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The average woman puts 168 chemicals on her body every single day. That’s easily three to four times more chemicals than the average man puts on their body. That means that before you’ve even had your breakfast, your body is kicking into overdrive. So today’s episode on clean cosmetics is months in the making!
I’ve been experimenting behind the scenes to curate a list of my favorite toxin free makeup. I’m not going to lie to you, switching to a toxin free makeup routine is going to be an adjustment. We’ve gotten so used to waterproof mascara and lipstick that doesn’t budge.
But most of the time, the reason our favorite products are able to have staying power is because they’re packed with harmful chemicals.
I personally don’t believe makeup is worth the risk to our overall health. Luckily, we have more options than ever when it comes to clean cosmetics. You can thank Gen Z for that! I recently read an article reporting that Gen Z is 1.3x more likely to push for products that are environmentally friendly, sustainable, and clean.
We still have the challenge of seeing past the companies that are committed to greenwashing, though. So join me to get the full scoop on how you can have a makeup routine that supports your body instead of working against it!
In this episode, we talk about:
- The chemicals we absolutely want to avoid in our beauty routines
- The incredible advancements in the production of clean cosmetics in the beauty industry
- The truly toxin free clean makeup brands I am loooooving
The Challenge Clean Cosmetics Companies Face
All props to the companies out there who are trying to remove all the unnecessary chemicals from their cosmetic products. These companies have had a huge challenge is trying to create cosmetics that are natural and still perform well.
The first and second generation of clean cosmetics were mineral based. There was a learning process and I’m thrilled with where they’ve ended up.
The Problem With Traditional Makeup
There are certain ingredients that you’re very likely to find in almost all conventional makeup. Even if you don’t specifically see them on the ingredient labels, the ingredients that ARE listed are likely to be contaminated with these toxins.
- Phthalates (group of chemicals that disrupts your endocrine system)
- Lead from sythenic colorants (proven neurotoxin)
- Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
- PEGs (petroleum-based compounds that are contaminated with carcinogens)
- Butylated compounds (endocrine disruptors)
- Parabens (endocrine disruptors)
Those are the Big 6 toxins you’re most likely to find in conventional makeup products. If you wear makeup everyday, those are the toxins you’re putting on your skin every day. They’re getting absorbed into your body and blood stream, and wreaking havoc on your body.
My Favorite Clean Cosmetics
Currently, over half of the cosmetic products being sold in the U.S. are paraben-free. That is a BIG deal and a huge change from 10 years ago! That all comes down to consumers (like you!) demanding cleaner ingredients and products from companies.
I’ve bought and tested a ton of clean makeup over the last few months. Here are some of my favorite finds that don’t contain the toxins I listed earlier.
- With Simplicity Liquid Foundation
- Toups & Co. Cheek Tint
- Lily Lolo Golden Hour Eye Shadow
- Honest Company 2 in 1 Mascara
- Araza Lip Color
It can feel overwhelming when you start looking around for clean beauty products and reading labels can feel confusing. Replace your makeup as you finish your old products and replace one thing at a time. You don’t need a complete overhaul to make significant changes.
Keep Learning About Non-Toxic Swaps
My signature course, Toxin Free in 3, is a proven method to clean up your products, decode confusing labels, and make meaningful swaps—without panic, pressure, or perfectionism.
You’ll learn:
- The truth about toxins
- Toxin free(ish) essentials
- Label reading made simple
- Choose your own deep dive
Become empowered to make healthy decisions for your family.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
- Check out the products mentioned in the episode here.
- Shop all the toxin free cosmetics options here.
- Get your free Top 25 Toxins to Avoid list
Related Episodes:
Episode 1: What the F*ck is an Endocrine Disruptor?
Episode 24: What are PFAS “Forever Chemicals”?
Episode 86: Do You Need Titanium Dioxide-Free Makeup? Here’s the Rundown
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS WEEK’S EPISODE, PLEASE:
- Leave a positive review or rating wherever you listen
- Shop toxin-free products on my Toxin Free Shopping Guide
- Download your free Tossing the Toxins Guide
- Post a screenshot, what you loved, and tag me on Instagram @wendy_toxinfreeish
- Want to ask me a question to get answered on the podcast? Leave me a voice message here.


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