All items · Health & beauty

Used or opened cosmetics and toiletries

Also covers: makeup, half-used perfume, opened shampoo, skincare

Can you donate used or opened cosmetics and toiletries to a UK charity shop? No.

The short answer They say no Of the 153 UK charities we track, 39 say no and none says yes. 1 of those is a category-wide rule rather than a direct mention. Evidence last verified

Why shops may refuse it

Hygiene rules — only new, sealed products can be sold.

What to do instead

Unopened toiletries are welcome at most shops, and hygiene banks take sealed donations for people in need.

Charity by charity

39 mentions
Not mentioned in 114 charities' guidance

Absence from a charity's list doesn't mean they accept it — it just isn't singled out. Ask your local shop.