You've probably heard the term "clean beauty" being thrown around on social media, in advertisements, and even by your favorite celebrities. But what does it actually mean? Contrary to what you might think, clean beauty isn't about products that make your skin look clean and natural. It's about what goes inside the formula. To shed some light on this popular trend, we consulted two skincare experts, Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist, and Dr. John Burroughs, a board-certified plastic surgeon. Let's dive in and discover what clean beauty truly entails and how it can impact your skincare routine.
Defining Clean Beauty
Clean beauty doesn't have a one-size-fits-all definition. Dr. Burroughs describes it as a movement that advocates for skincare products free from toxic substances, with a stronger emphasis on natural ingredients that benefit the skin. However, Dr. Engelman urges us not to dismiss non-natural ingredients immediately. Instead, she advises us to pay attention to the label and assess if the product lives up to its claims of being clean.
Incorporating Clean Beauty into Your Routine
Building a clean beauty routine may sound daunting, but you don't have to overhaul your entire skincare collection all at once. Making small changes can also be beneficial and more manageable. Start by examining the labels of your current products and researching the listed ingredients. You can then choose to swap out the products you use the most and gradually transition to a fully clean routine if that aligns with your goals.
Don't be too hasty in discarding products that may not seem "clean" on the surface. Dr. Engelman reminds us that just because a product is derived from natural ingredients doesn't automatically make it good, and vice versa. Take poison ivy as an example – it's completely natural but definitely not something you'd want to slather on your skin for beauty benefits. Instead, Dr. Engelman recommends relying on a skincare routine that is supported by scientific research. Many lab-made ingredients deliver excellent results and are safe to use. Nonetheless, she appreciates and supports the clean beauty movement, which promotes the use of clean ingredients that provide noticeable benefits to the skin.
Embracing Clean Beauty Brands
If you're looking for clean beauty products, two brands worth considering are Garnier Green Labs and Youth to the People. Garnier Green Labs offers a range of products, such as the Pinea-C Brightening Serum Cream with SPF 30, which is 100% vegan and free from mineral oil and parabens. This 3-in-1 product replaces your daily moisturizer, serum, and sunscreen. It has already received rave reviews from our editors. Youth to the People is another favorite clean beauty brand, offering USA-made, vegan, cruelty-free products that come in recyclable containers.
Image: Photo by Chaunte Vaughn
Clean beauty is a skincare trend that prioritizes the absence of toxic substances and a greater reliance on natural ingredients. However, it's essential to approach clean beauty with discernment, understanding that not all natural ingredients are beneficial, and not all lab-made ingredients are harmful. By examining labels, making informed choices, and embracing clean beauty brands, you can incorporate this trend into your skincare routine and enjoy the benefits of clean and effective products.
