By: Elizabeth Wheless

In recent years, the popularity of wellness and clean living movements has soared, with a particular focus on clean beauty products. As someone with allergies, I have become very interested in understanding the ingredients in the products I use on a daily basis and how those ingredients affect my overall wellbeing. Let’s take a look at some of our most-used clean beauty brands and platforms, as well as the research behind this movement.


For those who may not have known, clean beauty is an overarching term that describes products that are non-toxic, organic, or even simply free of the “dirty dozen” chemicals found in many common beauty products. While buying a product that is labeled as “clean” is a step in the right direction, it is still important to do your own research to understand the ingredients and mission of that specific brand. Don’t let the name scare you; just because it’s clean doesn’t mean the products can’t have the luxurious feel that we all look for in our self-care routine. In fact, you could argue that many clean products are more luxurious smelling, feeling and have fabulous packaging.  

Amidst the influx of clean beauty brands entering the market, it can be hard to find the perfect match that fits your needs. Luckily for you, I’ve done some research and have curated a list of products so you can integrate clean beauty into your routine, regardless of your lifestyle. 

For the Fitness Junkie: 

If you find yourself running from Core Power to Tight Pilates, hitting weights at Equinox, or walking the Katy Trail with friends, these clean beauty staples are your ticket to having fresh, glowy, and hydrated skin even after a good sweat! 

  • A refreshing face mist filled with nourishing ingredients is a perfect post-workout pick-me-up. I recommend the Switch2Pure Hyaluronic Spray serum or the Fitish Tone Down Spray. Both are thoughtfully crafted with clean ingredients designed to provide the skin with hydration and a soothing effect, making either choice a perfect addition to your gym bag. 

For the Outdoor Girlie:

Whether you love sitting outside on Dallas Hall lawn with friends, indulging in good food and company at Truck Yard, or have become a pickle-ball fanatic, sun protection is an absolute must.

  • SuperGoop is a well-known brand that lives up to the hype with their clean sunscreens. The best part is they offer a variety of formulas to fit your skin type and desired amount of coverage. Don’t forget to protect and hydrate your lips while out in the sun; I also love the Goop Beauty nourishing lip balm that comes in a clear or tinted version.

For the Night Owl: 

There is no doubt that night life is a huge part of college life. Personally, I believe that getting ready for a night out is half the fun. However, constantly applying a full face of make up can be hard on your skin. Here are some of my favorite clean makeup products that will make your skin happy and the getting ready a breeze.

  • Blush is a must in my going-out makeup because it adds some life to my face, even when I’m exhausted. I’ve been using the Ilia blush stick in the shade “At Last” for years and am obsessed with its pigmented yet bendable formula. 
  • If I don’t have time to self-tan, a quick tip is to mix the Drunk Elephant bronzing drops with your foundation for an immediate glow that will last all night. 

For the Spa Addict

Are you obsessed with getting pampered or in desperate need of a self-care day? Even at luxury spas it’s important to make sure the products used are the best quality for your body. Here are some recommendations for spots in Dallas that prioritize using clean products. 

  • The Spa at the Joule Hotel downtown curates facials using Tata Harper, a line that is as clean as it is luxurious, so block off a few hours and prepare to indulge. Tata Harper is a luxe line where all ingredients are sourced from the farm of Tata Harper herself.
  • Clean beauty isn’t limited to just your skin, Paint Nail Bar is a local nail salon that uses non-toxic nail polish if you are looking for a good mani-pedi. 

For the Researcher: 

If you love to dive into new topics and want to learn more about clean beauty here are some resources for your next research session!

  • Goop and Poosh are two of my favorite celebrity platforms that are up-to-date on all things clean and provide product recommendations, spa reviews, and overall wellness tips. 
  • For those interested in AI platforms, The Good Face Project, has tons of details on clean beauty definitions, ingredients, scientific studies by using AI technology to gather relevant data.

With so many options, why not do your body a favor without losing on luxury and give clean a try?

Graphic designed by staff member Maddie Wagner 

Elizabeth Wheless

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