Clean Beauty Checklist: What Really Matters?

The clean beauty movement has evolved from a niche into a mainstream shift. However, terms like “natural” or “green” are often used without meaning. What really matters is transparency, science-backed safety, and ingredient integrity.

Clean beauty doesn’t mean chemical-free (everything is a chemical), but it does mean avoiding harmful ingredients. It’s about nourishing skin while respecting your microbiome, hormone balance, and long-term health.

What to look for:

  • Short ingredient lists: Simpler is often safer
  • Fragrance-free: Ideal for sensitive or allergy-prone skin
  • Non-toxic preservatives: Like potassium sorbate or sodium benzoate
  • Transparent packaging: Clear labeling and recyclable materials

What to avoid:

  • Undefined claims like “clinically proven” with no source
  • Synthetic fragrance lumped under “parfum”
  • Known endocrine disruptors like parabens and phthalates
  • Greenwashing with misleading branding

True clean beauty is about ethics, science, and trust — not just marketing.