Today, more and more people are paying attention to the ingredients used in personal care and beauty products. This focus, stemming from concerns about health and the environment, has led to the rise of "clean beauty," a concept that promotes the use of natural, organic, and eco-friendly products that are free of harmful chemicals. 1 This trend has gained traction worldwide, and a growing number of brands are committed to offering these products.
The core philosophy of clean beauty is to focus on the safety and sustainability of product ingredients. Traditional skincare and cosmetics often contain chemicals with potential health risks, such as sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. These ingredients can cause skin irritation and may be linked to certain health issues, such as hormone disruption. Furthermore, the production processes of these traditional products can have negative environmental impacts, such as water pollution and energy waste.
In contrast, clean beauty products use natural, organic, and eco-friendly ingredients. These ingredients typically include plant extracts, organic oils, and natural essential oils. They are considered to be more skin-friendly and less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. Furthermore, clean beauty brands often employ sustainable and environmentally friendly production methods to reduce the burden on the environment.
One reason to support clean beauty is to focus on personal health. Using clean beauty products can help avoid exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and reduce the risk of skin irritation and discomfort. This is especially important for those who are allergic to certain chemicals or have sensitive skin. Furthermore, clean beauty products are often rich in natural antioxidants and nutrients that help provide the skin with the nourishment and hydration it needs.
Another reason to support clean beauty is environmental concern. Conventional skincare and cosmetics often use large amounts of chemicals and energy in their production, negatively impacting the environment. In contrast, clean beauty brands often employ sustainable and environmentally friendly production methods, such as using renewable energy, reducing packaging waste, and minimizing water pollution. This helps reduce the burden on the planet and protects our environment.
However, it's important to note that not all products claiming to be clean beauty are completely harmless. Due to the lack of unified standards and definitions, some brands may engage in exaggerated claims or greenwashing. Therefore, as consumers, we should remain vigilant when purchasing clean beauty products, carefully reading product labels and ingredient lists, and understanding relevant certification standards. Some reliable certification agencies and standards include USDA Organic, ECOCERT, COSMOS, and Leaping Bunny (denoting no animal testing). 2 Furthermore, researching a brand's values and commitments can help you make informed choices.
In summary, clean beauty is a significant trend that promotes the use of natural, organic, and eco-friendly products free of harmful chemicals. It focuses on personal well-being and environmental sustainability, and is attracting increasing attention from brands and consumers. However, as consumers, we should remain vigilant and carefully select and research clean beauty products to ensure they truly align with our expectations and values.
Notes:
"What Is Clean Beauty? Your Complete Guide to Natural, Organic, and Clean Beauty Products," Healthline, [Online]. Available: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/clean-beauty#what-it-means. [Accessed: 16-Jul-2024]
"Clean Beauty Certifications: What They Are and Why They Matter," The Good Trade, [Online]. Available: https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/clean-beauty-certifications. [Accessed: 16-Jul-2024]
