The Clean Girl Aesthetic has been popular for quite some time—think dewy skin, slick buns, fluffy brows, and a neutral-toned wardrobe that screams “effortlessly put together.” While the look is meant to be all about minimalism, the reality is far from it.
Behind the “clean” aesthetic is a not-so-clean cycle of overconsumption. Every week, there’s a new must-have serum, brow gel, or hair oil that influencers swear is the secret to looking polished. And let’s be real—most of these products end up half-used and collecting dust in our beauty drawers. What’s worse? Many of the beauty brands pushing the Clean Girl trend aren’t actually “clean” in the eco-friendly sense. From excessive plastic packaging to questionable ingredient sourcing, the industry’s obsession with looking effortless often comes at a major cost to the planet.
Here’s the real question: can we achieve the Clean Girl Aesthetic without falling into the trap of overbuying? The good news is yes—you just have to be intentional about it. Instead of buying into the hype, it’s time to embrace sustainable beauty swaps that give the same vibe without the waste.
Scroll to shop 10 eco-friendly products that’ll have you looking fresh-faced and feeling good about your impact on the planet.
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Saie Glowy Super Gel
This lightweight, skin-loving illuminator gives you the same radiant glow with cleaner ingredients, a recyclable glass bottle, and no synthetic fragrances.Available at Saie
e.l.f.’s Tinted Lip Oil delivers the same glossy hydration in a clean, vegan, and cruelty-free formula—without the luxury markup.Available at e.l.f. cosmetics
This nourishing, antioxidant-rich guava oil strengthens hair without synthetic silicones while supporting a Latinx-owned, sustainability-focused brand.Available at Ceremonia
Try this ultra-hydrating, dermatologist-approved lip salve from Black-owned brand Topicals. It’s vegan, paraben-free, and packed with nourishing ingredients to keep your lips soft and smooth. Plus, it’s housed in a recyclable tube, making it as eco-friendly as it is effective.Available at Topicals
This all-natural, paraben-free wax keeps your brows in place with a flexible hold, using plant-based ingredients and cruelty-free production.Available at EcoBrow
Try Milk Makeup’s Lip + Cheek Cream Blush for the same vibrant, buildable color. It’s clean, cruelty-free, and comes in sustainable packaging, giving you the perfect flush with eco-conscious choices.Available at Milk Makeup
This body butter is vitamin-rich and provides deep hydration, earning the seal of approval from The National Eczema Association. Packaged in recyclable materials, it keeps your skin soft without any unnecessary additives.Available at Nécessaire
This lightweight, broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen by Fenty Skin is a clean, vegan option that hydrates and protects without clogging pores. Plus its packaging is recyclable, making it a sustainable choice for your skincare routine.Available at Fenty Beauty
Good Molecules prioritizes sustainability with glass packaging and a commitment to transparency, making it a great choice for those looking to clean up their skincare routine.Available at Good Molecules
