Many women take pride in how they care for their skin, and in recent years, they’ve become more conscious of the products they put on it. They realized some products may contain harmful chemicals. This newfound awareness opened conversations about seeking alternatives to conventional beauty products, like clean and organic skincare and makeup. They’re gentler, suitable for sensitive skin, and less likely to irritate. 

Organic beauty products are also cruelty-free, eco-friendly, and sustainably sourced, which contributes to protecting animal welfare and maintaining a healthier planet. Many companies, like BéLagu Naturals, offer women high-quality, clean, organic, and vegan beauty choices. As such, they’re encouraged to adopt a sustainable approach to their beauty routines. 

If you’re considering detoxing your beauty bag and switching to clean and organic beauty products, the tips below will be helpful as you transition to products that are gentler on the skin and the planet.

Understanding Clean and Organic Beauty

Since you’re exploring new products, you may find some ingredients or labels confusing. For example, items categorized as “clean” and “organic” can have different meanings. 

“Clean” refers to products formulated without harmful ingredients. That means they don’t contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances. They also don’t have ingredients known to cause environmental harm or disrupt the body's hormonal balance. Instead, clean beauty products use natural and safe ingredients that effectively nourish and protect the skin. 

Organic beauty products, on the other hand, are formulated from ingredients that are grown organically. That means none of the ingredients contain pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). They’re also cultivated under strict organic farming standards and have been certified by recognized organizations. 

Some of these products fall under both categories. To avoid confusion, just remember that clean beauty focuses on eliminating harmful synthetic chemicals, while organic beauty emphasizes natural farming practices. Once you understand their differences, you’ll have an easier time making the best choices for your beauty routine.

Learning to Read Product Labels

As you transition from conventional to clean and organic beauty, one essential skill is deciphering product labels. It's also crucial to familiarize yourself with the harmful chemicals commonly found in beauty products. That will help you distinguish whether a product is genuinely clean and organic.

Certain substances that demand your attention include preservatives identified as parabens and formaldehyde, foaming agents recognized as sulfates, and artificial dyes. If you see these chemicals prominently on the ingredient list, it's advisable to steer clear of the product. It likely contains substantial amounts of these harmful agents, which could lead to skin irritation, allergies, and potential long-term health issues, including hormonal imbalances and even specific cancers.

In contrast, natural ingredients, such as shea butter, coconut oil, and witch hazel, are superior alternatives. Also, phrases like “paraben-free,” “sulfate-free,” and “phthalate-free” on labels are tell-tale signs that the product is skin-friendly, which you should opt for. 

Recognizing Clean and Organic Certifications

Aside from the ingredients on the product’s label, look for the certifications to verify you’re purchasing clean and organic products. Look for certifications by reputable organizations like EWG Verified or Leaping Bunny for clean beauty products. These certifications attest to the absence of harmful chemicals and animal testing. For organic beauty, COSMOS or USDA Organic certifications affirm adherence to rigorous organic standards and sustainable sourcing.

Unfortunately, some products may claim to be clean or organic without meeting the criteria. So, always verify certifications and research brands to ensure the products’ authenticity. 

Seeking Professional Advice

Before changing your entire beauty routine, it's best to consult a dermatologist or skincare specialist. They can assist you in identifying your skin type and make personalized recommendations according to your skin’s needs. Their expertise is also valuable in selecting products that work with your skin and address your concerns, whether you aim to reduce fine lines or remove blemishes. 

Building a Beauty Routine Based on Your Skin Type

When building a new beauty routine, you must know your skin type and any skin concerns you want to address. It’s the same with choosing clean and organic beauty products. That first step ensures you get the benefits of the products and reduces irritation. 

For instance, if you have an oily skin type, choose hydrating products that address excess sebum. On the other hand, individuals with dry and sensitive skin must avoid products containing artificial fragrances and alcohol. Instead, focus on items with moisturizing and hypoallergenic formulas.

Transitioning to Clean and Organic Beauty Gradually

Some people feel overwhelmed by clean and organic beauty simply because it’s new and they’re already used to certain beauty routines. If you’re such an individual, you can transition to clean and organic beauty products smoothly by doing it gradually. 

Begin by substituting one product at a time in your current routine and gauging its compatibility with your skin's needs. As an example, you could start with your facial cleanser or moisturizer. Gradually incorporate clean and organic alternatives while retaining the remainder of your skincare regimen. This approach allows the skin to get used to the new products, ensuring optimal results.

Doing a Patch Test

While clean and organic beauty products use milder ingredients, you could still be sensitive to them. So, perform a patch test before incorporating new products into your routine. It’s a crucial step to see how your skin will react to the new product.

To perform a patch test, apply a small amount of the product to a discreet skin area, such as the inner forearm. That limits the reaction to a small and inconspicuous spot. Then, allow time for the product to settle before washing it off, enabling you to observe any adverse effects. As a recommendation, perform the patch test in the evening before bedtime to give the product ample time to interact with your skin and show the full results. 

If you used conventional beauty products before and want to switch to clean and organic beauty products, consider following the recommendations mentioned here. They can help you make the transition go smoothly as possible and ensure you choose the best beauty products for your skin and concerns. Remember that this journey to a healthier and more sustainable beauty routine is a process. You don’t have to perfect everything, either. So, enjoy discovering new products that enhance your natural beauty and care for your skin.