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Whether it’s reminders to slather on sunscreen or appeals to get regular dermatology checks, we hear about the importance of protecting our skin all the time. Another area to keep on your radar? Your makeup bag.
The concept of clean beauty has taken the skincare world by storm. While there’s no exact definition of “clean” in this context — and plenty of buzzwords that can make things confusing — the idea serves a helpful purpose. It encourages us to double-check that we feel good about what we’re using, and maybe even swap out some products with more mindfully made alternatives.
Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice your signature look to go clean, as the below list features mascara, cheek balm, lip butter, nail polish, and more, all selected for their emphasis on safe, natural ingredients and transparent practices.
Skin-Savvy Basics
OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil
Osea’s seaweed-infused body oil is just the ticket to keep skin soft to the touch but not greasy, and 100% of women in a small clinical study saw an immediate improvement in moisturization and skin elasticity after using. Subtly scented, it’s a joy to apply year-round, especially right out of the shower. If you’re looking for a gentle face wash, the family-run brand’s Ocean Cleanser is also a tried-and-true favorite.
Youth to the People Superfood Facial Cleanser
Made with superfood antioxidants from kale, spinach, and green tea, this everyday cleanser is like a “green juice cleanse for your face.” The nutrient-rich formulation contains no artificial dyes, parabens, or phthalates, and is dermatologist and allergy tested. Eco bonus: The brand offers refill pouches to cut back on packaging materials.
Mario Badescu Face Mists
If you’re new to face mists, Mario Badescu’s multi-purpose sprays will have you hooked. They’re refreshing, scented enough to smell delightful without overwhelming the senses, and enriched with botanical extracts to give skin a great dewy glow. Spritz first thing in the morning, after a workout, or whenever you want a little pick-me-up.
Egyptian Magic Skin Cream
Assistant Editor Rebekah Brandes learned about Egyptian Magic by scrolling social media and has zero regrets about being “influenced.” Based on the ancient Egyptian formula that Cleopatra herself is said to have used, this all-purpose moisturizer is made with only five ingredients: olive oil, bee pollen, beeswax, royal jelly, and honey. Tip: It can be used all over the body, from lips to elbows to the soles of your feet.
Humble Deodorant
After trying too-many-to-count natural deodorants, this is my favorite for feeling ready for the day and worry-free about what I’m putting on my body. Made with “nothing bad,” Humble’s deodorants have straightforward ingredients that do not include aluminum, alcohol, dyes, parabens, or artificial fragrances. Plus, unlike most deodorants, which are packaged in a plastic container, Humble offers a biodegradable paperboard option to minimize waste. If you’re unsure which scent to try, find your match with the brand’s deodorant quiz.
Clean Concealers and Foundation
Alima Pure Satin Matte Foundation
For fans of mineral foundations, Alima’s offers lightweight yet buildable coverage without synthetic dyes. The formula comes in a diverse array of shades (we’re talking over 40 options) and is never tested on animals. Plus, Alima feels good to support, as it’s a Certified B-Corp and 1% for the Planet member, and has been carbon neutral since 2008.
RMS Beauty UnCoverup Concealer
As the name suggests, this concealer offers just enough non-cakey coverage, whether you’re looking to conceal blemishes, redness, or dark circles, or simply want to add a natural-looking glow to your look. A great addition to your clean routine, it’s made with a blend of organic jojoba oil, organic cocoa seed butter, organic coconut oil, and other “skin-loving ingredients.” To top it all off, RMS has long been lauded for its commitment to sourcing clean ingredients — read about its “clean promise.”
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint
We love Ilia’s ethos: “We believe in skin that looks like skin — and radiance that comes naturally.” Leaping Bunny certified and a 1% for the Planet member, the brand has won awards from Allure, Byrdie, and The Good Trade, to name a few. One of its many standout products is the non-comedogenic skin tint, which offers the trifecta of dewy coverage, mineral SPF 40, and hydrating ingredients (hi, hyaluronic acid!). Use the shade finder to find your best match.
Saie Slip Tint Moisturizer
If you don’t like heavy foundation but still want a touch of silky coverage, Saie’s tinted moisturizer might just fit the bill. Great for errand outings, Zoom meetings, and everywhere in between, this product has mineral SPF 35 and a blend of hydrating ingredients, but none of the stuff you may not want, like parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrance, or talc.
Eye-Catching Extras
Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara
Not an unpopular opinion, but this is the holy grail of clean mascaras. Made with beeswax, carnauba wax, and shea butter, it makes lashes fluffy and voluminous without flaking or feeling heavy. It also lasts all day and is easy to take off with just water — no scrubbing or makeup remover necessary.
Kosas Tinted Air Brow
Eyebrows are sometimes called “the frames of the face.” In that case, this moussey eyebrow gel puts the finishing touch on that frame. It creates hair-like strokes to both define brows and make them look naturally full by filling in any sparse areas. Kosas is also a clean beauty darling with products known for nourishing ingredients and a “comfy glam” aesthetic.
Olio E Osso Lip and Cheek Balm
Coming out of Portland, Oregon, Olio E Osso’s products are made in small batches without hidden chemicals and preservatives. One of the brand’s bestsellers is this creamy multi-stick made with just five natural ingredients to add a splash of color to lips, cheeks, eyelids, and anywhere. As one reviewer writes, “[the balm] makes your lips look like you were eating a watermelon popsicle.” Love!
100% Pure Makeup Palette
This workhorse product comes in four color palettes, each featuring an eyeshadow trio, blush, and face highlighter. All are formulated with natural ingredients — including rosehip oil, avocado butter, pomegranate, and chamomile — and pigmented with fruit extracts. As pretty as it is practical, the palette makes it a cinch to swap out old standards for cleaner options.
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
There’s no shortage of lip balms, glosses, and sticks on the market, but this one stands out from the pack. It’s vegan, hydrating, and cruelty-free. And it’s made with shea and seed butter to naturally soothe dry lips. The cherry on top? It comes in six shades (and flavors), with names like Pink Sugar, Sweet Mint, and Iced Coffee (yum).
Ten Over Ten Nail Polish
If you love pretty nail polish that’s vegan and cruelty-free, then you’ll love Ten Over Ten. With roots as a New York City nail salon, the line is all about making consciously designed, nail-strengthening products. Fun fact: Many of the polishes are named after streets in Manhattan.
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