The Clean Beauty Starter Kit

Written By Natalie Youssef

Let’s be honest: figuring out what’s actually clean and safe in beauty is overwhelming.

The labels say “natural,” “clean,” “dermatologist-approved.” But the ingredient lists read like chemistry homework. And even when you want to do better, you find yourself in the Target aisle spiraling:—

Is it worse to use the “toxic” product or to use nothing at all?
Is this just wellness fear-mongering?
Is that mineral sunscreen going to leave me looking like Casper the ghost?

I’ve asked myself all of it. Which is why I created this post: a no-BS guide with the exact tools, swaps, and products I actually use. Not perfect. Just better.

🚫 What I Try to Avoid

Here’s what I look out for—especially in products I use daily or on large areas of my body:

  • Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Avobenzone –common in chemical sunscreens; linked to hormone disruption

  • Fragrance (parfum) – a catch-all term that can hide hundreds of unlisted chemicals

  • Parabens & Phthalates – endocrine disruptors tied to fertility issues

  • PFAS – “forever chemicals” often in waterproof or long-wear makeup

  • Formaldehyde releasers – sometimes found in nail and hair products

Want to check how your product stacks up? The EWG’s Skin Deep Database is your friend.

☀️ Sunscreen: Clean or Nothing?

Ever had this internal debate?

“I don’t have clean sunscreen. Should I skip it? Is chemical sunscreen worse than sun damage?”

Short answer: Always wear sunscreen. Unprotected sun exposure increases your risk of skin cancer and speeds up aging.

Longer answer? Some chemical sunscreen ingredients (like oxybenzone) have been shown to absorb into the bloodstream and may disrupt hormone health. That’s why I lean mineral-based whenever possible—but I’m not here to scare you, just help you make informed choices.

Safer Sunscreens that I Use and Love:

🧼 Hair + Body Care Staples

Body Wash:

Body Lotion and Oil:

Hair:

Curly Hair Faves:

🫧The Deodorant Reality Check

Let’s be honest: natural deodorant is a trial-and-error journey. I’m not chasing perfection—I just want something that works and doesn’t overload my body with unnecessary chemicals.

One I reach for often?
Hume Supernatural Aluminum-Free Deodorant (Desert Bloom) – works well for me, doesn’t cause irritation, and is rated a 3 on EWG due to limited data. Not a perfect 1, but still significantly better than most conventional formulas.

That’s the reality of this journey: not everything has to be squeaky-clean to be a better choice.

Other faves I rotate between (rated even better):

My approach? Start where you can. Stay informed. Choose better—not perfect.

🦷 Toothpaste I Trust

💧 Skincare That Works

Cleansers:

Moisturizers:

Targeted serums + Eye care:

Face Masks I Love:
I love a good face mask. Here are a few EWG-verified options:

💄 Clean Makeup

Shops I trust are Honest or ILIA.

Mascara I Rotate:

Brows:

Makeup Removers:

💅 Nail Care (That Doesn’t Wreck Your Health)

Let’s be clear: nail products are tricky. Many strengtheners and polishes are not EWG-friendly.

Safer Options:

Strengthener:

Base/Top coat:

Nail Polish:

Removers:

🌿 Where to Start (Without Overwhelm)

If this feels like a lot, here’s where I suggest beginning:

  • Sunscreen (daily use, high impact)

  • Deodorant (absorbed through lymph nodes)

  • Moisturizers + cleansers

  • Anything with synthetic fragrance

Start small. Swap one thing. Let it build from there.

💬 Final Thoughts

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being more intentional with what we put on our bodies—and creating routines that support long-term health, not just short-term results. These are just a few of many safe products. Explore more on: EWG’s Skin Deep and see what feels good to you.

If this guide helps you feel a little more informed, confident, and aligned with what you’re putting on your skin—that’s the real win.

What’s your favorite clean beauty swap? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to learn from you too.

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Natalie Youssef
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