Triona McCarthy: We all want a clear complexion but for a c…

I wonder what she’d think now about the sustainability movement and how it has progressed so rapidly in the 13 years since she died. Finally, refillable packaging is seen as a welcome alternative to single-use plastics.

FYI, studies have shown that waste reduction is way more impactful than recycling, making refillable beauty products a significant step towards better sustainability.

Kjaer Weis was the first refillable beauty brand I remember seeing, but I struggled to understand how exactly the refill system for her make-up compacts worked. I’m happy to say that I’ve transitioned to a full-blown fan now, with the brand going from a niche concept to a mainstream trend.

The Collector’s Kit Empty Palette (€72, kjaerweis.com) is always in my bag when travelling, as it is so slim and light, yet it has a mirror and, best of all, I can fill it up with the eye or lip products I love in the colours I need.

Word on the beauty street is that the founder of the brand, make-up artist Kjaer Weis, is even considering offering a repair service for her palettes, treating them like precious jewellery.

Next up is Christian Louboutin’s Teint Fétiche La Poudre (€65 for the case and €45 for refills, christianlouboutin.com). It’s such a versatile make-up product, as it not only evens out the complexion but also sculpts and sets make-up. Designed to be refilled and clipped into the case, it allows for a bright matte finish year-round, without harming the planet.

Et Al cosmetics launched earlier this year and I was blown away by the modern, innovative packaging as well as the ingredients — 100pc vegan, cruelty-free and using Ecocert COSMOS-certified preservatives only. The Refillable Compacts (€25; refills €35, etalbeautycollective.com) are made with sustainably sourced wood fibre and are designed to last. I adore the Complexion Glow, a glowy bronzer. When finished, simply replace the pan with a new shade and start again.

Dries Van Noten offers refillable lipsticks (€38, selfridges.com) with beautiful cases inspired by archival designs. The range of colours and formulas is extensive and while the price may be steep, the longevity of the product justifies the investment — offering a sustainable option and reducing unnecessary waste.

I think Tricia would love them all!

3 of the best… vitamin C products

1 Vitamin C Glow Revealing Tonic, €26, thebodyshop.com As we don’t make vitamin C ourselves, we need a good source topically for collagen synthesis. I love this tonic that’s gentle on sensitive skin, and also comes in a recyclable glass bottle for sustainability.

2 Skin Formulas Vitamin C Prevent Serum, €53, skinformulas.ie Defend your skin against ageing and environmental damage with this serum from one of my favourite Irish brands, which promotes collagen production and lightens hyperpigmentation.

3 IMAGE Skincare Vital C Hydrating Eye Recovery Gel, €59, imageskincare.ie This modernised eye-care formula is free from harmful ingredients and cruelty-free. The gel reduces wrinkles and dark circles, and is suitable for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive and redness-prone.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​