Look Your Best with Organic Makeup

While most of us here at Thrive Market are pretty careful about what we put in our bodies, many of us are taking things a step further by mindfully sourcing the things we put on our bodies. From natural hair products to organic skin care, there’s a rising desire to include more nature-based products into our personal care routines while avoiding harsh chemicals and questionable preservatives. Makeup is no exception. In fact, many cosmetic brands have found that using organic and even raw ingredients in products can be just as effective as their chemical-based competitors (if not more). Organic makeup can also be much gentler on skin, which is a big win for those who are suffering from acne, sensitivity, or chronically clogged pores. If you want to go more au naturale with your makeup, here’s what you need to know.

What is Organic Makeup?

The term “organic makeup” is used to encompass cosmetics that are formulated with (often certified) organic ingredients that are harvested without the use of synthetic chemical compounds. These organic ingredients typically include plants and natural botanical extracts as well as earth-based minerals. One of the benefits of choosing organic makeup products over some mainstream, non-organic brands is that you’re likely to decrease the risk of skin irritations due to exposure to harsh chemicals.

Organic Makeup for Your Skin Type

If you’re struggling to put your best face forward, it might be because you’re using products that aren’t right for your skin type. Here’s how to adjust your routine according to your personal needs.

What is the best makeup for acne?

Dealing with recurring breakouts is never fun, especially when you’re worried your makeup is doing little to keep your skin in check. Choose organic brands with soothing, non-irritating ingredients such as jojoba oil, lavender oil, or castor oil, which can help keep skin balanced rather than excessively oil. Find more organic acne treatments here.

What is the best makeup for rosacea?

Often appearing as redness or inflammation, rosacea is a skin condition that is the result of overcirculation of blood. If you find that you’re constantly trying to minimize that rosy glow, opt for products with calming ingredients like chamomile, calendula, and vitamin E. It’s also a good idea to look for products that also offer SPF protection since the sun can often trigger rosacea.

What is the best makeup for oily skin?

Organic makeup is especially suited for oily skin since it’s less likely to contain pore-clogging fragrances, preservatives, and additives. Look for products that offer a matte, lightweight finish made with non-comedogenic ingredients such as jojoba oil and grapeseed oil or mineral-based products with zinc and mica.

What is the best makeup for sensitive skin?

Like acne-prone skin, sensitive skin can react to potential irritants like chemicals, preservatives, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and synthetic emollients. Stick to organic brands with plant-based oils and extracts that go easy on sensitive skin, like aloe and jojoba.

What is the best makeup for dry skin?

Nourish dry, flakey skin naturally by choosing products that are infused with hydrating ingredients such as vitamin E, aloe, coconut oil, and sunflower oil. Be sure to avoid any and all cosmetics that include alcohol as an ingredient, as this can be very drying on the skin.

Best Organic Makeup Brands

These organic brands take natural beauty to the next level.

RMS Beauty

All RMS products are formulated using raw, food-grade, organic ingredients—and completely free of harsh chemicals and fillers. Most RMS products also do double duty by nourishing skin while warding off signs of aging.

Well People

Modern yet surprisingly simple in nature, Well People products are designed for performance, using botanical-based formulas without fillers, propylene glycol, petrochemicals, or petroleum by-products.

Cocokind

You won’t find any chemicals or preservatives in Cocokind bottles—the company uses only ethically-sourced, pure ingredients. Plus, every purchase supports the organic farmers behind each product.

Best Organic Makeup Products

When it comes to performance and good-for-you ingredients, these organic essentials more than make the cut.

Andalou Naturals Vitamin C Beauty Balm Sheer Tint SPF 30

This deeply nourishing beauty balm (or BB cream) is a moisturizer, SPF lotion, and primer all in one that delivers just a sheer tint for a flawless complexion. You’ll also boost tone and texture thanks to its antioxidant-rich vitamin C and a fruit stem cell complex.

Well People Optimist Lipstick #2

We can’t help but pucker up for this shea butter and jojoba-infused lipstick, which softens pouts while imparting a delicate coral color.

RMS Beauty Eye Polish in Magnetic

We’re drawn to this sheer metallic raw pigment shadow, which doubles as an eye cream for dry or aging eyes.

RMS Beauty Defining Mascara

Lash out loud with this dramatic, deeply pigmented mascara made from Certified Organic oils that won’t clump or smudge.

Babo Botanicals 3-in-1 Wipes for Face and Body

Whether you’re traveling or need to stash makeup remover in your gym bag, these hypoallergenic, lavender-infused wipes grant a fresh face fast.

Maxim Hygiene Organic Cotton Rounds

Establish an organic makeup routine from start to finish by stocking your medicine cabinet with these 100% Certified Organic cotton rounds.

RMS Beauty Skin2Skin Blush Brush

This organic makeup brush is made with expertly placed high-end, synthetic fibers to lightly blend color into the skin for long-lasting wear. Find more natural makeup brushes here.