Your Most Googled Skincare Questions, Answered
At Skin Sanctuary, we believe in skincare that’s both clean and effective—and that starts with empowering you with knowledge. This month, Jenn is answering the most Googled skincare questions through a clean beauty lens. Whether you're new to holistic skincare or just looking to level up your routine, this Q&A has you covered!
Q: What is clean beauty, exactly?
A: Clean beauty means skincare that’s formulated without harmful or questionable ingredients—like parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and phthalates. But here’s where it can get confusing: “natural” and “clean” aren’t the same thing. Just because something is naturally derived doesn’t mean it’s safe for your skin—think arsenic or tobacco. On the flip side, some lab-created ingredients are very clean and highly effective. For example, peptides used in firming and anti-aging products are lab-made and incredibly beneficial for the skin.
Another common marketing term to watch for? “Chemical-free.” This is a huge red flag for me! The truth is, all ingredients are chemicals—even water. The key is understanding the difference between safe and toxic chemicals.
At Skin Sanctuary, we take clean beauty seriously. We go beyond just banning harmful ingredients—we prioritize ethically sourced, sustainable, plant-based, and cruelty-free formulas that support both your skin and your overall well-being.
Q: Do I really need to wear facial sunscreen every day?
A: Yes, yes, and yes! Even on cloudy days or when you're indoors near windows, UVA rays can cause skin damage and premature aging. Unlike UVB rays, these rays are consistent throughout the year meaning they can cause just as much skin damage in the summer as in the winter. I recommend using a mineral-based SPF as the last step of your skin care routine every morning, even if your makeup has SPF. Remember, prevention is easier than correction; your future self will thank you!
Q: How can I tell if a product is really “clean”?
A: Ingredient labels can be overwhelming. Look for company transparency, short ingredient lists, and 3rd party certifications like B Corporation, vegan, cruelty free, etc. Or better yet—book a skin consultation with me and I’ll curate a clean routine tailored to your skin type, concerns and goals.
Q: What ingredients should I avoid?
A: The top 10 offenders include:
Parabens, which are preservatives linked to hormone disruption because they mimic estrogen.
Synthetic fragrances, a common skin and lung irritant. They can cause headaches as well.
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent that is a skin irritant; it actually strips your skin barrier of its natural moisture often causing excess oil production
Phthalates, chemicals often hidden on labels under the blanket term, "fragrance," that are hormone disruptors and linked to reproductive issues and allergies
Mineral Oil, a by-product of the crude oil making process that can’t be absorbed by skin and can clog pores
Formaldehyde & formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, like DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, these are known carcinogens and skin irritants
PEGs (polyethylene glycols), these are petroleum-based compounds that increase skin absorption but can be contaminated with carcinogens that are by-products of the manufacturing process. They’re also not eco-friendly because they are not biodegradable.
Triclosan, an antibacterial agent linked to hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance.
Oxybenzone, an UV filter found in some chemical sunscreens; it is linked to hormone disruption and coral reef bleaching, which is why some area with corals, like Hawaii, have banned its use.
Talc, a powder used mostly in cosmetics but can be in powdered sunscreens or baby powder; often it is contaminated with asbestos, which is the only known cause of mesothelioma (cancer) and poses respiratory risks
The good news is that the product shelves at Skin Sanctuary are free from all of these ingredients!
Q: Can clean beauty products actually work?
A: 100%. Clean skincare isn’t about sacrificing results—it’s about choosing better ingredients for long-term skin and body health. Ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and botanical oils are both clean and clinically proven to work on tackling skin issues like dehydration, pigment, dullness, and acne. A lot of work goes into formulating skin care because you can’t just dump ingredients in a bottle and expect them to work. Ingredients have to be the correct pH, in the correct form, stabilized so they don’t degrade, in an appropriate concentration so that they’re effective, etc. This is why I choose products that are also clinically-proven at Skin Sanctuary! The products aren’t just clean; they actually work too!
Q: What’s the best way to start a clean skincare routine?
A: Start simple. Focus on these three essentials:
Gentle cleanser
Hydrating serum or moisturizer
Daily SPF
Once your skin adjusts, we can add in targeted treatments like exfoliants, anti-aging serums, and/or facial oils. Regardless of if you want a simple routine or you like to have it all, I’ll customize a skin care regimen to fit your skin needs and lifestyle.
Still have questions?
I love curious clients. Drop your skincare questions in the comments or DM Jenn on Instagram @skinsanctuaryinc — I may feature your question in a future story or post !
And if you're ready to build a clean routine that works for your skin, book a consultation or facial with us today. Your skin will thank you.
