Skincare consumers face unregulated ‘clean’ beauty labels in the US

In the United States, the term ‘clean’ remains unregulated in the skincare industry, meaning there is no universal definition or specific criteria that beauty brands must meet to use the label. This lack of regulation can make it difficult for consumers to determine if products align with their expectations of being natural or non-toxic.

To verify product claims, consumers are encouraged to look beyond front-of-pack marketing terms such as ‘green’ or ‘natural,’ which are often used for advertising without scientific backing. Instead, shoppers should prioritize transparent ingredient lists and seek trustworthy certifications, such as ‘certified organic.’

Effective ways to vet products include reviewing ingredient lists for synthetic components, harsh chemicals, or toxic fragrances, and using reputable third-party checkers like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) to verify ingredient safety.