A Complete Guide To Clean And Non-Toxic Foundations

Making the switch to clean and non-toxic foundations can be difficult. In 2023, I made the switch to non-toxic makeup so I know first-hand how hard it can be. All of my favorite products seemed to have super toxic ingredients that were ruining my hormone levels. Thankfully, through trial and error, I’ve found some amazing foundations that I love.

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What Ingredients Should You Avoid When Looking For a Foundation?

When you’re looking for clean and non-toxic foundations, be sure to avoid certain ingredients that may cause skin irritation or other potential health concerns. Here are some of the ingredients you should avoid in your foundation:

Bismuth Oxychloride: While the FDA has approved bismuth oxychloride as safe for use in cosmetics, it can cause skin reactions for a lot of people.
Parabens: These are commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics but have been linked to hormonal disruptions and potential reproductive issues.
Fragrance: Synthetic fragrances can be a common allergen and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Opt for fragrance-free products scented with natural essential oils.
Oxybenzone: This chemical is found in some foundations with SPF, but it can potentially cause skin allergies and hormonal disruptions. Try using foundations with physical sunscreens like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide instead.
Synthetic Dyes: Artificial colorants, such as FD&C or D&C, can cause sensitivity and potential irritation. Look for foundations with natural or mineral-based colorants.
Mineral Oil: This petroleum-derived ingredient can clog pores and may not be suitable for acne-prone or sensitive skin types.
Talc: Linked to potential cancer risks. To this day, talc is still often found in powder foundations.
Sulfates: These are cleansing agents that can be harsh and dry for the skin.
Phthalates: These chemicals are used to enhance fragrance and texture but may be endocrine disruptors.
Silicones: While not necessarily harmful, some individuals may be sensitive to silicones, which can give a smooth texture but may cause breakouts or irritation.
Alcohol: High concentrations of alcohol, such as denatured alcohol, can dry and irritate the skin. Seek foundations without excessive alcohol content.

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A Complete Guide To Clean And Non-Toxic Foundations — This glowy makeup look was created with all clean makeup products!

How Do You Know If Your Favorite Foundation is Clean?

The best way to find clean and non-toxic foundations is by educating yourself and identifying harmful ingredients, you will be well on your way to knowing exactly what ingredients to look out for. It gets a lot easier over time, I promise.

Thankfully, some resources can help out! Here are some great websites/apps:

EWG.org is an amazing resource for all things in our home. From cleaning products and laundry soap to beauty products, you’ll find useful information here. They give products a number rating out of 10 and I like to look for products with a rating of 3 or less (a rating of 0 means it is EWG verified and there are no harmful ingredients). You can even search for specific ingredients to see how toxic they are,

Yuka App. This mobile app allows you to scan your products at the store while you shop. This app gives products a rating out of 100 (100 being the best). You can also scan food items with this app as well. I find that this app has a bigger database than EWG.

A Guide To My Favorite Clean And Non-Toxic Foundations

Over the past year, I have tested a lot of clean and non-toxic foundations. Here are some of my favorites.

RMS Beauty ReEvolve Natural Finish Foundation

This foundation has medium buildable coverage and makes my skin look really pretty. It is water & sweat-resistant and has some great skincare ingredients to help hydrate, firm, and tone. This foundation has a Yuka rating of 90/100!

Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

This is my go-to “glam” foundation. It is the most full coverage of the bunch (but I’d say it’s medium to buildable, not full). It gives you the prettiest glow! It’s infused with Haus Labs proprietary fermented arnica to help reduce redness, help even skin tone, and protect from environmental stress. Haus Labs has the largest shade range of all of these options and has a Yuka rating of 83/100.

Jane Iredale HydroPure Tinted Serum

This is my go-to for light makeup days. It’s more of a tinted moisturizer than a foundation but the coverage is buildable. I really enjoy how it has hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Olive Squalane. This tinted moisturizer has a Yuka rating of 76/100, which is still considered an excellent rating.

Merit Perfecting Complexion Foundation

This is my favorite for when I’m in a big rush and want light to medium coverage. It’s easy to apply- you rub the stick all over your face then blend it out with a brush or your fingers. It has fatty acids to condition and moisturize skin, and Sea Daffodil extract to diminish the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation. This could also be used as a contour if you buy a darker shade. This foundation stick is rated a 3 on EWG, which I still consider safe to use.

Merit The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Foundation and Concealer Stick

Covergirl Simply Ageless Skin Perfector Essence Foundation

This new, viral product is a close dupe of the Chanel Les Beiges Water Fresh Tint. I’m currently testing this product. It’s affordable for how clean it is, and it’s getting great reviews. It has coverage similar to the Jane Iredale HydroPure Tinted Serum that I love. This product has an amazing Yuka rating of 93/100!

Getting The Most Out Of Your Clean Foundations

The trick to getting the most out of your clean and non-toxic foundations is using a light dusting of setting powder. I haven’t found a ton of clean powders in my search because most setting powders are formulated with talc. Talc can sometimes contain large amounts of asbestos, so it should be avoided. Here are the two clean setting powders that I love.

Ilia Soft Focus Finishing Powder

This is a finely milled setting powder that glides on like a dream. It blurs, smooths, and cuts shine with a soft-focus finish that won’t flashback. It’s yuka rating is 100/100!!

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder

This powder is slightly more finely milled than the ilia. It is a weightless powder formulated with soft-focus light-reflecting particles to instantly blur imperfections and minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles for effortlessly smooth skin. It also has a yuka rating of 100/100!