Hello Beautiful,
I am so happy you are here! This non toxic beauty guide will help you minimize your exposure to ingredients that can be harmful to your health.
Women everywhere are waking up to the realization that the beauty industry is not regulated and mainstream beauty products can cause health issues.
It has been shown that the average woman uses around 168 toxins in her daily beauty routine. What we put on our skin has the ability to affect our health and appearance. Did you know that an excess of toxins can accelerate the aging process? Non toxic beauty products are essentially like putting vitamins on your skin instead of toxins.
Making the switch to non toxic beauty does not have to be overwhelming. Learning about ingredients is the best way to feel empowered. Simply take it one step at a time. Each small switch will have a positive influence on your health and appearance.
NOTE
If you want to skip to my non toxic beauty recommendations simply scroll down to the middle of this article.
All my non toxic beauty product recommendations are thoroughly researched, high performance, and products I use and love.
You can also find more non toxic beauty products in my shop HERE
*This page contains affiliate links which means I might earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only partner with brands I use myself and love.
Top Ingredients to Avoid in your Beauty Products
Fragrance (Parfum)
This is a very tricky ingredient that can be found on most beauty labels. The specific ingredients do not have to be disclosed. There can be hundreds of hidden ingredients under the name "fragrance." Some fragrances can be linked to cancer, allergies, and reproductive harm.
Diethanolamine (DEA)
Regularly used as an pH adjuster and foaming agent in cosmetics. . DEA and Dea-related ingredients have been linked with skin irritation and potential skin growths. DEA has been linked to hormone disruption, liver tumors, and organ toxicity.
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG's)
Used in cosmetics as a penetration enhancer. Penetration enhancers are substances that make it easier for other ingredients to pass through our skin. PEG’s can be contaminated 1,4– dioxane and ethylene oxide which are known carcinogens.
Sodium Laurel Sulfate
Detergent that makes products foam and lather in products. Both SLS and SLES can cause skin irritation or allergies. SLES is an ethoxylated ingredient known to produce 1,4 Dioxane, which is classified as a human
carcinogen.
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
Synthetic antioxidants used as preservatives in products. These chemicals are linked to organ system toxicity, endocrine disruption, and respiratory irritation.
Parabens
Preservatives used in a wide variety of beauty products to prevent the growth of microbes. Parabens can be endocrine-disrupting and have estrogen-mimicking properties, are linked to breast cancer, and have reproductive issues.
Retinyl Palimate
Retinol compounds in products are quite popular due to their anti aging effects, however, they can become carcinogenic when exposed to sunlight. As well as being linked to development and reproductive toxicity. Many products on the market contain retinol and are targeted towards daytime use leading the consumer vulnerable to its health hazards. Retinol is the chemical name of the natural form of the essential micronutrient vitamin A.
Triclosan
Preservative and antimicrobial agent used in products to prevent the growth of bacteria. Triclosan has been shown to be an endocrine disruptor and impacts thyroid function.
Phthalates
Linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, developmental toxicity, and cancer. Phalates can be hidden in the sneaky word “fragrance” and it does not have to be labeled.
Petroleum & Mineral Oil
Used in personal care products as a moisturizing agent. It is a cheap filler ingredient that is a by-product of petroleum refining. The primary concern with petrolatum is that it is potentially contaminated with (PAHs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons These have been shown to be carcinogens.
Parabens
Preservatives used in a wide variety of beauty products to prevent the growth of microbes. Parabens can be endocrine-disrupting and have estrogen-mimicking properties, are linked to breast cancer, and have reproductive issues.
Talc
A mineral substance used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products to absorb moisture, prevent caking, and soften products. It also can give products an opaque appearance. Talc can be contaminated with asbestos, a mineral substance linked to cancer.
Formaldehyde Releasing Preservatives
Formaldehyde may not always be listed as an ingredient on the label, however, it could still be in the product. The reason it can be tricky is that companies can add other chemicals that work together as they decompose to release formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a known skin sensitizer, allergen, and carcinogen.
Toulene
A clear, colorless liquid that is added to some beauty products. It has been linked to reproductive toxicity, developmental toxicity, and irritation. Found in a lot of hair colors and nail products.
Propylene Glycol
Propylene glycol is a humectant, an ingredient that is added to cosmetics to increase moisture retention. It is a penetration-enhancing humectant, preservative, stabilizer, and emulsifier. The fact that it is a penetration enhancer can mean that it could increase the likelihood of harmful toxins permeating the skin. Because propylene glycol is derived from petroleum, many have concerns that it is carcinogenic and can be toxic when used in skincare. It can also cause skin irritations and breakouts when used regularly.
Hydroquinone
Commonly used in products that are targeted towards skin lightening. Linked with organ system toxicity and considered a respiratory toxicant.
Synthetic Colors (ie: Red 7 Lake + Red 5 Lake)
Synthetic colors are derived from petroleum and coal tar are suspected skin irritants, human carcinogens, and linked to ADHD in children. There are healthier ways to pigment beauty products that do not raise health concerns.
Phenoxyethanol
A preservative used in cosmetics and as a stabilizer in soaps and perfumes. It can be potentially harmful if absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or swallowed. It can have an effect on the brain and the central nervous system as well as cause reactions such as eczema.
Sunscreen Ingredients To Avoid Oxybenzone, Benzophenone, PABA, Avobenzone, Homosalate, and Ethoxycinnmate.
These ingredients are linked to endocrine disruption. They may also cause cellular damage and be carcinogenic. Choose non nano zinc as a healthier option.
How to Switch to a Non Toxic Beauty Routine
1.) Start by replacing the products that cover a large portion of your skin such as body products, skincare, foundations, powder, blush, and highlights. These have a higher chance of causing harm since they are applied in greater quantities.
2.) Next start with your lip products because these have the potential to be consumed while you are eating.
3.) Figure out your budget. How much do you want to spend on replacing your beauty items? Stick to your budget as you can always add in new items slowly. No need to stress or overspend. Any healthy swap will decrease your toxin intake
4.) Identify the values you are seeking in non toxic beauty products. Do you want them to be organic, natural, vegan, gluten free, or paraben free? There are so many brands that cater to different needs
5.) Try brands that have a good return policy in case you are not satisfied
6.) Order sample sizes or travel sizes to try before you buy.
A lot of companies travel sizes which is a great way to try the product without having to commit to a full-size item. You can also try sample sizes which are perfect when trying out foundations. It is not always advertised but you can email them and ask
7.) Try going into a store that sells natural beauty products so that you can try them
8.) Research the ingredients in each product before you commit. Find out how they play a role in your health.
Product Recommendations
MAKEUP
My favorite clean beauty mascara . The ingredients are non-toxic and it delivers beautiful full long lashes with one coat. The formula does not smudge, does not clump, and comes off without eye makeup remover. I am obsessed with mascara so I have tried just about all the non toxic mascara on the market and this one is wonderful. If you're looking for your holy grail mascara this is it!
I also really like the Lily Lolo pressed mineral blush the ingredients are great and it's an easy-wear, velvety Pressed Blush that is highly pigmented
Shop Lily Lolo products HERE
FitGlow Beauty is a skincare and makeup brand in one. All of their makeup contains ingredients that are nourishing and benefit skin health.
The Fitglow plum lash primer is seriously the best. It is a mascara primer that helps lashes appear fuller, longer, and healthier. A must have product if you have short, thin lashes, or just want a little extra oomph.
The fitglow correct+ is a super concentrated concealer that covers dark circles and blemishes without looking heavy or cakey. The ingredients are super nourishing for the skin and work incredibly well.
The fitglow lip color serum is extremely hydrating for the lips, contain nourishing and non toxic ingredients, and provides the perfect pop of color for kissable and beautiful lips.
The fitglow redness rescue cream works really well for calming inflammation and minimizing the appearance of red and irritated skin. It contains a wakame seaweed extract and green mineral tint to help balance skin and minimize redness. The results are quite impressive.
The entire line of Fitglow beauty skincare and makeup are high performance and they come in the prettiest packaging. The price point is a bit high but definitely worth the investment.
Shop Fitglow Beauty Products HERE
ILIA Beauty formulates products from scratch, using a mix of natural, organic botanicals and safe synthetics to ensure above-and-beyond performance. All of their products work really well and have the best ingredients.
limitless lash mascara works really well and provides natural flawless full and soft lashes. It's a buildable and flake free formula made with nourishing ingredients. This non toxic mascara gives you voluminous and lifted lashes with just one coat.
super serum skin tint serum spf 40 works really well to brighten, conceal, protect, and look incredibly natural. The formula is lightweight and made with skin nourishing ingredients. It is an excellent choice if you're looking for light weight coverage with a mineral spf (non nano zinc) to even out your skin tone.
liquid eyeliner does not smudge and provides a precise line for gorgeous eyes without the toxins. The flexible felt tip makes it easy to apply the perfect cat eye.
Shop ILIA Beauty Products HERE
100 Percent Pure
I love this brand so much! This is my go-to brand because they work so well and have the cleanest ingredients. Their ingredient list is all natural and top notch. All of their products are carefully formulated to have the healthiest ingredients and they perform extremely well. They are definitely worth trying! My favorite products from 100 Percent Pure are their anti aging lipsticks, they are really pigmented and moisturizing. They look amazing and have the best ingredients. The fruit pigmented blush and highlighter are the best! They are really pigmented so you only need a little bit. The green tea brow builder is so lovely. It has little micro fibers to help build the brows and provide color and shape. I can't be without their amazing coffee bean eye cream it is the best eye cream for instantly decreasing puffiness, and moisturizing, and looks perfect under makeup, or alone.
Shop 100 Percent Pure Products HERE
Wonderful affordable clean beauty products. The mascara with eyelash primer is amazing if you want to give your lashes extra length and hold. If you have short or sparse lashes this one is for you!
Their eye shadow pallets have beautiful pigments in a gorgeous shade range that work beautifully for any look and the highlighting powder illuminates the skin for a healthy glow. Their products are definitely worth trying. They are sold at Target, ULTA, and online.
SKINCARE
If you love clean, sustainable, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, high-performance, and glass bottles, this is your brand.
I would consider OSEA SKINCARE a luxury clean beauty line. They have high-performing products and innovative formulations. They draw their inspiration from the sea by incorporating wild seaweed into their products along with a variety of high quality plant based ingredients, pure steam distilled, and cold pressed essential oils. I love all of their products.
An amazing product that will take your skincare routine up a notch. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that draws moisture into the skin. In fact, it can bind up to 1,000x's its weight in water. Regularly using a hyaluronic acid serum in your skincare routine can help with moisture retention, plump and firm the skin, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and support elasticity.
A high performing and luxurious facial moisturizer made with wonderful anti aging ingredients to plump, firm, tone, and moisturize skin. It has a unique amino acid blend that targets the signs of aging and encourages a more youthful glowing appearance. The application is so dreamy, and it does a really great job at deeply hydrating and moisturizing the skin while you sleep. I love how well it absorbs into the skin and it instantly reduces redness.
A gentle cream cleanser that removes impurities without stripping the skin. It is pH balanced and fragrance free making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. This cleanser does a really good job at gently cleansing the skin while also providing moisture. It will never make your skin feel tight or dry after using it. It is perfect for those with mature, dry, or sensitive skin.
This mask brightens and nourishes the skin. Mineral Peptides plump up the skin while Hyaluronic Acid draws in water for lasting hydration. I love the licorice in this mask which is a natural dark spot remover. Perfect for minimizing sun damaged skin and hyperpigmentation
Use Code: JROSE save 10% on Osea Skincare
Shop Osea Skincare Products HERE
Kari Gran makes my absolute favorite non toxic facial SPF. It is a mineral sunscreen made with non nano zinc and skin nourishing ingredients.
The kari gran essential SPF 30 is a moisturizing sunscreen that looks flawless under makeup and does not leave a white cast on the skin. This one delivers 100%.
Kari gran also has beautiful lip whips that are the perfect mix between a balm and lipstick. they contain lip nourishing ingredients with a natural pop of color.
Shop Kari Gran Products HERE
HAIR CARE
A luxury non toxic hair care line made with amazing ingredients. As a licensed cosmetologist, I can tell you firsthand that this is the most high-performance clean hair care brand that I have found. A lot of other natural hair care products have great ingredients but do not deliver results.
Rahua hair care offers salon like results without harmful chemicals.
hydration shampoo replenishes and smooths dry hair without weighing it down. With natural Amazonian oils and plant protein bonding sugars, this shampoo drives moisture into the hair. Perfect for all hair types, especially dry, damaged, frizzy or curly hair. The scent is fruity and light. It smells like passion fruit and mango.
This formula works incredibly well to smooth hair and minimize all frizz. You only need a small amount and it instantly penetrates the hair shaft for a moisturizing boost. Perfect for all hair types, especially dry, damaged, frizzy, and curly hair. The scent is fruity and light. It smells like passion fruit and mango.
Formulated with omega 9 rich rahua oil for a healthy scalp. This restorative shampoo leaves hair soft and balanced. Best for normal hair, oily hair, or as a clarifying shampoo.
The scent is herbal and woody. It is made with Palo Santo and it smells just like it. If you like an herbal and natural scent then you will love the way it smells.
Omega-rich rahua oil detangles, smooths, and nourishes hair while being lightweight. It works really well to smooth hair while not being heavy and can even be used as a lightweight styling cream to tame frizz. The scent is herbal and woody. It is made with Palo Santo and it smells just like it. If you like an herbal and natural scent then you will love the way it smells.
hydration detangler + UV barrier
A nourishing leave-in conditioner that detangles, smooths and minimizes frizz while being lightweight. Made with a blend of healthy hair oils and antioxidants for ultimate shine, health, and UV protection. The UV protection is excellent for all hair types, especially color treated, and for use with heat tools. The scent is fruity and light. It smells like passion fruit and mango.
Professional grade ultimate hair mask. This mask is incredible and delvers salon like results. Save yourself a trip to the salon and try this smoothng and deeply moisturizing hair hair mask made with natura and nourishing ingredients. Best for all hair types, especially dry, damaged, frizzy, and curly hair. The scent is fruity and light. It smells like passion fruit and mango.
Shop Rahua Hair care HERE
I really hope you enjoyed this non toxic beauty guide and it helps you switch to a natural beauty routine. If you have any questions please send me a message.
I wish you so much success on your non toxic beauty journey.
In health,
Jessica Rose