If the idea of switching to a cleaner skincare routine feels overwhelming, you're not alone. The beauty industry is full of confusing claims and labels, making it hard to know where to begin. To help cut through the clutter, I sat down with Natalie Sischy, co-founder of the Canadian, plant-powered skincare brand Province Apothecary, to talk clean beauty, debunk common myths and get some practical tips for making the transition.
The term "clean" isn’t always clear
What does “clean” skincare really mean? Unfortunately, there’s no universal definition. For example, Sephora’s Clean at Sephora line excludes ingredients like parabens, sulfates and phthalates, but this doesn’t mean the products are free from all potentially harmful chemicals. Likewise, Shoppers Drug Mart’s Thoughtful Choices collection avoids certain toxins, but the term "clean" can still feel vague. Ultimately, the definition varies by brand and retailer, which can make navigating the market tricky. For Province Apothecary, clean is straightforward: their products are 100% natural, certified organic, and free from over 2,000 toxic ingredients.
Misconceptions about efficacy
One of the biggest misconceptions about clean skincare is that natural, plant-based products aren’t as effective as synthetic ones. Many clean beauty brands are challenging this notion. As Natalie explains, “Clean skincare is often thought of as less effective than conventional products. I still find many people believe that because clean beauty focuses on natural, non-toxic ingredients, it won’t deliver the same results as products with synthetic or chemical-based formulations. In reality, clean skincare can actually be more effective because it's crafted with high-quality, plant-based ingredients that are selected for their ability to nurture and heal the skin.”
Start small
Overhauling your entire skincare routine can feel daunting, but you don’t have to change everything at once. A good place to start is by swapping your traditional cleanser for a gentle, oil-based one. While some people think cleansers aren’t that important since they’re washed off, they play a key role in maintaining the skin’s natural barrier. Traditional cleansers can strip the skin, but oil cleansers do more than just clean—they nourish too. Natalie says, “Oil cleansing not only removes makeup and impurities, but the blend of pure plant oils also delivers antioxidants and vitamins that support long-term skin health and radiance.”
Key ingredients to avoid
As you begin exploring cleaner skincare options, there are a few ingredients to watch out for:
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Fragrance: Often synthetic, fragrance can irritate the skin. Opt for fragrance-free or naturally scented products.
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Sulfates: These harsh detergents strip skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Choose sulfate-free products to maintain balance.
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Parabens: These preservatives are linked to hormone disruption. Always look for “paraben-free” products.
Helpful apps for cleaner skincare
Shopping for clean beauty can feel like navigating a maze, but there are tools that can help. Natalie recommends apps like Think Dirty and EWG’s Skin Deep Database, which allow you to scan product barcodes or search ingredients to assess their safety and toxicity. These apps make it easy to make informed decisions about the products you choose.
Take it one step at a time
Transitioning to a cleaner skincare routine doesn’t need to happen overnight. Start by replacing your cleanser, researching ingredients, and gradually swapping in products that align with your values. With the right knowledge and approach, switching to cleaner skincare can be a powerful first step toward adopting a healthier, more mindful routine.