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Kiehl’s Sustainability Initiatives—Why Embracing Refillables are a ‘Game-Changer’

Maggie Kervick, Global Head of Sustainability and CSR, discusses Kiehl's commitment to sustainable packaging in this Q&A.

March 5, 2026

By: Jamie Matusow

Editor-in-Chief

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream has plant-based squalane made from bio-fermented sugarcane, relying on microorganisms and biotechnological methods to reduce the need for traditional chemical processes. The 150ml refill pouch reduces package usage by 61% by refilling a 50ml jar 3 times.

Kiehl’s Since 1851 has long been dedicated to healthy-looking skin and a healthier planet. The L’Oréal-owned brand has prioritized responsible practices that reduce environmental impact and encourage consumers to make sustainable choices. Maggie Kervick, Global Head of Sustainability and CSR, discusses Kiehl’s sustainability initiatives in the Q&A below.

Less plastic, a reduction in single-use packaging, in-store refill stations, and rewards for packaging returns are all part of this L’Oréal-owned brand’s commitment to sustainability.

In its latest adherence to this mission, the brand says it “is committed to ensuring all of its products and packaging are reusable or recyclable by 2030.” In addition, 97% of Kiehl’s products are made in facilities that are powered by over 99% renewable energy. They are also harnessing green science with a focus on plant-based ingredients.

A Q&A with Maggie Kervick, Kiehl’s Global Head of Sustainability

Recently, I connected with Maggie Kervick, Kiehl’s Global Head of Sustainability and CSR. We discussed the brand’s mission renewal and sustainable product offerings—and what we can expect going forward.

Jamie Matusow: Why does Kiehl’s believe refillable products are expanding in acceptance and popularity?

Maggie Kervick: Kiehl’s is seeing a growing shift in how consumers think about their beauty routines with an increased focus on value. Refills are a way for loyal consumers to stock up on their favorite formulas for up to $71 less. And, they feel less guilty because pouches use 61-81% less plastic versus re-buying multiple bottles or jars of the same formula. Refill pouches allow customers to enjoy the same formulas they love, while taking meaningful yet easy steps to make a positive environmental impact by reducing waste.

Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore-Minimizing and Polishing Powder-Cleanser is a concentrated powder-to-foam formula. It is made from ***renewably sourced ingredients, including*** fair-trade Amazonian White Clay. The Alpha-Hydroxy Acid-infused powder cleanser is ideal for oily skin types, ***and is 98% biodegradable.*** It contains less than 2% of water, which is 50x less than the average liquid cleanser. The packaging features a 100% PCR bottle and cap.

JM: How are customers responding to refillable products?

MK: Kiehl’s customers love refill pouches, especially our No.1 worldwide bestseller Ultra Facial Cream. Globally, refill pouch sales have nearly doubled in sales this year. Ultra Facial Cream refill is now our No.1 selling product in select regions globally, while in the U.S., it has risen to No.3 (vs. No.8 in 2024).

We’ve also focused our engagement strategy on tapping into key skincare trends. We’re integrating refills into the conversation, rather than trying to guilt customers about waste iussues. We harness our quirky tone of voice and heritage to create uplifting and empowering content. We have 100% net-positive sentiment on social.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Refillable Moisturizer ‘delivers 24-hour hydration’ with a lightweight, non-greasy formula that helps restore the skin’s moisture barrier while reducing surface oil for a shine-free finish. It’s available in a 150ml refill pouch that uses 61% less plastic than three standard 50ml jars, and supports Kiehl’s Mission Renewal initiative to reduce single-use waste.

JM: What are the benefits of refill products?

MK: In 2024, Kiehl’s refill formats allowed us to use 122 fewer tons of plastic in product production globally. To give you a sense of scale, that’s equivalent to the weight of about 1.7 million 50ml jars. Refill pouches truly are a game-changer in reducing plastic, and here is why:

First, and perhaps most important, is the reduction of plastic. Our pouches use significantly less plastic—between 61% and 81% less—compared to repeatedly buying new jars or bottles of the same product.

Second, they promote reusability. These pouches contain a generous amount of formula—typically two to four times the amount found in the original size. They also feature a twist cap, so they’re easy to reseal and store, which means our customers can conveniently refill their existing Kiehl’s jars and bottles, extending their lifespan considerably.

And finally, we’ve made recycling much simpler. We know that navigating curbside recycling programs can be a bit confusing, so we’ve created a direct solution. Customers can simply bring their empty refill pouches (and other beauty packaging) back to any local Kiehl’s store, and as a thank you for their sustainable choice, they’ll be rewarded with loyalty points. It’s a win-win!

Kiehl’s Mission Renewal

Kiehl’s Since 1851 is dedicated to healthy-looking skin and a healthier planet. Through its Mission Renewal initiative, the brand is taking bold steps to reduce waste, source renewable ingredients, and support diverse suppliers—all while maintaining its commitment to high-performance skincare. With a goal to eliminate single-use virgin plastic, Kiehl’s continues to lead the refill movement, offering refillable packaging and in-store Refillery Stations to help reduce plastic waste, with careful consideration for which products are compatible with refill formats. The brand also harnesses green science innovation.