Summertime and all-year solutions for healthier skincare

In recent years the commonality of carcinogenic ingredients within skincare products has become a major subject matter. Today, attention has shifted to the importance of what is not in skincare products as opposed to what is actually included. Moreover, the long-term inclusion of toxic ingredients in mainstream skincare products over the past few decades have led to an increase in acne, eczema, keratosis pilaris, psoriasis, rosacea, and even skin cancer. These 10 brands all cater to sensitive skin, are absent of harmful ingredients, and address the aforesaid issues—some more than others. As the seasons change, it is vital to choose skincare products you can rely on. I have personally tested all of these products.

10. Indie Lee

After surviving a 2008 brain tumor which doctors felt was environmentally derived as well as attributed to her skincare regimen, Indie Lee dedicated her life to establishing her self-titled clean beauty line. Sourcing the world’s finest ingredients from nature and marrying them with technology, Indie Lee formulates products with natural, naturally derived and organic components. The Discovery Kit and Clarity Kit are great for travel and a good way to see if the line works for you.

9. Acure  

Acure is a cure in more ways than one—relief for your skin and your bank account. This is certainly the most affordable healthy skincare brand of its caliber on the market. Absent of parabens, sulfates, formaldehyde, paraffin, mineral oil, and animal testing, Acure is certified USDA organic. Readily available at Target and Whole Foods, this is the best skincare line you can get on a budget. Of all their lines, the Seriously Soothing collection is a true game changer.

8. Cannuka

The first of its kind, Cannuka is on a mission to legitimize the cannabis industry to create a healthier population and cleaner environment. The brand utilizes CBD from hemp making it non-psychoactive and safe for all ages. The primary ingredients are cannabis and manuka honey. There are very few additional active ingredients, all of which are natural and listed on the official website. The unique combination excels at diminishing redness, eczema, and other imperfections. The line does a great job at reducing signs of aging and providing a more youthful appearance.

7. Cane + Austin 

Its roots began in the Upper East Side office of Dr. Craig Austin who, after treating patients with glycolic acid, established Cane + Austin with the intention of bringing professional-grade glycolic acid to patient’s homes without the professional costs. The glycolic acid used is an alpha hydroxy acid derived from cane sugar and has been proven clinically effective on men and women of all skin tones and types. Whether you suffer from dark circles, hyper pigmentation, rosacea, scarring or skin discoloration, these products are truly miracle workers.

6. 100% Pure

A brand that lives literally up to its title, 100% Pure adheres to solid purity standards to avoid toxic additives, is completely cruelty-free, naturally pigmented, and ensures all ingredients are never animal sourced. The real gem here, more than the cleansers and masks, is serums and creams on the sidelines. With the Vitamin C Serum no moisturizer is necessary, as it creates a noticeable glow and vibrant appearance on its own. The Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream also provides a visible difference in reducing puffiness.

5. Eczema Honey Co.

Today, eczema affects 35 million Americans while psoriasis affects eight million Americans. Eczema Honey is an unconventional company that caters strictly to these two skin ailments. The products are surprisingly effective and primarily consist of various creams, serums, and soaps. The company also sells special masks, gloves, and sanitizers in the wake of COVID-19. The products are sold in-store exclusively at CVS Pharmacy or online. The only downside? This brand needs to produce a wider array of products—there is a lot of potential here.

4. Boscia

Boscia is the world’s first 100% preservative-free skincare brand. Thus, they are comparatively ahead of the game. Every product is also sealed in a pharmaceutical-level clean environment with positive air free of any and all contaminants. Although often compared with Origins, it should not be as Boscia products perform better and are of higher quality. The Purifying Cleansing Gel, Sake Hydrating & Brightening Serum, and Cactus Water Moisturizer are a great starting point.

3. Honest Beauty

The Honest Company was established by Jessica Alba because she felt, “You shouldn’t have to choose between what works and what is good for you,” a sentiment many of us can relate to. Product formulas are developed within an in-house lab and adhere to the Honest philosophy where the utmost attention is paid to ingredient and material assessment; testing and validation; production; packaging; label transparency; and ongoing evaluation. This company believes a healthy life should be a right, not a privilege, and offers lines devoted to acne, eczema, sensitive skin, and aging. A truly innovative company which makes an effort to not include over 2,500 chemicals/materials commonly found in skincare.

2. Drunk Elephant

Drunk Elephant are pioneers having recognized the reason skincare brands typically begin to work wonders only to decrease in effectiveness thereafter. The culprit? The Suspicious 6. Thus, Drunk Elephant makes an effort to avoid including silicones, essential oils, chemical screens, SLS, drying alcohols, and fragrance/dyes in their lines. Hence, Drunk Elephant products work best when used exclusively together, as due to the lack of silicones in all items, the products actually absorb into the skin much faster resulting in quicker results. An icon within the skincare world.

1. First Aid Beauty

Quite possibly the most innovative brand on shelves today. The entire line adheres to strict standards: clean ingredients, cruelty-free, dermatologist tested, no artificial fragrance, and is safe for sensitive skin. Whatever your concern is, it is sure to be covered within this line. Moreover, the fact that it is clinically tested ensures the effectiveness of this line. There are some lines on the market which, while they include non-toxic ingredients, are not extensively tested—hence the ingredients may not be distributed correctly and still result in a reaction. You do not have to worry about that with First Aid Beauty. The line targets a plethora of skin issues ranging from acne, anti-aging, dry skin and eczema. FAB also offers a renowned bump eraser for those who suffer from keratosis pilaris, a rare and potent find.

Honorable Mention: Bulldog Skincare

Formulated for men, and at a low price point, Bulldog acts as a more budget-friendly alternative to Jack Black. Whether you have normal, dry, sensitive, oily, or mature skin, Bulldog has a line for you. The brand is certified by Cruelty Free International and has never used ingredients from animal sources. All products are suitable for vegetarians and vegans too. Better yet, the brand does not use plastic micro beads, synthetic fragrances, and artificial colors.