The clean beauty space keeps getting more interesting. While Farmacy has made its mark blending farm-sourced ingredients with scientific innovation, a new wave of brands is pushing the boundaries of what natural skincare can be. We've discovered some fascinating alternatives that share Farmacy's commitment to clean formulations while bringing fresh perspectives to the table.
: Ancient Indian Beauty Rituals Meet Modern Science
Drawing from ancient Indian beauty traditions, Aavrani transforms centuries-old beauty wisdom into modern formulations. Founder Rooshy Roy grew up straddling Indian and American cultures, informing the brand's unique approach to skincare innovation.
Their Glow Activating Exfoliator exemplifies this cultural fusion. While turmeric has been a cornerstone of Indian beauty routines for generations, Aavrani's engineers have solved the yellow staining problem that traditionally comes with it. The formula combines this brightening powerhouse with neem and honey in a way that delivers the benefits without the mess. We're particularly intrigued by how deeply cultural heritage influences their approach – each product comes with fascinating background information about its ingredients' historical significance and scientific properties.
Why we like Aavrani
1
Ancient Wisdom Modernized
Successfully adapts traditional Indian ingredients for contemporary use
2
Innovative Engineering
Solved the turmeric staining issue while maintaining benefits
3
Cultural Education
Provides detailed historical context for ingredients
A Verticale fav, founded by Rooshi Roy, this brand is AAPI-owned!
: Demystifying Natural Beauty with Hard Science
Three Ships began with just $4,000 and a mission to strip away the mystique often shrouding natural skincare. Founders Laura Burget and Connie Lo have built their brand on radical transparency, proving that effective formulas don't need to hide behind marketing fluff.
Their Brighter Days Red Algae + Avocado Biodegradable Eye Masks embody this straightforward philosophy. The innovative patches combine red algae and avocado extract in a biodegradable format, with detailed documentation explaining exactly how each ingredient functions. We appreciate their adherence to strict EU standards, which exclude over 1,400 potentially harmful ingredients. Their manufacturing information is readily available online – a refreshing departure from the industry's typical opacity.
Why we like Three Ships
1
Radical Transparency
Complete disclosure of manufacturing processes and ingredient sources
2
Scientific Documentation
Detailed explanation of each ingredient's function
3
High Standards
Adherence to strict EU safety guidelines
I was really impressed with the results I saw from these eye masks! I noticed that after using them, my under eyes were significantly more hydrated and less puffy. I will definitely be adding these into my routine more consistently!
These patches are amazing! My eyes are puffy everyday in the morning,also they have pretty dry skin. But after just 10 minutes all puffiness disappears and skin becomes so hydrated and soft. It also great that they can dissolve in water. Yes,it takes time, but makes these patches so nature-friendly!
I recently got a chance to try these eye masks and they were so great! I left them on for about 10 minutes, and started noticing the results right after! You just rub the remaining serum into your eye area and you’re all set for the night! I also love how you can put them in hot water for 10 minutes and they dissolve! A win for your eye area and the earth! Love these!
: Where Hawaiian Healing Traditions Meet Urban Protection
Born from Hawaii's ethos of connection and care, Koa brings something different to natural skincare: formulas designed for people who refuse to stay still. The founders' experience with Hawaii's intense sun shaped their understanding of protection that works in motion.
Their Mineral Sunscreen demonstrates this active-lifestyle focus. The formula combines Vitamin B and Wild Chamomile in a lightweight texture that actually works during exercise. We're impressed by their testing process across Hawaii's diverse climate zones – from rainforest to desert – ensuring consistent performance regardless of conditions. Their commitment to reef-safe formulations shows an understanding that skincare choices ripple far beyond our bathroom shelves.
Why we like Koa
1
Active Lifestyle Focus
Formulations that perform during physical activity
2
Extensive Testing
Products tested across diverse climate zones
3
Environmental Consciousness
Reef-safe formulations that protect ocean ecosystems
: When Scientists Get Creative with Clean Beauty
Experiment approaches skincare with laboratory precision and a dash of irreverence. Founded by chemists determined to make science accessible, they're challenging industry conventions one formula at a time.
Their Super Saturated serum exemplifies this maverick approach. Instead of following typical formulation guidelines, they've cranked up the glycerin concentration to 30% - far higher than industry standard. This decision stems from research showing superior barrier repair at concentrations above 25%. We find their detailed explanations of ingredients refreshingly straightforward, making complex chemistry both approachable and entertaining.
Why we like Experiment
1
Scientific Innovation
Pushes boundaries of traditional formulation standards
2
Research-Backed Decisions
Formulations based on concrete scientific evidence
3
Accessible Education
Makes complex chemistry understandable for consumers
This is one of my favorite parts of my skincare routine. It really locks in water and/or essences.
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