Prior to 2016, I never heard of the term “Project Pan,” but within the Reddit and YouTube Project Panning beauty communities. But what is Project Panning?

The Project Panning Community consists of thriving groups that challenge the beauty industries influence on their wallets. Like me, these Redditors and vloggers love the beauty industry but recognize that their overconsumption habits are not healthy. Rather than simply chucking their unloved products, Project Panners choose to embark on panning (finishing) the makeup and skincare that they already own.

What Does “Panning” Mean?

The term pan is a reference to the silver pan that many powder products, such as eye shadows, blushes, and bronzers come in. “Hitting pan” means that an individual can now see the silver pan of the product he or she is using. However, this term is not specific to powder products only. In fact, any beauty product that has been used completely can be considered a panned product.

Working to pan or finish a product is often the most eye-opening way to realize how we are over-consuming. Trying to finish products enables us to better understand that we are purchasing well beyond what can be reasonably finished.

Now that there is an understanding of what “panning” means, what is project panning?

It is a little challenging to see in this photo, but i am close to “panning” this Buxom lip gloss in the shade Dolly

What is Project Panning?

In order to make working through products more fun (and achievable), Youtubers often create themed projects. For example, there are many online who are attempting to pan 18 in 2018 (i.e. finish 18 products before the end of the year). Meanwhile others are working to “Pan that Palette” or finish an entire eyeshadow or face palette in one year. Projects can be done simultaneously or on their own depending on the individual’s preference.

Often times vloggers will provide monthly updates on their progress online. In this way, vloggers and vlog watchers are able to cheer one another on. Also, sharing progress helps project panners motivate each other to either keep going or to start a new project.

Why Try Project Panning?

Project Pans can be extremely helpful in breaking beauty addiction. These projects make people more aware of the time it takes to use makeup up. Additionally, it helps people to realize that most products won’t be finished before they reach their expiry date. Also, by working through a product completely, buyers get a more complete understanding of formulation and application preferences.

Finally, why not try to get your full money’s worth from the products in your collection? That being said, when starting a new project, it helpful to include some “gimmies.” In other words, throw in items that you know you can finish in a reasonable amount of time, as well as things you love. If you only choose hard-to-finish things or products that you hate, you won’t be motivated to continue.

Follow along with my recent 20 in 2020 Project.

Let’s connect on social:  Instagram | Twitter| Pinterest | Bloglovin’

Did you learn anything about project panning from my post? Check out my Pan That Palette 2018 Introduction.

Are you thinking of starting to do a project pan? Check out my post on How to Beauty Inventory or How to Use Pivot Tables to Make Advanced Inventories.

Obsessed with project panning? Check out this massive beauty empties roundup.

What will you try to pan this year? Will you join any projects? Let me know in the comments below.

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