I’m from a beauty era where Nutrimetics parties were in, everybody and their dog was following the 3-step Clinique routine, and not using a toner was a sin against the skin gods. We were, daily, inhaling all the goodies locked inside spray deodorant cans and the ethics of animal cruelty was just coming to the forefront. Beauty products screaming from the rooftops that they were free of parabens, sulphates, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances were virtually unheard of.
Here I was slathering my hair in products like Garnier Fructis and Herbal Essences thinking I was being environmentally friendly because it had ‘fruit and flowers’ in it, also the women in the commercials came out of pristine sparkling waterfalls and so, der.
It wasn’t until the COVID lockdowns that I really started to think about the impacts of the products I was using. Because I wasn’t wearing makeup daily, then removing it with product and then putting more product on my skin to balance out everything I had just stripped from it, my skin was looking and feeling better than ever. Less fine lines, fewer pimples and so much brighter. Cue a deep dive into what I was actually letting my skin absorb…and it wasn’t pretty.
I haven’t been alone in thinking this, more and more consumers are weighing in on the Clean Beauty Movement, a movement that is seeing the collective taking a deeper look at an industry that has been notorious for selling harmful products and turning a blind eye.
The Clean Beauty Movement isn’t just about throwing away products that are tested on animals and swapping to products that are free from nasties, as while that is a huge part of the movement and is a step in the right direction, the impact of environmental factors also needs to be part of the conversation. We need to make sure that as consumers, we’re shaping the industry and holding those in charge accountable.
Say what you will about the health and wellness influencers, but they have done some heavy groundwork to pave the way for what’s acceptable from clean beauty brands and putting them on blast if they don’t measure up. Aren’t we sick and tired of putting junk on our faces, bodies and hair while paying through the nose for it?
It can be a little overwhelming at first, but here is what you can look out for when navigating the clean beauty space.
Ingredients
Take a gander at the ingredient lists, and look out for specific chemicals and additives on the label. Ingredients such as parabens, sulphates, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances are often associated with skin irritation and long-term health concerns including the development of cancers, DNA damage, endocrine disruption and can even promote fertility issues.
Opting for products that are free from these harmful substances can help maintain skin health while aligning with clean beauty principles. Yuka is a fantastic (and free!) app that allows you to scan the barcode of your favourite beauty products in exchange for a breakdown of ingredients, whether they are harmful and their adjoining health impacts. It will also give the product an overall health rating and offer alternative safe and clean products that do the job just as well, if not better.
Marketing
Be careful, don’t fall into the same trap I did with my hair care. Brands are notorious for using misleading marketing tactics (aka Greenwashing) to portray their products as clean while still containing questionable ingredients (I see you Garnier). Researching brands and familiarising yourself with reputable certifications, such as Australian Certified Organic, Cruelty-Free Accredited or Made Safe, can help distinguish genuinely clean products from those that merely claim to be.
Packaging
Sustainable packaging materials, such as glass, aluminium, or recyclable plastics, can significantly reduce environmental impact compared to single-use plastics or excessive packaging. Look for brands that prioritise minimal and eco-friendly packaging solutions, such as refillable containers or biodegradable materials. Additionally, consider the overall lifecycle of the product’s packaging, including its recyclability and potential for reuse or repurposing.
Accountability
Holding brands accountable for their clean beauty claims is essential for maintaining transparency and integrity within the industry. Look for brands that are committed to transparency and provide detailed information about their sourcing practices, manufacturing processes, and ingredient choices. Seek out brands that support independent testing to validate their clean beauty claims. Engaging with brands through social media and customer feedback can also encourage greater accountability and make sure you support those businesses.
You don’t have to throw out all your products at once and start fresh, no guilt-tripping here! We’ve collated a few Australian-based clean beauty products to add to your list next time you run out.
Biologi Bk Rejuvenation Eye Serum
This eye serum by Biologi is formulated with potent botanical extracts, including Davidson plum, finger lime, and Kangaroo Paw. It is renowned for its ability to reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines around the delicate eye area. Biologi prioritises sustainability by sourcing ingredients ethically and utilising recyclable packaging.
Bk Vitamin C Face & Eye Serum. Shop here.
Eco Tan Face Tan Water
Fan of fake tan but hate all of the icky ingredients that go with it? Eco Tan’s Face Tan Water offers a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow without exposure to harmful UV rays. Made with organic and natural ingredients such as aloe vera, rose geranium, and chamomile, this self-tanning water hydrates and nourishes the skin while promoting an even complexion. Eco Tan is committed to sustainability, with all products certified organic by the Organic Food Chain. This product also comes in a sustainable package made out of sugar cane.
Face Tan Water. Shop here.
INIKA Organic Long Lash Vegan Mascara
INIKA’s Organic Long Lash Mascara lengthens and defines lashes while nourishing them with ingredients like carnauba wax and vitamin E. This vegan and cruelty-free mascara delivers intense colour without clumping or smudging. INIKA prioritises sustainability by using recyclable packaging and sourcing organic ingredients whenever possible.
INIKA Organic Long Lash Mascara. Shop here.
Evo The Therapist Hydrating Shampoo
This shampoo embodies the essence of clean beauty, offering a nourishing solution for hair in need of hydration and care. Enriched with natural ingredients such as argan oil, this shampoo provides deep moisturisation without compromising on purity. Free from sulphates and parabens, it gently cleanses the hair and scalp, leaving behind only the goodness of nature. With a focus on sustainability and efficacy, The Therapist delivers a luxurious experience that rejuvenates hair while upholding clean beauty principles.
The Therapist Hydrating Shampoo. Shop here.
Kind-ly’s 100% Natural Deodorant Wipes
Kind-ly’s 100% Natural Deodorant Wipes offer clean beauty and freshness on the go. Made with natural ingredients like essential oils and aloe vera, they provide long-lasting odour protection without harsh chemicals. Gentle on sensitive skin, these wipes deliver impressive results with a subtle, invigorating scent. Kind-ly’s commitment to transparency and sustainability makes it a trusted choice for clean beauty enthusiasts.
100% Natural Deodorant Wipes. Shop here.
Of course, it would be amiss of us to end our list there but we would have to turn this article into a thesis! The moral of the Clean Beauty story is that it’s time to start prioritising your health through clean beauty products. This doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience, be an active consumer by considering our tips above. There are thousands of Australian-made clean beauty products out there that deserve a lot of love and attention and with a bit of research, you could be supporting a worthy business whilst taking care of your health. So, be mindful, be aware and help change the industry to one we, and the plant, deserve.
Read more of our Health and Wellness articles here.
Learn about more clean beauty brands below.
