Clean beauty. We've heard about it, we want it … but what does it actually mean?
Turns out: not really much of anything. Shopping for eco-friendly and clean beauty products can be tricky because the labels don't always have a specific meaning (though the FDA does have some guidelines.)
Luckily, there are some pretty simple ways to make sure your favorite brand isn't greenwashing or just using eco-friendly buzzwords to sell products.
Most importantly: ignore those buzzwords! Instead of trusting "eco-friendly," look for organic, ethically-sourced ingredients and certified compostable or recyclable packaging.
Instead of relying on the company's definition of "clean beauty," check the product's credentials from organizations outside the brand. Official third-party certifications (Leaping Bunny, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, etc.) can be a great way to verify that the brands you love are taking their claims seriously.
We know it can feel a little daunting to get started. Lucky for you, we've rounded up some of our team's favorite clean beauty brands that aren't trying to greenwash their claims.
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Araza Vitamin Boost Hydrating Face Mist with Lemongrass
Why It's Cool
Feeling dry? This vitamin boost face mist can help hydrate during skin-chapping months of winter. With 95% organic ingredients — meticulous sourcing, no greenwashing! — this aloe-based juice balances, soothes, and moisturizes.
$42
Elate Cosmetics Refresh Organic Liquid Foundation
Why It's Cool
Why It's Cool: Made from natural, fair-trade ingredients, this vegan, cruelty-free liquid foundation is lightweight and hydrating. You'll feel glowy all day with one of their colors that cater to a variety of skin tones.
$38.99
Eminence Organic Skin Care Eight Greens Phyto Masque
Why It's Cool
Why It's Cool: A fan favorite for acne-prone skin, this hydrating mask has a mix of organic and cruelty-free ingredients that help normalize oily skin and the appearance of breakouts. Eminence is a Certified B Corp that also plants a tree for every product sold.
$59
Izzy Zero Waste Mascara
Why It's Cool
Why It's Cool: Cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and zero waste — Izzy really comes through with certifications for their volumizing mascara. Best of all, each shipment comes with a way to return your old tube for reuse once you've finished.
$39
Axiology Vegan Multi-Use Balmie
Why It's Cool
Why It's Cool: Vegan, plastic-free, cruelty-free, and palm oil-free, Axiology's balmies are an eco-friendly makeup bag's best friend. They're made with just nine ingredients so you know exactly what you're putting on your lips … and eyes … and cheeks!
$14
Pangea Organics De-Stress Foaming Cleanser
Why It's Cool
Why It's Cool: Gently cleanse your face from dirt, oil, and the stress of your day with Pangea Organics' foaming cleanser. Keen to make your skincare routine plastic-free? This gentle cleanser comes in an aluminum tube or glass bottle.
$36
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