Zero Waste Enthusiastic
Want to banish your skin woes?
Humans have always been devoted to beautification and fashion throughout history, especially in the case of skincare. Most people will be consuming a lifetime’s worth of products. And this means that tons of waste will be generated due to the majority of people who use various products for their skin. There are numerous ingredients in any mainstream small skincare product, and the extraction of these materials may be harmful to the environment, as it can produce toxic byproducts.
The need for more organic and natural skincare has been made famous by local and international companies due to the growing concern regarding sustainability. Think Lush, Puracy, Humankind. Sustainable skincare is not just a trend but a pressing need for many people worldwide.
If one really thinks about it, nature’s touch in our beauty products has always been making our skin glow because it contains natural compounds that are less irritable and more affordable. Another thing to note is product packaging because this also contributes a significant amount of waste to the environment.
So when one goes zero waste, not only are the consumers practicing efficient self-care or hygienic routines, but they are also caring for nature at the same time.
Banish, A Zero Waste Skincare Brand That Seeks To Solve Acne
Banish also had its small humble beginnings, by starting from a small, thoughtful act in a vlog by their founder, Daisy Jing. Before it was officially established, Daisy, a YouTuber at that time, was documenting her acne journey in her channel. She founded the company by accident by sharing to her followers the advice of her plastic surgeon and sending small samples for those willing to try. Her company grew and now has partnered with various charities and organizations, including the WHO.
Banish is based in the United States of America, which is also where they source the ingredients they use in their products – specifically on the West Coast. Interestingly, the company’s goal is that they also cater to those who struggle with their acne. Still, they also spread positivity and confidence to promote internal healing as well.
In terms of sustainability, all Banish skin care products come in glass jars and bottles – that can be repurposed or recycled after the user finishes the products inside the packaging. They also use 100% recycled materials like craft paper tape and corrugated paper wrap, instead of the usual bubble wrap and other plastic packagings.
What is the Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque?
Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque is used as an exfoliating mask, where the main ingredient is none other but fresh and naturally grown pumpkins. The natural enzymes extracted from the pumpkin fruits combine with AHA glycolic acid, which provides skin clarity.
The Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque is non-toxic as it does not contain ingredients that can be possible skin irritants such as parabens, sulfates, silicones, dyes, and fragrances. For this reason, it is safe and suitable for all types of skin. Moreover, it is also vegan and cruelty-free as it does not contain animal-derived ingredients.
Ingredients of Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque
The pumpkin fruit is the main ingredient in their product. This is because it contains Vitamin C and Beta-Carotene, which functions as natural antioxidants. Additionally, it also contains Alpha Hydroxy Acid, which is a natural exfoliator.
The Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Mask also contains the following ingredients:
- Organic Bilberry Fruit Extract,
- Organic Sugar Cane Extract,
- Organic Orange Peel Extract,
- Organic Lemon Peel Extract,
- Glycerin,
- Tetrasodium EDTA,
- Vitamin E,
- Phenoxyethanol,
- Meadowfoam Seed Oil,
- Xanthan Gum,
- Glycolic Acid,
- Neem Seed Oil,
- Rosemary Leaf Extract,
- Cinnamon Bark Powder,
- Ginger Root Powder,
- Nutmeg Powder.
How to use the Banish Enzyme Masque
Using the Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque is pretty easy.
Just spread a thin layer on the face and leave it for 10-15 minutes such that it dries before washing it off with water. You may experience mild tingling sensations for the first one or two minutes starting the application process. But this is a normal occurrence for first-time users.
In case the product causes excessive or unbearable stinging and irritation, you must rinse it off your skin with cool water. Repeat this routine 2-3 times a week, or as much as you want, or per the direction of a skincare expert.
Pros and Cons
Advantages of Using the Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque:
This Masque is effective for all skin types, especially oily, dry and damaged skin. The main advantage of this exfoliating mask is its formulation from all-natural and non-toxic ingredients used. Hence, it is generally safe to use with no worry of worse skin texture or breakouts. Though the first few minutes may cause you some tingling, it will eventually go away and will leave no redness in the skin.
Secondly, it is easy to apply to the face and requires little to no effort. Leaving it on for a reasonable amount of time makes it work throughout your skin while you do other tasks and activities in your room or household.
Lastly, when you buy skin care products from Banish, you also help contribute to their charity work since Banish allots a portion of their sales income to be donated to their partnered charities to help animals, reforestation, and homeless children.
Disadvantages of the Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque
This exfoliating mask may have an overwhelming pumpkin scent for people who are not used to the pumpkin smell. Although this barely counts as a con for most, some people will be discouraged from using a particular product because they do not prefer its scent. As you apply it to the face, the odor may be too intense for other people to handle.
In fact, the Swede blogger of Love For K-Beauty said that she was not used to pumpkin-type odors or fragrances but was eager to try the product on her face nonetheless.
It is also a bit pricey, at $39.00. But you can take advantage of their free shipping for international orders that are over $190.
Is the Banish Enzyme Masque sustainable?
Yes, the Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque is sustainable because Daisy Jing made her skincare company with the aim of offering safe, natural products to help anyone struggling with acne.
It uses organic and all-natural ingredients wherein the majority of it can be processed directly and easily. The absence of toxic and harsh chemicals paves the way for it to become environmentally-friendly. There will not be many additional procedures or processes necessary to extract or combine the ingredients. The said process may consume more energy and produce wastes and pollutants to the surroundings, which are detrimental to human health and ecosystems. And most importantly, the packaging of Banish products is also sustainable because they are reusable and biodegradable.
What do customers say?
According to JudgeMe, the Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque has a 5-star rating of an outstanding 78% of the 1101 people that reviewed it. One satisfied and verified buyer, Gianna M., stated that she has been using this product for a few years, and it has helped her combat inflammation from cystic acne and the dark marks it leaves behind her face.
Another verified buyer, Amanda W. uses the mask along with her daily curology routine. She posted her before and after progress photos which show that the breakouts on her face is healing quicker and the redness caused by the healing process is now fading.
A third verified buyer, Kate, S. stated that the product helped her dramatically, given her cystic hormonal acne condition for 2 decades. In her statement, she said, “…my active acne AND scars began to fade.”
The Huda Beauty (HB) Team also reviewed this Banish Pumpkin Enzyme mask. Their results showed that it was “a great addition to our skincare routine,” which made them use this exfoliator as a replacement for their previous exfoliating products. They also noted that using AHA-based toners on the same day as using this must be avoided, and it is recommended that an SPF 30 or higher must be applied the following morning for dramatic results.
Should You Buy the Banish Enzyme Masque?
All things said, the Banish Enzyme Masque is a handy addition to your zero waste self-care routine because:
- Safe and effective: It works well in reducing acne for all skin types, especially oily, dry and damaged skin.
- Non-toxic, Vegan, and Cruelty-free: Banish makes all their products with all-natural ingredients – no parabens, sulfates, silicones, dyes, and fragrances.
- Zero Waste Packaging: All Banish skin care products come in glass jars and bottles, which you can either reuse yourself or send back to Banish for a discount on your next order. They are also packed with compostable Kraft paper tape, and corrugated Kraft wraps.
- Banish Gives Back: Banish allots a portion of their sales income to their partnered charities (Campaign Zero, WHO, AFRP, School on Wheels, and many more).
Banish Pumpkin Enzyme Masque is significantly effective for those suffering from acne for a long time. Additionally, it highly adheres to its vision and mission of providing quality products that get to the root of problems rather than providing a mere temporary cover-up. So if you need an effective zero waste skincare product, it is indeed worth the try.
Furthermore, we are using this for self-care. Still, it is also for the betterment of the environment we are in, as well as making an impact on various marginalized people who are catered by charities that are partnered with Banish. In the end, purchasing this product is a win-win situation.
But if you want to save more money and reduce waste in the process, you can also try doing your skin care routine DIY. You can use fruits such as papaya, lemon, and cucumber to regenerate your skin. Eggs, coffee grounds, and crushed avocadoes are also great for exfoliating masks.
