5 Beauty Terms That Sound Safe — But Really Aren’t

We’ve all seen them, those smooth, convincing beauty labels with words like “fragrance,” “natural,” or “dermatologist-tested.” They sound safe, even comforting. But here’s the truth: many of these terms are cleverly used to mask what’s really inside the bottle. As more people are switching to vegan skincare products, looking for organic skin care products online, and choosing eco-friendly and sustainable skincare products, it’s time we pull back the curtain on what these ingredients actually mean.

Let’s break down 5 beauty terms that sound safe, but really aren’t.

1. Fragrance

What it sounds like: A nice smell, like roses or lavender.
What it really is: A legal loophole.

The word “fragrance” can actually hide dozens or even hundreds of chemicals, and brands don’t have to list them individually. Why? Because “fragrance” is considered a trade secret. These hidden ingredients can include phthalates (linked to hormone disruption), allergens, and even substances that may trigger skin sensitivity or asthma.

◐ What to do: Look for products that say “fragrance-free” or use essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances.

2. Natural

What it sounds like: Straight from the earth, safe and pure.
What it really is: Completely unregulated.

“Natural” doesn’t mean the product is made with only plant-based ingredients. It doesn’t mean it’s safe, sustainable, or even vegan. A product can legally call itself “natural” even if it contains just 1% of a natural extract—and 99% synthetic junk.

◐ What to do: Read the full ingredient list, and opt for certified organic or vegan skincare products that clearly state their sourcing.

3. Non-Comedogenic

What it sounds like: Won’t clog your pores, perfect for acne-prone skin.
What it really is: Based on outdated science.

The term “non-comedogenic” is not regulated by any government body. There’s no agreed testing method, and the ingredients used in the original test (done on rabbit ears!) aren’t even the same ones used today. Some products marked “non-comedogenic” can still cause breakouts, especially if they include silicones or mineral oils.

◐ What to do: If you're breakout-prone, go for lightweight, plant-based products with magnesium, vitamin E, or beet root extract, which support skin health without blocking pores.

4. Dermatologist-Tested

What it sounds like: Approved by skin experts.
What it really is: Extremely vague.

“Dermatologist-tested” doesn’t mean the product passed a safety test. It doesn’t even mean it’s safe for sensitive skin. In fact, it could mean a single dermatologist tried it once, or simply reviewed the formula, not tested it on people.

◐ What to do: Focus on products that list clinically tested for sensitive skin. Bonus points if they are certified vegan and eco-friendly.

5. Alcohol

What it sounds like: Maybe not great, but helps keep products clean, right?
What it really is: Depends on the type.

Some alcohols like ethanol or denatured alcohol are drying and can strip your skin’s protective barrier, making it irritated and more prone to redness. But there are also fatty alcohols (like cetyl or stearyl alcohol) that are moisturising and safe.

◐ What to do: Always check the full name. If it just says “alcohol” with no explanation, be wary, especially if it’s one of the first five ingredients.

Skincare That Speaks Honestly: Product Spotlights 

Tired of decoding dodgy labels? Here’s a set of skincare heroes that put real ingredients front and centre, minus the marketing fluff. These are powered by plant-based, magnesium-rich, and sustainably sourced ingredients, designed with your skin’s wellbeing in mind.

The Reset Ritual: Cleanse With Confidence

Our gentle cleanser is a skin-balancing dream for sensitive or breakout-prone types.

What’s inside:

• Magnesium to calm and strengthen
• Vitamin E for healing and repair
• Beet Root Extract to gently brighten with antioxidants

A cleanser that actually feeds your skin, not strips it.

Hydration Without the Hype

Our hydrating shower gel quenches your skin while calming inflammation.

Why it works:

• Grape Seed Oil nourishes without heaviness
• Aloe Vera soothes irritation
• Turmeric reduces redness naturally

Clean doesn’t have to mean dry. This gel proves it.

Lotion That Loves Your Skin

Our body lotion is more than just a moisturiser.

The trio that makes it glow:

• Shea Butter locks in moisture
• Aloe Vera heals and cools
• Magnesium strengthens the skin barrier

A comfort blanket for dry, stressed skin, without clogging or coating.

Haircare, Reimagined

Our magnesium-rich shampoo and conditioner duo is what tired scalps and frizzy ends dream of.

• Shampoo: Lightweight and restorative with magnesium, vitamin E, grape seed oil, and aloe vera extract.
• Conditioner: Infused with jojoba oil, magnesium, and vitamin E to smooth, soften, and strengthen.

Because your scalp deserves skincare too.

Final Words

Beauty should be honest. But too often, clever words are used to sell you less-than-clean products. When you shop for organic, vegan, or sustainable skincare, don’t stop at the front label, read the fine print, and trust ingredients over hype.

The good news? Brands are getting better, and consumers (like you) are asking smarter questions.
Let’s keep that going, because healthy skin isn’t just about looking good. It’s about knowing exactly what’s going on your body.

Explore our full range of eco-friendly, vegan skincare products online, packed with ingredients you can pronounce, benefits you can feel, and values you can believe in.