You deserve to know exactly what you’re putting on your skin. But with marketing buzzwords like “natural,” “clean,” “dermatologist-approved,” and “non-toxic” floating around, it’s hard to know what’s real, and what’s just really good packaging.

If you’ve ever picked up a product that looked clean but left your skin irritated or dry, you’re not alone. I’ve been there!

This blog is your shortcut to cut through the noise. We’re breaking down the common myths, how to read skincare labels with more confidence, and why what’s not in our products matters just as much as what is.

The Greenwashing Problem

Let’s be honest — skincare marketing can feel a little like smoke and mirrors.

Many brands use words like:

• “Botanical”
• “Pure”
• “Clean beauty”
• “Made with essential oils”

…but those words aren’t regulated. That means a product can say “natural” on the front label and still be packed with synthetic fillers, irritating fragrance, or harsh preservatives on the back.

This is called greenwashing — when brands market products as safe or eco-conscious without full transparency. And it’s frustrating, especially when you’re trying to make intentional choices for your health and your skin.

The act of greenwashing impacts the trust we have in brands which makes it harder to find products that are genuinely sustainable and good to our skin.

What Clean Means to Us

We don’t just slap a clean label on the jar and call it a day. We research each ingredient prior to formulation and cross check it with Environmental Working Group’s database to know if an ingredient has a hazardous impact.

We define clean as:

• No coconut oil (a common irritant we intentionally avoid)
• No phthalates, parabens, or synthetic dyes
• No heavy fragrance loads — our scents are phthalate-free and skin-safe
• Plant-based ingredients with purpose, like aloe, niacinamide, sunflower oil, calendula, and marshmallow root
• Formulas made for sensitive skin, dry skin, and anyone seeking real results without the fluff

That’s why we also define clean as transparency. We believe you should be able to read a label and feel confident about what’s going on your body — not overwhelmed or second-guessing.

How to Read a Skincare Label (Without the Headache)

Here’s your quick label-reading guide to help you scan smarter — and skip the greenwashed noise:

1. Look Past the Front of the Bottle

Ignore buzzwords on the front. Flip to the ingredient list — that’s where the truth is. It’s easy to get caught up in the packaging, colors, and buzzwords to draw you in. If a product looks interesting, let’s see how much attention we should give it after we read the back!

2. Understand Ingredient Order

Just like food and drinks, skincare ingredients are listed from highest to lowest concentration.

If “Shea Butter” or “Aloe” is at the top, that’s a good sign. That demonstrates a higher concentration or percentage of that ingredient in the formula. If they’re at the very bottom? There’s likely just a trace of that ingredient in the formula.

Pro Tip: There are some ingredients that can only be present in small percentages or concentrations due to their potency. Usually these ingredients are additives like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.

3. Know the Red Flags

Whether you’re walking the aisles or scrolling online, skip the products with:

• Mineral oil or petroleum-based ingredients (can block pores)
• Coconut oil (especially if you have acne-prone or reactive skin)
  
• Fragrance or Parfum without transparency(often a mix of hidden chemicals)

Now I know what you’re thinking.

What’s the difference between fragrance and phthalate-free fragrance? 

Fragrance contains phthalates and often causes issues such as hormone disruption and allergic reactions.

Phthalate-Free Fragrance is often more natural and formulated with essential oils or other plant-derived ingredients. It’s more gentle to your skin and reduces the exposure of harmful chemicals.

So when you’re looking at your next scented purchase, you know what to look for!

4. Recognize Ingredient Heroes

When looking for products, these are the ingredients you absolutely want to see:

• Niacinamide – helps even tone and strengthen skin
• Aloe Vera – soothes, hydrates, and heals
• Jojoba Oil – mimics our natural sebum
• Calendula Extract – calming, great for sensitivity
• Shea & Mango Butter – deep nourishment and barrier support
• Glycerin - humectant that draws moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated
• Hyaluronic Acid - attracts and retains moisture in the skin and improves skin plumpness

When choosing bodycare products, it's important to consider your skin type and specific concerns. Look for products that contain a combination of these key ingredients to achieve healthy, glowing skin.

Packaging Matters Too

We don’t just care about what’s inside — we care about how it’s packaged. Although what’s inside is very important, what it’s sitting in is just as important. After all, it is in more contact with the packaging than your skin.

Our products are:

• Housed in recyclable or reusable jars and bottles
• Designed with glass and minimal plastics wherever possible
• Labeled with full ingredient lists — no hiding, no gimmicks
• In airtight packaging with tamper-evident seals to maintain product purity
• Housed in hygienic dispensing bottles to prevent contamination

Because transparency should be beautiful and responsible.

Because You Deserve the Truth — and Results

Caring for your skin shouldn’t feel like detective work. You shouldn’t have to decode ingredients, second-guess labels, or settle for products that don’t align with your values. Often times the hardest part of the battle is finding a brand that aligns with your values and approach to skincare. Once you find that, it becomes a lot easier to care for your skin knowing that you’re in a relationship with a brand that values what you value.

We are here to simplify your skincare with formulas that are transparent, trustworthy, and truly made for your body.

Ready to feel good about what you put on your skin?

Explore our Body Creams, Body Oils, and Essential Sets — all made with real ingredients and no compromise.

⸻

Thanks for being here and letting us be part of your skin's story.

Let’s stay connected:
Instagram: @NaturaleGoddace
Pinterest: @NaturaleGoddace

Your Skin Has A Story.

"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." - James 1:2-4

        
With love and gratitude,
Ashley R.