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Knowing what we put on our bodies is important. Likewise, knowing where these products come from is equally valuable to us consumers. In 2021, we should be mindful and aware of what we use on our bodies as well as where and how these products came to be. The term “clean beauty” comes with a lot of other buzzwords like green, organic, sustainable, cruelty-free, non-toxic—but what does it all mean? Clean beauty products aim to do better than other beauty products in the industry that choose expedient ways to create, test, package and sell their products. Overall, clean beauty implies a beauty product that does its part to be safe for both you and the environment.
What does clean beauty mean?
Contents
There isn’t a single definition for Clean Beauty. Simply put, Clean Beauty is a movement in the beauty industry aiming to be conscious of the planet and its people’s health. A clean product means there are no toxins harmful to humans. Similar to eating, people avoid processed foods that are loaded with preservatives like that of a fast-food chain. If we’re mindful enough to avoid putting bad things into our bodies, then the same should be considered when putting things on our bodies. Some of the recurring words associated with Clean Beauty are green, sustainable, cruelty-free, and non-toxic. Here’s a breakdown of what each of those terms means:
Green
This term implies that the production life of a product does not negatively impact the environment. An example of this would be using recyclable material for the packaging or maybe that same packaging is biodegradable. It’s important to note that this term can be used loosely by companies. Although one aspect of their production may be “green,” other steps in the process may not be friendly for the environment.
Sustainable
Sustainability is similar to “going green.” Having a sustainable clean beauty product implies that it does not leave an impact on the environment. Consider the life cycle of a beauty product. It gets made from either raw resources or synthetically in a lab. Then, it gets packaged and shipped to retail stores, which will eventually end up on you and then washed off down the drain while the packaging goes on the trash. It’s important that this process is not harmful to the environment as it should be ethical in both its sourcing and production. Ideally, the packaging is either biodegradable or recyclable and the product itself is safe to be washed down the drain as it will come into contact with both our water and environment.
Cruelty-Free
A clean beauty product that is cruelty-free means that the product was never tested on nor derived from animals at the cost of their well-being. Overall, the product should be ethical in its production similar to the concept of sustainability. Not to be confused with being “vegan-friendly” because a product can be vegan and not necessarily cruelty-free. Likewise, a product can be cruelty-free and not be a vegan product.
Non-toxic
Technically, anything consumed in high dosage can be considered toxic (even water and oxygen). In the context of clean beauty, non-toxic insinuates a product does not contain any harmful ingredients that can damage our bodies based on the use and amount being used in said product. These products being non-toxic have to be vetted through 3rd party agencies that regulate and monitor the manufacturing of beauty products within the industry.
What types of clean beauty products are there?
There’s a lot to choose from, which is why we took the time to make this list. The major groups associated with Clean Beauty are skincare, makeup, haircare, and body care. Within these groups, there are products you’re probably already familiar with: lotions, shampoo, conditioner, foundation, mascara, exfoliators, and more.
What are the benefits of Clean beauty?
Clean beauty prioritizes the safety of its consumers meaning that the ingredients are safe to use whether it be natural or synthetic. This will lower your risk of any health concerns such as breaking out, irritated or damaged skin, and the risk of cancer—some beauty products are known to contain carcinogens. Aside from the absence of potential toxins, the active ingredients in clean beauty products can enhance your well-being. Aside from feeling good based on looking good, clean beauty products can create healthy skin, which leads to a healthier immune system. Again, looking good makes you feel good as there’s a correlation between skin health and mental health.
Top 10 Best Clean Beauty Skincare Brands
1. Stryke Club
Stryke Club targets young, acne-prone skin with a no-nonsense lineup—think cleansers, masks, and spot treatments powered by salicylic acid and tea tree oil. The “All Zit Takes” mask uses volcanic ash to unclog pores, offering visible clarity in 10 minutes. It’s dermatologist-tested, cruelty-free, and skips parabens, appealing to Gen Z’s demand for clean, effective basics. Results last 12-24 hours per use, with cumulative improvement over weeks.
Pros: Affordable ($10-$20), teen-friendly scents (like citrus), and solid acne control.
Cons: Limited range beyond acne care; can dry out non-oily skin.
Best For: Teens or anyone battling breakouts on a budget.
Price Point: Low ($10-$20).
2. Mediheal
![Amazon.com : MEDIHEAL Official [Korea's No 1 Sheet Mask] - N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Mask (5 Masks) : Beauty](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61MpOZ1fKeL._SL1024_.jpg)
Mediheal brings Korean skincare prowess with its iconic sheet masks, like the Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Mask. Infused with tea tree, centella asiatica, and hyaluronic acid, it soothes redness and hydrates in 15 minutes. Backed by science (developed with Seoul National University), it’s a staple for K-beauty fans, delivering instant glow and calm that lasts a day.
Pros: High-quality masks, affordable per use ($2-$5), and widely available.
Cons: Single-use packaging isn’t eco-friendly; less focus on full routines.
Best For: Mask enthusiasts or those needing quick hydration fixes.
Price Point: Low to Moderate ($2-$30).
3. W3ll People
W3LL People blends skincare into makeup with EWG-verified, plant-based formulas. The Bio Tint Multi-Action Moisturizer ($28) hydrates with aloe and brightens with peptides, doubling as light coverage. It’s vegan and non-toxic, lasting 8-10 hours without clogging pores, though heavier skin concerns may need more.
Pros: Clean ingredients, lightweight feel, and subtle glow.
Cons: Limited shade range; coverage is sheer.
Best For: Minimalists who want skincare-first makeup.
4. Summer Fridays
Summer Fridays is a social media darling, thanks to products like the Jet Lag Mask ($49). Packed with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, it’s a rich overnight cream that plumps and soothes tired skin in 6-8 hours. The chic packaging and luxurious texture scream self-care, though it’s not a full regimen.
Pros: Hydrating hero, travel-friendly, and photogenic vibes.
Cons: Pricey for the size; greasy for oily skin.
Best For: Dry skin types craving a luxe treat.
Price Point: High ($25-$50).
5. Versed Skincare
Versed keeps it simple and affordable with dermatologist-approved, vegan formulas. The Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream ($15) uses squalane and green tea to hydrate without heaviness, lasting 12 hours. It’s a Target staple, offering clean beauty (no sulfates, parabens) that rivals pricier brands.
Pros: Wallet-friendly ($8-$20), effective basics, and transparent ingredients.
Cons: Basic scents and packaging; not ultra-luxe.
Best For: Beginners or budget-conscious clean beauty fans.
Price Point: Low ($8-$20).
6. Live Botanical
Live Botanical crafts small-batch, organic skincare rooted in herbalism. The Luna Rose & Myrrh Renewal Cream ($68) blends rose, myrrh, and tremella mushroom to hydrate and firm, offering a dewy finish that lasts all day. It’s sustainable and cruelty-free, with a calming ritualistic feel.
Pros: Potent botanicals, eco-conscious, and skin-nourishing.
Cons: Higher cost; earthy scents may not suit all.
Best For: Eco-lovers seeking gentle, natural luxury.
Price Point: High ($40-$80).
7. Indie Lee
Indie Lee’s Squalane Facial Oil ($38) is a fan favorite, delivering lightweight hydration with pure squalane and antioxidants. It absorbs fast, leaving skin soft for 12-24 hours. The brand’s clean ethos (no parabens, phthalates) and sleek packaging make it a sophisticated staple.
Pros: Simple, effective oils, and elegant design.
Cons: Narrower range; oils may not suit oily skin.
Best For: Dry or mature skin craving minimalism.
Price Point: Moderate to High ($20-$50).
8. OSEA
OSEA harnesses seaweed and essential oils for oceanic luxury. The Undaria Algae Body Oil ($48) hydrates with algae and citrus oils, leaving skin silky for 24 hours. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and sustainably sourced, with a spa-like scent that elevates the experience.
Pros: Nourishing body care, clean ingredients, and sensorial bliss.
Cons: Pricey for body products; facial range is smaller.
Best For: Body care enthusiasts who love a luxe touch.
Price Point: High ($30-$70).
9. Goop Beauty
Goop Beauty, spearheaded by Gwyneth Paltrow, offers high-end clean skincare. The GOOPGENES All-in-One Nourishing Face Cream ($98) uses ceramides, squalane, and botanicals to firm and hydrate, with results building over 4-6 weeks. It’s chic and effective but leans heavily on the celebrity hype.
Pros: Premium ingredients, visible firming, and aspirational vibe.
Cons: Very expensive; some scents are polarizing.
Best For: Luxury seekers with deep pockets.
Price Point: Very High ($60-$125).
10. Juice Beauty
Juice Beauty champions USDA-organic ingredients, like the Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer ($70). With fruit stem cells, vitamin C, and resveratrol, it brightens and smooths over weeks. It’s vegan and eco-friendly, though the texture can feel thick.
Pros: Organic potency, anti-aging focus, and sustainable ethos.
Cons: Heavy for oily skin; citrus scent may irritate.
Best For: Mature skin or organic devotees.
Price Point: High ($40-$80).
11. Soko Glam Clean Beauty
Soko Glam isn’t a single brand but a curated platform for clean K-beauty (e.g., Then I Met You’s Living Cleansing Balm, $38). The balm melts makeup with rosehip oil and vitamin E, leaving skin soft for 12 hours. It’s a gateway to vetted, clean Korean formulas.
Pros: Expert curation, innovative products, and K-beauty glow.
Cons: Varies by brand; not a cohesive line.
Best For: K-beauty explorers wanting clean options.
Price Point: Moderate to High ($20-$60).
Final Verdict
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Best Overall: Versed Skincare nails affordability, efficacy, and clean basics for most skin types.
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Best for Acne: Stryke Club tackles breakouts with teen-friendly flair.
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Best K-Beauty: Mediheal (via Soko Glam) offers sheet mask mastery.
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Best Luxury: Goop Beauty shines for those splurging on premium results.
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Best Natural: Live Botanical blends organic potency with eco-chic.
Your pick depends on your skin goals and wallet. For budget-friendly basics, Versed or Stryke Club; for luxe indulgence, Goop or OSEA; for natural vibes, Live Botanical or Juice Beauty. Test a hero product—consistency is key to glowing results!