Looking for the best clean makeup brands at Sephora Canada that actually work? I’ve had multiple mild allergic reactions to ingredients that caused rashes and breakouts, so I understand the struggle of finding the right products. Over the last 5 years, I have tried dozens of formulas from the Sephora clean beauty section. These products have passed the test on my sensitive skin and have earned their spot in this guide. After all, our skin deserves the best, and these clean beauty brands at Sephora Canada are here to give it just that.
Read on to find the exact formulas that are currently living rent-free in my makeup bag.
For more sensitive skin-friendly formulas, check out the 10 best non-toxic sunless tanners in canada.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
Clean Makeup Brands at Sephora Canada, Tested & Reviewed
Ever had one of those eye-opening moments that makes you rethink everything? That was me a few years ago when I stumbled upon some studies about chemical exposure in cosmetics. Suddenly, I was down the rabbit hole of ingredient lists and scientific research. After experiencing multiple mild allergic reactions—rashes, breakouts, you name it—I realized I needed to be more cautious about what I was putting on my skin. And I know I’m not alone here. In reality, 60 to 70% of women and 50 to 60% of men worldwide describe their skin as “sensitive.”
So many of us have sensitivities to the chemicals commonly found in makeup, even if we don’t realize it right away. Those little flare-ups and irritations can be our skin’s way of waving a red flag.
This is why choosing clean formulas is SO IMPORTANT. When I started this journey, I wanted to find clean makeup products at Sephora Canada that not only performed well but also respected my skin and the environment. And after a lot of trial and error, I found some real winners.
These are Sephora clean beauty products I’ve personally vetted, verified, and—most importantly—used. They’ve been through the wringer of my daily routine and have passed with flying colors. I’ve read the labels, checked the ingredients, and made sure they’re free from harmful chemicals and known allergens.
But before we jump into the list, let’s start from the basics: the true meaning of “Clean at Sephora.”
What’s the Clean at Sephora program?
We’ve all been there, standing in the beauty aisle, completely overwhelmed by choices. Sephora’s got your back with their Clean at Sephora Program. This little seal of approval makes it super easy to spot safe beauty products that are free from a whole laundry list of not-so-nice ingredients. To quote the company “Clean at Sephora offers effective products formulated without certain ingredients, such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and mineral oils.”
What Is Considered Clean Makeup at Sephora?
To get that coveted Clean at Sephora seal, products must be free from over 50 nasty ingredients.
Parabens: Parabens are a group of synthetic compounds commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics. You’ll often find them listed as methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Brands use them in their formulas to help extend the shelf life of products by preventing the growth of mold, bacteria, and yeast. While keeping products fresh is great, parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting your hormonal balance. Studies have linked parabens to reproductive toxicity, developmental disorders, and even breast cancer. Given their ability to penetrate the skin and accumulate in bodily tissues, it’s wise to choose paraben-free products.
Phthalates: Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and harder to break. In cosmetics, they’re often found in products with synthetic fragrances. Just like Parabens, Phthalates can cause a slew of health issues as they’ve been linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive and developmental problems, and increased risk of asthma and allergies in children.
Sulfates: Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), are detergents and surfactants commonly found in personal care products. Sure, they can create that satisfying lather in shampoos, face washes, and body washes, helping to remove dirt and oil. However, sulfates are notorious for stripping the skin and hair of natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even allergic reactions.
Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products. It’s used to prevent bacterial growth in products like nail polish, hair straightening treatments, and some makeup. Now, on to the bad part: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, meaning it can cause cancer. It’s also associated with allergic reactions, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. Some products release formaldehyde over time through the breakdown of other chemicals, adding to the risk. Avoiding products with formaldehyde or its releasers (like DMDM hydantoin and quaternion-15) is a smart move for your health.
Mineral Oil: Mineral oil is a clear, odorless oil derived from petroleum. It’s commonly used in cosmetics due to its moisturizing properties. While it might sound harmless, mineral oil can clog pores and suffocate the skin, leading to breakouts and delayed skin renewal. Environmentally, its production and disposal are tied to the harmful impacts of the petroleum industry. Cleaner alternatives like plant-based oils offer similar benefits without the downsides.
Additionally, Sephora’s clean seal also means the makeup products are cruelty-free, so no animals were harmed in the making of your makeup.
How to Spot Clean Beauty Brands at Sephora Canada
Finding the best clean makeup brands at Sephora Canada is a breeze. Just look for the “Clean at Sephora” green seal on product pages or packaging. Plus, you can filter your search on Sephora’s website to show only clean products, making your shopping experience as smooth as your new, toxin-free foundation.
10 Clean Makeup Brands at Sephora Canada
1. ILIA Beauty
ILIA has a cult following and for a good reason. Think of it as the lovechild of eco-consciousness and high-performance beauty—because, yes, you can have it all. Ilia’s products, like their cult-favorite Super Serum Skin Tint and the flake-resistant mascara, are designed to deliver actual show-stopping results.
The brand goes beyond the basics, using recycled aluminum, glass components, and responsibly sourced paper. They’re not just worried about where their packaging starts, but where it ends up. Their mantra? No landfill is left behind. Now that’s a clean beauty revolution we can all get behind.
My experience: Ilia’s mascara is amazing! The plant-based blend of Arginine and Organic Shea Butter nourishes and conditions lashes from the first application. The shorter side of the wand curls and lifts like a dream, while the longer, comb-like side separates and lengthens with precision. Even with my sensitive eyes, it felt super gentle. And the best part? It rinses away easily with just warm water.
The Super Serum Skin Tint quite literally melts into your skin and visibly improves your skin. That’s because it’s packed with potent ingredients like Niacinamide and Allantoin. It looks like a real-life Instagram filter that blurs and blends for that naturally radiant look. Plus, the shade range is very diverse with over 25 colours to choose from.
Best for: Skin tint and mascaras
Price range: From $36
Ethics/Certifications: Leaping Bunny Certified, makeup recycling program, vegan
2. Haus Labs
Haus Labs by Lady Gaga is an award-winning American vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics company with an array of eyes, lips, and face colour products infused with skincare benefits. The colour range is super diverse with over 50 different shades available. You can find most of these clean makeup products at Sephora Canada!
My experience: I have a love-hate relationship with foundations because they often clog my pores or irritate my skin. But not this one. The TRICLONE™ SKIN TECH foundation features over 20 skincare ingredients, including their superstar—patent-pending Fermented Arnica. This ingredient reduces redness, evens out skin tone, and shields you from environmental stress. Perfect for all skin types, even those of us with sensitive or acne-prone skin. This foundation gives me a medium buildable coverage, which means I can dial it up or down depending on how my skin behaves that day.
Best for: Foundation
Price range: From $45
Ethics/Certifications: Vegan, cruelty-free, Fragrance-free, sustainable packaging materials
3. Tower28
Next up is Tower 28, an LA-based, woman-of-colour-founded company for natural cosmetics lovers. In addition to top-tier non-toxic sunscreen formulas, Tower28 offers a slew of High-performance clean beauty products for people with sensitive skin and eczema. The entire lineup of skin-friendly formulas is tested by an expert dermatologist which is a huge plus in my book.
My experience: The Serum Concealer, available in 20 shades, is a very unique formula. It’s a concealer that feels like a serum but has the coverage to banish dark circles, redness, and blemishes. It glides on like a dream and offers a natural finish with medium-buildable coverage, which means you can layer it up depending on what your skin needs. Plus, it’s silicone-free, so it won’t clog your pores, and it’s safe for sensitive skin.
I’ve also tried the JuiceBalm Lip Balm. Infused with healthy ingredients, it delivers a burst of juicy colour while softening and hydrating your lips. The hydration level is off the charts—my lips feel soft and nourished all day long. And yes, it’s vegan, so you can feel good about swiping it on.
Best for: Concealers and tinted lip balms
Price range: From $12
Ethics/Certifications: Vegan, meets National Eczema Association Guidelines, sustainable packaging materials
4. Merit
Next up we have one of my favorite clean makeup brands Sephora Canada for minimalists looking to enhance their features without hiding them. Merit leans towards the luxury side and thus their lip oils, blushes, foundations and concealers are all above $45.But, in this case, you truly get what you’ve paid for.
My experience: The Minimalist contour stick comes in 20 diverse shades –from fair to ultra-deep. From the first application, I noticed the light-to-medium coverage that somehow manages to stay breathable all day. What really sets this foundation apart is its skincare benefits. Infused with fatty acids, it conditions my skin and locks in moisture, which is a game-changer for my sometimes finicky complexion. I was pleasantly surprised by the sea daffodil extract, which helps diminish the appearance of pigmentation and dark spots over time. As someone who battles uneven skin tone, this is a huge win. And here’s a pro tip I picked up: this foundation doubles as a contour.
The Merit balm blush was another pleasant surprise. I was impressed by how the microfine pigment powders delivered a touch of color that seamlessly blended with my skin. The lightweight, buildable formula means I can go from a subtle hint of color to a more intense glow without ever feeling heavy or cakey. What really sold me was how it conditions my skin with Vitamin E. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good, too.
Best for: Foundation/concealer and blushes
Price range: From $40
Ethics/Certifications: Leaping Bunny-certified cruelty-free, vegan, gluten-free, recyclable packaging
5. Saie
Saie is another top-rated clean makeup brand at Sephora Canada with an array of balms, lip-nourishing lacquers, lash-lengthening mascaras and so much more clean beauty products. The entire collection is completely free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, talc, mineral oil, GMOs, synthetic fragrances, and BHA. And while they are not completely organic, they do use many organic, nourishing, non-toxic ingredients.
My experience: From the get-go, this vegan liquid blush stole my heart. The creamy, radiant finish it gives is simply stunning. The chubby doe-foot applicator is a total game-changer, allowing me to dab on just the right amount of color. Whether I’m going for a subtle cheek tint or layering it up for a deeper wash of color, the lightweight formula builds beautifully without ever feeling heavy. I love how this blush never goes streaky or patchy. It’s hydrating and blendable, melting into my skin for that “lit-from-within” glow we all crave. With nine gorgeous shades to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect hue for any occasion.
Best for: Blushes
Price range: From $24.84
Ethics/Certifications: Climate Neutral, Leaping Bunny, and Plastic Negative certified
6. Westman Atelier
Founded by the expert makeup artist Gucci Westman, Westman Atelier is definitely amongst the best clean beauty brands at Sephora Canada. They offer a lineup of mascaras, bronzers, eye pencils, powders, highlighters, and, of course, the face contour sticks.
My experience: The texture of the Face Trace Contour Stick is velvety soft, making it incredibly easy to blend. Whether I’m on the go or just in a hurry, this contour stick glides on effortlessly and seamlessly. The biomimicry pigment technology delivers a creamy, buildable colour that layers perfectly over both liquid and powder products without messing up my makeup underneath. I love how versatile it is. Whether I’m aiming for a subtle definition or a more dramatic contour, this stick adapts to my needs. And it doesn’t just stay put—it lasts all night long. Supercharged with nourishing jojoba oil, it protects my skin against environmental stressors, while China clay helps absorb excess oil. Plus, the raspberry-derived Berryflux Vita extract intensely hydrates, keeping my skin looking fresh and dewy.
Best for: Contour sticks
Price range: From $50
Ethics/Certifications: Cruelty-free
7. NUDESTIX
I previously mentioned how much I love NUDESTIX’s natural lip balms with SPF – but today we’ll focus on another beloved vegan makeup product. NUDESTIX‘s catalog boasts volumizing mascaras, eyeshadow pencils, smokey eye kits, and an array of different blush and lip products for every complexion. NUDESTIX is also a Canadian and women-founded company, something that makes me love it even more.
My experience: I’ve been using the Nudies Blush Stick for the eyes, lips, and cheeks for months. It quickly becomes a staple in my beauty routine. The stick creates a soft, matte cheek blush to give me that just-walked-outside glow, which is perfect for any time of the year. It also works wonders as a natural eyelid color and a creamy lip tint. On one end, you’ve got a vibrant color block, and on the other, a top-quality makeup brush. The shades are designed to accentuate your natural beauty, making them a go-to for a seamless, coordinated look.
Best for: Cream blushes
Price range: From $22
Ethics/Certifications: Cruelty-free, vegan
8. Freck Beauty
While most Sephora clean beauty finds lean towards the minimalist side, Freck Beauty is bold and unapologetic. Beauty with an attitude, if you will. The company offers top-selling lip liners, bronzers, shadow sticks, lipsticks, balms, mascaras, and more clean makeup products.
My experience: This lip liner is everything you want: non-drying, pigment-packed, and available in six universally flattering nude shades. It’s designed to keep your lip look locked in place all day, and trust me, it delivers. The formula is clean and high-performance, made with plant-derived ingredients for a smooth, tug-free application. The hydrating properties of jojoba and the 1% Lip Booster with hyaluronic acid not only plumps up your lips but also creates a stunning 3D effect. It lasts all day, is waterproof, doesn’t transfer or smudge, and has a creamy texture that glides on without skipping or tugging.
Best for: Lip liners
Price range: From $22
Ethics/Certifications: Cruelty-free, vegan
9. Summer Fridays
Summer Fridays might be known for their ultra-hydrating face masks, treatments, and serums, but they also offer an array of clean beauty products, including lip oils and balms.
My experience: If you’re craving a little indulgence for your lips, this lip butter balm delivers instant moisture, a hint of sheer cocoa color, and a delightful touch of iced coffee flavor. It is packed with ultra-hydrating shea and murumuru seed butters, which soothe, heal, and condition parched lips like nothing else. My lips went from feeling dry and cracked to soft and smooth in no time. Plus, the vegan waxes in this balm formula provide a boost of shine without any greasiness, making my lips look dewy and healthy. The texture is smooth and buttery too!
Best for: Lip balms
Price range: From $24
Ethics/Certifications: Cruelty-free, vegan
10. Lawless
Lawless is a clean makeup brand at Sephora that stays far away from phthalates, formaldehyde, oxybenzones, mineral oils, and microplastics. All formulas are both vegan, cruelty-free, and ideal for folks with acne-prone skin.
My experience: If you’re looking for a powder that delivers a natural finish while offering skin-loving ingredients, the skin-smoothing, talc-free perfecting powder is for you. The coverage is medium and perfect for achieving that natural look. It blurs imperfections effortlessly and sets my makeup without adding any cakiness. Plus, it controls excess oil and shines, leaving my skin looking fresh and radiant all day. What sets this powder apart is its powerhouse ingredients. Phytosqualine makes it feel lightweight and prevents moisture loss, while Bismuth Oxychloride gives skin a silky feel and an excellent makeup adhesion that helps makeup last longer.
Best for: Setting powders
Price range: From $20.50
Ethics/Certifications: 100% Vegan & Cruelty-Free
How to Transition to Clean Makeup
Granted, transitioning to a cleaner, greener beauty routine might seem a bit daunting at first, but it’s actually fairly easy. Here are my tried-and-true tips to help you minimize your daily exposure to harmful chemicals.
Step 1: Assess Your Current Makeup Collection
First things first, let’s take a good, hard look at your current makeup stash.
- Lay out all your makeup products. Yes, even that old lipstick lurking at the bottom of your bag.
- Check the ingredient lists on your products. Look out for those nasties we talked about earlier—parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances.
- While you’re at it, toss out anything that’s past its prime. Old makeup can harbour bacteria and lose effectiveness. Bye-bye, crusty mascara from 2019!
Step 2: Identify and Replace the Most Harmful Makeup Products First
Now that you’ve got your collection in front of you, it’s time to prioritize.
- Start by replacing the products that cover the most skin surface or are used frequently, like foundation, moisturizer, and lip balm. These have the greatest potential for absorption and impact.
- Look for clean replacements that have good reviews and match your skin type and tone. Brands like Tower28, ILIA, and Summer Fridays are excellent places to start.
- If you’re hesitant to commit, try purchasing travel sizes or sample sets of clean makeup products at Sephora Canada to see how they work for you without breaking the bank.
Step 3: Gradually Transition to a Full Clean Makeup Routine
Slow and steady wins the race! Transitioning gradually can help your skin adjust and make the process more budget-friendly.
- Instead of tossing everything at once, replace products with clean alternatives as you finish them. This way, you won’t feel wasteful, and you’ll gradually build a clean collection.
- Look for clean products that serve multiple purposes. A tinted moisturizer with SPF or a lip and cheek tint can reduce the number of products you need.
- Focus on daily essentials before occasional-use products. Cleanser, moisturizer, foundation, and mascara are good starting points since they’re often used daily.
Pro tips:
- Keep an eye on Sephora’s sales and promotions. Clean beauty brands often participate in these events.
- Join Sephora’s Beauty Insider program for points, discounts, and birthday gifts.
- Sephora offers samples of many products. Take advantage of this to test out products before committing to full sizes.
- Many people don’t realize this but Sephora Canada has an incredible return policy. If you are not completely satisfied with a product for any reason, Sephora welcomes you to return new or gently used products for a full refund within 30 days of purchase. Returns that are made from 31-60 days after purchase are eligible for store credit. This is especially helpful when you’re trying new-to-you products!
FAQs About Sephora’s Clean Beauty Products
What ingredients should I avoid in makeup?
- Parabens: These preservatives can mess with your hormones.
- Phthalates: Often hidden in synthetic fragrances, these can cause a variety of health issues.
- Sulfates: Great for lathering, but harsh on your skin and the environment.
- Formaldehyde: A known carcinogen used as a preservative.
- Mineral Oil: A petroleum byproduct that can clog pores and suffocate the skin.
- Synthetic Fragrances: These can contain hundreds of chemicals and are known allergens.
- Triclosan: An antibacterial agent linked to hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance.
Are clean makeup products as effective as traditional ones?
Absolutely! Clean makeup products have come a long way and can be just as effective, if not more so, than their traditional counterparts. Clean beauty brands at Sephora Canada are known for high-performance products that deliver stunning results without compromising on ingredients. You get the same (or even better) pigmentation, longevity, and overall performance without the harmful chemicals. Win-win!
Can clean makeup be used on all skin types?
Yes, clean makeup can be used on all skin types, including sensitive, oily, dry, and combination skin. In fact, many people with sensitive skin find that clean makeup is gentler and less likely to cause irritation or breakouts. It’s always a good idea to check the product details and reviews to ensure it suits your specific skin needs. Patch testing new products is also a smart move, especially if you have particularly sensitive skin.
How do I know if a Sephora makeup product is truly clean?
- Look for Certifications: Certifications like USDA Organic, Ecocert, and EWG Verified are good indicators.
- Check Sephora’s Clean at Sephora Seal: This seal ensures the product meets Sephora’s strict clean beauty standards.
- Research the Brand: Brands committed to clean beauty will usually be transparent about their ingredients and processes.
- Use Apps and Websites: Tools like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep database can help you check the safety of individual products and ingredients.
This post was about the best clean beauty brands at Sephora Canada
There you have it, the 10 best clean makeup brands at Sephora Canada that actually work! From the nourishing, hydrating properties of Haus Labs’ Dew Blush to the versatile, precision-perfect Nude Muse Lip Liner, each Sephora clean beauty product offers something special. These brands are redefining beauty standards, proving that you don’t have to compromise on performance to make healthier choices.
