Good til the Last Drop?
Is the viral Project Pan worth the hype?
Between the ads trying to get you to purchase the next best beauty product, social media feeds host some helpful tips including the recently viral Project Pan challenge. Let’s dive in to learn more and ask our Sorted experts if it’s worth the hype.
What Is Project Pan?
Do you have a bathroom drawer cluttered with partially used beauty products? Whether they’re gifted or purchased, it’s easy to accumulate more than we could ever use. Yet we still run to buy the hot new skincare that promises to make us look and feel our best. Enter Project Pan, a mindful approach to using up what you have before buying something new.
Project Pan is a movement that encourages people to “hit pan” (reach the bottom of a product) before purchasing replacements. The term originally comes from the makeup community, where beauty enthusiasts challenge themselves to finish up powders, eyeshadows, and other products. But the concept can be applied to skincare, haircare, and even household products.
“I use this method in my fridge, freezer, and pantry to cut down on waste and save money! My family prioritizes eating items that are nearing expiration first, then works through what we already have before buying more.”
Why Try Project Pan?
Beyond decluttering, Project Pan offers several benefits:
Saves Money – Using up what you have reduces unnecessary spending.
Reduces Waste – Minimizing product accumulation prevents waste from expired or forgotten items.
Encourages Mindful Consumption – You become more intentional about future purchases.
Creates a More Organized Space – Less clutter means a cleaner, more functional bathroom or vanity.
“Project Pan is such a fun and satisfying way to track progress of your items! It encourages mindful consumption and helps you get the most out of products you already have. It’s a great challenge for anyone wanting to be more intentional with their items and reduce waste! ”
How to Get Started with Project Pan
Take Inventory – Gather all your beauty and skincare products. Sort them by category and check expiration dates.
Choose Your Pan Items – Select products that are already in use or close to being finished. Aim for a mix of essentials and fun items.
Set a Goal – Decide how many items you want to finish before purchasing new ones.
Track Progress – Use a checklist, take photos, or mark packaging to see your progress.
Resist Impulse Buys – If a new product tempts you, ask yourself: Do I already have something similar? Can I wait until I finish what I have?
“Project pan can foster gratitude for what we already have. However if you have a product that you dislike (perhaps it’s the wrong color) and grow to resent using it, give it to a family member or close friend. Don’t over-apply in an effort to finish the old to purchase new.”
Project Pan Beyond Beauty
While it started in the beauty industry, the philosophy of Project Pan can apply to other areas of life—using up pantry staples, finishing cleaning supplies, or wearing all the clothes in your closet before shopping for more.
By embracing Project Pan, you’ll not only clear out clutter but also build a more mindful approach to what you bring into your space. Ready to give it a try? Start small and enjoy the satisfaction of using what you have!