Whether you’re a 10-step skincare routine kind of person or someone who likes to keep it minimal, there is no denying that the clean beauty movement has made us reconsider our favourite products. With several brands to choose from, picking one that suits your needs is confusing. So, when we get a chance to deep dive into a passionate beauty lover’s eco-friendly routine, you best believe we’re taking it!

The former head of content and creative at Amazon Fashion, India, Anisha Oberoi is a breast cancer survivor and entrepreneur who is all set to launch her Dubai-based, clean beauty e-store, The Secret Skin. What prompted her to launch a sustainable beauty platform? “I truly believe in mindful living and that we all have to collectively take responsibility to conserve and protect the environment we live in,” she says. Confused where to begin when making clean beauty swaps? Here’s her advice: “Avoid synthetic ingredients and preservatives, but don’t forget to research the ingredients in natural products too,” she explains. “Use sulphate-free shampoo and conditioners and pH-balanced cleansers so your scalp and skin don’t lose their natural oils. Natural and cold-pressed body oils are also great because they’re rich in antioxidants that protect skin.”

Anisha’s top clean skincare brands

“My top picks live up to my high standards of product integrity and performance. They are either rooted in ayurveda or prioritise the usage of botanicals and mineral-rich ingredients.”

“Purearth’s Mitti Clay Wet Masque gives my skin instant hydration and the Sitara Strobelighter is my favourite day-to-night highlighter.”

“I like to use lightweight oils, like Amly’s Day Light Super-Fine Face Oil. This botanical-rich oil sinks into my skin and never causes breakouts.”

“Ranavat’s Luminous Ceremony Cream Cleanser is my go-to face cleanser because it leaves my skin balanced, not squeaky clean.”

“The Allies of Skin’s Molecular Silk Amino Hydrating Cleanser is another favourite. It’s a low pH formula that doesn’t disrupt skin’s acid mantle. I use the brand’s 1A Retinal + Peptides Overnight Mask whenever my skin needs a pick-me-up.”

“I generously apply Mauli’s Supreme Skin Serum and leave it on overnight to supercharge my complexion and wake up with a glow.”

“I love using serums; Kathryn Jones’s (a local UAE brand) Trilogy Day and HA-ppy Face Hyaluronic serums are the best!”