Breaking Down the B.S. Around Clean Beauty

By now, you’re aware we are in the midst of a clean beauty revolution – I mean, you are on a website called Clean Rebellion after all! But what does it mean for a product to be clean anyway? And how can you be sure if your repertoire of beauty and skincare products fits the bill? Let’s find out where this term originated and how you can become a smarter shopper for your own health and the health of the planet.

Let’s Define “Clean Beauty”

“Clean” is one of the buzziest words in beauty and wellness right now, but there is no single shared definition. Why? First things first: there are no regulatory restrictions on the term. The Food and Drug Administration doesn’t have a definition nor a strict approval process for most ingredients used by the cosmetics industry. This means companies can slap the label on a product regardless of the ingredient list. What is an ethical consumer to do?

The easiest way to get started on finding clean beauty products that live up to your standards is figuring out how your favorite brands define ‘clean.’ The meaning can actually vary greatly from company to company. Super confusing, we know! 

Broadly speaking, clean products are more likely to contain natural and non-toxic ingredients. Health-conscious brands will avoid irritants, allergens, and other ingredients that could potentially harm the body and the environment (like synthetic fragrances, for example). While products may still include some synthetic ingredients, they should have been rigorously tested for safety concerns.

Wait – Why Do the Ingredients Even Matter?

More and more, people are becoming mindful of what they put on and in their bodies. We are also more conscious of how our spending affects the environment. Amidst concerns about the climate and public health, it’s no surprise there is a growing consumer base seeking items that do no harm. Whether you have sensitive skin or are looking for gentle products to use on your little one, going clean can give you peace of mind.

Know Your Priorities & Arm Yourself with Knowledge

Determining what matters to you may be the most crucial step in your clean beauty journey. Are there certain items that cause you to break out? Check the ingredient lists and cross-reference with tools like the Environmental Working Group’s product search to find the irritating culprit.

Also, be aware that brands marketing themselves as clean may not be vegan, organic, or cruelty-free. While there is a lot of crossover when it comes to these terms, they don’t always overlap. Fortunately, it should be easy to find these specific certifications on a product’s labeling if that is important to you. This is thanks to some regulatory requirements and from activist groups like PETA.

Once you know what you’re looking for, you can check your desired brand’s ingredient list.

The biggest requirement for a company to truly be considered clean is transparency. If a brand doesn’t have an accessible ingredients list? No thanks.

Got It? Now Get Clean!

We know that navigating an endless sea of brands promising miraculous results and ethical manufacturing can be a nightmare. But we hope this little guide lights your path as you refine your routine and seek our clean alternatives to your favorite products.

Clean Rebellion is a great place to get started looking for products you can be proud to keep on your bathroom shelf. We are committed to crafting quality personal care that uses only the best ingredients. Our organic olive oil body wash is great for sensitive skin, and its short ingredient list makes it an easy choice for those dedicated to clean beauty.