We all know that we should switch out all of our beauty products and cosmetics to cleaner versions, but the whole idea of finding clean products that work just as well as the conventional ones can be an overwhelming idea to say the least. If you don’t have the time, money or gumption to change all of your products out, what are the main offenders that can be easily done that have the biggest clean impact? Below are my suggestions for 5 clean beauty swaps that can be done easily and that won’t break the bank.
Clean Beauty Swaps
* Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and I will earn a commission if you purchase through those links. I recommend these products because they are products that I personally use or companies that I have found trustworthy.
Sunscreen
If you ask any dermatologist what the number one anti-aging beauty product is, they will tell you sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens contain numerous toxins that can cause irritation and inflammation, and are well known endocrine disruptors. If you want to switch, look for a physical sunblock containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the main ingredient. Stay clear of products containing oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, or homosalate andoctinoxate.
Easy Clean Sunscreen Swaps
For face: Juice Beauty SPF 30 Oil-Free Moisturizer
For body: California Baby Super Sensitive SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion
For body: Badger SPF 40 Baby Sunscreen Cream
Foundation
If you wear foundation, you realize how much of it comes in contact with your skin every day. If you are using a toxic laden version, containing everything from cancer causing phthalates and parabens to lead, you are letting those toxins absorb into your face every day as well. Not reassuring. Foundation can be a little tricky to replace since you have to color match, but if you are not buying in-person where you can try it on yourself, most online retailers will be happy to send you several samples to try. (See my post The Best All Natural Makeup and Skin Care Brands for more information on other clean beauty swaps.)
Easy Clean Foundation Swaps
Jane Iredale Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream
Vapour Organic Beauty Soft Focus Foundation
RMS Beauty Un Cover-Up Cream Foundation
Deodorant/Antiperspirant
What many people don’t initially know is that deodorants and antiperspirants are not the same thing. Deodorants stop or mask the smell, while antiperspirants actually stop the sweating. Most antiperspirant deodorant combinations contain aluminum that blocks the sweat glad and then a synthetic fragrance to block any smell that may develop if some sweat is not blocked. Aluminum has been linked to cancer (most notably breast cancer), Alzheimer’s, kidney disorders, and most usually irritation or rash. Synthetic fragrances most always contain phthalates that come with their own set of cancer causing toxins, as well as irritation and allergic reactions. Try to stay clear and make the swap to an all-natural deodorant that uses clean ingredients to soak up sweat and keep you smelling fresh. (See my post The Best Aluminum-Free Deodorant: Top Seven Choices for more information.
Easy Clean Aluminum-Free Deodorant Swaps
Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant
Schmidt’s Deodorant Bergamot + Lime
Lipstick
It’s no secret that if you wear lipstick you end up eating some of it. The thing is, lipstick isn’t food and most people don’t really want the toxic chemicals and carcinogens in their mouth. Most women also don’t want to go without the perfect colored pout. The solution is a pure pigment without the chemicals.
Easy Clean Lipstick Swaps
Vapour Organic High Voltage Lipstick
Mineral Fusion Sheer Moisture Lip Tint
Shampoo and Conditioner
Shampoo and conditioner are some of the worst offenders. They are filled with synthetic phthalate fragrances and harsh sulfates, as well as numerous endocrine disruptors and carcinogens. Shampoo and conditioner not only gets rubbed and absorbed into your scalp, you then rinse it out and it flows over your whole body while you breathe in the steamed fragrances. Switch to natural versions that are just as effective without all the toxins. (Check out my post How to Choose the Best All Natural Shampoo for more information.)
Easy Clean Shampoo and Conditioner Swaps
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner
Honest Beauty Shampoo and Body Wash
Making clean beauty swaps doesn’t have to be hard. If you start with these five products and then gradually build your arsenal from there, it will even feel like fun. Promise.
