In recent years, “clean beauty” established itself as a key trend in the beauty industry.
What is Clean Beauty?
Clean beauty refers to skin care and beauty products that are made from safe, often natural ingredients and are free of harmful substances, synthetic chemicals and harsh preservatives.
The philosophy behind this cosmetic trend is based on transparency, safety and sustainability. This means that the ingredients are traceable and environmentally friendly, and that the products often come in sustainable packaging.
Kosmetik International offers us a detailed explanation .
The benefits of clean beauty for skin care
1. Reduction of toxic load
Many conventional skin care products contain synthetic chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances , which can irritate the skin and even pose health risks.
Instead, clean beauty products use safe, natural alternatives that are good for the skin and body.
2. Suitable for sensitive skin
Products that fall under this category contain fewer irritating ingredients and are therefore particularly suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
They help minimize skin redness, acne and other skin problems.
3. Natural ingredients promote skin health
Natural ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter and botanical extracts offer numerous skin benefits.
They are rich in vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids that nourish and protect the skin.
4. Sustainability and environmental protection
Clean beauty products are often more environmentally friendly because they are sustainably grown and come in biodegradable or recyclable packaging.
They do less harm to the environment through lower chemical residues and reduced plastic pollution.
Clean beauty in practice
photographed by Fleur Kaan @fleuraimeekaan, via Unsplash
Transparency is key
One of the main requirements of the clean beauty movement is transparency. Consumers should be able to understand the ingredients on a product's label and where they come from.
Popular clean beauty brands
The best-known brands in the cosmetics scene include Tata Harper , Drunk Elephant , Herbivore Botanicals and RMS Beauty . These brands are committed to clean ingredients and sustainable manufacturing processes.
Thoughtful product choice
If you want to switch to clean beauty, it makes sense to start step by step. First, you can swap out your day cream or cleanser.
Read the labels carefully and look out for seals such as “ECOCERT” or “CertClean” that identify certified products.
fact check from Glamor provides us with further help : What is really behind the new skin care trend .
Challenges and misunderstandings
Greenwashing
Unfortunately, some brands are using the clean beauty trend for so-called “greenwashing” . This means they present themselves as environmentally friendly without actually meeting all the necessary standards.
It is therefore important to be well informed about the ingredients used and to look for credible certificates.
Myths about synthetic ingredients
Not all synthetic ingredients are bad. Some, such as synthetically produced vitamin C, can be very effective and can be used in clean beauty products as long as they are safe for health.
Clean Beauty – Why we can’t get enough of it
Science is behind nature
Good news for everyone who still thinks that we only work with a shovel of clay from Grandma's garden: The science behind this cosmetic trend has an initial basis, even if there are no uniform standards yet.
We're talking in-depth research and innovative formulations that do justice to Mother Nature's best effects. Multi-peptide solutions , botanical stem cells and fermented ingredients are the new stars in the skincare sky.
Personalized Clean Beauty
Photographed by Cheyenne Doig @cheyennedoig, via Unsplash
The future of this cosmetic category will be more personalized and intelligent. AI-powered skin analysis accurately identifies your individual needs so you can use products that are tailored to your skin profile.
My own experience? An AI-powered app from Atolla that whipped up a customized serum formula after scanning my skin. Like an elf fairy in your bathroom :)
Circular Beauty and Zero Waste
The sustainability club hits hard! Brands are increasingly focusing on zero-waste products and the circular economy . My favorite care cream from Rituals , which comes in a stylish, refillable jar, is not only good for the skin, but also significantly reduces plastic waste.
A win-win situation, or as I call it: win-nice!”
From the shelf to the heart – clean beauty products that impress
1. Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser
This product is so clean you could almost eat it - but I don't recommend it unless you're a fan of botanical smoothies for your pores. The Regenerating Cleanser combines willow bark BHA with apricot microspheres to polish and renew skin.
2. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Fresh Day Serum
If you thought elephants couldn't be elegant, then you haven't heard of Drunk Elephant. The C-Firma Serum shines with its powerful dose of vitamin C that will leave your skin bursting with antioxidants like it's on a superfoods diet.
3. Herbivore Botanicals Lapis Facial Oil
Blue Tansy gives this oil its striking blue color and calming properties. It helps reduce redness and has the feel of a magic potion. I feel like a modern day alchemist when I use it.
Personal stories – skin care with a smile
From skin nightmares to dream skin
A few years ago, I had a skin routine that was like a roller coaster ride - and believe me, my skin felt like it did after every ride. Redness here, breakouts there, and then came clean beauty to the rescue.
One evening, after a particularly stressful day and a skin-ripping pimple that looked like an angry volcano, I decided to try my luck with "clean" beauty products. I came across Burt's Bees Deep Cleansing Cream .
The freshness and purity of the ingredients worked like a magical balm. Within weeks my skin was transformed and I knew this was the way!
Fun fact on the side
Did you know that honey , a beloved Burt's Bees ingredient, contains over 200 different compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties? And that's even sweeter than the honey itself!
The way forward
The future of clean beauty is not only green and bright, it is above all safe, intelligent and sustainable. With growing awareness and advancing technologies, this trend will continue to revolutionize the beauty industry.
photographed by Jernej Graj, via Unsplash
Imagine a world where you know your skin care is good for both you and our planet. This isn't a dream - this is the future and you can be part of it.
So prepare to clear out your old products to make way for this fresh breeze of (clean) change. Because, as you know: We are all looking for the “ glow of purity” - and Clean Beauty is the friendly lighthouse that shows us the way.
Utopia shows us the way to implementation in the interests of consumers : Clean Beauty: How sustainable is the cosmetics trend?
And a few more FAQs about clean beauty
1. Are clean beauty products as effective as traditional products?
Yes, many of the products in this category are just as, if not more, effective than traditional products. You benefit from natural ingredients that nourish the skin in a gentle yet effective way.
2. How much does it cost to switch to clean beauty?
Such products can vary, from affordable options to premium products. Brands like Burt's Bees and Pacifica offer budget-friendly alternatives, while Tata Harper and Osea are in the higher price segment.
3. How do I identify trustworthy clean beauty brands?
Look for transparent ingredient lists and certificates such as “ECOCERT” , “USDA Organic” or “CertClean” . Reviews and recommendations from trusted sources and professionals can also be helpful.
4. Can I make clean beauty products myself?
Yes, many people choose to make their own skin care products to have full control over the ingredients.
There are numerous DIY recipes for vegan , sustainable and skin-friendly products that can be easily made at home.
5. What are the disadvantages of such products?
A potential disadvantage can be the short shelf life, as strong preservatives are not used. Therefore, always pay attention to the expiry date and store the products according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
