The Live Free Files
Hot takes on trending topics we'd like to weigh in on.
A standing record, not a feed. One question per File, one verdict, and our 2 cents with the help of our expert friends.
We dug deep on tallow, taped our mouths shut, read word for word about exosomes, and talked to our derm friends about prescription meds.
48 topics we dove in deep on.
4 of them we think you should skip.
start here
The twelve to read first
What does 'fragrance' actually mean on a label?
The Word "Fragrance" Is Hiding 3,000+ Ingredients. Here's the Loophole.
Should a fifth-grader be using anti-aging serum?
Cosmeticorexia: Why I Won't Sell Anti-Aging Serums to Fifth Graders
How many products does a teen actually need?
The 5-Product Teen Skincare Routine (And Why More Is Worse)by verdict
Start from the answer
Every File ends in one of five words. Browse by the answer instead of the topic, it is faster, and occasionally alarming.
What do you want to learn about?
All important, all worth consideration.
peaking now
What's trending this month?
Topics we can't help but do the work on, is the trend worth the hype?
All the files
We think you should read them all! Start with what piques your interest first.
Filter
The Ingredient Glossary: 25 Ingredients, One Line Each
What "Non-Comedogenic" and "Hypoallergenic" Legally Mean
Shelf Life: When to Throw Skincare Out
The Paraben File
How to Read a Skincare Label in 90 Seconds
What "Fragrance" Really Means on Your Skincare Label
Bemotrizinol: What the First New Sunscreen Filter in 25 Years Means for Clean Beauty
Clean at Sephora List: What It Actually Screens For (And the Gaps That Drive a Range Rover Through)
Benzene in Acne Creams: What a Clean Beauty Founder Wants Parents to Know
California Wants to Card Kids for Retinol. Good — Here's What It Still Can't Fix.
Phthalates and Fertility: What 30 Years of Research Actually Says
PFAS in Mascara, Foundation, and the "Forever Chemicals" Conversation You're Missing
Clean Lip Gloss for Tweens and Teens: What's in the Tube, Decoded
The Five Endocrine Disruptors Probably on Your Counter Right Now
EWG, MADE SAFE, USDA Organic: The Clean Beauty Certifications, Decoded
What does 'fragrance' actually mean on a label?
The Word "Fragrance" Is Hiding 3,000+ Ingredients. Here's the Loophole.
What Does It Take to Be MADE SAFE® Certified — How Live Free Skincare Sets a New Standard for Teens
Get the Files first
Plus expert Q and A, special discounts on recommended products, and more.
