When it comes to beauty and personal care products, we’re more conscious than ever of what we put on our faces and bodies. We want to know what impact questionable ingredients have on our health, and there’s a lot we need to educate ourselves about—from parabens and aluminum to phthalates and silicone. Then there are environmental issues. And let’s not forget about animal testing! These are all valid concerns, so HealthyWay has done the legwork to help you make informed choices when it comes to finding the best and safest products.
1. This clay mask is no longer a secret.
Women have been using clay masks since the time of Cleopatra. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is a naturally effective way to help draw out oil and impurities in acne-prone and oily skin. It’s made with just a single ingredient—100% natural calcium bentonite clay—that’s harvested in Death Valley, California. There are absolutely no animal products, additives, or fragrances in this product. Mix the clay with water or apple cider vinegar to create a thick mask; leave it on for up to 20 minutes for your best skin this century. Get it on Amazon for $8.60.
2. Skip double cleansing with this genius product.
Double cleansing has become popular because the results are a completely clean face. But who has time to wash twice? That’s where Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Melting Cleanser comes in. This product is like having two cleansers in one, making the second cleanse an unnecessary step. To use, warm it up in your hands and then apply to your face without any water. It will feel like cleansing oil and remove all traces of makeup—even eye makeup. Then add water and it transforms into an emulsion cleanser to gently but effectively clean the skin. Your face will be left feeling both squeaky clean and soft. Get it from Amazon for $37.95.
3. Get fresher looking eyes naturally.
If you think a typical cream feels too heavy around the delicate eye area, Odacité Ba+S Eye Contour Serum Concentrate could be a better choice. The formula is packed with powerful natural ingredients including vitamins E, F, and A as well as plant sterols and a quartet of natural oils. Baobab oil helps reduce signs of aging by improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles. Sarsaparilla, palmarosa neroli, and lavender oils may also aid with wrinkle reduction and relieve the puffiness and dark circles that so many of us struggle with. Every eye area need is met with this complete serum. Get it from Amazon for $42.00.
4. Skip the can and get smoother legs.
When we’re trying to shave seconds off of our shower routine, sometimes we skip the shaving cream. But that can lead to cuts, nicks, or even worse. So, it’s important that we treat ourselves to a better shave. Avalon Organics Moisturizing Shave Cream in lavender makes this really easy to do. With a delightfully creamy yet light texture, this 100 percent organic product is both deeply moisturizing and clean rinsing. The lavender scent can help aid relaxation for an extra special moment of self-care. With plant oils and aloe vera, this cream is a natural way to have soft, smooth legs. Get it from Amazon for $16.50.
5. Go coconuts for this shampoo and conditioner.
If you like piña coladas, you will love this shampoo and conditioner duo. Love Beauty and Planet Volume and Bounty Shampoo and Conditioner with Coconut Water & Mimosa Flower might be tropically scented, but that doesn’t mean the ingredients are on vacation. Even city dwellers’ hair can smell like an island breeze. The highly effective, plant-based, and vegan formula lifts flat hair to give it bodacious body. The result is moisturized locks that aren’t weighed down. Both the shampoo and conditioner are paraben-, silicone-, and cruelty-free. Furthermore, both products are safe to use on color-treated hair. Get the pair from Amazon for $13.77.
6. A solution for a less-than-glamorous beauty problem.
We hate to talk about it, but thigh chafing can be a serious problem for many women. This issue isn’t simply inconvenient or annoying—it can be incredibly uncomfortable, making it hard for us to exercise or even walk. Luckily, an easy and convenient solution exists. MegaBabe Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Stick is our she-ro! Although the packaging might look like a deodorant stick, don’t be confused. This powerful product contains non-toxic ingredients including aloe, pomegranate seed extract, vitamin E, and grapeseed oil to fight chafing. Slide some on and you have a natural barrier that soothes, protects, and moisturizes this sensitive area. Get it from Amazon for $25.29.
7. Say “oui” to this classic French skincare product.
Ever wonder how French women keep their skin looking so perfect? There’s a good chance their secret is Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water. There are many micellar waters out there, but Bioderma is the original. Micelles lift dirt and impurities and remove makeup with gentle ease. Just soak a cotton pad, wipe your face, and pat dry. There are so many uses for this product. For sensitive, irritated skin, it can be a substitute for a regular cleanser or makeup remover. It’s also helpful for all skin types when a regular face wash just isn’t taking everything off. Micellar water also works like a dream to clean dirty makeup brushes thoroughly without soap. Get it from Amazon for $12.93.
8. Take everything off your face with the least amount of effort.
Whether it’s a late night or just lack of time, we all have moments when we need to wash our faces but don’t want to. Fortunately, the solution to the problem is simple: Simple Kind to Skin Facial Wipes. These are an easy, virtually effortless way to remove makeup, cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize in just one step. The two sides do double duty: One side exfoliates to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and oil, and the other cleanses and moisturizes with aloe vera. Formulated with triple purified water, these wipes do not contain dyes, perfume, or harsh chemicals. Get a set of four packs from Amazon for $16.14.
9. Bring the spa home with this scrub.
Who doesn’t love a deeply exfoliating body scrub? It feels just like a trip to a fancy spa. But the easier, less expensive option is using Tree Hut Coconut Lime Shea Sugar Scrub. Quite simply, this product smells like paradise. The paraben-free formula is made with sugar as opposed to salt, which is what many scrubs, especially in this price range, are formulated with. So there’s no risk of that burning feeling or any potential irritation. Avocado and other natural oils provide a serious dose of moisture to the skin, making post-shower body lotion unnecessary. Get it from Amazon for $18.47.
10. This appealing product can change your skin.
Exfoliating and removing skin cells is vital to the health of your skin. Many of us get chemical peels or deep exfoliation treatments. But that can be irritating and costly. MyChelle Pumpkin Enzyme Peel is nature’s gentler version of a chemical peel. Safe for all skin types, this peel uses the power of pumpkin to shed that layer of dull skin for a glowing complexion. Formulated with only safe ingredients—it is EWG Verified as well as vegetarian and gluten, paraben-, petroleum-, phthalate-, silicone-, and sulfate-free. The product is also free of any artificial fragrances and colors. Get it from Amazon for $21.33.
11. This oil is nature’s secret to better brows and lashes.
Thick brows and long lashes aren’t simply a trend. Both looks are here to stay. But that doesn’t mean using dangerous chemicals near your eyes or getting painful and pricey microblading is necessary. Nature’s gift of castor oil may be all that is necessary to achieve the hair growth and thickness we all want. Cold pressed castor oil by Kate Blanc is 100 percent pure and USDA certified organic. The oil comes paired with three different applicators to make it easy to apply to your lashes and brows—and even to your cuticles for thicker, longer, nails. Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
12. This product is so Coola.
The number one way to prevent the signs of aging is to use sunscreen every single day. But most sunscreens can feel too greasy under a face of makeup, which is why so many of us end up skipping it. So COOLA Dawn Patrol Classic SPF 30 Makeup Primer is a game changer. With a whipped, almost dry texture, it feels as close to naked skin as sunscreen can get. Apply it before foundation for a fresh face all day long. This product is also a great value because it’s truly a two-in-one. Get it from Amazon for $39.90.
13. This is the one product you must never forget to put on.
For those of us with a fair complexion or skin that is really sensitive to the sun, a daily sunscreen with a high SPF is a must. But that can be a nuisance when it doesn’t feel good on the skin. With Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen with Cellular Response Technology SPF 50, that’s simply not a problem. Oil-free and non-comedogenic, this lightweight lotion absorbs quickly and won’t feel greasy. The small size of the leak-proof bottle makes it ideal for travel or to keep in your handbag on the go. Plus, it’s formulated with safe ingredients and oxybenzone-free. But most important, it provides broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Get it from Amazon for $19.00.
14. Give your face a refreshing drink.
We all have those hot, sweaty, or busy days when we just need to take a moment (even a brief one) for ourselves and cool down. That’s why Coco Ensoleille Face Aperitif Facial Mist in Orange Blossom feels like a dream. The compact bottle fits perfectly in any bag—even a chic clutch. It hydrates and refreshes the face with natural florals and water. The light orange blossom scent isn’t overpowering; it’s just enough to feel fresh and clean again. Use it on bare skin post-workout or after applying makeup as a setting spray. Get it from Amazon for $40.00.
15. Note this BB cream.
Not all occasions call for a full-on face of foundation. That’s why NOTE Cosmetics BB Cream can make an excellent alternative to using regular makeup. This paraben-free SPF 15 formula is available in three different shades, and it’s packed with a variety of good-for-your-skin ingredients. Wheat germ is said to help keep the face young and healthy looking; grape extract can aid in the fading of dark spots; vitamin E provides protection against free radicals; and sunflower oil can even out skin tone. With its great coverage, this BB cream is grade A. Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
16. Help your body stay youthful with this necessity.
Sure, we’re vigilant about protecting our faces from the sun. But whether we are going out for a run or will be in direct contact with the rays at the beach or pool, we should be applying and reapplying sunscreen all day long. A wrinkle-free face won’t distract from a sun-damaged body. So don’t forget to apply sunscreen everywhere. Alba Botanica Hawaiian Green Tea Natural Sunblock SPF 45 offers both UVA and UVB protection without all the harsh chemicals found in many sunscreens. It’s water-resistant and paraben-, oxybenzone-, and phthalate-free. And you can feel extra good about slathering this safe sunscreen on because it’s not tested on animals. Get it from Amazon for $10.37.
17. This lotion is perfect for everyone in your home.
The skin is the body’s largest organ, and it absorbs everything we apply to it. So if we use a large amount of a particular product regularly, it’s important to choose one with safe ingredients. That’s why EveryOne Lotion with Lavender and Aloe is such a find. It is not just budget friendly, it’s also safely formulated. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, has a fresh scent, and can be used on the face, body, and hands. The generously sized 32 oz bottle has a pump for easy application and can last for months, so leave it out on the bathroom counter for family and guests. Get it from Amazon for $13.63.
18. This cleansing oil won’t leave anything behind.
The best way to remove makeup is with cleansing oil. Kopari Coconut Cleansing Oil is a natural way to remove every single trace of makeup, from layers of foundation to stubborn waterproof mascara. Compared to other oils, coconut oil has the highest concentration of fatty acids. It has naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, and some people find it can prevent inflammation and reduce redness. It’s truly a gift from nature. Many people use an oil cleanser as part of a double-cleansing routine, but that isn’t necessary with Kopari, because it rinses clean without leaving a greasy film. It’s also vegan, non-GMO, and silicone-, gluten-, and synthetic fragrance–free. Get it from Amazon for $32.00.
19. Purify your face in luxury.
With luxurious products in distinctive bright green packaging, Tata Harper has truly made a name in clean beauty. Great for all skin types, this purifying mask helps deeply cleanse the skin while fighting the effects of aging. It can help remove buildup from environmental stressors and pollution. And the formula can help detox the face without the toxic ingredients found in many other masks; instead, it contains Lactobacillus, brown algae, prickly pear seed oil, and white clay. It is also free of GMOs, gluten, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, and oxybenzone, among other potentially harmful substances. Apply it for just 10 to 20 minutes for your best face yet. Get it from Amazon for $23.99.
20. This skin food isn’t edible.
Weleda has been making beauty products since 1926, so it seems they’re doing something right. The hero product of the line is Skin Food, which is formulated with natural ingredients your skin will eat right up. It can be used anywhere your skin needs extra love and attention. For seriously dry faces, Skin Food can double as a face mask. It also can be used as a lip balm, hair cream, hand cream, and even as a highlighter in place of traditional makeup. Skin Food is made of plant-based ingredients and contains zero synthetic preservatives, colorants, fragrances, or mineral oil. Get it from Amazon for $11.87.
21. Everything’s coming up roses with this body scrub.
Herbivore Botanicals makes simple products that feel extra luxurious. The Coco Rose Body Polish/Sugar Scrub is unlike any other body exfoliator out there. It has a unique texture that feels light and almost whipped. Packaged in a glass jar (don’t worry, it’s pretty durable)—it smells so good (naturally) you’ll think you’re showering in a field of flowers. Most important, it has no unnecessary ingredients like parabens, sulfates, artificial colors, or unnatural preservatives. An artisanal product, it’s crafted in small batches from Moroccan roses and virgin coconut oil and is made in the U.S. Get it from Amazon for $44.00.
22. C why this serum should be in your beauty routine.
We all know that vitamin C is good for our health, but not everyone is aware that it’s also useful to prevent wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. Reduction of discoloration and brightening are two more ways that vitamin C improves the look of the skin. And a serum is one of the best ways to deliver this ingredient. Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum contains many of the same ingredients as other serums, which can cost three to four times as much. Highly concentrated with 7.5 percent ascorbic acid (vitamin C), it also has hyaluronic acid to increase moisture and collagen. Get it from Amazon for $45.00.
23. These pads will “bee” a staple in your makeup bag.
We all make mistakes, particularly when it comes to applying eye makeup. A slight slip of the hand or a sneeze can lead to disaster. But cleaning up those messes doesn’t have to be an ordeal. That’s why keeping a jar of Burt’s Bees Eye Makeup Remover Pads is always a good idea. These pads are just the right size to correct mistakes without taking off all your other makeup. And they won’t leave an oily residue or irritate the delicate eye area, like so many other makeup removers can. The leak-proof tub also makes it a smart choice for travel. Get them from Amazon for $3.67.
24. You will be TOTALEE obsessed with this hair product.
TOTALEE is a new line from Beverly Hills hairstylist Lee Rittiner, who has created five products that are useful for all hair types and made without harsh chemicals like sodium laureth sulfate, parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, and artificial fragrances. TOTALEE WORK is a cream elixir that totally works to protect the hair from humidity while locking in moisture and creating shine. WORK is a miracle styling tool for over-processed hair, and the thick texture makes it really easy to sculpt with. With a natural fragrance that is derived from pineapple, Thai coconut, passion fruit, and macadamia, it also smells heavenly. Get it from Amazon for $29.95.
25. Say goodbye to blemishes with this super serum.
While most of us think of serums as something we use to prevent aging, they can also be used to fight acne. Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Serum will kick zits to the curb with ingredients like organic fruit acids, willow bark (which contains natural salicylic acid), CoQ10, vitamin C, aloe, and green and white tea. What the serum doesn’t contain is equally noteworthy. There are no parabens, pesticides, or phthalates. Juice Beauty’s approach to acne is quite different from other brands, because this serum both cleans and hydrates the skin. It also rebalances to reduce irritation and inflammation. Get it from Amazon for $30.00.
26. The secret to perfect beach waves.
Why do we always come back from the beach with mermaid-like hair? The secret to that texture is sea salt. But a trip to the shore or a dip in the ocean isn’t necessary to achieve this look. Verb Sea Spray gets the job done no matter what time of year it is. Verb is also far more affordable than many other sea salt sprays. The key to using the product is to spray it on wet hair and let that hair dry naturally or to use it on slightly damp hair. Verb products are cruelty-free and do not contain sulfates, parabens, or gluten. Get it from Amazon for $18.00.
27. For better hair days, dry this.
Dry shampoo has become a staple of our beauty routines, but it can be problematic for so many reasons. Most dry shampoos contain harsh chemicals. Furthermore, the aerosol cans they’re often packaged in are not just bad for the environment; we risk inhaling a bit every time we use them. However, Klorane Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk is a non-aerosol, so we don’t have to compromise our health or the environment’s. And it’s easy to use: Just spray five inches away from the hair at the roots, wait two minutes, and then brush through for clean, bouncy locks. Get it from Amazon for $20.00.
28. Smell cleaner without the chemicals.
Most of us use deodorant every day. But the sad reality is that some popular deodorants contain ingredients that are harsh and possibly toxic or carcinogenic. While many natural deodorants are ineffective or feel sticky, milk + honey Cream Deodorant stands out from the pack. It’s made in the U.S., formulated with organic and plant-based ingredients, and free from aluminum. This product also smells good (or at the very least, better than our own natural scents) with three fragrances to choose from, including Coconut Vanilla, Coconut Lemongrass, and Bay Clove & Blood Orange. Furthermore, this deodorant is cruelty-free and non-toxic. Get it from Amazon for $15.20.
29. Scrub your way to brighter skin.
ACURE Brightening Facial Scrub is a cure for dull skin at a great price for any budget. Every skin type needs to exfoliate, and this gentle but effective scrub has organic sea kelp and lemon peel to lift and remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. One of its most noteworthy ingredients is chlorella growth factor, which is said to help stimulate the skin to create new, nourished cells. It also contains madonna lily stem cells, which can brighten the skin’s appearance. All ACURE products are vegan and sulfate-, paraben-, and cruelty-free. Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
30. Make your lips more naturally kissable with this balm.
Of all the places on our body where using the safest products really counts, the lips are one of the most important. After all, there’s a good chance we are going to lick that balm off. Furthermore, lips are extremely susceptible to dryness and irritation because they lack oil glands, which means flakiness is inevitable. So Caudalie Lip Conditioner is a real problem solver. It’s formulated from 99.5 percent natural ingredients, with grape-derived antioxidants to heal chapping, and grape oil and shea butter help deliver moisture on demand. All of this in a convenient stick. Get it from Amazon for $9.90.
31. Don’t rinse this out of your hair.
Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Leave-In Conditioner is made with ingredients that repair hair the natural way with monoi, tiare gardenia flower, and coprah coconut oils. While this formula is powerful, it can still be used every day because it doesn’t have ingredients like petroleum, mineral oil, or silicone. A great thing about this product is that unlike many leave-in conditioners, it can be used on both wet and dry hair. So it’s a multitasker that you can use to freshen up your ’do or to tame those flyaways. As with every Carol’s Daughter product, the scent is a wonderful bonus. Get it from Amazon for $18.05.
32. You won’t say “oh sheet” to this mask.
Sheet masks are an easy way to treat the skin without the mess. Just use once and throw it out. Andalou Naturals Instant Brighten & Tighten Hydro Serum Facial Mask has lots of benefits packed into one tiny sheet. The hydrating serum helps repair UV damage and support the growth of both collagen and elastin. The vitamin C aids in brightening and tightening the complexion. While this treatment is beneficial at any time, it is especially useful after overexposure to the sun. Andalou Naturals products are made from naturally derived organic ingredients that are vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, fair trade, and sustainable. Get it from Amazon for $4.22.
33. You’ll love all of the uses for this natural staple that’s been around for years.
When we think of natural and non-toxic products, one of the first things that comes to mind for many of us is Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Soap. It’s vegan and certified 100 percent USDA organic—and the bottle is even biodegradable. But don’t underestimate the power of Dr. Bronner’s. Known for being both gentle and effective, it can be used to cleanse the body, face, and hair. And it has many other uses in the home, such as to wash the dishes, floor, and even clothing. It’s highly concentrated, so dilute it before using. Get it from Amazon for $15.99.
34. Smell good naturally.
Fragrances can contain lots of artificial ingredients, but that isn’t necessary. Pacifica Perfume Roll-On bottles are changing the perfume game by creating a cleaner product. 100% vegan and cruelty-free, they are formulated without parabens, phthalates and other harmful chemicals. The roll-on container is ideal for travel or use on the go. There are a variety of appealing scents available, including Tuscan Blood Orange, French Lilac, Sparkling Star Passionfruit, and Hawaiian Ruby Guava. Manufactured in micro batches, each fragrance can be worn alone or layered for a custom scent. Get it from Amazon for $11.39.
35. Stick to this honey cream for more youthful eyes.
Made in New Zealand, Manuka Lane Skin Firming Eye Cream does it all naturally. It helps with every under-eye need, from fine lines to dark circles and puffiness. Cruelty-free, this product contains no parabens, artificial colors, or petrocarbons. The highly concentrated formula has natural ingredients that include manuka honey, hydroxyproline, lanolin, coneflower, and vitamin E. Another great benefit of this product is the packaging. The pump allows for easy and convenient dispensing, unlike a jar, which can harbor bacteria. Proper packaging is very important for naturally derived products because they often lack preservatives. Get it from Amazon for $18.95.
36. This oil does everything.
Tea tree oil is naturally antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal. And there are some indications that it can help treat ailments such as acne, nail and foot fungus, lice, dandruff, itching, earaches, psoriasis, and eczema. Extracted from Australian Melaleuca alternifolia, Eve Hansen Tea Tree Oil is 100 percent pure and certified USDA organic. It comes with a built-in dropper so it can be dispensed easily and precisely. It’s made in the U.S. without sulfates, phthalates, or parabens, and it’s vegan and cruelty-free. At under $20 per bottle, it almost feels like there is nothing this oil can’t do. Get it from Amazon for $21.95.
37. You’ve got to hand it to this cream.
Our hands are always at work. There are endless ways the skin on our hands can become dry or cracked—from cleaning them with harsh soaps to washing the dishes. That is why regular use of hand cream is really important. Grown Alchemist Intensive Hand Cream: Persian Rose and Argan Extract has botanical extracts and antioxidants to keep your hands soft without being greasy. Packaged in a beautiful pink tube with a fresh rose scent, it’s easy to keep in your bag and look forward to using after every wash. Get it from Amazon for $24.25.
38. The results are all the proof you need to love this hair oil.
Drybar 100 Proof Treatment Oil is an absolutely game-changing product for dry, over-processed, and damaged hair. But it is really useful for all hair types for many different purposes. Use before blowing out to prevent frizz and damage, or apply it after blow-drying to style hair and tame any potential flyaways. Although this treatment is an oil, it’s still lightweight enough to be combined or layered with other products like hairspray. The safe formula is paraben-, sulfate-, phthalate-, and cruelty-free. Get it from Amazon for $48.99.
