Beauty Addict Tip: Hoard those empties!

Sometimes I have a little tidbit I want to pass on, so here’s a new ongoing series: Beauty Addict Tips. I’m not sure how often I’ll actually have one, but I guess we’ll see, right? First up: hoard your empties. Obviously you don’t want to let it get out of hand (unless you’re trying to get on a reality show) but empty containers come in handy. Plus, you know, reusing stuff is good for the environment.

Sample pots – I get lots of foil samples with my online orders but they tend to be messy, so I like to transfer them into the empty containers left over from Sephora/department store samples. They’re also a great size to store enough foundation or primer for a weekend trip. Naturally they’re also perfect if you want to share a sample of something with a friend.

Dropper bottles – These are the perfect container for oils with less user-friendly packaging, or for serums.

Pump bottles – smaller ones are really travel-friendly for basically anything liquid. I also like to use them if I get something with annoying packaging – like foundation bottles without pumps (why would you even make that?) or tubs that don’t include spatulas.

Most things are pretty easy to clean out with a long cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. Just one word of caution – if you have something that can break down with light exposure (like Vitamin C serums or sunscreen) be sure to put it in an opaque bottle.

How do you reuse your empties? Don’t keep your genius ideas all to yourself!