How to recycle beauty and grooming packaging
Empty makeup, skincare, haircare and grooming containers made from mixed materials.
Other names include cosmetic containers, makeup packaging, toiletry packaging.
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How to recycle beauty and grooming packaging
Use the product first, then separate easy-to-remove pumps, caps and mirrors. Check the scheme list because mixed packaging is often excluded from household recycling.
- Possible recycling routes
- Specialist recycling schemesBring banks and recycling pointsRetailer take-back points
Prepare beauty and grooming packaging for recycling
- Empty the container
- Wipe or rinse it if the product allows
- Separate parts only when the scheme asks
What must stay out
Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.
- Part-full products can be refused
- Nail varnish and aerosols can need different routes
- Retail schemes accept selected formats and brands
Types of site to check
These site types can list beauty and grooming packaging. Each provider sets its own limits and access rules.
- Specialist recycling schemes
Collection services for items that most household recycling bins cannot accept. Schemes can use shops, postal returns or limited public drop-off points.
- Bring banks and recycling points
Small public recycling sites with separate containers for selected materials. They are often in supermarket, council and community car parks.
- Retailer take-back points
Shops and delivery services that take back selected products or packaging. Rules depend on the product, the retailer and whether you are buying a replacement.
Collection and take-back services
These services may offer another route when a local site does not list the item.
- Recycle Now
UK recycling guidance with an item directory and a postcode-based recycling locator.
- TerraCycle UK
Brand-funded collection programmes for selected packaging and products that normal household recycling services may not accept.
Related item guides
- Aerosol cans
Empty household aerosol cans such as deodorant, air freshener and furniture polish cans.
- Glass bottles and jars
Empty food, drink, medicine and cosmetic bottles or jars made from container glass.
- Plastic pots, tubs and trays
Empty food pots, margarine tubs, meat trays, fruit punnets and similar rigid plastic packaging.
Questions about recycling beauty and grooming packaging
- Where can I recycle beauty and grooming packaging?
- Enter your postcode in the local finder to search specialist recycling schemes and bring banks and recycling points and retailer take-back points near you. Check the provider page before you travel because item lists and access rules can change.
- How should I prepare beauty and grooming packaging for recycling?
- Use the product first, then separate easy-to-remove pumps, caps and mirrors. Check the scheme list because mixed packaging is often excluded from household recycling.
Sources for this guide
- Recycle an item
Recycle Now · Reviewed 14 August 2026
- Free recycling programmes
TerraCycle UK · Reviewed 14 August 2026