9 Clean Makeup Brands You Can Find at Your Local Drugstore (2025 Edition)

When I first started exploring clean beauty, I’ll admit—I was overwhelmed. The term “clean makeup” felt like a buzzword I didn’t fully understand. Was it just marketing jargon? Or was there something more meaningful behind it? After diving deep into the world of clean beauty, I realized that it’s not just about avoiding harmful ingredients; it’s about choosing products that are better for your skin, the environment, and even the people who make them.

But here’s the thing: clean beauty often comes with a hefty price tag. Many of the brands I discovered were luxurious, boutique-level options that felt out of reach for my budget. That’s why I got so excited when I stumbled upon clean makeup brands available right at my local drugstore. These affordable, accessible options prove that you don’t have to sacrifice quality or ethics for a reasonable price.

In this guide, I’m sharing nine clean makeup brands you can find in drugstores in 2025. Whether you’re new to clean beauty or a seasoned enthusiast, these brands offer something for everyone. Plus, I’ll explain what makes each one stand out and why they’re worth adding to your routine. Let’s dive in!

What Does “Clean Makeup” Really Mean?

Before we get into the list, let’s clarify what “clean makeup” actually means. For me, clean beauty is all about transparency. It’s about knowing exactly what’s in the products I use and ensuring they’re free from potentially harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and certain preservatives.

But clean beauty isn’t just about what’s not in the product—it’s also about what is. Many clean makeup brands prioritize sustainable sourcing, ethical practices, cruelty-free testing, and eco-friendly packaging. These values align with my personal commitment to reducing my environmental footprint while taking care of my skin.

The great news? Drugstores are catching up to the clean beauty trend. In 2025, you’ll find an impressive selection of affordable, high-quality clean makeup brands that rival their luxury counterparts. Here’s my curated list of nine standout options.

1. Burt’s Bees Beauty

Why I Love It: Burt’s Bees has been a staple in natural skincare for years, and their foray into makeup is equally impressive. Their products are made with botanical ingredients like beeswax and honey, which nourish the skin while delivering beautiful results.
Standout Products: Tinted Lip Oils, Natural Glow Foundation
Key Features: Cruelty-free, recyclable packaging, no synthetic fragrances or parabens.

2. E.L.F. Cosmetics

Why I Love It: E.L.F. has long been a favorite for its affordability, but in recent years, they’ve stepped up their game in the clean beauty space. They’ve reformulated many of their products to exclude controversial ingredients while maintaining their wallet-friendly prices.
Standout Products: Halo Glow Liquid Filter, Putty Primers
Key Features: Vegan, cruelty-free, free from over 1,300 harmful ingredients.

3. Pacifica Beauty

Why I Love It: Pacifica is proof that clean beauty can be both chic and effective. Their vibrant color palettes and innovative formulas are perfect for anyone who loves experimenting with makeup.
Standout Products: Alight Clean Foundation, Stellar Gaze Mascara
Key Features: 100% vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and formulated without toxins.

4. NYX Professional Makeup (Clean Line)

Why I Love It: NYX recently launched a dedicated “Clean” line, making it easier than ever to find affordable, safe options at your local drugstore. Their commitment to transparency is commendable.
Standout Products: Bare With Me Concealer Serum, Butter Gloss
Key Features: Free from 20+ questionable ingredients, cruelty-free, dermatologist-tested.

5. Physicians Formula

Why I Love It: Physicians Formula has always been known for its hypoallergenic formulas, but their newer collections focus heavily on clean ingredients. They’re ideal for sensitive skin types.
Standout Products: Butter Bronzer, Organic Wear Mascara
Key Features: Dermatologist-approved, cruelty-free, free from harsh chemicals.

6. Almay

Why I Love It: Almay has quietly become a go-to for clean makeup enthusiasts. Their products are gentle, fragrance-free, and formulated with minimal ingredients—a dream for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Standout Products: Smart Shade Skintone Matching Makeup, Intense i-Color Eyeshadow Palettes
Key Features: Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, cruelty-free.

7. W3LL PEOPLE

Why I Love It: W3LL PEOPLE bridges the gap between clean beauty and performance. Their products are certified organic and deliver professional-grade results without compromising on safety.
Standout Products: Bio Correct Multi-Action Concealer, Expressionist Mascara
Key Features: USDA-certified organic, non-toxic, cruelty-free.

8. Juice Beauty

Why I Love It: Juice Beauty combines science and nature to create potent, effective makeup. Their formulations are packed with antioxidants and plant-based ingredients that benefit the skin.
Standout Products: Phyto-Pigments Flawless Serum Foundation, STEM CELLULAR Mascara
Key Features: Made with organic ingredients, cruelty-free, eco-friendly packaging.

9. Mineral Fusion

Why I Love It: Mineral Fusion offers mineral-based makeup that’s gentle yet highly pigmented. Their products cater to a wide range of skin tones and types, ensuring inclusivity.
Standout Products: Lash Primer, Blush & Bronze Palette
Key Features: Gluten-free, cruelty-free, free from talc and artificial dyes.

Why Drugstore Clean Makeup Matters

As someone who values accessibility, I appreciate how these drugstore brands are democratizing clean beauty. Not everyone has access to specialty stores or the budget for high-end products, and that’s okay. Clean beauty shouldn’t be exclusive—it should be inclusive. By offering affordable, safe, and effective options, these brands are paving the way for a more equitable future in the beauty industry.

Moreover, supporting clean makeup brands sends a message to larger corporations: consumers care about transparency and sustainability. When we choose products that align with our values, we encourage positive change across the industry.

How to Incorporate Clean Makeup Into Your Routine

Transitioning to clean makeup doesn’t have to happen overnight. Start small by swapping out one or two products at a time. For example, replace your foundation with a cleaner alternative or switch to a mascara that’s free from synthetic additives. Over time, you’ll build a collection of products that make you feel good inside and out.

I also recommend reading ingredient labels carefully. While these brands are committed to clean formulations, it’s always wise to double-check for any ingredients you may want to avoid. Apps like Think Dirty or EWG’s Healthy Living app can help decode product labels and provide additional insights.

Wrapping Up This Guide

Exploring clean makeup brands at the drugstore has been a game-changer for me. It’s empowering to know that I can shop sustainably without breaking the bank. These nine brands represent the best of what the clean beauty movement has to offer—affordable, accessible, and aligned with modern values.

If you’re ready to upgrade your makeup bag, start by trying out a few of these recommendations. Experiment with different products, see what works for you, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with using safer, more ethical cosmetics. Together, we can redefine beauty standards and support brands that truly care about people and the planet.