The beauty industry is always coming up with new formulations, ingredients, and techniques to keep us looking youthful, glowing, and flawless. These days it’s common to see beauty brands market themselves as ‘clean’. Led by conscious consumerism, this once niche movement has become mainstream. But what exactly is clean beauty?
What Is Clean Beauty?
Clean beauty refers to beauty products that are made from natural and non-toxic ingredients. These ingredients are sourced from plants, minerals, and other naturally occurring substances, and are typically free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and other potentially harmful additives and harsh chemicals. Clean beauty products are typically also cruelty-free and environmentally sustainable.
Why the Shift to Clean Beauty?
For many women, the shift to clean beauty is driven by a desire for transparency and authenticity with regard to ingredients sourcing, quality, manufacturing practices, and environmental impact. With so many chemicals and synthetic ingredients being used in traditional beauty products, it’s hard to know exactly what we’re putting on our skin. Additionally, many people have become more aware of the impact that the beauty industry can have on the environment, and are seeking products that are eco-friendly and sustainable.
According to a study by Grand View Research, the global organic personal care market is expected to reach $25.1 billion by 2025, with consumers increasingly seeking out natural and organic products for their skincare needs. The trend is particularly popular in Australia, the UK, UAE, and the broader Middle East region, where consumers are rapidly embracing clean beauty as a better alternative to traditional beauty products.
Clean Beauty Principles
This trend is not just a passing fad, as more women are educating themselves and seeking a more sustainable way to achieve beautiful, radiant skin. Here are some principles that the clean beauty industry is following to address consumer needs.
Reduced Chemical Exposure
One of the most significant benefits of natural and organic skincare is that it reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Researchers have found dangerous levels of mercury in traditional skin lightening and anti-aging creams. Formaldehyde is a strong-smelling chemical that is used to lengthen the shelf-life of some traditional cosmetics and has been found linked to nose and throat cancers. Compounds that have “paraben” in their name are used in face washes and other skincare products. Parabens have been linked to increased incidence of breast cancer.
Increased Antioxidants and Nutrients
Natural and organic skincare products are often enriched with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which provide essential elements to safeguard against environmental stressors. Ingredients such as green tea, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid are known for their ability to regenerate and protect the skin.
Preventing Premature Aging
Exposure to UV radiation, pollution, and blue light from electronic devices can lead to premature aging of the skin. However, natural and organic skincare products can help prevent this damage as they often have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties that protect the skin from these harmful effects.
Environmental Sustainability
Natural and organic skincare products are often sourced from ethically derived and eco-friendly ingredients. They are made without the use of harmful pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and other environmental pollutants. Choosing natural and organic products enables us to support sustainable farming practices that have a positive impact on the environment.
Key Natural and Organic Skincare Ingredients
If you’re new to the world of clean beauty, the sheer variety of natural and organic ingredients on offer can be overwhelming. Here are a few commonly used ingredients to get you started:
Aloe Vera: With its cooling and soothing properties, aloe vera is a popular ingredient in skincare products designed to reduce inflammation and redness.
Coconut Oil: Rich in fatty acids, coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that nourishes and hydrates the skin. It’s also packed with antioxidants, making it an excellent anti-aging ingredient.
Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products that target acne-prone skin.
Rosehip Oil: Abundant in vitamins A and C, rosehip oil is a potent anti-aging ingredient that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Tips to Switch to Natural and Organic Skincare
If you’re ready to make the switch to clean beauty, here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Do your research: Look for brands that are transparent about their ingredients and production processes, and that prioritize sustainability and cruelty-free practices.
2. Start small: Incorporate natural and organic products into your skincare routine one at a time, so that you can test out what works best for your skin over 1-2 weeks.
3. Read the labels: Natural and organic skin care products can still contain synthetic fragrances or other additives, so make sure to read the labels carefully before purchasing.
4. Be patient: Transitioning to natural and organic skincare may take some time for your skin to adjust, so be patient.
The clean beauty movement is here to stay. With increasing concerns about the environment, our health, and the ethics of the beauty industry, it’s no wonder that more and more women are turning to natural and organic skincare products. By understanding the benefits of clean beauty, and incorporating natural and non-toxic ingredients into your daily routines, you can feel confident that you’re doing your part to take care of yourself and the planet. It’s a win-win.
