The Best Clean Beauty Brands Worth Switching To

Let’s be honest: “clean beauty” gets thrown around a lot - but it isn’t a regulated term. In the U.S., brands can label products “clean” or “non-toxic” without official approval. That’s why it’s important to look for companies that are actually transparent about their ingredients and meet stricter safety standards.

Studies have found PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in many long-wear and waterproof products, and these can build up in the body and environment. Luckily, plenty of brands are cutting out questionable ingredients without sacrificing performance. Here are some that are truly worth the switch.

ILIA Beauty

Why we love it: Makeup that acts like skincare. Their Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 uses non-nano zinc oxide (mineral SPF) and skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

Perfect for: Dewy, everyday makeup lovers.

Tower 28

Why we love it: Designed for sensitive and acne-prone skin, every product is allergy-tested and eczema-friendly (many are approved by the National Eczema Association).

Try: SOS Daily Rescue Mist or ShineOn Lip Jelly.

Perfect for: Reactive or breakout-prone skin.

Saie

Why we love it: Clean, glowy complexion products that actually work. Their Slip Tint SPF 35 gets great safety ratings on EWG and provides sheer, radiant coverage.

Perfect for: A fresh, natural look.

Biossance

Why we love it: Sustainable skincare powered by sugarcane-derived squalane (not shark liver!). Their products focus on barrier repair and hydration.

Try: Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil.Perfect for: Dry, dull, or sensitive skin.

Innersense Organic Beauty

Why we love it: Haircare that skips harsh sulfates and silicones without leaving your hair limp. Many of their products are EWG Verified®.

Try: Pure Harmony Hairbath or I Create Lift Volumizing Foam.

Perfect for: Anyone wanting gentle, clean haircare.

RMS Beauty

Why we love it: Minimalist, creamy formulas with short ingredient lists. The Living Luminizer is a cult favorite for that healthy, natural glow.

Perfect for: No-makeup-makeup fans.

Quick Tip: Read the Label

Even “clean” logos (like “Clean at Sephora”) are based on store policies - not laws.

Check the ingredients yourself and avoid:

• PFAS (look for words ending in “fluoro”)

• Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives

• Heavy fragrance if you’re sensitive

The Bottom Line

“Clean” doesn’t have to mean complicated — just transparent. Switch slowly (start with products that stay on your skin the longest, like SPF and moisturizer), patch test, and use resources like EWG Skin Deep® or National Eczema Association lists to double-check formulas.

The best part? These brands prove you can have effective, beautiful makeup and skincare without the sketchy stuff.