Eco-Friendly Options Reflect a Modern Approach

Reusable formats offer a smart way to reduce waste—without compromising performance or sophistication. From skin care and makeup to fragrance and more, eco-friendly refillables reflect a modern approach to beauty that’s as thoughtful as it is indulgent.

Sustainability isn’t just an add-on for luxury beauty—it’s the essence of true luxury itself. “Today’s discerning consumers expect their premium products to reflect their values, and refillable formats represent the perfect intersection of indulgence and responsibility,” says Marissa Pagnani McGowan, chief sustainability officer for L’Oréal North America. “Our goal is a circular approach that enhances the luxury experience.”

Between 2019 and 2024, the number of reusable products at L’Oréal grew by 1,621 percent (a 17X increase), with an 11-percent overall reduction in the intensity of its product packaging. “Our refillable offerings across skin care, makeup and fragrance allow consumers to preserve the beautiful, crafted packaging they love while dramatically reducing environmental impact,” McGowan says. “This isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about creating a new luxury ritual where sustainability becomes part of the premium experience.”

What’s encouraging is the momentum seen industry-wide. Founded earlier this year by 22-year-old Aerin Glazer, Tilt Beauty is raising the bar for inclusive beauty with its vegan formulas, ergonomic packaging and accessibility details like Braille and Hyperlegible font. It also prides itself on “sleek and chic” refillable packaging, which Glazer says reduces plastic use by up to 76 percent.

“Sustainability is at the core of Tilt Beauty,” says Glazer. “All of our products are refillable, and our refill system makes it simple to reload your favorite shade or swap in a new one. The products even have a clear bottom window that lets you see the color at a glance so you always know exactly what you’re reaching for.”

Louis Vuitton is also entering the refillable makeup chat, having launched its inaugural makeup collection La Beauté Louis Vuitton at the end of the summer. Created by Dame Pat McGrath, the fully refillable line of lipsticks, balms and eyeshadow is meant to be a “design that endures.” The luxury brand also sees the launch as creating an at-home “refill ritual.” Every detail of the sustainable packaging has been considered, including a bespoke monogrammed lipstick bullet and an innovative floral-motif lock system that allows the lipsticks and eyeshadow palettes to be housed in their heirloom cases.”

Stats on Environmental Savings

1 / 6

Purchasing a 60ml refill instead of rebuying a 60ml jar helps to save 100% glass, 39% plastic and 35% cardboard.

2 / 6

Buying one 150ml refill instead of rebuying three 50ml bottles helps to save 57% glass, 49% cardboard, 21% plastic and 100% metal.

3 / 6

Born as a refillable fragrance in 1992, the Mugler brand has expanded its portfolio to now include more than 40 fragrance references that can be filled at home. Today, a 100ml refill of its Angel EDP helps to save 70% glass, 60% plastic, 100% metal and 76% carton.

4 / 6

Boasting the impressive spot for the world’s number-two best-selling female fragrance in the world, a 100ml refill saves 58% glass, 59% plastic and 42% paper compared to repurchasing two 50ml bottles.

5 / 6

One 100 ml refill (as opposed to two 50ml bottles) helps to save 44% glass, 100% metal, 67% plastic and 61% cardboard.

6 / 6

By purchasing one refill (instead of repurchasing one full lipstick), consumers reduce metal consumption by 91% and plastic consumption by 53%.