In the ever-evolving world of skincare, TikTok has become a hub for trends that range from revolutionary to whimsical. One trend making waves, however, is grounded in something we can all get behind: sustainability. Enter “Project Pan,” a movement encouraging users to finish their existing skincare products before buying new ones. Note: this is not a new "trend" by any means. But, at the moment there has been a massive rise in the number of hashtags used to promote it in comparison to previous years which indicates more widespread participation.
At its core, Project Pan is about intentionality. It’s the antidote to overconsumption, urging us to pause and ask: Are we truly using what we already own? But beyond the trend’s eco-conscious appeal, it also offers a fresh perspective on refining your skincare routine to better serve your skin’s needs.
It is likely that this trend might drop off a little bit as we get further into the new year. Often right after New Years social media is full of resolutions and "underconsumption" seems to be is what is trending this year with consuming less being a goal for many. With some companies dropping dozens of new products every year, it can be difficult for people to resist purchasing every fun item as it is released. However, I am determined to make this last the entire year, so that by the end I am left with a core group of products that are natural and wonderful for my skin which I can repurchase for years to come.
What Is Project Pan?
The term “Project Pan” stems from the idea of “panning” products, or hitting the bottom of the container (a.k.a. the pan). TikTok users are showcasing their almost-empty skincare bottles and jars, celebrating their progress and sharing the satisfaction of truly finishing a product. Many have now compared this feeling as similar to the dopamine hit you can experience after purchasing a new product.
Rather than buying the latest and greatest product simply because it’s trending (even when it might be terrible for your skin), Project Pan encourages a slower, more mindful approach—one that ensures nothing goes to waste.
Why It Matters
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Reducing Waste: Every half-used moisturiser or forgotten serum contributes to the global waste problem. By committing to Project Pan, you’re helping to minimise product and packaging waste. If you try something and don't find that it works for your skin, see if you can give it to a family member or friend who might absolutely love it.
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Learning What Works: Finishing a product gives you time to truly assess its impact on your skin. Did it meet your needs? Did you love the texture, scent, and results? This mindful evaluation makes future purchases more intentional.
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Saving Money: Let’s face it, skincare can be an investment. Project Pan helps you get your money’s worth while reducing impulsive buys. Personally, I have a core group of skincare that I love, but this still doesn't stop me from purchasing random beauty items that are often not a match for my skin type and don't get used past the initial period of excitement.
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Reassessing Consumption: Over the last decade, consumption has spiraled out of control, fueled by the ever-rising wave of social media and "must-have" products. It has become common to own drawers full of skincare items, many of which go unused. Yet, before this surge, it was normal to have just one or two of each kind of product—the ones that truly worked for you. When these products ran out, you would simply replace them. Project Pan offers a refreshing return to this simpler, more sustainable mindset.
How to Get Started with Project Pan
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Take Inventory: Go through your skincare collection and pull out products that are partially used or neglected.
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Set Priorities: Identify what products you want to finish first. Start with those nearing expiration or ones you’re unsure about—this will help you decide whether to repurchase or move on.
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Create a Plan: Organize your products by step in your routine. For example, finish one cleanser before moving to the next, and so on.
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Gift or Declutter: If a product doesn’t work for your skin, consider gifting it to a friend (or donating it if unopened).
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Track Your Progress: Join the TikTok trend by documenting your journey! Seeing the “pan” of your favorite moisturizer is surprisingly satisfying.
When It’s Time to Replace…
While Project Pan promotes finishing your existing products, it’s also an opportunity to reassess your routine. When you’ve finished that last drop of serum or scraped out the final bit of moisturizer, consider replacing it with thoughtful, effective alternatives that align with your goals.
Hark & Zander is designed to nurture your skin while aligning with sustainable values. From our gentle cleansers to hydrating face oils, each product is crafted with care to support healthy, radiant skin. When the time comes to replenish, choosing high-quality, intentional skincare can make all the difference. Additionally, if you are seeing results from your skincare use, you might be less likely to impulsively purchase other beauty items that you do not need!
Final Thoughts
Project Pan is more than a 2025 early-year trend; it’s a sustainable shift in the way we approach skincare. By focusing on using what we have, we reduce waste, save money, and learn to appreciate the products that truly serve us. When it’s time to replenish, take the opportunity to choose products that align with your skin’s needs and your values.
Ready to embrace mindful skincare? Explore our range of products designed to help you glow—inside and out as you complete or gift the products that are no longer serving you.
If you would like to read more, check out our journal entry on how to reduce decision fatigue by sticking to a core group of skincare products that you can use every day.
