THE CHARACTERISTICS OF CLEAN BEAUTY PRODUCTS

‘Clean beauty’ is not just a trend. It’s a movement reshaping the way we perceive and use skincare and make-up products.

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Rooted in the desire for safer and more conscious beauty practices, the Clean Beauty Movement gained momentum during the early 2010s in response to growing concerns about harmful ingredients found in cosmetic and skincare products. And now, Gen Z – known for its commitment to social and environmental causes – has become the driving force behind this shift towards better alternatives.

DEFINING CLEAN BEAUTY
Clean beauty extends beyond the absence of harmful chemicals; it’s more about a holistic approach to skincare and make-up, where products are safe for humans and the Earth. To be considered clean and safe for both, a product must use plant-based ingredients for active effects and have a non-toxic element as a baseline. It’s like how ‘eating clean’ means saying no to processed foods and yes to nourishing, plant-based foods (which provide all the vitamins and antioxidants required for a healthy immune and digestive system). When it comes to your skincare, it’s about saying no to toxins and harmful additives.

BUT WHAT DOES IT DO?
Clean beauty make-up products, specifically, are designed to enhance natural beauty and radiance without compromising skin health. They often incorporate nourishing ingredients like botanical extracts, vitamins and minerals, contributing to a radiant complexion while respecting the skin’s delicate pH balance and safeguarding its barrier functioning. The skincare side of things emphasizes simplicity and effectiveness. With a focus on natural ingredients, these products strive to address specific skin concerns while boosting overall skin health. From cleansers to serums, the clean beauty standard in skincare is about proper hydration, protection and a luminous complexion.

THE THREE CHARACTERISTICS OF CLEAN BEAUTY PRODUCTS

1. INGREDIENT TRANSPARENCY
Clean beauty brands disclose their ingredient lists openly, empowering us to make informed choices about what we apply to our skin.

2. TOXIN-FREE FORMULAS
These products avoid harmful ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates and synthetic fragrances, minimising the potential for skin irritation and long-term negative health effects.

3. CRUELTY-FREE
Practices Manufacturing procedures must align with ethical and Earth-friendly values by avoiding animal testing. (Also labelled as ‘vegan’ products.)

INGREDIENTS TO AVOID
Keep an eye out for these ingredients that could damage your skin and health:

• Talc: Some forms of this powder (also found in make-up products) can be contaminated with carcinogenic asbestos.
• Parabens (Ethylparaben, Propylparaben & Isopropylparaben): Usually used in products as a preservative against bacteria, but has been linked to causing hormonal imbalances, breast cancer and infertility.
• Synthetic/alcohol-based fragrance: Strong chemicals get added to products to give them a pleasant scent, but can be harmful to people with allergies and sensitive skin.
• Refined petroleum: Mineral oils containing petrolatum/petroleum jelly and paraffin (with microplastic particles) are bad for the environment and your body (if ingested). They can also clog pores and cause skin irritation.
• Sulfates: Commonly used for foaming, these strip away moisture and damage your skin’s protective barrier.
• Siloxanes (or PDMS): Silicone-based compounds used to make formulations soft and smooth, they are toxic and interfere with hormones.

GEN Z's IMPACT
Demand for clean beauty has catalysed positive changes in the beauty industry. Established brands are reformulating their products, embracing sustainability and increasingly using eco-friendly packaging. The collective voice of Gen Z is also reshaping beauty standards, fostering a culture that values authenticity, inclusivity and consciousness.

By choosing clean products, you not only enhance your natural beauty but also contribute to a movement that prioritises both personal well-being and the well-being of the planet. So, let your beauty routine reflect your values – embrace the glow of clean beauty and shine brightly, knowing that your choices make a difference.

Text: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photos: Gallo/Getty Images, Supplied