Understanding Clean Beauty: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Find Safe Products

We all want to take care of our skin, and nowadays, there is an increasing interest in using products that are labeled as "clean beauty." But what exactly is clean beauty? 

Let’s explore what clean beauty is, why it matters, and how to find clean beauty products that work for you.

First, let's define what clean beauty means. Clean beauty refers to products that are made with safe and non-toxic ingredients. These ingredients should be free from harmful chemicals, such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. The idea behind clean beauty is to use ingredients that are not only safe for our bodies but also for the environment.

Now, why does clean beauty matter? Well, our skin is our largest organ, and what we put on it can be absorbed into our bloodstream. Using products that contain harmful chemicals can have negative effects on our health, including hormonal imbalances, allergies and cancer. In addition, these chemicals can have a negative impact on the environment, such as contributing to water pollution.

So, how can we find clean beauty products? One way is to look for products that are labeled as "clean" or "natural." However, it's important to note that these terms are not regulated, so it's important to do your own research. Look for products that have a short and simple ingredient list, and avoid products that contain harmful chemicals, such as the ones mentioned above.

Another way to find clean beauty products is to use the Non-Toxic Black Beauty Project Database. This database provides a list of brands and products that are Black owned and have been assessed to determine if they are truly “clean”.

You also use apps such as the EWG Healthy Living app and the Redify app. Both allow you to scan your products to see how they are rated in terms of using clean ingredients. The Rediy App also lets you send a letter to the brand if you find one of your favorite products contains harmful ingredients.

It's also important to note that clean beauty is not just about what products we use, but also about how we use them. For example, using excessive amounts of a product can be harmful to our skin and the environment. We should also be mindful of how we dispose of our beauty products, as some products can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly.

If you're interested in incorporating clean beauty products into your routine, start by doing some research on the products you're currently using. Then choose one you’re going to replace for a safer alternative. 

We’re here because Black women deserve better.