Clean Beauty Or Not? Investigating Ingredients of 10 Viral Celebrity Brands

JVN Hair Product Line

The beauty industry has witnessed a surge in celebrity-owned brands, each promising radiant skin, flawless makeup, and luxurious self-care routines. With the rise of clean beauty movements, consumers are increasingly scrutinizing product ingredients, seeking transparency and safety in their choices.

But how well do these viral celebrity beauty brands hold up under such scrutiny? Are they truly committed to clean beauty, or are they merely capitalizing on their fan base?

I've investigated the ingredients of 15 popular celebrity beauty brands to determine if they can truly be considered clean and non-toxic beauty. From skincare serums to makeup essentials, we'll uncover the truth behind the labels and help you make informed decisions about the products you choose to incorporate into your beauty regimen.

Join me on this journey to find out which celebrity brands are genuinely clean—and which ones might be hiding some not-so-clean secrets. The brands we'll uncover:

• Fenty Beauty (Rihanna)

• Kylie Cosmetics (Kylie Jenner)

• Honest Beauty (Jessica Alba)

• Rare Beauty (Selena Gomez)

• Kora Organics (Miranda Kerr)

• Rhode (Hailey Bieber)

• Goop (Gwenyth Paltrow)

• Haus Labs (Lady Gaga)

• JVN Hair (Jonathan Van Ness)

• SKKN (Kim Kardashian)

Criteria: When I say a product or brand is "toxic" vs "non-toxic" I am assessing based off of whether their ingredient lists contain carcinogens, endocrine disruptors, mutagens, fragrance, parabens, sulfates or harmful synthetic chemicals. These are my favorite apps to scan ingredient lists.

If you don't know me, my name is Sophia and I help you find non-toxic home, beauty and personal care products. You can also find me on TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest. Make sure to subscribe to this blog to get tips on non-toxic living delivered straight to your inbox 3x / week!

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Fenty Beauty

❌ Fenty Beauty uses toxic ingredients

Fenty Beauty, the brainchild of pop icon Rihanna, has taken the beauty world by storm with its inclusive shade ranges and innovative products. However, a closer look at the ingredient lists reveals that not everything is as flawless as it seems.

Despite the brand's glamorous image, Fenty Beauty products often contain a cocktail of potentially toxic ingredients that savvy consumers should be aware of.First up, let's talk about lake dyes. These synthetic colorants, often derived from petroleum, are used to give products their vibrant hues. While they make your lipstick pop, they can also be skin irritants and have been linked to various health concerns.

Then there's the ubiquitous "fragrance" listed on many Fenty products. This seemingly innocuous term can hide a multitude of sins, including phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors. And don't even get me started on BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene). This preservative, found in some Fenty formulations, is a known endocrine disruptor and can cause allergic reactions.

Sulfates, another common ingredient, are harsh detergents that can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

So, while Fenty Beauty might be serving up some serious looks, it's also dishing out a side of questionable ingredients. The allure of a flawless finish might come at the cost of your skin's health. If you're committed to a non-toxic beauty routine, it might be time to read those labels a bit more closely and think twice before adding that next Fenty product to your cart.

Kylie Cosmetics

❌ Kylie Cosmetics uses toxic ingredients

Kylie Cosmetics, the beauty empire built by the youngest Kardashian-Jenner, might be all about glam and glitz, but a peek behind the curtain reveals a less-than-glamorous reality. Despite the brand's massive popularity and claims of being "clean" and "vegan," many of its products are still packed with potentially toxic ingredients that savvy beauty enthusiasts should be wary of.

First off, let's talk about fragrance. This seemingly innocent term can hide a multitude of sins, including phthalates, which are notorious for their hormone-disrupting properties. Fragrance in Kylie Cosmetics products has been rated as high as 8/10 on the hazard scale by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), indicating a high likelihood of causing allergic reactions and other immune system harms.

Then there are the lake dyes—those vibrant, synthetic colorants derived from petroleum. These dyes, found in many of Kylie’s lip kits and eyeshadows, are not just about making your makeup pop; they come with a side of potential skin irritation and other health concerns.

But wait, there's more! Some of the ingredients in Kylie Cosmetics are so questionable that they’re outright banned in the European Union. The EU has stringent regulations on cosmetic ingredients, banning substances like certain parabens, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, and more due to their links to cancer, hormone disruption, and other serious health issues. Yet, these same ingredients can still be found in products sold by Kylie Cosmetics in the U.S., where regulations are less strict.

So, while you might be rocking that perfect matte lip or shimmering eyeshadow, it's worth considering what you're putting on your skin. Beauty might be pain, but it shouldn't come at the cost of your health.

Honest Beauty

✅ Honest Beauty uses non-toxic ingredients

Coming in with our first brand to pass the test (and one of my favorite brands out there), Honest Beauty, the brainchild of actress Jessica Alba, is shaking up the beauty industry with its commitment to 100% clean, non-toxic products. From skincare and haircare to makeup and baby essentials, Honest Beauty is on a mission to prove that you don't have to sacrifice performance for safety.

This brand bans over 2,500 questionable ingredients, ensuring that what you put on your skin is as safe as it is effective. Whether you're a beauty junkie or a new mom, Honest Beauty has got you covered with products that are as kind to your body as they are to the planet.

Let's talk about the range. Honest Beauty isn't just dabbling in non-toxic; they're diving in headfirst. Their skincare line is packed with nourishing ingredients that deliver real results without the nasty side effects. Think hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and plant-based extracts that leave your skin glowing and healthy.

Their makeup line? Equally impressive. From foundations that blend seamlessly to mascaras that give you that va-va-voom without the harmful chemicals, Honest Beauty proves that clean beauty can be glamorous. And let's not forget their baby products, which are gentle enough for the most sensitive skin, making them a hit among parents who want the best for their little ones.

So, if you're ready to ditch the toxins and embrace a cleaner beauty routine, Honest Beauty is a go-to brand.

Rare Beauty

❌ Rare Beauty uses toxic ingredients (but the soft pinch blushes are non-toxic)

Rare Beauty from Selena Gomez has made waves in the beauty industry with its inclusive shade ranges and empowering message. But when it comes to clean beauty, Rare Beauty is a bit of a mixed bag.

While it's not the worst offender out there, it's certainly not winning any awards for being the cleanest either. Let's break it down: the Soft Pinch Liquid Blushes are a standout, delivering a beautiful, natural flush without any major red flags in the ingredient list. If you're a blush aficionado, these are definitely worth adding to your collection.

However, not all that glitters is gold. Take a closer look at some of Rare Beauty's other products, and you'll find a few ingredients that might make you raise an eyebrow. For instance, their mascara contains fragrance and even a known carcinogen.

Fragrance, often a catch-all term for a mix of undisclosed chemicals, can include phthalates, which are notorious for their hormone-disrupting properties. And let's not forget the carcinogen lurking in there—definitely not something you want near your eyes.

So, while Rare Beauty has its hits, it's wise to be selective. Stick to the blushes, and you'll be glowing without the worry.

Kora Organics

✅ Kora Organics uses non-toxic ingredients

Kora Organics, founded by supermodel Miranda Kerr, is shaking up the beauty industry with its commitment to 100% clean, non-toxic skincare. This brand isn't just riding the "natural" wave; it's leading the charge with its certified organic, vegan, and cruelty-free formulas that deliver real results without compromising your health or the planet's wellbeing.

What sets Kora Organics apart is its dedication to transparency and third-party certifications. Most of their products bear the coveted EWG Verified™ mark, meaning they've undergone rigorous testing to ensure they meet the strictest standards for health and safety.

No shady ingredients, no greenwashing – just pure, potent botanicals that work in harmony with your skin.

But don't just take my word for it; the rave reviews speak for themselves. From the cult-favorite Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask to the game-changing Noni Glow Face Oil, Kora Organics has a product for every skin concern, and they all deliver that sought-after glow without the toxic baggage.

So, if you've been meaning to try this amazing brand, now's the time. Whether you're a seasoned green beauty enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the non-toxic pool, Kora Organics is a brand that deserves a spot in your routine.

Rhode

❌ Rhode uses toxic ingredients

Ah, Rhode, the beauty brand founded by none other than Hailey Bieber herself. With its sleek packaging and the Bieber name attached, it's no wonder this brand has garnered a lot of buzz.

Sure, Rhode has nailed the branding game, but when you take a closer look at the ingredient lists, there's nothing particularly special going on. In fact, some of their products contain questionable ingredients like lake dyes and carcinogens.

Lake dyes, those vibrant synthetic colorants, might make your makeup pop, but they also come with a side of potential skin irritation and other health concerns. And let's not forget about the carcinogens lurking in some of Rhode's formulas.

While the brand might claim to be "clean," the presence of these cancer-causing agents is a red flag for anyone trying to embrace a truly non-toxic beauty routine. Look, I get it – Hailey Bieber is a gorgeous, glowing mom-to-be, and her brand has that aspirational factor. But at the end of the day, good branding and a famous face don't make up for questionable ingredients.

If you're serious about clean beauty, there are far better options out there that prioritize safety and transparency over celebrity endorsements. Sorry Mrs. Bieber, but this brand just doesn't make the cut.

Goop

✅ Goop uses non-toxic ingredients

Good ole Gwyneth Paltrow is here to keep your beauty routine as clean as a whistle. With a commitment to 100% non-toxic products, Goop is setting the gold standard in the beauty industry.

She has made it her mission to ensure that what you put on your skin is as safe as it is effective. And honestly, I trust that woman. She's done the homework, so you don't have to.

From skincare to makeup, Goop's products are formulated without the usual suspects like parabens, phthalates, silicones, and other nasties that you definitely don't want lurking in your beauty bag.

But let's get real for a second—Goop isn't just about avoiding the bad stuff; it's about embracing the good. Their products are packed with high-performance, active ingredients that deliver real results. Think luxurious textures, beautiful scents, and clinically proven efficacy.

Whether it's their Goopgenes Super Nutrient Face Oil or the much-raved-about Goop Glow Lotion, these products are designed to make your skin look and feel amazing without compromising your health. So, if you're ready to elevate your beauty game with a brand that truly walks the clean beauty talk, Goop is a go-to.

Haus Laubs

❌ Haus Labs uses toxic ingredients

Haus Labs, Lady Gaga's much-hyped beauty brand, might be dazzling on the surface, but a closer look at the ingredient lists reveals some serious red flags. Unfortunately, almost every product in their lineup contains at least one carcinogen, making it a no-go for anyone serious about non-toxic beauty.

From their foundations to their eyeliners, the presence of these harmful ingredients is a major letdown. It's a real shame because the brand's aesthetic and inclusive message are on point, but when you dig deeper, the ingredient lists tell a different story.

Sorry to all the gays, theys, and drag queens out there who were hoping to slay with Haus Labs – this brand just doesn't make the cut for clean beauty enthusiasts.

However, there's a glimmer of hope in the form of their face paint, which stands out as a non-toxic option amidst a sea of questionable products. It's a bit random, but if you're looking for a safe bet within the Haus Labs range, the face paint is your best bet.

Still, it's hard to overlook the broader issues with the brand's formulations. Despite the glamorous packaging and celebrity backing, the presence of carcinogens in so many products is a dealbreaker. So, while Haus Labs might be killing it on the branding front, it's a hard pass for those of us who prioritize non-toxic ingredients.

JVN Hair

✅ JVN uses non-toxic ingredients

A major win for the LGBTQ+ and non-toxic beauty communities, JVN Hair proves that you can have fabulous hair without compromising on safety or ethics. Founded by the ever-charismatic Jonathan Van Ness, this brand is all about clean, non-toxic formulations that deliver salon-quality results.

JVN Hair products are free from silicones, sulfates, and other harmful chemicals, making them a top choice for anyone looking to keep their haircare routine as pure as possible.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: fragrance. Yes, you will find fragrance in some JVN products, but here's the kicker—they disclose every single ingredient used. Transparency is key, and JVN Hair nails it with an extensive ingredient library available on their website.

This means you can see exactly what's going into your hair and make informed choices. So, while some brands might hide behind vague terms and questionable ingredients, JVN Hair stands out by keeping it real and keeping it clean. If you're looking to support a brand that aligns with your values and delivers on its promises, JVN Hair is definitely worth a spot on your shelf.

SKKN

❌ SKKN uses toxic ingredients

SKKN by Kim Kardashian might have the glitz and glam of a high-end skincare line, but when it comes to clean and non-toxic ingredients, it falls short.

Take the face cream, for instance. Despite its luxurious packaging and hefty price tag, a closer look at the ingredient list reveals not one, not two, but three different carcinogens. Yes, you read that right— three potential cancer-causing agents lurking in a product that's supposed to nourish and protect your skin.

It's a classic case of style over substance, and frankly, it's a bit of a letdown. For a brand that touts itself as being "clean" and "science-backed," SKKN's ingredient transparency leaves much to be desired.

While the minimalist, architectural packaging might look great on your bathroom counter, what's inside those chic containers is far less appealing. With ingredients that could potentially harm your health, it's hard to trust this brand to deliver on its promises of safety and efficacy.

So, while Kim Kardashian might have nailed the aesthetic, when it comes to truly clean skincare, SKKN is a no-go. Sorry, but I just can't get behind a brand that prioritizes looks over health.

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Clean Celebrity Beauty Brands: Conclusion & Disclaimer

After diving deep into the ingredient lists of 10 viral celebrity beauty brands, it's clear that not all that glitters is gold. While some brands genuinely prioritize clean and non-toxic formulations, others are more about the hype than the health.

From the surprisingly clean offerings of Honest Beauty and JVN Hair to the ingredient nightmares lurking in SKKN and Haus Labs, it's a mixed bag out there.

So, what's the takeaway? Don't be swayed by a famous face or a glamorous Instagram feed. Do your homework, read those labels, and prioritize brands that are transparent about their ingredients. Your skin—and your health—deserve nothing less.

Whether you're a clean beauty newbie or a seasoned pro, remember: the real star of your beauty routine should be the ingredients, not the celebrity endorsement.

FTC Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of those product links and make a purchase, I’ll receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. This helps support the blog and allows me to continue to make content. I only recommend products that I trust, to the best of my ability, to be non-toxic. This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always read product labels and use as directed. Manufacturers reserve the right at any time to change product ingredients. Thank you for your support!

Medical Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please contact your healthcare physician or a functional medicine practitioner for medical advice.