
If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok lately, you’ve probably noticed the buzz around “Project Pan.” This trend is all about challenging yourself to finish your beauty products completely, using them up until you literally hit the pan or empty the bottle. It’s a fun, satisfying way to make the most of your beauty stash, and it’s gaining popularity for good reason.
What is Project Pan?
Project Pan is about more than just finishing your products. It’s a mindful approach to using what you already have, where the goal is to fully utilise each item before considering a replacement. This might mean cutting open tubes to get every last drop of moisturiser or using a palette until the very last speck of eyeshadow is gone.
Unlike casually finishing a product, Project Pan involves a deliberate decision to focus on specific items. You consciously choose to:
- Finish a particular product.
- Avoid buying anything similar until it’s entirely used up.
This conscious effort cultivates a deeper awareness of your consumption habits, encouraging you to rethink how you approach beauty products. It shifts the perception of beauty items from disposable commodities to valuable investments, altering how you engage with your routine.

Benefits of Project Pan
1. Money saving One of the most immediate benefits of Project Pan is the money you save. By committing to using up products fully, you reduce impulse buys and unnecessary spending on items you don’t need. This conscious consumption can lead to significant savings over time, allowing you to invest in fewer, high-quality products that you truly love.
2. Sustainability Project Pan is inherently more sustainable. It minimises waste by ensuring that products are used to their fullest potential, reducing the frequency of discarding partially-used items. Additionally, by being mindful about new purchases, you lower the demand for excessive production, contributing to a more sustainable beauty industry.
3. Mindful consumption Participating in Project Pan fosters a greater appreciation for what you already own. It encourages you to savor each product and recognise its value, leading to more intentional choices in the future. This shift in mindset can help reduce clutter, streamline your beauty routine, and foster a sense of satisfaction in using what you have.
Tips for starting your Project Pan
- Take an inventory: Start by reviewing your current beauty products. Identify items that are half-used or nearing their end. This will give you a clear picture of what you already have and what needs to be used up.
- Use the open first: Prioritise finishing up products that are already partially used. This will help you see progress more quickly and clear out space in your collection.
- Set goals: Choose a few key products to focus on and set achievable goals for using them up. Whether it’s finishing a foundation or hitting the pan on an eyeshadow, having specific targets can keep you motivated.
- Create a rotation system: To avoid getting bored, rotate your products regularly. Incorporate a mix of favorites and forgotten items to keep your routine fresh while making steady progress.

From beauty to fitness: Every last mile
The concept of mindful consumption isn’t limited to beauty products; it can easily extend to other areas of your life, like fitness. Just as you strive to use every last drop of your favorite moisturiser, you can apply the same philosophy to your running gear, ensuring you get every last mile out of your shoes and apparel. By taking a more intentional approach to how you use, care for, and replace your workout items, you contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle while also reaping similar financial and environmental benefits.
Re-purpose your old shoes
When your running shoes show signs of wear, consider giving them a second life as gym shoes or casual wear. This practice extends their lifespan and ensures you maximise their utility.
Utilise recycling programs
Many brands offer recycling schemes for used running shoes, preventing them from ending up in landfills. Look into programs like “Recycle my run” and “Recycle my gear” or other brand-specific initiatives that encourage sustainable disposal.
Mindful gear purchases
Just as with beauty products, being mindful about your gear purchases is key. Focus on quality over quantity, and choose sustainable brands that align with your values.

Tips for making your running gear last longer
Taking care of your running gear can make a significant difference in how long it lasts. Here are some strategies to help you get the most out of your investment:
- Proper washing techniques: Always check the care labels and wash your running clothes in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and air dry your gear to maintain its integrity.
- Rotate your shoes: Alternate between two pairs of running shoes to allow each pair time to decompress and dry out, which reduces wear and tear.
- Store shoes correctly: Keep your running shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use newspaper to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape.
- Avoid over-wearing: Reserve older running shoes for less demanding activities like walking or gym workouts, helping to prolong the life of your main running shoes.
- Repair minor damages: Address small holes or loose seams in your gear early with basic sewing or fabric patches. This prevents the damage from worsening.
- Clean your gear properly: After a muddy run, clean your shoes gently with a soft brush and mild soap to prevent materials from breaking down.
- Invest in quality gear: Higher-quality gear often lasts longer, performs better, and withstands frequent use, making it a better investment over time.
By following these tips, you can extend the life of your running gear, making your purchases more worthwhile and reducing waste. Embracing the principles of Project Pan in your fitness routine encourages a more sustainable approach, helping you save money and make mindful choices.
So, why not make this the year you hit the pan and squeeze out every last mile? Adopting these practices can lead to a more intentional, eco-friendly lifestyle across all areas of your life.