The term “clean beauty” has become increasingly common in cosmetics and skincare marketing. While it may suggest products that are safer or healthier, there is no single, regulated definition of what “clean” means in this context. For people living with cancer or going through cancer treatment, understanding what’s behind the label is important when making decisions about the products you use.

What does clean beauty mean?

In most cases, “clean beauty” refers to products made without certain ingredients considered potentially harmful, such as known allergens, carcinogens, and endocrine disruptors. The goal is often to use formulations that avoid substances linked to negative health effects.

For cancer patients, these considerations can be particularly relevant. Cancer treatments can make skin more sensitive and reactive, and choosing products that limit potentially irritating or harmful ingredients may help reduce skin reactions and unnecessary exposure to chemicals.

Regulation and limitations of clean beauty

Currently, “clean beauty” is not a regulated category in the United States. Neither the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) nor the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has an official definition for the term in cosmetics. While individual cosmetic ingredients are typically reviewed for short-term safety, such as the risk of skin irritation or allergic reaction, products are rarely tested as a whole formulation. This means that the combined effects of multiple ingredients, especially over long-term use, are not always well understood.

Some substances have been linked to cancer risk in research studies, but the development of cancer can take many years, making it challenging to draw direct connections between specific cosmetics and cancer diagnoses.

Ingredient claims and marketing

Terms like “natural,” “green,” “non-toxic,” and “chemical-free” are often used in marketing but are not legally defined for cosmetics. This can lead to “greenwashing,” where products appear healthier or safer than they actually are. A product labeled “clean” may still contain ingredients that could cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

If you are concerned about specific ingredients, review the ingredient list carefully and consult your care team. This is especially important if you have a history of skin sensitivity, are undergoing cancer treatment, or have been advised to limit exposure to certain substances.

Special considerations for cancer patients

Even products with plant-based or botanical ingredients can cause issues. Natural extracts can still trigger allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, or increased sun sensitivity. Your skin’s tolerance may change during treatment, so products that were once well-tolerated may now cause irritation.

When choosing products:

• Look for transparent ingredient lists.
  
• Avoid known irritants or allergens when possible.
  
• Test new products on a small patch of skin first.
  
• Discuss options with your oncologist or dermatologist if you’re unsure.

Clean beauty can be a useful concept if it encourages choosing products without known harmful ingredients, but the label itself does not guarantee safety. For cancer patients, the most important step is to make informed choices, focusing on ingredient transparency, avoiding known risks, and working with your care team to select products that meet your skin’s current needs.

As always, if you would like to connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, just use the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.