Demystifying the chemistry of clean beauty. Welcome to the ultimate resource for evidence-based natural skincare, curated by cosmetic chemist Chloé Fournier.
In 2026, the term "clean beauty" has evolved. It is no longer just about what is excluded from a bottle, but the biological efficacy and environmental impact of what is included. As a cosmetic chemist, my mission is to bridge the gap between traditional herbal wisdom and modern dermatological science.
The philosophy of this guide is rooted in biocompatibility. We don't just want ingredients that are "natural"; we want bioactives that the skin recognizes, absorbs, and utilizes to maintain its barrier and stimulate cellular renewal. From the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid to the chirality of vitamin C, every detail matters in the science of skincare.
Understand the functional groups of natural actives. We categorize ingredients by their primary biological role to help you build a smarter routine.
Molecules that attract water into the stratum corneum. Essential for plumpness and elasticity.
Vitamins and polyphenols that neutralize free radicals from UV and pollution.
Ceramides and fatty acids that repair the skin barrier and lock in moisture.
Not all natural ingredients play well together. Use our simulator to check if your favorite actives are compatible.
Select two ingredients to analyze...
Expert chemist advice will appear here.
In my years working for European laboratories, I’ve seen countless "natural" products fail because the formulator prioritized marketing over molecular stability. In the Formulator's Corner, we discuss why clean beauty is often more difficult to stabilize than synthetic alternatives.
The skin's acid mantle sits at a pH of around 4.7 to 5.7. Clean products must respect this. For example, a Vitamin C serum (L-ascorbic acid) requires a low pH (below 3.5) to penetrate. However, many plant extracts become unstable at such acidity. Finding the "sweet spot" is where the art of cosmetic science lies.
"Preservative-free" is a dangerous marketing myth. Any product containing water must be preserved. In clean beauty, we replace parabens with nature-identical alternatives like sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate, often combined with antimicrobial peptides from fermented radish root (Leucidal Liquid).
You might see "Hyaluronic Acid" on a label, but if the molecular weight is too high, it sits on the surface of your skin without penetrating. We look for multi-molecular weight formulas that provide both immediate surface hydration and deep, long-term cellular support. Learn more in our Glossary of Skincare Terms.
We don't just "try" products. We dissect them. Our Brand & Product Reviews go beyond the packaging to analyze the first five ingredients, the ethics of the supply chain, and the efficacy of the delivery system.
Whether you have reactive, oily, or mature skin, your routine should be as unique as your DNA. We provide Step-by-Step Guides that teach you how to layer ingredients for maximum absorption without causing irritation.
Did you know?
Applying your humectant (like Hyaluronic Acid) to damp skin can increase hydration retention by up to 30%.
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