Navigating the Hazy World of "Clean Beauty"
Published By: MOODEAUX
In a world where wellness and self-care have become paramount, the beauty industry has undergone a profound transformation. Shoppers are increasingly conscious of the products they use — not just for their effectiveness, but also for their impact on health and the environment. Rightfully so! This growing awareness has given rise to the phenomenon now widely known as "clean beauty."
"Clean beauty" as a term is growing in significant traction, promising better alternatives to traditional skincare and cosmetics. But with no universal standard or true government regulation, it's a topic that's as confusing as it is enticing. What exactly does "clean beauty" mean? Is it just a marketing buzzword, or does it signify a genuine revolution in the industry?
While the definition of "clean" varies per beauty brand/entity, MOODEAUX's stance is rooted in that we formulate without parabens, phthalates, artificial dyes, commonly known or suspected toxins/endocrine disruptors. Formulations are also vegan and cruelty-free, plus adhere to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) — the global representative body of the fragrance industry that mandates strict codes of practice — as well as Credo's Clean Beauty Standard.
IFRA defines potential allergens, e.g. linalool, geraniol, citronellol and coumarin, as "restricted ingredients" not to be present over certain thresholds. MOODEAUX's scents are in certified compliance with IFRA's latest and 50th Amendment. As for our use of "safe synthetics," these materials are designed in a lab to replicate the natural aromas of "prohibited ingredients" — including those that are too costly to our environment to deplete.
Back to the Credo's Clean Beauty Standard! In summary, it's a set of guidelines and principles established by Credo Beauty — our first retailer and the world's largest "clean beauty" retailer. This standard serves as a benchmark for evaluating beauty and skincare products, ensuring that they meet specific criteria related to safety, sustainability and ingredient quality.
Key aspects include:
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Ingredient Safety: Credo insists on products that are free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde and a range of other potentially toxic ingredients. This ensures that the products are safe for your skin and overall health.
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Transparency: Brands like ours that adhere to this standard are expected to provide ingredient listings, allowing consumers to make informed choices about what they put on their skin.
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Cruelty-Free: The Credo Clean Beauty Standard promotes products that are not tested on animals. This reflects a commitment to ethical practices in the beauty industry.
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Sustainability: Credo encourages eco-friendly and sustainable packaging, reflecting a concern for the environmental impact of beauty products. This often involves using recyclable materials, reducing waste and minimizing carbon footprint.
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Efficacy: The standard emphasizes that "clean beauty" products should not only be safe but also effective. They should deliver on their promises, whether it's for skincare, makeup or other beauty needs.
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Non-Toxic Ingredients: Clean beauty products adhere to the use of natural, organic and non-toxic ingredients. This means that the formulations are designed to promote healthy skin and avoid potentially harmful substances.
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Exclusivity: Credo's Clean Beauty Standard sets a high bar for the products it stocks in its stores. Brands must meet these standards to be part of Credo's offerings.
To summarize... In the ever-evolving world of beauty, one thing is clear: The topic of "clean beauty" isn't going anywhere, anytime soon. It's a rather complex conversation that's here to stay, and as you've likely noticed, it's not always "black and white." But with the right information and a critical eye, you can navigate this intricate landscape — making choices that align with your personal values and beauty aspirations.
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