The clean beauty trend is growing fast & customers now check labels more than ever. It can feel tricky to meet this demand as an OEM while avoiding ingredients people see as harmful. Don’t worry - with the right steps, you can stay ahead and build trust.
To avoid harmful ingredients, OEMs should:
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Stay updated with global banned ingredient lists
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Use EWG-verified or COSMOS-approved raw materials
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Work with certified labs
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Clearly label products to meet clean beauty standards and consumer expectations.
Want to know which ingredients to avoid and how to meet clean beauty standards without hurting your product performance? Keep reading - I’ll break it down in simple steps to help you stay compliant and competitive.
How Global Regulations Shape Clean Beauty Standards
Different countries have their own rules about what ingredients are safe in cosmetics. For example, Europe has banned harmful chemicals, while the U.S. has stricter rules for only a few dozen. These rules help brands know which ingredients to avoid when creating clean beauty products. Check the prohibited & restricted ingredients in cosmetics here.
Many brands that want to sell in different countries must follow the strictest rules. This means that even if a certain ingredient is allowed in one country, brands often remove it to meet higher global standards. It’s a smart way to protect the brand's reputation everywhere.
Following global regulations also helps to build trust with customers. When buyers see that a brand meets European, American, or Asian safety rules, they feel more confident that the products are safe for their skin and health.
In the clean beauty world, staying updated on changing laws is important. New ingredients get reviewed constantly, and what is safe today might not be tomorrow. A brand that stays alert and responsible will stay ahead of the competition.
Key Ingredients to Avoid in Today’s Market
When it comes to clean beauty, some ingredients are better left out. Customers and regulators both watch for these names. Even if an ingredient works well, if it’s linked to health risks, it can cause trouble for your brand.
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Some common ingredients to avoid include parabens, which are often used as preservatives but are linked to hormone problems. Sulfates in many cleansers can strip the skin and cause dryness. Phthalates, usually in fragrances, raise concerns about long-term health effects.
Other ingredients to avoid are formaldehyde-releasing agents, mineral oils, and synthetic dyes. These are often seen as outdated and harsh. Choosing safer options protects customers and makes your brand look more modern and trustworthy.
The Importance of Transparent Ingredient Lists
Today’s customers want honesty. They don’t just care about the final product — they care about what’s inside it. A clear and honest ingredient list shows that you have nothing to hide. It builds trust and gives people confidence when they choose your brand.
When you use simple words and explain ingredients clearly, it makes a big difference. Customers feel more connected to brands that help them understand what they’re using. They are more likely to buy again if they can easily read and recognize the ingredients.
Hidden ingredients or confusing names can create doubt. If customers feel unsure about a product, they will often leave it and pick a competitor. A clean, easy-to-read label helps prevent this and strengthens your brand’s reputation. Check the cosmetics labeling requirements here.
In many countries, it’s not just good practice — it’s also the law. Regulations are pushing brands to be more open about what they use. OEMs that stay clear and honest from the start will save time, avoid trouble, and build a loyal customer base.
Common Mistakes OEMs Make in Clean Beauty Formulations
One big mistake many OEMs make is assuming that "natural" always means safe. Just because something comes from nature doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin. Some plant-based ingredients can still cause irritation or allergies. It’s important to test everything thoroughly.
Another mistake is not keeping up with changing regulations. What’s allowed in one country may be banned in another. OEMs can accidentally create a product that doesn’t meet the standards of their target market, which can lead to costly recalls or lost sales.
A lot of brands also ignore the importance of packaging. Learn how to find the best packaging for your cosmetics here. Even if your product is clean and safe, using harmful packaging materials can ruin its clean image. Avoid plastic that can leach chemicals, and instead, opt for eco-friendly, safe materials that match the clean beauty trend.
Lastly, some OEMs focus too much on marketing buzzwords like "organic" or "chemical-free" without backing them up with real evidence. Empty claims can hurt your brand’s credibility, so always ensure your formulations match your promises.
How to Verify the Safety of Your Ingredients?
Start by checking if your ingredients come from trusted suppliers. A good supplier will have safety certificates and quality reports you can review. Don’t be shy to ask for documents that prove their materials meet clean beauty standards. Next, do your own research on each ingredient. Look it up in trusted databases. These platforms show if an ingredient is safe for the skin and if there are any risks you should know about.
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Testing the final product through a certified lab is also a smart idea. Professional labs can check for harmful substances, irritants, and allergens. Lab testing makes sure your product is safe before it reaches your customers.
Choosing Certified Clean Raw Materials
When you pick raw materials, always look for ones that are certified by trusted organizations. The FDA and MPC certifications mean the ingredient has passed strict safety and clean beauty checks. It saves you time and builds trust with your customers. Learn how cosmetics are not FDA-approved, but are FDA-regulated here.
Certified ingredients also make it easier to sell your products in different countries. Many global markets now require proof that your products are safe and eco-friendly. Starting with certified materials helps you avoid problems later and speeds up product approvals.
Even if an ingredient looks safe, certification adds an extra layer of protection. It shows that the supplier follows good practices, uses high-quality sources, and cares about safety. Choosing certified, clean raw materials is a smart step toward making reliable, trusted skincare.
Labeling Your Products for Clean Beauty Consumers
In clean beauty, clear labeling is very important. Customers want to know exactly what they are putting on their skin. Use simple, honest words on your packaging so it’s easy for people to understand what your product contains.
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Make sure you highlight important points like "paraben-free," "sulfate-free," or "no artificial fragrances" if they are true. You can also proudly mention if your products meet standards. These signs show customers that your products are safe and high quality.
It’s also smart to mention any clean beauty certifications your product has. Certifications from trusted groups make your brand look even more reliable and professional in the eyes of buyers.
Always keep your ingredient list complete and easy to read. Hiding or skipping ingredients can damage your brand’s trust. Honest and clear labeling is a big part of winning loyal, long-term customers. Does the FDA pre-approve cosmetic product labeling? Learn here.
Conclusion
Navigating the clean beauty trend is not easy, but with the right steps, OEMs can stay ahead. Understanding why harmful ingredients are a concern is important, as knowing which ingredients to avoid and being honest with ingredient lists is important. Many OEMs make mistakes like unclear labeling or using risky materials, but by choosing certified clean raw materials and testing ingredients carefully, you can build safer products. Good labeling also helps clean beauty consumers trust your brand.
At Amarrie, we make it easy for you to create clean, high-quality skincare products. Our CEO has built a strong system with trusted suppliers, FDA and GMPC certifications, and top packaging partners. We use only premium ingredients from well-known sources like BASF and DSM, and every product passes strict quality checks. Our marketing team provides free sales materials and expert guidance, helping you grow faster. With a great reputation in over 180 countries and strong after-sales support, Amarrie is a trustworthy partner for your clean beauty journey.