Clean Swaps for Popular Beauty Products (What I Actually Use)
Just because a beauty product is popular doesn’t mean it’s safe for your skin or health. I’ve learned this the hard way after years of using products that looked amazing on Instagram but were filled with harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrance, and other ingredients that just didn’t align with my clean living values.
Today I’m breaking down some of the most popular beauty brands I wouldn’t buy, what toxic ingredients they often contain, and—most importantly—the non-toxic swaps I actually use and love!!
Face Wash – My Daily Go-Tos
Popular pick I skip: Tula face wash (contains synthetic fragrance, PEGs, phenoxyethanol)
My clean swaps:
Indie Lee Purifying Face Wash – My current obsession. It’s gentle, effective, and leaves my skin feeling so clean without stripping it.
RMS Gel Cleanser – I love this one for my nighttime routine. It melts away makeup and sunscreen while nourishing my skin.
Other clean swaps:
Ursa Major Fantastic Face Wash – Refreshing and slightly foamy without stripping skin.
Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel- Gentle formula for all skin types
Skincare – What’s on My Vanity
Popular pick I skip: Drunk Elephant (often contains phenoxyethanol, polysorbates, chlorphenesin)
My clean swaps:
Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum – I’m currently trying this out and it feels like such a luxury ritual.
OSEA – They have so many skincare sets depending on your skin type! Code CLEANLIVING for discount on OSEA products!!
Primally Pure – Their tallow balms are a must-have for repairing and protecting my skin barrier.
Clearstem- Anti acne + Anti aging skincare. Code CLEANLIVINGKARLY for discount. Obsessed with their vitamin scrub!! Just finished my fifth bottle of this!! Removes dead skin cells & unclogs pores. Works for dry, mature, sensitive, blemish-prone, combo & normal skin. Helps reduce active breakouts
Cocokind- This complete daily skincare routine is a great option!!
Sunscreen – My Everyday Protection
Popular pick I skip: Supergoop (chemical UV filters like avobenzone + octocrylene)
My clean swap:
RMS Tinted Radiance Serum – My favorite “makeup meets skincare” sunscreen. It evens out my skin tone, adds a glow, and protects with clean mineral SPF. I wear shade MEDIUM!
Haircare – Clean From Root to Tip
Popular picks I skip: Olaplex & Ouai (fragrance blends, harsh preservatives)
My clean swaps:
Rahua – Their Hydration Shampoo and Conditioner make my hair so soft and shiny.
Act + Acre – Love all their products!!
EVOLVh – Love their styling products like this hair oil!
Acure Hydrating Shampoo: Great for dry hair
Switching to clean beauty doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by swapping one product at a time for a cleaner option that fits your budget. Every little change adds up!!
