What exactly IS clean beauty anyway?

The term ‘clean beauty’ is trending on google. It’s appearing in the New York Times. And it’s increasingly a cause for concern in the industry. Why? Because saying something is ‘clean’ actually doesn’t mean anything. It’s like that label on those sugar-laden cereals saying ‘healthy’.

So let us demystify things a little for you - and tell you what WE mean by clean.

You’ve probably noticed beauty brands shifting considerably towards this new philosophy, as consumers become more conscious about the products they use, their impact on the environment, and their potential effects on health.

Defining clean beauty

Clean beauty is a holistic approach to skincare, makeup, and personal care products that prioritize safety, sustainability, and transparency. The term ‘clean’ - when we use it at Beautyque - refers to products that are formulated without harmful or potentially toxic ingredients. This includes, but is not limited to, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, formaldehyde, synthetic fragrances, mineral oil, and certain petroleum-based chemicals.

But we encourage you to educate yourself (kudos to you for reading this article!) and taking the time to read the label. The concept is not strictly regulated, leading to variations in interpretation across different brands and individuals. Some brands may be completely free of certain chemicals, while others may choose to exclude only a few harmful substances. Knowledge is power.

The rise of clean beauty

The growing popularity of clean beauty can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, increased awareness of potential health risks associated with certain chemical ingredients has led consumers to seek safer alternatives. Concerns about skin irritation, allergies, and long-term health effects have driven people to demand more transparent and cleaner product formulations.

Secondly, environmental consciousness has played a significant role. As people become more mindful of their ecological footprint, they are turning towards products that are sustainably sourced, cruelty-free, and packaged in environmentally friendly materials. Clean beauty brands often emphasize their commitment to reducing waste, using recyclable materials, and supporting eco-friendly practices.

The benefits of clean beauty

It’s gentler on the skin: Our clean beauty products are formulated with natural and non-toxic ingredients, making them less likely to cause skin irritation or allergies. If you have sensitive skin, using clean products is a no-brainer.

Environmental impact: By choosing clean beauty products, you’re contributing to reducing their impact on the environment. The absence of harmful chemicals and the use of sustainable practices help protect ecosystems and promote a greener planet. Mother Nature says thank you very much.

Transparency and trust: Because we talk a lot about clean beauty, we prioritize transparency by clearly listing ingredients and production processes. This openness fosters trust between us, the brands we carefully curate, and our consumers, allowing you to make more informed choices about the products you buy.

Ethical practices: Many of our brands also focus on ethical sourcing, fair labor practices, and supporting local communities, with an emphasis on inclusivity and mission. This aspect of clean beauty extends beyond the products themselves and aligns with humans who value ethical business practices.

Challenges and misconceptions

So, as mentioned, while there are myriad benefits to adopting a clean beauty routine, there are some misconceptions. One is that natural ingredients are inherently safer, which is not always the case. Natural substances can also cause allergies or skin reactions, and not all synthetic ingredients are harmful. It's essential to research and understand the specific ingredients used in each product if you have a particular sensitivity.

And, as mentioned, the lack of standardized regulations can lead to ‘greenwashing’. Some brands may market themselves as clean or natural without genuinely adhering to the principles they claim to embrace. This highlights the importance of being well-informed and discerning when choosing clean beauty products.

That being said, clean beauty is more than just a trend; it represents a positive shift in the industry towards greater transparency, sustainability, and health-consciousness. We support you on that journey and commit to our mission of transparency

​​Our stringent safety standards ensure that every brand and product in our curated collection undergoes meticulous scrutiny.

We spare no effort in evaluating the safety and quality of the products we offer. Our team of experts collaborates with advanced technology and third-party software to analyze the ingredients, formulation processes, and potential efficacy. This comprehensive approach guarantees that only the safest and most effective products find their place in our collection. Delve deeper into the Beautyque Code here, and explore some product suggestions here.