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Everything You Need to Know Before Trying CBDfx CBD Products

If you haven’t tried CBD in an attempt to ease anxiety or get better sleep, are you even in 2022 yet?

JK, but srsly — though research is still in its early phases, scientists think cannabidiol (aka CBD) could possibly provide relief for anxiety, insomnia, pain, IBS, and various mood disorders. We need more research to know for sure, but early studies are promising.

Even though CBD is legal in the U.S., it can be tricky to pick out quality products that come from trusted, reputable companies — that’s why we’re trying to do it for you.

CBDfx has been in the CBD game a lot longer than most, which gives it some cred above others — but is it actually any good?

Here’s the deal.  

CBDfx at a glance: The pros and cons

Here’s the good, the bad, and the so-so when it comes to CBDfx:

First things first: CBDfx as a brand passed our extensive vetting process for CBD brands and products. But not every one of the company’s products passed. (Want more info on that process? We dive into it below.)

Pros

  • Diverse range of products. CBDfx has lots of products at varying potencies with full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate.
  • Third-party testing.  All products are third-party tested and you can download the deets that prove what’s inside online. Win.
  • 60-day return policy. If you try a product and don’t love it, you can email the company to return it for a full refund within 60 days. The product has to be either unopened or only modestly used, though — so hang onto your empty bottles, folks!
  • Lots of great reviews. NGL, the reviews are good. Like many CBD companies, they seem to vet them — but they still have thousands of authentic ones from pleased customers, which is worth something.

Cons

  • Some products auto-fail our vetting process. Some CBDfx products have added vitamins and supplements, contain THC, are vape pens, or are formulated for pets, which make them auto-fail our vetting process. We’ll dig into why that makes them fail below.
  • Not certified organic. Even though most of the products are described as organic on the site, they’re not certified organic by the USDA. The company claims the products are still organically sourced, but we don’t know for sure without this cert.  
  • A little pricey. Some reviewers complain that the prices are a little steep compared to other vendors, especially when you consider potency.
CBDfx products

CBD Glossary

Need some help on the ABCs of CBD terms? We gotchu.

  • Cannabidiol (CBD). CBD refers to just one (of over 100) cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Cannabidiol doesn’t get you “high” but is known for its relaxing, pain-relieving, and other potential medicinal properties.
  • Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is another cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. This one gets you that “high” feeling, Pineapple Express style.
  • Terpenes. These are aromatic compounds found in the cannabis plant, which give the plant its natural aroma and flavor. They may also have therapeutic effects.
  • Flavonoids. Naturally occurring compounds in CBD that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Full-spectrum CBD. These products have all the naturally-occurring compounds found in the cannabidiol, including terpenes, flavonoids, and tiny amounts of THC. Legally, they have to have less than .3 percent THC.
  • Broad-spectrum CBD. The trace amount of THC is removed from broad-spectrum products. They still retain other naturally-occurring compounds, though, like terpenes and flavonoids.
  • CBD isolate. This is pure, 100 percent CBD — no terpenes, flavonoids, THC, or other compounds.

What is CBDfx?

CBDfx was founded in 2014 in Los Angeles, which gives it a bit of an edge over the surge of newcomers. Eight years might not be an impressive run for the average company, but in the newly blooming CBD market, it’s practically veteran status.

At the time, CBDfx was among the earliest companies to enter the market, and now says it’s the world’s second-largest privately held CBD company. The company has over 100 employees and specializes in full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate products.

In that time, they’ve grown to offer a ton of products, from CBD tinctures to mushrooms to vape juices.  

Reputation

CBDfx currently has an A+ rating on BBB and has been accredited since June 2021.

Reviewers comment on quick, easy deliveries and straightforward products that do what they claim. They have a couple of complaints of missing deliveries on BBB, but the company has since resolved the issues.

So far, CBDfx hasn’t been the subject of any lawsuits or received any warning letters from the FDA.

That being said, according to some anecdotal reports from places like Reddit, the company seems to vet the reviews on their site and doesn’t post any bad ones. Even though this seems to be a common practice out there on the world wide web, it’s def not ideal if you want the full picture of customers’ experiences.  

CBDfx product quality and transparency

CBDfx is somewhat transparent about its products and manufacturing, but there are still a few missing pieces. We tried to fill them in.

Hemp sourcing and extraction process

Here’s what we know about CBDfx’s hemp sourcing and extraction process:

  • The company says its CBD products are derived from industrial hemp. This basically means they contain less than .3 percent THC in accordance with regulations put in place by the 2018 Farm Bill.
  • The company’s hemp is grown at its partner farms in Kentucky. They don’t name the farms, but state that they’re grown under strict, organic farming guidelines. (Again, we don’t know what these guidelines are, and the company is clear that their definition of organic is not certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.)
  • The brand says its hemp is non-GMO and pesticide-free.
  • CBDfx uses a supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction process to extract CBD from hemp. This method can result in a product with fewer terpenes than other methods, but proponents say it’s a cleaner, greener way to process hemp since it doesn’t leave chemical residue behind like solvent-based extraction.

Third-party testing

CBDfx claims to third-party test its products eight times.

Products are tested by CC Testing Labs, an ISO 17025-accredited lab for things like ingredient accuracy. You can access the certificates of analysis (COA) for each product online or by scanning the QR on any product, which will tell you:

  • the CBD and terpene profiles
  • potency
  • any contaminants like foreign material, pesticides, microbials, and heavy metals

Heads up: We found that some batches of certain products show more than a 10 percent diff between the amount of CBD the lab found and the amount on the labels, while others are pretty close to as advertised. Either way, you can at least check for yourself.

Manufacturing standards

CBDfx says its products are produced in facilities that adhere to current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs). These are FDA regulations about production, processing and packaging.

CBDfx states that any reference to “organic” doesn’t mean the products are certified organic. That being said, according to the USDA, “products sold, labeled or represented as organic must have at last 95 percent certified organic content.” So, it’s kind of a legal gray area, TBH.

The company says that the organic designation refers to organic farming methods and techniques used by the company’s partner farmers — not USDA standards. Although it’s not totally clear what its definition of organic implies, it prob won’t hold up to those who are looking for that near-100 percent cert in their CBD.

Types of products and how much they cost

CBDfx offers lots of products in categories including:

Unlike other companies that focus on just a few types of CBD, CBDfx offers a variety of full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate products. So whether you prefer a product without any traces of THC or one that retains all the flavonoids and terpenes, they have you covered.  

Product prices range from under $10 (like for a CBD cookie) to over $550 (for a potent tincture set). The brand offers frequent sales and promo codes, though, and also offers CBD bundles so you can get many products for a discount.

Note: CBDfx also offers products with THC, added vitamins and supplements, pet products, vape pens, and mushrooms. These products automatically fail our vetting process.

That’s for a few reasons:

  • THC isn’t legal everywhere.
  • Research on how CBD interacts with other vitamins and supplements (including things like mushrooms) just isn’t there yet.
  • We don’t totally know about CBD’s effects on pets.
  • Vaping comes along with some serious health risks.

Best CBDfx products

How we chose the best CBDfx products

The FDA hasn’t yet established standards for CBD testing and labeling, so the quality and potency of CBD products can vary a lot — even products from the same brand.

First off, we are confident recommending products from CBDfx because the company:

  • provides proof of third-party testing by an ISO 17025-compliant lab
  • uses U.S.-grown hemp
  • has not received an FDA warning letter
  • does not make any unsupported health claims
  • has a good track record with customers

But not *every* CBDfx product meets our standards. We only recommend products that:

  • don’t contain additional vitamins and supplements (like melatonin or vitamin B12)
  • have an up-to-date certificate of analysis (COA) — either unexpired or issued within the last year
  • contain no more than 0.3 percent THC, according to the COA
  • get passing results for pesticides, heavy metals, and molds, according to the COA
  • are accurately labeled for potency, within a certain margin of error (less than 30 percent)

If you haven’t noticed, we take this sh*t seriously. So you might not see every CBDfx product you’re curious about recommended below.

Best capsule: CBD Gel Capsules 750-1500MG

CBDfx CBD gel capsules
  • Price: $59.99-$99.99
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • Total CBD: 750 milligrams (mg), 1,500 mg
  • CBD per serving: 25 mg
  • COA: here

If you’re looking for your CBD simple, strong, and straight-up, these capsules are the perfect thing. They contain 25 mg per serving, which is ideal for peeps who’ve used CBD casually before.

They contain full-spectrum CBD and coconut-derived medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil. According to the company (and some 2021 research), MCT enhances your body’s ability to absorb CBD.

They’re gluten-free and listed as organic by the site, but keep in mind that they’re not certified organic. (And the company’s definition of organic is unclear.)

Reviewers say they love taking them for things like anxiety, pain relief, and sleep support. They like that they have a barely-there scent and taste just fine. Basically, they’ll def get the job done.

Shop now at CBDfx.

Best gummy: Original Mixed Berry CBD Gummies 1500mg

CBDfx CBD gummies
  • Price: $54.99
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • Total CBD: 1,500 mg
  • CBD per serving: 50 mg
  • COA: here

Hate downing capsules, oils, or tinctures? You just might be the gummy type.

Made with broad-spectrum CBD at 50 mg per serving, these natural mixed berry flavor ones are reportedly pretty tasty. (And heads up: Broad-spectrum products should technically be THC-free, but there’s still a chance there’s some residual THC in them.)

These vegan gummies are free of corn syrup and artificial sweeteners. They’re made with tapioca syrup and cane sugar, pectin, tri-sodium citrate, citric acid, natural flavor, and tomato lycopene for color.

Reviewers say they taste great and smell delish. Some complain about the high price point, though. Another says that they wish they had a healthier and more transparently natural alternative to tapioca syrup, cane sugar, and “natural flavors.”

FYI: According to experts, products that contain “natural flavors” can legally be comprised of artificial and synthetic chemicals. So even though “natural flavors” is one of the most prevalent ingredients listed on products in the U.S., we don’t really know what it means in any given instance.

Shop now at CBDfx.

Best topical: CBD Cream For Muscle & Joint: Cooling Formula 500-3000mg

CBDfx CBD Balm Stick Muscle & Joint
  • Price: $59.99-$129.99
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • Potency: 500, 1,000, or 3,000 mg
  • COA: here

For topical pain relief, try this cream on for size. The water-based formula is specially designed to help soothe muscles, joints, and deep tissues.

It’s made with broad-spectrum CBD and comes in 3 strengths: 500, 1,000, or 3,000 mg. Once you rub in the cream, it should only take about 10-20 mins to start feeling some relief.

The company says the product is vegan, cruelty-free, and formulated with white willow bark, caffeine, and menthol. There’s some research to suggest that white willow bark supports back pain relief, while researchers also think that caffeine can aid in pain management. Meanwhile, menthol lends a cooling and numbing sensation.

Reviewers like that it absorbs rapidly into the skin — it’s not sticky or greasy. It’s also unscented, which is a plus for some. Many also say that it works practically instantaneously, and there are dozens of comments about arthritis relief in particular.

Some are not stoked on the price point, but still seem to love the product.

Shop now at CBDfx.

Best skin care product: CBD Face Mask – 5 Variations

CBDfx CBD face masks
  • Price: $6-$7
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • Potency: 50 mg
  • COA: here

Is skin care even skin care these days without a little CBD? You might wanna try one of these face masks to find out.

Made with broad-spectrum hemp and active botanicals, the company says they’re designed to hydrate, tone, and soothe tired or stressed skin.

Due to CBD’s antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, many researchers are interested in its potential benefits for the skin and skin disorders in particular. So far, according to 2020 research, it seems pretty promising for addressing probs like acne, hyperpigmentation, and eczema.

Choose from the aloe vera (for tightening), charcoal (for brightening), cucumber (for tightening), lavender (for soothing) or rose (for moisturizing) masks, which the company says are suitable for all skin types.

Reviewers say the masks really do leave skin feeling soothed, soft, and refreshed. Some seem to love the assortment of fragrances, others say they’re just so-so, if not a little mild.

A couple of reviewers complain the eye holes are a little small, while others say there’s too much product in the pouch.  

Shop now at CBDfx.

CBDfx company policies

The company has a 60-day customer satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not stoked about your product, you can email the company for return instructions within 60 days of ordering *if* it’s either A: unopened, or B: contains “a reasonable amount of the unused product.” The company says you’ll get a full refund once they get the product back.

Unfortunately, we can’t find much in the way of customer experiences with these policies. We found one negative experience on Reddit, but nothing major for a large company. Other commenters agreed this experience seemed out of the ordinary.

How to choose a CBDfx product

But umm, should you go for the tincture or the topical, the softgel or the capsule? We have you covered.

Product type

CBDfx has an overwhelming selection of products, from face masks to gummies. If you’re not sure where to start, consider your motivation for taking CBD.

  • Sore neck or arthritic wrists? If you’re looking for targeted pain relief, consider a topical cream or gel.
  • If you’re looking to ease anxiety, get better sleep, or regulate your mood, a tincture, gummy, or softgel might be a better fit, depending on your preferences.
  • Looking to get better skin, relax, or add a little self-care to your routine? CBDfx’s selection of beauty and wellness products like face masks, serums, and cleansers might be the thing for you.

CBD type

CBDfx also has full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate products. Here’s how to choose:

  • Full-spectrum. This has all the cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids naturally found in the hemp and cannabis plants, including THC. There’s a theory called the entourage effect that claims that keeping these intact boosts CBD’s therapeutic effects.
  • Broad-spectrum. Same as full-spectrum, but without the THC. It still has terpenes and flavonoids. This is ideal if you don’t want any traces of THC in your system, but still want to experience the benefits of other cannabis compounds.
  • Isolate. No terps, flaves, or other compounds here — just the pure CBD. This is ideal if you want a flavorless, odorless product that’s also THC-free.

CBD dosage

Next, determine your ideal dosage. If you’re new to ingesting CBD, start with the lowest dosage (around 5 to 10 mg per serving), see how you feel, and work your way up. Since it can take a few hours to kick in, be sure to wait it out before taking more.

When it comes to topicals, pick a potency based on your pain level or desired sensation level. You might want to start with 500 mg strength for mild aches and pains, 1,000 mg for something more serious, and 3,000 mg if your joints or muscles are really in a tight spot.

In any case, always follow the instructions on the label.

Where to buy CBDfx products

Buy your CBDfx products straight from the source: The site. They’re not stocked anywhere else atm.

If you buy anywhere else, there’s no guarantee it’s legit. And since Amazon prohibits the sale of CBD products, anything you get on there is prob counterfeit. Otherwise, they’ll contain only hemp seed oil, not CBD.

How to use CBDfx CBD

Always follow the instructions listed on your product when using. But in general, here’s how you use ‘em:

  • Drops. Squeeze a few drops under your tongue — just be sure to measure carefully, since some tinctures can be pretty concentrated! You can also add some to your food, drinks, or even your fave lotion to use as a topical.
  • Ingestibles. Take capsules, gummies, or softgels as instructed on the bottle. Some may cause drowsiness, so do some trial-and-error to find what time works best for you.
  • Topicals. Apply to your pain points or any area that needs a little TLC. Rub in until fully absorbed. Reapply as often as you’d like.
  • Wellness products. Use the masks, cleansers, and other beauty products as instructed — and enjoy your glowing skin.

Other options to consider

Still not sold on CBDfx? Here are some competitors that might be worth your while (and your wallet):

Best product selection: CBDistillery

CBDistillery CBD tincture oil

Like CBDfx, CBDistillery has lots of full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate options. They also have super low and high potency products for newbs and heavy-duty dosers alike.

You can also shop by what benefits you’re after (like pain relief or better sleep), which might help you narrow down your options.

Shop now at CBDistillery.

Best prices: Lazarus Naturals

Lazarus Naturals CBD balm

If you’re not loving the price points elsewhere, try Lazarus Naturals. They have lots of full and broad-spectrum products at various potencies for a lot less than you’ll find elsewhere.

Shop now at Lazarus Naturals.

Best certified organic: Joy Organics

Joy Organics CBD gummies

If you’re after USDA-certified organic, go to Joy Organics. They have a broad selection of CBD tinctures, topicals, softgels and tinctures, and you can rest easy knowing they come from a certifiable organic source.

Shop now at Joy Organics.

Safety and side effects

According to 2017 research, CBD is generally considered safe to consume. Still, some may experience side effects like:  

Since CBD could possibly interact with medications, it’s always a good idea to chat with a healthcare pro before you start taking it on the reg.

Keep in mind that there’s also some evidence that consuming CBD with high fat foods or drinks can dramatically boost the level of CBD in your blood, which could potentially mean a stronger effect (and potentially more intense side effects).

Pregnant or nursing? Skip the CBD, since we still don’t know exactly how that might affect you or baby.

Frequently asked questions

Is CBDfx trustworthy?

CBDfx seems like a fairly trustworthy brand, TBH. The company has been around a lot longer than competitors (a whopping eight years) and has maintained a pretty solid rep without much controversy during that time. It’s also accredited on BBB with an A+ rating.

Unlike other CBD companies, the company has never been issued an FDA warning letter and isn’t involved in any lawsuits.

One downside is that the company’s (overwhelmingly positive) website reviews appear to be vetted — but that’s definitely not an out-of-the-ordinary practice.

Will CBDfx get you high?

CBDfx offers some THC and CBD+THC hybrid products, which will def get you high.

However, the only products we covered here are CBD products, which are unlikely to get you high. CBD full-spectrum products do contain traces of THC (legally less than .3 percent), which has a v. slight chance of getting you a little high if you consume a lot of it.

You won’t get any psychoactive effects from isolate or broad-spectrum products, since the THC is completely removed.

Is CBDfx pure CBD?

CBDfx’s isolate products are pure CBD. Its full-spectrum products contain CBD plus all of the naturally occurring terpenes and flavonoids in the cannabis plant. Its broad-spectrum products contain CBD, flavonoids and terpenes — but no THC.

Is CBDfx FDA approved?

The FDA has only approved one drug with CBD so far called Epidiolex, which you need to get with a prescription from your doc. So, like with other companies, CBDfx’s products are not recommended for medical use or as a replacement for medical treatment.

tl;dr

So, should you go for CBDfx? Here’s what you might want to consider.  

  • Product range. CBDfx definitely has one of the larger selections of CBD full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate products on the market. If you’re looking for variety, they gotchu.
  • Pricing and discounts. The company offers a 20 percent discount for military members and first responders. They also offer regular discounts and reduced prices on bundles. Their prices still aren’t the lowest on the market, though. You can def find cheaper products elsewhere.  
  • Green hemp extraction. CBDfx says they use a supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction process to extract their hemp, which is a cleaner, greener method than other ways and likely a pro for many. That being said, the info on how and where exactly it’s sourced is a little unclear. If source transparency is important to you, CBDfx is a little iffy.
  • Safety. All the products are third-party tested for quality assurance, which is a def a pro if you want to know exactly what’s in your product.
  • Customer service. CBDfx seems to have pretty good customer service. They also have a 60-day return policy and a 1-year warranty on all products.
  • Not certified organic. Since their products aren’t certified organic, this might be a deal-breaker for some. They claim that they’re all produced with organic farming practices, but we don’t know for sure.

As always — before you try CBD, talk with your doc.



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Attention Delicate Flowers: These Are the 31 Best Hypoallergenic Makeup Products

If you have sensitive skin, a stroll down the makeup aisle is an exercise in dodging explosive breakouts, rashes, and irritation.

Labels of “clean” or “hypoallergenic” alone aren’t enough to guarantee a product will work for you. That’s because any single ingredient could pose a potential threat. It’s important to read ingredients and try little patch tests on your skin before committing to a full face of new products.

Makeup is a common culprit of allergic contact dermatitis. Allergens are often found in makeup sponges, eyeshadow, mascara, fake eyelashes, and adhesives,” says Dr. Mary Ramirez, a board certified dermatologist in Austin, Texas.

What’s a beauty lover to do? Watch the ingredient labels like a hawk. Fragrances, harsh chemicals, and weird preservatives are all potential irritants.

Life’s too short to live vicariously through makeup tutorials. Despite the lack of label regulation and the ever-changing landscape of ingredient ethics, some brands are absolutely crushing it with allergy-friendly options.

We rounded up our favorite hypoallergenic makeup picks for sensitive skin below.

The best hypoallergenic makeup

pink makeup on a blue background

How we chose the best hypoallergenic makeup

Bummer alert — “hypoallergenic” isn’t a federally-regulated packaging term.

According to the FDA, “The term means whatever a particular company wants it to mean,” and beauty brands aren’t required to submit any proof before slapping that word on their marketing. Literally the worst.

So how TF do we sort through the sea of products?

Well, Ramirez tells us fragrance is the number one cause of cosmetic allergic contact dermatitis. Wanna know the runner-up?

Formaldehyde. Yes, the same ingredient used for embalming somebody after they die,” Ramirez says. She explains that formaldehyde is used in cosmetic products as a preservative to prevent spoilage (but come on!).  

“Hypoallergenic (meaning less likely to cause an allergic reaction) makeups are the best choice for sensitive skin or somebody dealing with a skin condition like acne, rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis,” Ramirez says. “Hypoallergenic makeup brands are typically fragrance-free and do not contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde releases.”

But that’s not all it takes. We only chose products that:

  • have no artificial fragrance or irritating preservatives like parabens or formaldehyde
  • are tested by dermatologists
  • demonstrate transparency around quality and ingredient integrity
  • have glowing reviews from real customers with sensitive skin

We also took a look at each product’s rating on the Environmental Working Group. The EWG rates personal care products (including makeup) based on their potential health hazards, including their potential for irritation and allergies.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $20
  • $$ = $20–$30
  • $$$ = over $30

Best hypoallergenic eye makeup

Best hypoallergenic mascaras

BeautyCounter Think Big All-in-One Mascara

Beautycounter Think Big All-in-One Mascara
  • Price: $$

This EWG-verified mascara swaps eye-watering mascara ingredients with a blend of gentle waxes including carnauba wax, rice bran wax, and wax from several flowers. The result: A cleaner, less irritating formula with solid staying power and some serious lifting action.

At first, we were a little skeptical because it contains phenoxyethanol, a “cleaner” alternative to parabens that may cause irritation, but sensitive-eyed users are loud and proud about their love for this mascara. Plus, that ingredient is listed as the very last one.

Reviewers love that it doesn’t bother their sensitivities nor does it clump (a big deal). Although one says it doesn’t do great with moisture around the eye — but to be fair, it’s not waterproof.

Burt’s Bees Nourishing Mascara

Burt’s Bees Nourishing Mascara
  • Price: $

Mascara is tough — it has to be clean and free of irritants, but it also needs preservatives to keep potentially harmful bacteria away from your eyes. Thankfully, Burt’s Bees does it at a drugstore price.

This one’s a good pick because it’s truly 100 percent natural. Jojoba oil and glycerin keep your lashes looking and feeling super soft. And while the BeautyCounter option lifts, this formula is perfect for achieving that separated, doll-like lash look without irritation. We love that it’s cruelty-free and ophthalmologist tested too.

W3LL PEOPLE Expressionist Volumizing Mascara

W3LL PEOPLE Expressionist Volumizing Mascara
  • Price: $$

Looking for fluffy lashes without all the extra crap thrown in? This EWG-verified mascara uses natural ingredients to give you long-wear and volume, hunni.

Castor seed oil is used here to condition your lashes, while sunflower seed oil offers nourishment and hydration via essential fatty acids.

Another plant-based ingredient here is cellulose plant fiber — this one swoops in to thicken sh*t up.

This mascara is OFC vegan, cruelty-free, and comes in three shades.

Best hypoallergenic eyeliners

Clinique Quickliner for Eyes

Clinique Quickliner for Eyes
  • Price: $$

Sensitive skin or not, it’s important to know what’s going on around your eyes. Clinique is a solid choice for eye makeup because its products are ophthalmologist-tested and a favorite among itchy-eyed makeup lovers.

The quickliner smudges like a pencil but doesn’t need any sharpening. After 60 seconds, this stuff will stay put until you wipe it off at the end of the day.

Honest Beauty Vibeliner Pencil Eyeliner

Honest Beauty Vibeliner Pencil Eyeliner
  • Price: $

This pencil is a budget-friendly option that’s also EWG-verified.

Mango seed oil and jojoba oil are the key players in this creamy formula. This pencil promises “one-swipe” color payoff and hella smudge-ability. While some love a good smudge (hello, sexy smolder) some may find that annoying.

Some reviewers say it smudges so much that it makes the pencil disappear quickly. This is probably due to a “soft” edge on the pencil. Some like it gentle though (so you don’t have to press too hard on your skin) — it just comes down to personal preference.

It’s also vegan and cruelty-free, another reason to appreciate this brand. It’s available in five shades so you can hopefully find a couple you dig.

Best hypoallergenic cream eyeshadow

RMS Beauty Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow

RMS Beauty Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow
  • Price: $$

If you have dry skin around your eyes, opt for a cream shadow. This one from RMS beauty gives your skin a splash of soothing antioxidants with organic green tea.

These guys are built to wear for a long time and have a cool metallic effect. They’re buildable too, so you can work ’em up to the wow factor you’re going for.

The colors come from minerals, not synthetic dyes or other sketchy pigments. The brand claims these cream shadows are basically crease-proof, which is kind of impossible. Still, a bunch of reviewers say it’s pretty dang impressive how little they crease.

It’s worth a mention that one reviewer seemed to have an allergic or adverse reaction though. Keep in mind everyone is different, and even hypoallergenic brands can still cause a reaction for some users.

Best hypoallergenic eyeshadow palette

Honest Beauty Eyeshadow Palette

Honest Beauty Eyeshadow Palette
  • Price: $$

This is a versatile palette with tons of ~lewks~ in it sans scary eye irritation.

You’ll love this palette for its value — eight gorge shades for $20?! — and we love it because it’s derm-tested and free from parabens, paraffins, talc, mineral oil, silicones, and petrolatum. The EWG gives it a 1, which is pretty great.

Best hypoallergenic false lashes

Thrive Causemetics Robin Faux Lashes

Thrive Causemetics Robin Faux Lashes
  • Price: $$

If you’re a lash queen, you know no mascara can elevate your eyes as quickly as a set of falsies.

It’s a jungle out there though, finding a pair of lashes that aren’t loaded with potential allergens or icky ingredients is TOUGH.

These lashes are vegan silk and formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances. Plus, they’re cruelty-free. The brand promises they are long lasting too — keeping their shape for 30 wears (which makes the price point seem like a good-ass bargain, TBH.)

These are also advertised as lightweight but full of drama (they look more natural than dramatic to us, but to each their own!).

Best hypoallergenic eyelash glue

Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Lash Adhesive

Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Lash Adhesive
  • Price: $

Eyelash glue is another product that can easily irritate you (especially if you accidentally get it directly in your eye!). Thrive offers this latex-free adhesive that applies your lashes super easily and without irritation.

Like the brand’s fake lashes, this 24-hour hold adhesive is cruelty-free, vegan, and made without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances.

Reviewers are pretty obsessed, mentioning how gentle this product is. One user with a latex allergy and sensitive skin notices how well it works for their skin.

Best hypoallergenic eyebrow pencil

Almay Eyebrow Pencil

Almay Eyebrow Pencil
  • Price: $

If you’re worried about allergies, Almay is almost always a good, affordable choice.

We love that this eyebrow pencil is fragrance-free and ophthalmologist tested, so it’s safe to apply near your eyes. The pointed tip makes creating faux brow strands easy, and the creamy formula blends and stays in place.

Color range is just okay (only includes three shades at the moment) but it does include a Universal Taupe color that’s supposed to work in between brow colors.

Best hypoallergenic brow gel

Physician’s Formula Organic Wear Brow Gel

Physician’s Formula Organic Wear Brow Gel
  • Price: $

Physician’s Formula products are formulated without parabens and are noncomedogenic.

This derm-tested, fragrance-free gel uses a blend of organic oils to condition your brows and keep them in place. The clear brow gel is versatile, and the tinted versions are nice and soft. Users love how the small brush tames tiny hairs without clumping.

Best hypoallergenic face makeup

Best hypoallergenic powder foundation

Bareminerals Original Loose Powder Foundation SPF 15

Bareminerals Original Loose Powder Foundation SPF 15
  • Price: $$$

When it comes to rashes and bumps or annoying breakouts, mineral makeup is the way to go for sensitive skin. And Bareminerals is basically the OG. This one is recommended by Ramirez for truly sensitive skin, BTW.

It accomplishes so much with just five ingredients, including a little sun protection. The fragrance- and talc-free formula is buildable, so you can control how much coverage you want each day.

It’s got staying power too, without clogging pores. We also love that it comes in a wide range of shades.

Best hypoallergenic liquid foundation

Colorescience Tint du Soleil SPF 30 Whipped Foundation

Colorescience Tint du Soleil SPF 30 Whipped Foundation
  • Price: $$$

Mineral makeup for the liquid foundation lover? Yes PLEASE. This light and buttery foundation is free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, dyes, and talc.

It’s infused with fun ingredients like ceramides and peptides to give you a glowy look that won’t end up causing a rash or clogged pores.

We don’t love this limited shade range, but it’s more of a bb cream or tinted moisturizer than a full-coverage foundation. P.S. It’s also water-resistant.

Best hypoallergenic stick foundation

W3LL PEOPLE Bio Stick Foundation

W3LL PEOPLE Narcissist Foundation Stick
  • Price: $$

Listen, sometimes a cute tinted moisturizer just ain’t gonna cut it — some of us need a little more coverage. This W3LL PEOPLE option serves up serious LOOKS without the usual irritating ingredients.

This EWG-verified foundation stick hydrates while it covers thanks to ingredients like vitamin E and aloe.

It’s free from parabens and added fragrance, and the added pearl powder leaves you with a soft, IG-filter finish. It’s buildable and, after warming it up a little with your brush, blender, or finger, it goes on pretty smooth.

Best hypoallergenic pressed powder

Almay Pressed Powder

Almay Pressed Powder
  • Price: $

Here is a budget powder, free from fragrance and oil. This pick from Almay gently sets your makeup into place, helping you eliminate shine where you want to. It comes with a mirror and a puff applicator, so you can easily toss this thing in your bag to count on touch-ups on the go.

The brand says it’s dermatologist tested and cruelty-free. It only comes in six shades though — it could def use more.

Best hypoallergenic concealers

Jane Iredale Circle/Delete Concealer

Jane Iredale Circle Delete Concealer
  • Price: $$$

Jane Iredale is a mainstay in the hypoallergenic beauty world. So if you blend concealer all around those gorgeous, sensitive eyes of yours, let this one be it. This mineral formula is noncomedogenic and free from parabens and fragrance.

We like this concealer because it infuses your skin with antioxidants from green tea, vitamin C, and vitamin A, and it protects your skin from environmental damage while it covers.

Beware: Users say it’s a little thick, so be sure to blend it OUT, bb!

W3LL PEOPLE Bio Correct Concealer

W3LL PEOPLE Bio Correct Concealer
  • Price: $$

This liquid concealer by W3LL PEOPLE is full coverage and EWG-verified (can we get an “amen” up in here?).

The formula with this one is said to be light but creamy, easily blending over dark spots and blemishes while also hydrating the skin. Key ingredients are oils, including pomegranate, olive oil, and castor seed.

It’s also vegan and cruelty-free. We’re impressed with the color range, too, actually — 20 shades ain’t too shabby for a concealer.

Best hypoallergenic highlighter

BeautyCounter Illuminating Cream Highlighter

BeautyCounter Illuminating Cream Highlighter
  • Price: $$$

Trying to shine bright like a diamond but still keep things a bit ~subtle~? BeautyCounter has a sheer cream highlighter you may want to shimmer with.

This pick is said to blend and build (so if you want more shine, you can get it done). The finished product should give you a “dewy” look.

It’s also cruelty-free and has some happy campers in the comments. Reviewers note that it’s got an excellent creamy, silky smoothness to it. One mentions it doesn’t crease either.

Sadly, only three shades are available, but hopefully, you can make one work for you.

Best hypoallergenic bronzer

W3LL PEOPLE Supernatural Stick Bronzer

W3LL PEOPLE Supernatural Stick Bronzer
  • Price: $$

Cruelty-free and powered by plants, this creamy bronzer uses key ingredients jojoba oil, green tea, and sunflower seed oil to warm up the look of your makeup.

It’s supposed to be hella buildable and easy to use. Plus, there’s a video on the product page to give you the scoop before swiping it on. Of course, you know you usually apply bronzer around your cheeks but you can use this one around your eyelids and lips too.

Reviewers think this pick is natural-looking and some comment on how gentle and non-irritating it is for their skin.

Best hypoallergenic blush

Maia’s Mineral Galaxy Mineral Blush

Maia's Mineral Galaxy Mineral Blush
  • Price: $$

This one’s a mineral-based powder blush by Maia’s Mineral Galaxy — a brand committed to making products that are:

  • non-synthetic
  • non-fragrant
  • nontoxic
  • chemical- and artificial color-free

It uses a blend of botanical pigments to give your cheeks a smooth rosy look. There are an impressive 15 shades to choose from too.

Reviewers say this blush is indeed smooth and natural-looking.

Best hypoallergenic primer

Glo Skin Beauty Face Primer

Glo Skin Beauty Face Primer
  • Price: $$$

It’s always nice to lay down a smooth foundation before slapping some makeup on. This translucent primer by Glo Skin Beauty aims to blur ish out so you can get a nice surface to work with.

The formula has antioxidants vitamins C and vitamin E as well as safflower seed oil for nourishing.

It’s also vegan and cruelty-free, plus it doesn’t bother with:

  • parabens
  • sulfates
  • soy
  • mineral oil
  • phthalates

The brand points out that this primer works with all skin types except very oily.

Best hypoallergenic setting spray

Tower28 Beauty SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

Tower28 Beauty SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
  • Price: $$

If you’re looking for a gentle mist to help lock makeup into place without totally pissing off your skin, this pick may be the one.

It has the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, so you can feel good about it being safe for all skin types, even sensitive or eczema-prone.

This mist is said to be soothing and purifying, and you can use it regularly with your skin care routine — makeup days, or not.

The brand even suggests using it as needed throughout the day, including after workout sessions (it’s calming and softening so why not mist it up when you can?). It’s marketed toward “angry, stressed-out skin” so do with that what you will.

Best hypoallergenic setting powder

Honest Beauty Invisible Blurring Loose Powder

Honest Beauty Invisible Blurring Loose Powder
  • Price: $$

Translucent powder is a gamechanger for oily skin. This one is loose — so it might not be the easiest one to use on the go — but reviewers with oily skin rave about its blurring powers.

It gives a matte finish while still feeling lightweight. It’s EWG-verified, which is very cool with us.

It’s formulated without harsh yucky things like:

  • parabens
  • silicones
  • paraffins
  • talc
  • mineral oil
  • synthetic fragrances

Best hypoallergenic lip products

Best hypoallergenic lipstick

VMV Hypoallergenics Velvet Matte Lipstick

VMV Hypoallergenics Subtle Shine Lipstick
  • Price: $$

Lipstick can be pretty problematic — many include dyes, waxes, and fragrances that can cause a slew of reactions. VMV Hypoallergenics comes through with this full-body matte lippie.

It’s free from parabens, gluten, phthalates, and any kind of fragrance (synthetic or natural). It’s also noncomedogenic and non-drying (because nothing feels worse than hella dry lips). Green tea is squeezed is tossed in too, for a shot of antioxidants.  

VMV also swaps beeswax (a potentially-irritating wax, who knew?!) for microcrystalline and paraffin for a super luscious feel. Coconut oil gives your lips a shot of hydration without clogging up pores around your mouth. Great color payoff, too.

One of the best parts? It’s available in 21 shades right now.

Best hypoallergenic lip gloss

Honest Beauty Gloss-C Lip Gloss

Honest Beauty Gloss-C Lip Gloss
  • Price: $

We love an honest plump. This gloss is said to give you shine without the added bullsh*t.

As you can probably guess, the “C” stands for vitamin C. This gloss offers a nice shot of the stuff while also hydrating and plumping thanks to a dose of coconut oil, jojoba seed oil, and pomegranate extract.

It’s worth pointing out that some reviewers mention a gritty texture to their gloss. Others seem to be big fans though.

This pick is also EWG-verified and comes in eight shades.

Best hypoallergenic lip liner

Mineral Fusion Lip Pencil

Mineral Fusion Lip Pencil
  • Price: $

This pick by Mineral Fusion (a brand committed to mineral makeup) promises to line those lips with a creamy-rich, full look.

This pencil is cruelty-free and also free from:

  • gluten  
  • artificial fragrance
  • parabens
  • phthalates

It’s available in four shades — mostly browns and pinks.

Best hypoallergenic makeup removers

Best hypoallergenic makeup wipes

Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleansing Towelettes

Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleansing Towelettes
  • Price: $

Find us a better feeling than wiping off your makeup at the end of the day. It just doesn’t exist.

But if you’ve ever suffered the consequences from a perfumey, oily wipe, you’re totally right to feel a little anxious about ever using one again.

Don’t be afraid of these. They’re dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested and free from fragrance, parabens, and other nasties. And they are so, so fresh. You don’t have to scrub with these, and the extra dose of cotton extract helps calm any irritation.

Best hypoallergenic makeup remover balm

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm
  • Price: $

If you haven’t used a melting balm to take your makeup off yet, you’re not LIVING. The warmth of your skin turns this balm into oil, clinging to your makeup. Wipe away with a damp cloth and — boom — a makeup-free face that doesn’t feel dry or stretched.

This one from Neutrogena has a nice short ingredient list and is dermatologist-tested. Reviewers with sensitive skin love it, too!

Best hypoallergenic makeup tools

Best hypoallergenic powder brush

Too Faced Mr. Right Brush

Too Faced Mr. Right Brush
  • Price: $$$

Cheap synthetic makeup brushes can be irritating. But unless you’re willing to pay for the cruelty-free bristles, animal hair feels icky in the soul.

A high quality brush, like this one from Too Faced, is made to be super soft on sensitive skin. Synthetic fibers aren’t as porous as natural hair, so they don’t soak up as much product and lead to an overall more hygienic experience — and that’s good news for your skin.

This brush is considered a powder brush, intended for powder, foundation, concealer, blush, contour, bronzer, and highlighter. You can use it with both wet and dry formulas, thankfully.

This one is a splurge though, with a high-ass price point for only one brush. Although we can admit the little bow tie does make it extra fancy.

Best hypoallergenic brush kit

EcoTools 6 Piece Day To Night Clutch Set

EcoTools 6 Piece Day To Night Clutch Set
  • Price: $

Everything EcoTools has your wellness in mind, and that includes makeup brushes. The brand’s cruelty-free synthetic makeup brushes are super soft and gentle on sensitive skin, plus they’re seriously affordable.

There’s a kit or configuration for anything you could ever want to use on your face. We like this kit because just about everything you may need, making it a great place to start.

This kit has five brushes:

  • round powder brush
  • pointed concealer brush
  • detail lip brush
  • eyeshadow and smudge brushes

Plus it comes with a zip-around clutch, making it easy to travel with these bad boys.

Users with sensitive skin rave about their gentle softness, lack of weird synthetic smell, and how the bristles seem to stay put more than other brushes. Basically, this is your go-to for affordable synthetic brushes in one fell swoop.

Best hypoallergenic makeup sponge

Thrive Causemetics Blend + Blur Sponge

Thrive Causemetics Blend + Blur Sponge
  • Price: $

If you’re allergic to latex, beauty sponges and other applicators can be difficult to navigate. This one from Thrive Causemetics is made from a high-grade, latex-free foam.

And for anyone who’s sensitive without a latex allergy, you can trust that this fragrance-free, antibacterial foam will help you achieve a flawless finish without irritation.

Users love this little egg for the airbrushed effect it leaves behind. And the price is comparable to other name-brand blending sponges.

The MVPs: Best hypoallergenic brands to worship

There are so many great beauty brands that offer hypoallergenic or sensitive skin-friendly products. But some brands? Total. Hypoallergenic. Rockstars. Here are a few you can feel safe to shop.

VMV Hypoallergenics

Helloooo, it’s in its name. These guys go above and beyond in the name of ingredient transparency. You can track your allergens on its website, and it’ll even review your patch test results to give you a customized list of VMV products safe for you to use. Wild.

Jane Iredale

Nothing like a quarter-century of experience to turn a brand into a mineral makeup giant. All its products are free of parabens, talc, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, fillers, and GMO ingredients.

The brand claims to be dermatologist and allergy tested and relies on only natural preservatives. Plus, its stuff is pretty and, maybe most importantly, it actually performs.

W3LL PEOPLE

Over 35 of its products are EWG-verified to be nontoxic, free of any concerning chemicals, and safe for your body. And they’re built for legit beauty performance, so you don’t have to sacrifice quality to get something clean and gentle. It’s also an easy-to-find specialty brand.

Almay

All of Almay’s products are dermatologist- or ophthalmologist-tested, and fragrance-free. According to its website, it keeps its products as hypoallergenic as possible by limiting the ingredients used.

Out of 10,000 possible ingredients, the brand sticks to 500. Finally, it’s just comforting to know you can walk into any drugstore and find something safe.

bareMinerals

“For truly sensitive skin, I often recommend mineral makeup like Bare Minerals or Glo Skin Beauty Cosmetics. Mineral makeup is great for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, and rosacea,” Ramirez says.

She points out it’s noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. “It blends in easily with the skin, and instead of it being an occlusive liquid foundation that can clog pores and make acne worse, it sits nicely on the skin giving it a natural appearance.”

Besides being mineral-based, this line uses minimal ingredients and offers a wide range of products to carry you through any beauty situation. Every bareMinerals product is clinically tested and free from formaldehyde, parabens, mineral oil, coal tar, and other nasties.

And while the foundations continue to absolutely crush it in every form, the brand’s other color cosmetics like blushes, eyeshadows, and mascaras are killer in their own rites. I mean, its tagline is “Makeup so good you can sleep in it.” Come on.

Tips for finding hypoallergenic makeup

As Ramirez outlined earlier, hypoallergenic makeup should be free from fragrance and formaldehyde.

She also says to stay away from these harsh little critters:

  • parabens
  • phthalates
  • chemical sunscreens
  • propylene glycol

Dr. Nazanin Saedi, a board certified dermatologist in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania says it’s also important to avoid alcohols and sulfates. “Alcohol-based products will irritate your skin and irritate the skin barrier. I also tell patients to avoid sulfates if they can because they can cause contact dermatitis.”

You may notice that many cosmetics and skin care products include cetearyl alcohol — don’t be too skittish around this one. It’s a fatty alcohol, so it’s way less likely to be drying and can actually be soothing (unless you are a really sensitive skin babe).

Remember to take your time and do research before slapping just anything on your gorgeous face. “The amount of makeup products available to consumers is innumerable and can be overwhelming,” Ramirez points out. “I always encourage patients to investigate the ingredients in their makeup, and request samples of products prior to purchasing — most makeup brands will apply a full face of makeup at no charge so you can see how the products appear and feel on the skin,” she says.  

Frequently asked questions

Is there such thing as hypoallergenic makeup?

TBH, not really. Since the term “hypoallergenic” isn’t federally regulated, it can mean “whatever a particular company wants it to mean,” according to the FDA.

Ideally, hypoallergenic products don’t include a slew of harsh ingredients, meaning they should be less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

What is the best makeup for someone with sensitive skin?

Everyone is different, so a patch test is the best way to learn if a product is safe for you.

Sensitive skin types should always avoid formaldehyde, fragrance, and simple alcohols (cetearyl alcohol is generally fine unless your skin is hyper-sensitive). It’s also a good idea to avoid parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and propylene glycol.

Check ingredient lists carefully since no one is out there regulating cosmetic marketing. :/

Can you still be allergic to hypoallergenic makeup?

Hypoallergenic makeup is preferably the type less likely to cause an allergic reaction, but everyone can react differently. It’s best to play it safe with a patch test before applying a new-to-you product all over your face.

What is the best makeup for sensitive eyes?

The best eye makeup comes from brands that are ophthalmologist-tested. Clinique and Almay are two amaze brand examples here.

tl;dr

  • Navigating the makeup scene with sensitive skin or skin allergies is no walk in the park. “Hypoallergenic” isn’t even a federally-regulated term, so it can feel impossible to guess which products might cause a negative reaction.
  • The best way to avoid a reaction is to avoid key irritants in makeup — which include fragrances, parabens, sulfates in cleansers, and irritating chemicals or dyes. Look for products that are dermatologist-or ophthalmologist-tested, too.
  • When in doubt, do a patch test on your inner arm to see if your skin reacts to new makeup.
  • The Environmental Working Group is a good source for ingredient transparency and product research.
  • There are some great brands on the market that do “hypoallergenic” makeup really well. They include VMV Hypoallergenics, Almay, Jane Iredale, bareMinerals, and W3LL PEOPLE.


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