What to do with empty lipstick tubes?

Whenever a beloved lipstick is completely empty, besides the satisfaction, the question arises: what to do with this little tube? Throwing it away seems wasteful, but simply tossing it in the trash doesn't seem environmentally friendly.

Why focus on lipstick tube recycling?

A lipstick tube is often composed of a complex variety of materials, typically including plastics (such as PP and ABS), metals, and even small springs. This makes it difficult to simply categorize them into one type of waste for recycling. If not handled properly, these non-biodegradable materials will burden the environment.

Including lipstick tubes and other cosmetic packaging in the recycling system is an important part of practicing the "zero waste" beauty concept. Many beauty brands have already begun offering or supporting empty lipstick tubes recycling programs.

Playing with empty lipstick tubes: Creative DIY and reuse

Before considering professional recycling, you might try some fun DIY methods to transform your empty lipstick tubes into a practical little item for everyday life.

1. Cleaning Lipstick Tubes: The First Step to Reuse

Before any DIY projects, thoroughly cleaning empty lipstick tubes is essential.

• Step 1: Use a small scraper or cotton swab to remove any remaining lipstick.
• Step 2: Soak the lipstick tube in warm soapy water to dissolve any stubborn residue.
• Step 3: Use a small brush (such as an old toothbrush) to carefully clean the inside and spiral structure.
• Step 4: Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry.
  
  

2. Practical Reuse Ideas

Cleaned lipstick tubes have a unique, compact structure, perfect for storage or repackaging:

• Repackaging Skincare Products: Repurpose or repackage lipstick tubes containing creamy eye creams, lip balms, or solid perfumes for easy portability, ideal for travel or daily touch-ups.
  
  
• Emergency Sewing Kit: The small lipstick tube can be used to store a few needles, small buttons, or a small amount of frequently used thread in your handbag for unexpected needs.
  
  
• Miniature Storage: Store small, easily lost items such as earrings, pills, or USB drives.
  

Environmentally Friendly Path: Professional Recycling Channels

If DIY isn't your forte, or if you have a large number of lipstick tubes, professional recycling channels are a more efficient and environmentally friendly option.

• Brand Recycling Programs: Many international and domestic beauty brands have launched their own cosmetic packaging recycling programs. You can collect your cleaned empty lipstick tubes and participate by dropping them off at designated stores or mailing them in.
  
  
• Environmental Organization Partnerships: Pay attention to third-party environmental organizations that partner with beauty brands. They typically accept various types of difficult-to-recycle cosmetic packaging and professionally sort and process it.
  
  
• Sorted Disposal: In some cities, if the material of the lipstick tubes can be clearly distinguished (e.g., pure plastic or pure metal), you can dispose of them according to local waste sorting guidelines. However, in uncertain situations, it is recommended to prioritize the professional recycling channels mentioned above.
  
  

Whether you give empty lipstick tubes a new purpose through DIY or choose professional recycling channels, we can all reduce waste and contribute to the environment. The next time you finish a lipstick tube, consider this guide to transform it from "waste" into a creative starting point or an environmentally conscious endeavor.

You might also be wondering: Is there a difference in recycling methods for "lipstick tubes" and "lip balm tubes"?

Usually, there is no significant difference because they are very similar in material composition and can be cleaned and recycled using the same methods.

How do professional recycling organizations process lipstick tubes?

Professional organizations disassemble and separate the materials, extracting different components such as plastics and metals for use in manufacturing new products or as energy fuel.