products I love that are actually clean and really work

I don’t believe that clean beauty is a luxury, at least it shouldn't be. If you follow some of the biggest beauty outlets, you might think that clean beauty is way out of reach, and while I do believe in investing in brands and products you love, I also think that being able to afford non-toxic beauty products is possible. There are a lot of hardworking brands out there making amazing skincare that does what it says without breaking the bank. I love trying new products, doing research, and understanding the science, which is only possible if I don’t have to hide my credit card bill from my husband.

I put together this list of what I believe to be truly effective, accessible (available at a store near you), and affordable (almost all are under $20) clean beauty brands. If you’re new to clean beauty, the threshold won’t be so high, or if you want to try new things, you can do so responsibly.

I encourage you to still do your own research on the skincare that speaks to you. Spend some time on the website, read reviews, and scroll through their social media. I think impulse purchases happen even more frequently with beauty because it seems so innocent, but can be just as wasteful. I hope this list can help you find confidence in your choices and more importantly better your skincare routine.

The guidelines I used: at least 80% of the brand's products are under $20. Products have to be easily available at a drugstore: Target, Wal-Mart, etc. I also included the EWG Healthy Living rating range for the brand (check out how the EWG rates products) based on their list of chemical concerns, standards for health, and transparency.

The Ordinary (@theordinary)

Simple, straightforward, and accessible. There are a ton of products, so the website is a great place to start. A couple products I love are their Hyaluronic Acid ($13.50) and 100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil ($9.80). I haven't tried it yet, but there is also Hailey Bieber’s favorite, Squalane cleanser ($7.90).

EWG Rating Range: 1-3 (very few products were 4s)

Available at: Target, Ulta

Cocokind (@cocokind)

I LOVE this brand. I truly feel like they are doing everything right, not only from a nontoxic standpoint but their education on social media and the website is so informative and transparent. I recommend taking the quiz on their website for a list of products best for your needs, but hands down, I think the daily SPF is a must for every clean routine.

EWG Rating Range: 1-2

Available at: Target, Ulta, Whole Foods

Heritage Store (@heritagestorenaturals)

This brand has been around since 1969 and is well known for their best-selling product, the Rosewater facial spray ($11.19). I even saw Kim Kardashian with it! Their products mostly center around Rosewater, but I also love their Castor Oil ($7.99). For such amazing quality, the prices are ridiculously fair and you can find them everywhere now.

EWG Rating Range: 1-2

Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, Whole Foods

Versed (@versed)

I actually can’t believe I’ve never tried any of their products! I’ve heard so many great things about this range since it came on the scene in 2019 and I love their product transparency. Some products are even EWG certified, which is the strictest standard including transparency on fragrance, which is where most brands hide their chemicals. The recommendations I keep hearing over and over again are to try Photos, Please Brightening Tightening Mask ($9.99 for 12 applications) and Sunday Morning Antioxidant Oil-Serum ($19.99).

EWG Rating Range: EWG Certified (the best rating) 1-2, a few are 3-4 so please check before you buy.

Available at: Target, Wal-Mart

Shea Moisture (@sheamoisture)

I’ve talked about this brand before. I exclusively use their coconut oil because it hits all the marks for me. The entire coconut oil range is under $15.

EWG Rating Range: 1-3, please check before you buy, a few products are 4s.

Available at: Target, Wal-Mart

Acure (@acurebeauty)

When I switched to clean haircare, this was the brand I landed on. I’ve been using their shampoo and conditioner for a few years now and I love them. They have since branched out to skincare too, but I haven’t tried it yet. I use the Clarifying and Hydrating Shampoos ($9.99 each) as well as the Color Wellness Conditioner ($9.99).

EWG Rating Range: 1-3, a few are 4 so please check before you buy.

Available at: Target, Whole Foods

If you’re tried any of these brands or if I’ve left out one of your favorites, please let me know! Sharing is caring.

jodi xx