2-in-1 blush and lipstick for a natural flush.
Lash Primer and Overnight Mask: primes by day, strengthens lashes overnight with peptides and castor oil.
Hybrid cosmetics, on the other hand, combine the performance of makeup with the benefits of skincare. They enhance your appearance and care for your skin:
Tinted Lip Oil and Balm: a 2-in-1 that hydrates deeply (with hyaluronic acid) while giving a glossy touch of color.
Tea Mascara: nourishes lashes with six antioxidant-rich Asian teas, improving long-term health.
Cream Highlighter: gives skin a radiant finish while smoothing and hydrating with active ingredients.
Smart beauty also means choosing minimalist packaging — recyclable, reusable, or made from recycled materials. At Lebubè, we embrace recycled plastic for most of our hybrid line, blending style and sustainability.
The Art of Decluttering: Making Room for Positivity
Decluttering isn’t just about tidying — it’s a chance to improve our relationship with space, stuff, and the environment. Letting go of what we no longer need creates space for what truly matters, embracing simplicity as a value and sustainability as a conscious choice.
By being more intentional, we reduce waste, enjoy the benefits of an organized space, and support brands that respect us and the planet. Every little gesture — from donating unused items to choosing hybrid, eco-friendly products — can help build a more responsible and harmonious future.
Start today: declutter, organize, and live with lightness.
Remember: every space you clear is space made for new opportunities, beautiful connections, and all the good vibes.
FAQs
What is decluttering?
Decluttering is the process of letting go of things you no longer use or need — like expired makeup or unused skincare — to make space for what really matters. It’s not just about being tidy, but about creating a more intentional, calming environment that supports your wellbeing.
How do I begin to declutter?
Start by gathering all your beauty products in one place. Group them into categories (like skincare, makeup, haircare), and take a moment to review each item. Ask yourself: do I use it? Is it still good? Does it serve me? From there, decide what to keep, what to toss, and what you might be able to donate.
What are the benefits of decluttering?
Decluttering helps reduce stress, boosts your mood, and creates a more organized space that makes your daily routine easier. It also encourages more mindful consumption and helps you cut down on waste — especially in beauty, where packaging can really pile up.
Why is decluttering so therapeutic?
Because it’s not just about stuff — it’s about energy. Letting go of what no longer serves you creates space, mentally and emotionally. You’re releasing old expectations, unused “what if” purchases, and anything that clutters your space and thoughts. It’s an act of self-care, one product at a time.
How to declutter toiletries and makeup?
Go through everything you own. Check for expiry dates, strange smells, or changes in texture — those go. Keep what you love, use, and feel good wearing. If a product is still good but just not right for you, consider donating it. Then, organize what’s left so it's easy to reach and enjoy.
How do I organize my beauty products?
Sort by category and how often you use each product. Keep everyday items within easy reach and store seasonal or occasional-use products separately. Use clear containers, drawer dividers, and labels to keep things tidy — and rotate your collection regularly to avoid buildup.
What can I do with unused beauty products?
If they’re new or gently used and still in good condition, consider donating them! Many charities accept unopened or lightly used cosmetics and personal care items for people in need. It’s a beautiful way to reduce waste and make someone’s day a little brighter.
What is hybrid makeup?
Hybrid makeup combines the best of beauty and skincare in one product. Think: a lip oil that hydrates like a balm, or a mascara that nourishes your lashes while adding volume. These multitaskers save time, reduce clutter, and treat your skin while you wear them — smart and skin-loving.
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