17 Low Waste Natural Skincare Brands
I ain’t no beauty blogger, but I know that what you put on your face matters. Choosing the right skin care option for you can be a life long mission, especially when you are looking for an environmentally friendly option.
Over the past few years, I have trialled many natural face creams, sustainable oils, eco serums, and low waste lotions. I thought it would be a disservice to watch you waste money while trying out the crap ones, so here is a review of 17 natural low-waste skincare brands that are available in New Zealand; better for the environment and for you.
I couldn’t do this myself (I was going insane from product trial overload), so I enlisted my sister and my mum to help me, and asked a few friends too. Refer to the reviewer’s name listed beneath each product to know who is talking.
Note: Some of these products were gifted, some were purchased. All words are honest.
Agnes + Me Face Cream
Cost per 10ml: $7.50
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Tub can, top cannot.
Packaging can easily be reused? Yes.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Nicky (mum).
The first impression was of the delicious smell. It’s a cute wee container (60ml) and is what it says on the label – rich, nourishing, ultra-hydrating. It applied easily – you didn’t need much. It felt a much more substantial cream than what I’d been using previously (Tailor Moisture). I enjoyed using it. My skin is probably in the “normal” range with regards to its oiliness. This face cream would be fabulous for people who work outdoors in the weather or have very dry skin. It was possibly a bit too moisturizing for me (or maybe I needed to apply a little less?)
Buy this if:
You love the scent
You need a rich moisturizer
You have normal to dry skin
You’d value a small, easy to travel glass container
2nd Reviewer: Georgia (sister).
This was certainly a luxuriously moisturising face cream, it felt super deem nourishing on my skin. I have combination skin - oily in some spots and dry in others, and it evened out everything pretty well. I enjoyed the smell and the consistency, and you didn’t have to apply too much. It was maybe a bit too decadent for my skin, but I think would be perfect for people with dry skin as it really seeps in and moisturises. Love the glass container and packaging, means it is reusable!
Buy it here.
Photo by Nectar Photography
Agnes + Me Face Oil
Cost per 10ml: $13.30
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Bottle can, dropper cannot.
Packaging can be reused? Potentially if you wanted to use it as a oil dropper again.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Nicky (mum).
I have never used a face oil before and this was easy peasy (as long as you didn’t let the dropper drop oil on anything else before it reached your hands!). I felt like after applying (which took only seconds), it gave me a nice healthy glow. It was also the easiest to apply my Aleph Beauty make up over. No smell.
Buy this if:
You need a moisturizer that assists the spread of foundation
You want a moisturizer that lasts a long time
You like the ease of one application of only a few drops
2nd Reviewer: Georgia (sister)
I used to use face oils quite often but had stopped for a while until this face oil. This is definitely a macadamia smell which is quite nice, however I found it clogged my nose pores a bit. I already have issues with this area, my nose is definitely the oiliest spot on my face and I think this mix didn’t quite go together. Again, it is something I’d recommend to someone who has less congested skin/drier skin. Packaging is super cute and I especially love the cover that you can put over the nozzle, make its great for travelling with.
Buy it here.
Skin Reset Emma Lewisham
Cost per 10ml: $49.30
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Not in curbside recycling, but can be in the Emma Lewisham Beauty Circle.
Packaging can be reused? Yes! You can purchase a refill of this product - a pre used bottle that has been sterilised and refilled.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Nicky (mum).
This looked the flashest in a purple box with pink inset and a purple pump bottle. It had a pleasant smell and applied easily. I’d definitely use this as an everyday moisturizer but I’d have to be honest and say I didn’t notice my skin getting a bright or even toned look. Sadly, no one told me that I was looking less wrinkly either (both claims on the box). But this was probably suited more to my skin for everyday use.
Buy this if:
Your budget has no limits
You like a pump bottle
You want an everyday easy, non oily moisturiser.
Buy it here.
Tailor Moisture - Everyday Moisturiser
Cost per 10ml: $6.50
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? No, but shouldn’t be recycled as you can purchase refills that come in a home compostable pouch.
Packaging can be reused? Yes, for other beauty products - and to refill the same one over and over.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Nicky (mum).
Easy to apply with a small 100ml pump bottle. Very light and non smelling. Not very oily so good for people with oily skin. Absorbs quickly into the skin.
Buy this if:
Your budget is not a consideration
You like a pump application bottle
You want a light non oily moisturizer
Buy it here.
Weleda Iris Hydrating Facial Lotion (normal and combination skin)
Cost per 10ml: $9.60
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? No.
Packaging can be reused? Nope.
Made in Germany.
Reviewer: Nicky (mum).
Easy to apply with a pleasant fragrance. Works well when using under makeup. Comes in a 30 ml tube (like a toothpaste tube) so quite small and good for using in a sponge bag when away for trips.
Buy this if:
You want a small easily travelled container for your face cream
You have a budget (only $23)
You aren’t worried about its packaging and the fact that it came from Germany (which I was).
Buy it here.
Ethique Saving Face Serum
Cost per 10ml: $6.30
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Composted in your home compost bin.
Packaging can be reused? Yes.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Georgia (sister)
This was a winner for me. First off, the smell is AMAZING, I can’t get enough of it. With all the Ethique moisturisers I have, I notice a similar feeling of it really locking in all the good nutrients and oils on my skin when I apply it, meaning it isn’t just adding unnecessary bulk to my skin. It’s very cohesive and doesn’t feel too heavy. I love the application, using the bar is actually quite fun. Waste free packaging is an absolute win.
Buy it here.
Ethique ‘The Perfector’
Cost per 10ml: $6.90
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Composted in home compost bin.
Packaging can be reused? Yes.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Kate.
This is a personal favourite, as it works well on my legs too. As long as you don’t use too much, you’ll enjoy a light moisturiser that is easy to apply under makeup. When I say ‘don’t use to much’, I freaking mean it. A little goes a long way. This is why I didn’t warm to The Perfector at first, but quickly realised it was user error. My dad uses this to moisturise his face too, so I think because of the subtle scent, dudes (especially if they work outdoors and need some extra care) appreciate this product too.
Buy it here.
Rata Probiotic Face Oil
Cost per 10ml: $6.50
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Unsure, most likely not.
Packaging can be reused? Not easily.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Georgia (sister).
This was really nice compared to some other oils I’ve used, it was quite light on the skin which suits me well as I have quite oily skin in some spots. The bottle was a sweet size and the dropper is great for application, the smell was super refreshing too.
Buy it here.
Au Natural Skinfood Day Serum
Cost per 10ml: $12.99
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Yes it can be recycled in NZ.
Packaging can be reused? It would be a great tin to use for other things!
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Kate.
The serum contains the active Manuka honey ingredient, and is great to wear under make up (doesn’t leave an oily feel). This used to be a favourite, but now I have gone off the smell of it. The smell isn’t strong, but it’s not too pleasant. The strength of the active ingredients is incredibly nourishing, so don’t be put off my personal preference of the smell. If you need something that is strong and really gets into your skin, this would be ideal for you.
Buy it here.
Biddy + May Ora Wellbeing Sea Buckthorn & Star Lily Moisturiser
Cost per 10ml: $13.15
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? The glass jar (probably) but not the lid.
Packaging can be reused? Yes- handy little tub for lots of different things.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Kate.
A solid option for most people, relatively thick though easy to lightly dab your finger into the pot and get only a little out. The smell is super unique, so you may love or hate it. It’s a great one for travelling; the jar screws on tight and I have no trust issues carrying it around. This one has a low carbon footprint because it’s made in New Zealand, and even though the lid is plastic, the jar is readily reusable for all sorts of things - ideal for a sustainable consumer.
Buy it here.
Linden Leaves Essential Facial Moisturiser
Cost per 10ml: $5.50
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Unsure, but unlikely.
Packaging can be reused? Nope.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Kate.
To be honest, I used it once then said I would never use it again. I really didn’t like the smell, and when you’re putting it on your face, smell matters A LOT. However, when I told Linden Leaves my negative review, they suggested mixing it with the Linden Leaves Miraculous Facial Oil. Reluctantly, I gave this a go. The combo was a winner! I started to love the process of putting the moisturiser on the back of my hand, then dropping 2 drops of the oil onto it and mixing it together. The combo has surprisingly become a favourite.
Buy it here.
Linden Leaves Miraculous Facial Oil
Cost per 10ml: $5.50
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Unsure but unlikely.
Packaging can be reused? Not easily.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Kate
This product seems too thick and heavy on it’s own, though might be okay to use solo if you have dry skin. Paired with the Linden Leaves Essential Facial Moisturiser, it’s a treat (see above).
Buy it here.
Linden Leaves Regenerating Night Cream
Cost per 10ml: $6.00
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Unsure but unlikely.
Packaging can be reused? No.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Kate
I wouldn’t rave about this, but I also would consider buying it again for sure. I personally love using a thicker moisturiser at night time, so the product can do it’s thing and I don’t have to use much during the day. This is a great overnighter, and is supposed to be good for sensitive skin too (I don’t have sensitive skin, so I cannot comment on if this is true or not).
Buy it here.
Matakana Skincare Night Cream
Cost per 10ml: $6.40
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? Tub can, lid cannot.
Packaging can be reused? Yup! Could use for lots of different things.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Courtney.
My friend Courtney trialled the night cream. If you have dry skin, use it as a lovely overnight remedy. If you are prone to oily skin and breakouts, don’t use it. It’s locally made, and smells delish. A proper treat for dry skinned humans.
Buy it here.
Antipodes
Cost per 10ml: $8.33
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? The glass tub, not the lid.
Packaging can be reused? Yes.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Amanda.
I was skeptical about this product when I first tried it. I was using moisturizing lotion bars exclusively for the past few years, and I didn't really buy into the product marketing of the Antipodes gel. It was my partner who was quick to make the switch after his regular lotion ran out. He liked how smooth and light it was to put on, and it worked nicely with his stubble. The gel is great at keeping my face hydrated throughout the day, I have especially dry skin and notice when I forget to put it on. The product doesn't have any SPF, so I wear it in combination with a face sunscreen. The packaging is minimal, there is a soft plastic wrapper on the outside, and the jar is glass, which we reuse when it's empty.
Buy it here.
Aleph Serum
Cost per 10ml: $46.00
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? The glass bottle (probably) but not the topper.
Packaging can be reused? Not at the moment (refills may one day be available).
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Kate
While this product shouldn’t replace your main moisturiser, it’s an absolute essential in my skincare routine. After all these trials, the serum is one I will continue to use. It doesn’t smell, isn’t oily (like most serums), and is great to use before applying foundation. I use a heavier moisturiser at night time, then use the serum in the morning.
Buy it here.
Corbin Rd. Multivitamin Restorative Face Oil
Cost per 10ml: $18.30
Packaging can be recycled in NZ? The glass bottle (probably) but not the topper.
Packaging can be reused? Not readily.
Made in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Reviewer: Kate.
I love this oil. It’s simple, it’s not overpowering, and it’s something I would use again. The ingredients are luxurious (kawakawa oil, sweet almond oil, sunflower seed oil, cannabis sativa seed oil etc.) and I could tell my skin loved it. The instructions say 3-4 drops, but you only need 2-3 for a light coverage that goes easily under makeup too.
Buy it here
Note: This article is included in Twinkl's Eco-Friendly and Sustainability campaign, and is part of their article ‘Some great ideas to be more sustainable in 2021’.