From hormone disruption to carcinogens, there is a laundry list of detrimental effects that chemical toxins can have on your system. The skincare and cosmetics you use on an everyday basis may contain harmful ingredients that could negatively impact your health. In fact, using your favorite blush may be a cumulative exposure to toxins. That’s why you should consider clean beauty.
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Our skin is the body’s largest organ and has such an incredible ability to absorb anything applied topically. It takes only 26 seconds for a product to absorb into your bloodstream. What we apply onto our skin ends up inside of us.
But what exactly constitutes “clean beauty,” and why should you consider making the switch?
Each brand and retailer constructs their own regulations and standards, oftentimes leading to loose definitions of what “clean” beauty really means. Clean beauty typically describes products formulated with ingredients that have been scientifically proven to produce results safely.
After years of research and curating a lineup of health-conscious and environmentally friendly products, here are the best tips I’ve found for people who are new to natural.
Avoid the Dirty Dozen
There is a list of ingredients deemed the “Dirty Dozen” which describes 12 ingredients commonly found in your typical beauty products that should be avoided at all costs. These chemicals have been linked to cancer, developmental delays, neurological issues and a variety of health concerns associated with your endocrine system, from acne to reproductive issues. Ingredients to avoid include 1 Dioxane, 4 Dioxane, Aluminum, Lead, Mercury, Heavy Metals, Benzophenone, DEA (Diethanolamine,) MEA (Monoethanolamine,) TEA (Triethanolamine,) Formaldehyde, Fragrance, Homosalate, Mineral Oil, Octinoxate, Oxybenzone, PABA (Para-aminobenzoic Acid,) Padimate O, Parabens, Phthalates, Polyethylene Glycol (PEG,) Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, Teflon,) Sulfates, Synthetic Color Pigments and FD&C Dyes, Talc, and Triclosan.
Find Safe Alternatives
If you’re hesitant to ditch your holy-grail products, you’re not alone. However, there are many high-quality alternatives that rival your everyday favorites. When you’re first getting started, rather than swapping everything out all at once, switch out the items you use most. Some items that are popular swaps are deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, foundation, mascara and sunscreen. When searching for safe alternatives, look for products labeled “non-toxic.” These products have been formulated without ingredients that have been shown to have adverse health effects. Unfortunately, there are many brands out there that claim to be “clean” when in fact they still have harmful ingredients so be sure to do your own research. At Citrine, we’ve done the research for you so that you can feel confident in your purchase, as every product on our shelves has been thoroughly vetted to ensure it’s 100% organic, non-toxic, and high quality.
Talk with an Expert
Whether you are looking to take the leap into clean beauty, reinvent your look, or revamp your routine for next season, Citrine Natural Beauty Bar can help. Our beauty experts can assess your skin concerns, color match to find the right shades for you and provide expert advice personally tailored to you. We provide complimentary in-store and virtual consultations where we will go over everything from desired coverage, length of routine, and the tools you need to create the perfect look. To learn more, please visit citrinenaturalskin.com.
Making the decision to toss the toxins and opt for clean beauty is one that will not only impact your health and well-being but can help the environment. To start your journey, begin by replacing your most frequently used products with safer alternatives, avoiding the “dirty dozen,” and consulting an expert. Together, let’s embrace clean beauty for a healthier, happier future.
Author: Melissa Lenberg began her career in the beauty industry as a professional makeup artist in LA and eventually found a passion for clean beauty after being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Realizing that many of our most-used products contain harmful ingredients and carcinogenic chemicals, she founded Citrine Natural Beauty Bar with the mission of making all-natural, organic, and good-for-you beauty products available to all. Recently, Citrine Natural Beauty Bar unveiled a refreshed concept in a new space at the Biltmore Fashion Park. To learn more or shop online, visit citrinenaturalskin.com.
