What is Project Pan? How Can You Participate?

Project Pan is a movement in the beauty and skincare community where people commit to using up their current products before purchasing new ones. The goal? To reduce waste, save money, and make the most of what you already own.

In a world where overconsumption is common, it’s easy to buy more than we need. With new makeup, skincare, and hair products launching weekly, many jump to try the latest trends before finishing what they already have. This habit often leads to forgotten or expired products, which eventually find their homes in the trash.

Overconsumption doesn’t just affect individuals—it also drives overproduction where companies produce more items than they can sell. 

“This mass production results in a staggering amount of environmental waste, particularly plastic waste from discarded skincare products, overwhelming landfills and contributing to pollution,” according to Good Spread SkinCare, “Just in the U.S. beauty and personal care product industries, 7.9 billion units of hard plastics contribute to this problem.” 

Project Pan encourages a shift toward mindful consumption by focusing on “hitting pan,” or using up a product entirely, like revealing the bottom of a compact or finishing a tube of skincare.

Ready to start your own Project Pan?

Here are 8 tips to help you succeed:

1. Set Clear Goals
Decide if you want to completely finish a product, hit the pan, or just make progress.

2. Pick Everyday Products
Focus on items you can use daily, like foundation, mascara, or a neutral lipstick.

3. Track Your Progress
Take before-and-after photos or keep a journal to celebrate small wins and stay motivated.

4. Share on Social Media
Document your journey on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube to connect with others and stay accountable.

5. Prioritize Expiring Products
Use up items that are nearing their expiration date to avoid waste.

6. Get Creative
Multi-task products—like using lipstick as blush or bronzer as eyeshadow—to finish them faster.

7. Avoid Impulse Buys
Stay focused by steering clear of sales or new launches unless they’re truly needed.

8. Celebrate Milestones
Reward yourself when you hit major goals, like finishing your first product or reducing your collection significantly.

Project Pan is larger than just finishing up products—it’s a step toward sustainability and mindful consumption. By committing to this challenge, you’re reducing waste, saving money, and embracing a more intentional approach to beauty and skincare.

It’s about making the most of what you have while contributing to a healthier planet. Whether you’re hitting pan for the first time or finishing up a long-loved product, every step you take is progress.