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ULTA is the ultimate convenient one-stop shop for all the latest and greatest in beauty. But amidst the enticing displays and endless options, finding truly non-toxic beauty products can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This non-toxic shopping guide to Ulta is here to help you choose the safest products on their shelves!

Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty" featuring products, including natural cleansers, masks, peels, scrubs, moisturizers, and night creams from brands like Cocokind, Honest Beauty, Mad Hippie, and more.

Many of the beauty and personal care products at ULTA contain some really harmful chemicals that can impact your health. Even some of their products marketed as “natural” or “organic” may not be as clean as they claim.

Recognizing the growing demand for safer, cleaner beauty choices, ULTA has stepped up to the plate with their Conscious Beauty program. This initiative aims to take the guesswork out of shopping for non-toxic products.

While the Conscious Beauty program is a fantastic resource, it’s important to remember that it’s not an exhaustive guide to non-toxic beauty. That’s where our comprehensive non-toxic shopping guide to Ulta comes in!

Our mission is to empower you to navigate ULTA like a clean beauty pro, equipped with the knowledge to make the best choices for your health and your beauty routine.

In this guide, you’ll discover a meticulously curated selection of the best products available at ULTA, from skincare to haircare, makeup, and more. We’ve looked beyond the Conscious Beauty seal, digging deep to unearth products that prioritize your health.

Whether you’re aiming to detoxify your skincare regimen, find the perfect clean foundation, or discover the safest shampoo for your locks, this guide has it all.

What toxic ingredients are hiding in most beauty and personal care products?

  • Parabens: Parabens are added to products as preservatives to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold. They are effective and inexpensive, which is why they have been a popular choice for manufacturers. You want to avoid parabens because they can disrupt the endocrine system and hormone function in your body. 
  • Phthalates: Phthalates are chemicals commonly used in fragrances, lotions, and nail polishes. They serve several purposes: in fragranced products, they help the scent linger; in nail polishes, they improve flexibility and durability. Essentially, phthalates enhance product performance and longevity. However, these chemicals have also been linked to reproductive issues and even infertility.
  • Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives: Like parabens, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are used in beauty products to extend shelf life and prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, much like parabens. However, they work by slowly releasing small amounts of formaldehyde over time. While this helps keep products fresh, it’s important to note that formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, posing potential health risks when absorbed into the body. 
  • Synthetic Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances are used to give products those scents we know and love. They are often cheaper and easier to produce consistently than natural fragrances. Additionally, they can help mask the unpleasant smells of some other chemicals used in some product formulations. However, synthetic fragrances can contain a hidden mix of chemicals that may trigger allergies or skin irritation. They can even cause cardiovascular or neurological damage in some. 
  • Sulfates (SLES): Sulfates are the ingredients in shampoos and cleansers that create that rich, satisfying lather. They are highly effective at removing oil and dirt, which is why they are also commonly found in household cleaning products. However, these same properties can make sulfates harsh on your skin and hair. By stripping away natural oils, they can leave your skin feeling dry and tight and your hair feeling brittle and prone to breakage. SLES may also be contaminated with a substance called 1,4-dioxane, which is a known carcinogen. 
  • Oxybenzone: Oxybenzone is a chemical commonly found in sunscreens. It’s highly effective at absorbing and dissipating UV radiation, which is why it’s often used to prevent sunburn and skin damage. While it is great at blocking UV rays, oxybenzone has drawbacks: it’s easily absorbed by your skin into your bloodstream where it has been shown to dysregulate estrogen and testosterone levels in both men and women.  

This can feel like information overload, but don’t panic! Knowledge is power, and now that you know what to look out for, you’re already on your way to a cleaner beauty routine!

How is ULTA supporting the non-toxic beauty movement?

In 2020, ULTA Beauty launched its Conscious Beauty program. This program is ULTA’s way of helping us, the consumers, make more informed choices about the products we’re putting on our skin and hair.

The 5 Pillars of ULTA’s Conscious Beauty Program

Clean Ingredients: This is probably what most of us think of when we hear “non-toxic beauty.” ULTA has created a “Made Without List” featuring ingredients they deem potentially harmful. Products certified under this pillar are formulated without these ingredients. It’s like having a knowledgeable friend scrutinizing ingredient lists for you.

Cruelty-Free: For those of us who love animals as much as we love beauty, this pillar is a big deal. Products with this certification haven’t been tested on animals. Many brands under this pillar boast certifications from well-known organizations like PETA or Leaping Bunny.

Vegan: Taking animal welfare a step further, vegan products contain no animal-derived ingredients. This pillar is perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle or anyone looking to reduce their use of animal products.

Sustainable Packaging: Ever felt guilty about tossing yet another empty plastic bottle? This pillar focuses on brands that are innovating in the packaging department. Think recycled materials, refillable containers, or packaging designed to be easily recyclable.

Positive Impact: This pillar shines a spotlight on brands that are going above and beyond. These companies are giving back to communities, supporting charitable causes, or implementing sustainable practices throughout their business operations.

What are the limitations of ULTA’s Conscious Beauty Program?

While ULTA’s Conscious Beauty Program is a great step in the right direction, it’s not without its limitations. As savvy shoppers, it’s important to understand the limitations of their program.

Limited Scope of “Non-Toxic” Ingredients

ULTA’s “Made Without List” covers many well-known problematic ingredients, but it’s not exhaustive. The world of cosmetic ingredients is vast and complex, and new research is constantly emerging.

Some ingredients that aren’t on ULTA’s list might still be concerning. For example, some synthetic fragrances and preservatives that aren’t on their “Made Without List” can still cause irritation and reactions. 

The “Clean” label doesn’t necessarily mean a product is 100% natural or free from all potentially problematic ingredients.

Self-Reporting and Lack of Third-Party Verification

Here’s another thing to keep in mind– ULTA relies on brands to self-report their compliance with the Conscious Beauty standards.

While we’d like to believe all brands are honest, the lack of independent, third-party verification leaves room for potential discrepancies.

Unlike certifications like USDA Organic or Leaping Bunny, which involve rigorous third-party audits, ULTA’s program doesn’t have this extra layer of verification. This means we’re largely trusting brands to accurately represent their products and practices.

Inclusion of Potentially Controversial Brands

ULTA’s Conscious Beauty Program includes a wide range of brands, some of which have faced criticism in the past for their overall practices or specific products.

A brand might have some products that meet ULTA’s “Clean” criteria, while other products from the same line don’t make the cut. This can create confusion since it’s easy to assume that if a brand is featured in the Conscious Beauty Program, all of its products meet the same standards.

It’s a reminder that we need to look at individual products, not just brand names. The takeaway? ULTA’s Conscious Beauty Program is a useful tool, but it shouldn’t be your only consideration when shopping for beauty products.

Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural cleaners from brands like Cocokind, Honest Beauty, Mad Hippie, and more.

Best Natural Cleaners At ULTA

  1. Cocokind Cleanser
    • Price: $18.99
    • Main Ingredients: Sunflower Seed Oil, Glycerin, Grape Seed Oil, Water, Sucrose Laurate, Oat Kernel Oil, Baobab Seed Oil, Sucrose Stearate
    • Non-toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  2. Honest Beauty Gel Cleanser
    • Price: $8.00
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Chloride, Sorbitol, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Sodium Benzoate, Linalool, and Potassium Sorbate.
  3. Cocokind AHA Jelly Cleanser
    • Price: $18.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Betaine, Banana Leaf/Trunk Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment, Capryl/Capramidopropyl Betaine, Arginine, Xanthan Gum
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  4. Indie Lee Cleansing Balm
    • Price: $42
    • Main Ingredients: Safflower Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, C15-19 Alkane, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Glycerin
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Pentylene Glycol.
  5. Honest Beauty Foaming Cream Cleanser
    • Price: $18
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Isoamyl Laurate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol.
  6. Mad Hippie Jelly Cleanser
    • Price: $17.99
    • Main Ingredients: Caprylic Capric Triglycerides, Glycerin, Water, Sucrose Laurate, Sucrose Stearate, Decyl Glucoside, Squalane, Phenethyl Alcohol, and Caprylyl Glycol
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Phenethyl Alcohol and Caprylyl Glycol.
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural masks, peels and scrubs, from brands like Mad Hippie, Acure, Beekman 1802, and more.

Best Natural Masks, Peels & Scrubs At ULTA

  1. Beekman 1802 Aging Sleep Mask
    • Price: $52
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Avocado Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Sweet Almond Oil
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol and Potassium Sorbate.
  2. Acure Overnight Mask
    • Price: $13
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Avocado Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Sweet Almond Oil
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  3. Mad Hippie Microdermabrasion Facial
    • Price: $31.99
    • Main Ingredients: Deionized Water, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Bamboo Stem Extract, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Pumice (Volcanic Ash)
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Cetyl Alcohol, Phenethyl Alcohol, and Caprylyl Glycol.
  4. Peach Slices Jelly Mask
    • Price: $16.99
    • Main Ingredients: Snail Secretion Filtrate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Disodium EDTA and Phenoxyethanol.
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural face moisturizers and night creams, from brands like Cocokind, Honest Beauty, Mad Hippie, and more.

Best Natural Facial Moisturizers & Night Creams At ULTA

  1. Cocokind Facial Cream
    • Price: $22.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Squalane, Cucumber Water, Sunflower Seed Oil*, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic. 
  2. Cocokind Polypeptide Cream
    • Price: $26.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Watermelon Seed Oil, Squalane, Triolein, Banana Leaf/Trunk Extract, Glycerin, Betaine, Cetearyl Olivate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Butylene Glycol.
  3. Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream
    • Price: $22
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Squalane, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Apple Fruit Extract, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Propanediol
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate.
  4. Honest Beauty Melting Balm
    • Price: $35
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Allantoin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Rice Bran Wax, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate and Caprylyl Glycol.
  5. Mad Hippie Face Cream
    • Price: $26
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Aloe Leaf Juice, Cetearyl Alcohol, Matrixyl Synthe ‘6 (Peptide: Glycerin – Water – Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin – Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38), Safflower Seed Oil, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglycerides
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol and Potassium Sorbate.
  6. Honest Beauty Daily Moisturizer
    • Price: $30
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol and Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate.
  7. Mad Hippie Night Cream
    • Price: $32.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Safflower Seed Oil, Isopropyl Palmitate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol.
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural eye creams from brands like Acure, Honest Beauty, Mad Hippie, and more.

Best Natural Eye Creams At ULTA

  1. Acure Resilience Eye Balm
    • Price: $11.50
    • Ingredients: Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil, Candelilla Wax, Retinal, Avocado Oil, Collagen Amino Acids, Lupine Seed Extract, Shea Oil, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Cellulose, Silica, Water
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  2. Honest Beauty Eye Balm
    • Price: $27.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Behenate, Ethyl Arganate, Argan Oil, C10-18 Triglycerides, Glycerin
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol.
  3. Honest Beauty Eye Cream
    • Price: $24
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Jojoba Esters, Cetyl Alcohol, Carnauba Wax, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Cetearyl Alcohol, Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, and Potassium Sorbate. 
  4. Good Molecules Eye Gel
    • Price: $6
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Butylene Glycol and Cetyl Ethylhexanoate.
  5. Mad Hippie Eye Cream
    • Price: $25.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Shea Butter, Niacinamide, Syn-Eye (Peptide: Palmitoyl Tripeptide 5-Panthenol-Sodium Hyaluronate), Glyceryl Stearate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol.
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural face oils from brands like Good Molecules.

Best Natural Facial Oils At ULTA

  1. Good Molecules Bakuchiol Oil – Dry Skin
    • Price: $10
    • Ingredients: Rosa Rubiginosa (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed Oil, Bakuchiol.
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  2. Good Molecules Bakuchiol Oil – Oily Skin
    • Price: $10
    • Ingredients: Rosa Rubiginosa (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab) Seed Oil, Bakuchiol.
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  3. Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil
    • Price: $12
    • Ingredients: Prunus Domestica Seed Oil, Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Retinol, Tocopherol.
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  4. Good Molecules Squalane Oil
    • Price: $8
    • Ingredients: 100% Plant-Derived Squalane Oil.
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  5. Good Molecules Rosehip Seed Oil
    • Price: $10
    • Ingredients: Rosa Rubiginosa (Rosehip) Seed Oil
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  6. Good Molecules Facial Oil
    • Price: $10
    • Ingredients: Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  7. Mad Hippie Cleansing Oil
    • Price: $17.99
    • Ingredients: Safflower Seed Oil (Organic, High Linoleic), Squalane, Rosehip Fruit Oil (Organic), Ginger Root Extract, Pumpkin Seed Oil (Organic), Oat Kernel Oil, Tocopherol, White Tea Extract, Lime Extract (Steam Distilled)
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural body moisturizers and body oils from brands like Mad Hippie, OSEA Malibu, Good Molecules, and more.

Best Natural Body Moisturizers & Body Oils At ULTA

  1. Good Molecules Body Treatment
    • Price: $15
    • Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Aspergillus Ferment, Propanediol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Saccharomyces Ferment, Cetyl Tranexamate Mesylate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  2. Good Molecules Body Serum
    • Price: $18
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Panthenol, Propanediol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glycerin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  3. Mad Hippie Facial Oil
    • Price: $25.99
    • Main Ingredients: Argan Oil, Pomegranate Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Cranberry Fruit Extract, Pomegranate Extract
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  4. Fur Oil
    • Price: $52
    • Ingredients: Grape Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Lemon Peel Oil, Peppermint Oil, Lemongrass Oil, Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Lavender Oil, Clary Sage Oil, Camphor Bark Oil, D-Limonene
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  5. OSEA Malibu Body Oil
    • Price: $52.00
    • Ingredients: Grape Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Lemon Peel Oil, Peppermint Oil, Lemongrass Oil, Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Lavender Oil, Clary Sage Oil, Camphor Bark Oil, D-Limonene
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic. 
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural serums and toners from brands like Peach & Lily, Mad Hippie, Honest Beauty, and more.

Best Natural Serums & Toners At ULTA

  1. Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
    • Price: $33.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Alkyl Benzoate, Glycerin, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Anisate, Clary Sage
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  2. Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum
    • Price: $12
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin.
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  3. Beekman 1802 Toner Mist
    • Price: $36
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Jojoba Seed Oil, Goat Milk
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  4. Honest Beauty Retinyl Serum
    • Price: $30
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Squalane, Polyglyceryl-3 Esters, Apple Fruit Extract, Retinyl Linoleate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol.
  5. Peach & Lily Skin Refining Serum
    • Price: $39
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Peach Fruit Extract, Japanese Yam Root Extract
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Butylene Glycol and Caprylyl Glycol.
  6. Mad Hippie Peptide Serum
    • Price: $32.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglycerides, Quinoa Seed Extract, Propanediol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Phenethyl Alcohol and Caprylyl Glycol.
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural acne treatments from brands like Peach Slices and Mad Hippie.

Best Natural Acne Treatments At ULTA

  1. Peach Slices Acne Spot Dots
    • Price: $4.99
    • Ingredients: Hydrocolloid Patches
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic
  2. Peach Slices Redness Relief Serum
    • Price: $19.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Azelaic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Butylene Glycol and Caprylyl Glycol.
  3. Mad Hippie Blemish Cream
    • Price: $14.99
    • Main Ingredients: Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid: 2% Inactive Ingredients: Water, Aloe Leaf Juice, Caprylic Capric Triglycerides
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Phenethyl Alcohol and Caprylyl Glycol.
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural cosmetics from brands like Honest Beauty, Pacifica and Maybelline.

Best Natural Cosmetics At ULTA

  1. Honest Beauty Mascara + Lash Primer
    • Price: $20
    • Mascara Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Beeswax (Cera Alba), Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax
    • Primer Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Beeswax (Cera Alba), Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Glycerin, Jojoba Esters, Glyceryl Stearate, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Sodium Benzoate and Potassium Sorbate.
  2. Pacifica Mascara
    • Price: $14
    • Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Jojoba Esters, Tapioca Starch, Stearic Acid, Carnauba Wax, Candelilla Wax, Acacia Gum
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Acrylates Crosspolymer and Sodium Benzoate. 
  3. Maybelline Mousse Mascara
    • Price: $11.99
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Behenyl Behenate, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Propanediol, Pullulan, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Denatured Alcohol,
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Denatured Alcohol and Caprylyl Glycol.
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural sunscreens from brands like Cocokind and Mad Hippie.

Best Natural Sunscreens At ULTA

  1. Cocokind Mineral Facial Sunscreen
    • Price: $24.99
    • Main Ingredients: Active: Zinc Oxide 21%. Inactive: Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Coconut Alkanes, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Argan Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sunflower Seed Oil, Coco-Glucoside
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Non-Toxic. 
  2. Mad Hippie Facial SPF
    • Price: $24.99
    • Main Ingredients: Active: Zinc Oxide (Non-Nano): 15.7% Inactive: Aloe Leaf Juice, Arachidyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Behenyl Alcohol, Bisabolol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Shea Butter
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol and Cetearyl Alcohol.
  3. Mad Hippie Daily Protective Serum
    • Price: $22.99
    • Main Ingredients: Active: Zinc Oxide (Non-Nano): 12.7% Inactive: Aloe Leaf Juice, Bentonite, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol,
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Caprylyl Glycol.
Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty", featuring natural haircare from brands like Innersense and AG Care.

Best Natural Haircare Products At ULTA

  1. Innersense Organic Beauty Hairbath
    • Price: $30
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate and Sodium Benzoate. 
  2. AG Care Sulfate-Free Shampoo
    • Price: $34
    • Main Ingredients: Water, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Polysorbate 20
    • Non-Toxic or Low-Tox? Low-Tox. Questionable ingredients include Polysorbate 20, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenethyl Alcohol, and Butylene Glycol. 

What are the benefits of switching to non-toxic beauty products?

Happy, Healthy Skin

Non-toxic products typically contain gentler ingredients that are less likely to cause irritation, breakouts, or allergic reactions.

This can lead to a clearer, more radiant complexion over time as your skin adjusts to products that work with your body’s natural processes rather than against them.

Maintaining Hormonal Balance

Another significant benefit is the positive impact on your hormonal balance. Many conventional beauty products contain endocrine disruptors like parabens and phthalates, which can interfere with your body’s natural hormone function. 

When you disrupt your body’s natural hormone function it can result in metabolic disorders, interference with reproduction, increased cancer risk, and disturbances in the immune and nervous system function.

By choosing non-toxic alternatives, you’re reducing your exposure to these chemicals and allowing your endocrine system to function more naturally.

Long-Term Health Benefits 

There’s growing evidence to suggest that reducing your exposure to certain chemicals found in conventional beauty products could have long-term health benefits. 

By choosing non-toxic alternatives, you are lowering your risk of certain health issues that have been associated with prolonged exposure to these substances

Protecting the Environment

Many brands that prioritize non-toxic ingredients also extend their commitment to sustainability in other areas of their business.

This often includes using eco-friendly packaging, sourcing ingredients sustainably, and implementing environmentally responsible production practices. By supporting these brands, you’re contributing to broader efforts to protect our planet.

Many non-toxic beauty brands are also committed to ethical practices beyond just ingredient selection. This often includes cruelty-free testing policies, fair trade sourcing of ingredients, and support for various social causes.

Are all-natural ingredients automatically non-toxic?

Not always. While nature offers many beneficial ingredients, some can be irritants or allergens depending on individual sensitivities. 

For instance, essential oils are natural but potent and may not suit everyone. It’s crucial to research specific ingredients and patch-test new products before full application.

Look for reputable certifications like MADE SAFE or EWG Verified, which indicate thorough safety assessments. Remember, “natural” doesn’t always equal “safe” for everyone.   

Do non-toxic products work as well as conventional ones?

Absolutely! The clean beauty industry has made leaps and bounds in formulation, delivering high-performing products that rival, and often surpass, conventional counterparts. 

Innovative plant-based ingredients and advanced technologies now offer effective solutions for various skincare concerns, from hydration to anti-aging. 

Don’t be fooled by outdated ideas, non-toxic doesn’t mean sacrificing results. It’s about prioritizing health without compromising efficacy.

Are non-toxic beauty products more expensive?

Non-toxic products might sometimes have a higher price tag due to using premium, sustainably sourced ingredients, and ethical production practices. 

However, the clean beauty market is growing rapidly, with increasing competition leading to more affordable options. 

Keep in mind, that investing in quality products can often mean using less product and experiencing better long-term results, making it a worthwhile investment in your health and beauty.

What should I do if I can’t find a non-toxic alternative for a product I love?

Don’t despair! Start by exploring similar products from reputable clean beauty brands. Look for comparable ingredients or functions. Online resources can offer valuable recommendations. 

You can also check if your favorite brand has a clean line or is working towards reformulating its products. The clean beauty movement is gaining momentum, so new alternatives are constantly emerging.   

Are ULTA’s own brand products considered non-toxic?

ULTA offers a diverse range of products, some aligning with clean beauty principles.

But, unfortunately, we weren’t able to identify any ULTA Beauty branded products that aligned with our definition of low-tox or non-toxic. 

Be sure to always review the full ingredient list to ensure it meets your personal non-toxic standards. 

Are all fragrance-free products considered non-toxic?

Not necessarily. While fragrance is a common irritant and allergen, a product labeled “fragrance-free” doesn’t automatically guarantee it’s free of other potentially harmful ingredients. 

Products labeled as “fragrance-free” likely still contain synthetic preservatives, dyes, or other chemicals of concern. 

How do I transition my skincare routine to non-toxic products without overwhelming my skin?

A gradual transition is key to avoid overwhelming your skin. Start by replacing products as they run out, prioritizing those with the most direct and frequent contact with your skin, like cleansers and moisturizers. 

Introduce new products slowly, one at a time, to monitor your skin’s reaction. If you have sensitive skin, patch-test new products before full application. Consulting a dermatologist or esthetician can provide personalized guidance throughout your clean beauty journey.   

This has been your complete non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA.

Building a clean beauty routine might feel overwhelming at first, but don’t let that stand in your way!

Your journey to better health starts with the beauty products you choose. Every time you select a clean mascara or a gentle cleanser, you’re taking a step towards a healthier you.

We hope this non-toxic shopping guide to Ulta helps you to have the confidence to make informed beauty choices when you’re shopping at ULTA. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Celebrate the small steps, and feel good knowing you’re making healthier choices for your future self. 

Check out our other amazing Non-Toxic Health & Beauty articles:

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Text reading "non-toxic shopping guide to ULTA Beauty" featuring products, including natural eye creams, facial oils, body moisturizers and body oils from brands like Cocokind, Honest Beauty, Mad Hippie, and more.

Jenna is a former marketing consultant for pharmaceutical corporations with a background in biology. She was diagnosed with an auto-immune condition in her early 20s, which led her on a journey to understand the root causes of her condition. The more she researched, the more she discovered the numerous health-harming chemicals we expose ourselves to every day. She realized that these chemicals have a direct impact on our long-term health. Now, she empowers readers to make healthier and more sustainable choices by encouraging them to be more conscious of the products they bring into their homes!

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