As consumers are becoming more and more mindful of the products they use and their overall carbon footprint, we are seeing a significant shift to clean, green, and sustainable trends in beauty and fashion. Clean beauty is a concept that has entered the ether, and we love that men and women are moving more toward a clean beauty routine. But where does one start? For those of you looking to launch your clean beauty routine, read on for our beginner’s guide!
What Is Clean Beauty?
The term “clean beauty” can mean different things to different people. For some, it might mean choosing products that are vegan, cruelty-free, and organic. For others, it might mean using fewer synthetic ingredients or avoiding parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.
The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all definition of clean beauty. It’s a personal choice, and there are many ways to approach it. The most important thing is to be mindful of the products you use and the ingredients they contain.
Ingredients to Look For
When switching to a clean beauty routine, you might be wondering what ingredients you should look for. Here are a few of our favorite clean beauty ingredients:
- Aloe vera – Aloe vera is an ingredient that has been used for centuries to soothe the skin. It is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, and it can help to hydrate and calm the skin.
- Coconut oil – Coconut oil is a moisturizer that can help to hydrate and protect the skin. It is also rich in vitamins and fatty acids, which can help to nourish the skin.
- Jojoba oil – Jojoba oil is a natural oil closely resembling the sebum produced by our skin. It is non-greasy and quickly absorbed, making it an excellent choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
- Shea butter – Shea butter has been used for centuries to moisturize and protect the skin. It contains vitamins and fatty acids, which can help to revitalize the skin.
- Argan oil – Argan oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It can help to hydrate and protect the skin, and it is often used to tame frizzy hair.
- Rosehip oil – Just like argan oil, rosehip oil is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is often used to reduce the appearance of scars and fine lines.
- Green tea – Green tea includes antioxidants and vitamins that can help to protect the skin from free radical damage, and it is often used to soothe irritated skin.
These are just a few of the many clean beauty ingredients out there. When searching for a new natural lip balm, a shampoo bar or any new products to add to your clean beauty routine, take a look at the ingredient list, and check if any of these ingredients are included.
Ingredients to Avoid
Just as there are certain ingredients you should look for, there are also certain ingredients you should avoid. Here are a few ingredients to watch out for:
- Parabens – Parabens are synthetic preservatives that are commonly used in beauty products. They have been linked to health concerns, and they can be disruptive to the natural balance of the skin.
- Sulfates – Sulfates are detergents that are commonly used in shampoos and cleansers and can strip the natural oils from the skin.
- Phthalates – Phthalates are synthetic chemicals that are used to soften plastics and they can be disruptive to the natural balance of the skin.
- Synthetic fragrances – Synthetic fragrances are often used in beauty products to mask the smell of other ingredients. Similar to phthalates, they can be disruptive to the natural balance of the skin.
- Artificial colors – Artificial colors are used in beauty products to give them a more appealing appearance but have no benefits to the skin.
If there is a product that you are interested in purchasing but aren’t sure whether it will fit snugly in your clean beauty routine, always check the ingredient list and avoid any products that contain these ingredients.
Starting a Clean Beauty Routine
Now that you know a little bit more about clean beauty, you might be wondering how to start your routine. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Start by slowly swapping out your old products for new clean beauty products. For example, you can replace that store-bought dry shampoo bottle with a natural dry shampoo stored in a glass jar.
- Be mindful of the ingredients in the products you use, and avoid any that contain harmful chemicals or toxins.
- Experiment with different products, and find what works best for you. Some products that work for others may not work for you, so it’s important to give new products a trial run.
- Have fun with it! Trying new products and experimenting with your routine can be a fun and rewarding experience. From hair products to skincare, there is always something new and exciting to try.
Final Thoughts
Remember, there is no wrong way to do clean beauty. Do what works best for you, and have fun with it! Research the products you are using on your skin and hair to ensure that what you are using is safe. When you find the clean products you are ready to purchase, start by slowly making swaps so that you don’t have to break the bank on an entirely new routine.
