5 Clean Beauty Products for Your Skincare Routine

Do you know what you’re putting on your skin? Many skincare products, despite being labelled as “natural”, actually contain harmful chemicals. Hop on the clean beauty bandwagon, which is all about using plant-based products safe for both people and planet. Right on board with this trend is Sephora, which has returned to Hong Kong with a range of new, clean brands. Here, we pick five toxin-free elixirs to help you look good, and feel good.

1. A Clean Slate

Cleansing is the most important step in your daily routine, and Tarte’s Micellar Magic Makeup Remover & Cleanser makes sure you do it right with a vegan-friendly formula. Featuring babassu oil, green tea and white mulberry extract, this gentle micellar water can remove long-wear and even waterproof make up without drying out the skin. It’s also free of irritants such as parabens, mineral oil and phthalates, making it safe to use on sensitive areas as well. Simply swipe it over your face and neck with a cotton pad; there’s no need to rinse.

2. Double Action

When it comes to efficiency and effectiveness, Jack Black’s cruelty-free Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser for men ticks all the boxes. Free of parabens, sulfates and phthalates, it’s packed with nourishing goodies including oat and coconut to dissolve impurities; organic sage leaf, chamomile, and aloe leaf extracts to soothe and calm the skin; as well as rosemary to reduce oil production. It also doubles as a toner thanks to witch hazel, a natural astringent rich with antioxidants. Use it before shaving to help prevent razor burn and bumps, resulting in a smooth, clear look.

3. Radiance Rich

Who doesn’t like healthy, glowing skin? Try REN Clean Skincare’s Glow Daily Vitamin C Gel Cream, which contains neither alcohol nor sulfates – common skin irritants that cause dry and dull skin tone. Instead, the moisturiser is formulated with sustainably sourced ingredients, such as tara pod, vitamin C and magnesium, to give you a plump and radiant appearance. Its light texture means it sits well under make up, too. The cap and bottle are 100% recyclable, making this a truly clean and green product for you and for the earth.

4. Natural Beauty

As winter approaches and humidity levels drop, consider adding Farsali’s Volcanic Elixir Polynesian Beauty Oil to your night-time beauty regimen. Best used before bed, this nourishing oil is extracted from the mineral-rich tamanu fruit. Besides hydrating the skin and reducing signs of ageing, the vegan potion also features a unique lipid called Calophyllolide, which has anti-inflammatory properties against eczema and acne. Just two to three drops of this wholesome elixir are enough for a more youthful-looking complexion. You can also rub it into cuticles and dry areas such as elbows and knees for a pampering body treatment!

5. Queen B

Honey is known for many health benefits when eaten – and this is also true when it’s used topically. Combining honey, propolis and royal jelly sourced directly from farms, Farmacy’s Honey Potion Renewing Antioxidant Hydration Mask is loaded with antioxidants and B vitamins to heal and rejuvenate the skin while locking in moisture, creating a more supple and plump appearance. For best results, gently massage the mask into your face and neck in circular motion to help increase blood flow. It comes in recyclable packaging and the beautiful jar can be reused for other purposes once the product is finished.

Photos courtesy of individual brands.

Now that your skin is clean and glowing, enhance your features with these expert make up tips!