Top Experts’ Complete Beauty Guide for Cleaner Science Based Skincare

Over the past few years, consumers have become more aware of the environmental impact of their beauty purchases and behavior. This growing consumer awareness has translated into a simple question: what are we putting on our skin?

Attempts to answer this have led to the rise of clean, sustainable beauty, where sustainability is no longer a niche beauty trend but a baseline expectation for consumers and beauty-lovers. The demand is so great that it’s entirely changed the trajectory of the beauty market, with some of the world’s most significant legacy cosmetic brands quickly buying up clean beauty brands.

Top Experts’ Cleaner Beauty Guide

The definition of “clean beauty”  or non-toxic beauty appears to differ among brands. Some claim it excludes harmful ingredients such as parabens and phthalates. For others, it’s more holistic, excluding toxic ingredients and embracing vegan and cruelty-free formulations, responsible sourcing, reduced packaging waste, and a lower carbon footprint. In other words, it’s not just about what goes into the bottle, but also how it’s made, used, and eventually – ideally – recycled or biodegraded.

With that, top aesthetic specialists provide selections, focusing on efficacy, safety, and science-backed ingredients, and offering a more clinical perspective.

Note to readers:  While this feature was developed with input by experts who practice in South Africa, most products are available internationally in-store or online.

MEET THE EXPERTS

Dr. Cara Duminy is an aesthetic GP and the owner of Cape Aesthetics, specializing in safe, natural-looking aesthetic and anti-aging treatments. Continuously advancing her expertise through global training, Duminy combines precision and artistry to deliver rejuvenation and beautification tailored to each patient’s unique goals.

Dr. Craige Golding is a specialist physician and integrative-medicine expert in Johannesburg. He combines conventional and advanced therapies, including nutraceuticals, bioidentical hormones, and intravenous treatments. With multiple international fellowships, he is a leading authority in anti-aging medicine and the founder of The Golding Institute.

Tzvia Hermann, founder of The Laser Beautique franchise, introduced pain-free, permanent laser hair-removal technology for all skin tones to Africa and continues to pioneer results-driven skin treatments. With 16 branches of The Laser Beautique currently and a skincare range, Hermann is redefining modern beauty standards.

Dr. Tarryn Jacobs is a Pretoria-based dermatologist who completed her specialist training at the University of Pretoria. A Fellow of the College of Dermatology, she’s committed to bridging the gap between dermatology and mainstream beauty, offering evidence-based advice to promote healthy skin.

Dr. Vanessa Lapiner is a specialist dermatologist, scientist, and innovator in dermocosmetology. She founded TASH360, one of South Africa’s first integrative dermatology centers, and Root4, a revolutionary skincare brand that marries advanced science and safety.

Dr. Nicolette Landman is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon currently based in Centurion. A Fellow of the College of Surgeons, she’s passionate about the blend of artistry and surgical precision in her specialty, and is known for her warm, patient-centered approach.

Dr. Alek Nikolic is a specialist in aesthetic medicine, focusing on skincare, skin ingredients, and cosmetic dermatology treatments such as lasers, chemical peels, Botox, and dermal fillers. He’s a founding member of the South African Allergan Medical Aesthetic Academy and an exco member of the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine Society of South Africa.

Dr. Debbie Norval is a medical doctor with a special interest in aesthetic medicine. She’s a former president of the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine Society of South Africa, serves on the AMCSA Scientific Committee and CMAC International Board, and is actively involved in clinical practice and teaching.

Dr. Janine Olivier is a medical doctor specializing in internal medicine, chemical pathology, and aesthetic medicine, including obesity management. She’s a member of SAMA, ASAIPA, and AAAM. Olivier completed a Female and Child Health course in Sweden and has published internationally in the field of clinical chemistry.

Dr. Joanne Pautz completed a master’s degree in homeopathy and specializes in anti-aging, metabolic, and functional medicine. She practices in Randburg and is experienced in life alignment, AcuDetox, biopuncture, biofeedback, lab testing, and DNA testing.

Dr. Anushka Reddy has over 20 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology, blending science and artistry in aesthetics. Passionate about natural, enhancing results, she’s a media contributor and thought leader, and also directs the 5-star Vivari Hotel and Spa, specializing in cosmetic surgery and medical tourism.

Dr. Ean Smit is a specialist in laser surgery, graduating from Stellenbosch University and receiving further training in Dallas, La Jolla, and Boston, in the US. He’s the director and co-founder of the Cape Town Cosmetic Dermatology Centre, a Fellow of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and a frequent lecturer in laser surgery.

Dr. Nerina Wilkinson is a plastic surgeon with over 20 years of clinical experience. Founder of the Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates clinic in Cape Town, she promotes a holistic approach that blends surgery, skin science, and aesthetic medicine. With a reputation for innovation and natural-looking results, she’s a respected trainer, speaker, and media contributor.

LIP TREATMENT

DR. HAUSCHKA MED SOOTHING LIP CARE – Dr Janine Olivier

• Provides cooling relief for cold sores and, if applied early enough, can prevent their appearance.
• The formulation centers around the valuable, freshly pressed juices of calendula and echinacea, which have known anti-inflammatory and regenerative
• The natural cream base with fast-absorbing jojoba oil provides intensive care for the delicate skin of the lips, leaving them velvety soft.

Grab it here.

FACIAL MOISTURIZER

ROOT4 FACE CRÉME ORIGINALE – Dr Tarryn Jacobs

“Developed by dermatologist Dr. Vanessa Lapiner, this moisturizer harnesses 32 potent actives that include ceramides, niacinamide, and a Natural Glow4Green complex (chlorophyll, malachite, curcumin, and spirulina) to soothe, brighten, hydrate, and protect the skin,” says Longevity

Grab it here.

MASCARA

ILIA BEAUTY LIMITLESS LASH MASCARA – Dr. Anushka Reddy

• Clean, cruelty-free formula in a recyclable aluminum tube.
• Infused with shea butter and beeswax for volumizing lift.
• Produced by a carbon-neutral-certified company.

Grab it here.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR DETOX

YOUR WELLBEING PHOSPHOCOMPLEX – Dr. Craige Golding

Phosphocomplex is a liposomal form of milk thistle used mainly to assist in detoxification, address fatty liver, and aid in diabetes. It has been shown to aid the immune system by protecting against several forms of cancer. It may reduce blood-sugar levels and protect the liver from the toxic effects of excessive iron. It has an important role in liver protection and detoxification. It inhibits lipid peroxidation. It supports good cell functionality and neutralizes the excess of free radicals, thus reducing the oxidative stress in the liver.

Grab it here.

NATROCEUTICS GLUTATHIONE SOD ADVANCED – 30 – Dr. Joanne Pautz

Glutathione is your body’s master detox molecule – clearing toxins, calming inflammation, and protecting every cell. This product goes further, combining powerful antioxidant enzymes for deeper cellular defense. Best absorbed in a liposomal technology, this supplement improves liver function, boosts resilience, and supports graceful aging from the inside out. This is the gold standard for daily detox that works smarter, not harder.

Grab it here.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR BONE HEALTH

YOUR WELLBEING VITAMIN D3 & VITA MK-7 PLUS – Dr. Craige Golding

Your Wellbeing Vitamin D3 & Vita MK-7 Plus combines the essential nutrients your body needs for optimal bone health, cardiovascular protection, and enhanced cognitive function. With carefully selected, high-quality ingredients, this advanced formula provides synergistic support for your bones, heart, arteries, and mind.

Grab it here.

BONE BALANCE – Dr. Joanne Pautz

Bone Balance is one of many nutraceuticals developed by the first longevity specialist in South Africa, Dr Sindeep Bhana. He practices in Johannesburg as an endocrinologist. Bone Balance has the best blend of calcium and magnesium glycinate, boron, vitamin D3, and, importantly, vitamin K2. Calcium can potentially promote calcification of the arteries, but this can be mitigated by taking it with vitamin K2.

This product can be used to prevent or manage osteopenia or osteoporosis. It contains no animal products. Free from: gluten, wheat, salt, sugar, dairy, soya, yeasts, preservatives, artificial flavors and colors, and it is suitable for vegans.

Grab it here.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR ENERGY AND VITALITY

AETHER APOTHECARY ASHWAGANDHA POWDER – Longevity Choice

Ashwagandha has been at the cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, as its unique adaptogenic properties can support energy levels and promote vitality.

Grab it here.

YOUR WELLBEING D-RIBOSE POWDER – Dr. Craige Golding

Your Wellbeing D-Ribose Powder is a high-quality supplement supporting energy levels and overall health. D-Ribose is a natural sugar that plays a vital role in the production of ATP. Our D-Ribose powder is easily mixable and conveniently incorporates this essential nutrient into your daily routine. D-Ribose may support energy production, skeletal muscle function, and improve heart function caused by ischemia.

Grab it here.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS

OMEGA-3 MARINE OIL – Dr. Craige Golding

Omega-3 Marine Oil reduces inflammation and is essential for overall cardiovascular, cognitive function, eye health, and lowering triglycerides. It’s rich in two essential fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Our Omega-3 Marine Oil has been sourced from top providers of fish oil, which is more effective than its plant-derived counterpart. It does not contain heavy metals due to the harvesting and extraction methods.

Grab it here.

NATROCEUTICS OMEGA 3 FORTIFIED – Dr. Joanne Pautz

Sustainably sourced from wild Alaskan pollock and delivered in its natural triglyceride form, this omega-3 supplement includes added lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin K2 for extra support. Sold in a glass bottle, it’s ultra-pure, batch-tested, and free from contaminants.

Perfect for heart, brain, and eye health, all with sustainability at the core.

Grab it here.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR DIGESTIVE AND GUT HEALTH

VITA ESSENTIAL – THE GUT FOUNDATION – Dr. Anushka Reddy

Produced in South Africa using eco-friendly packaging. Vegan formula with a 5-strain probiotic blend (15 billion CFU). Designed for daily gut health and microbiome support.

Grab it here.

SOLAL MILK THISTLE Extract – Dr Janine Olivier

Milk thistle is an herb traditionally used to protect and support liver function. It’s also used to relieve digestive disturbances and heartburn. 

Why Solal Milk Thistle extract:

• Supports and protects the liver
• Herbal
• Relieves digestive upset and

Each capsule contains the following active ingredients: silymarin milk thistle extract (supplying 200 mg silymarin) 250 mg. Silymarin comprises six major flavonolignans, which may contribute to silymarin’s hepatoprotective properties.

Antioxidant or free radical-antagonizing action of flavonoids present in milk thistle has been cited as a likely mechanism of action of milk thistle.

• Inactive ingredients: hypromellose (cellulose), vegetarian capsule shell (gelatine-free), microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate.
• Sugar-free
• Suitable for vegans and vegetarians

Grab it here.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR HAIR, SKIN, AND NAILS

MY BEAUTY LUV FACE BLOSSOM – LIGHTEN, BRIGHTEN, TIGHTEN – Longevity Choice

Presenting sakura flower extract (Japanese cherry blossom) in capsule form, these capsules offer anti-aging benefits that include reduced pigmentation, improved skin elasticity and tone, and a more youthful appearance, with a reduced appearance of wrinkles.

Grab it here.

PROACTIVE LIQUID COLLAGEN – Dr Cara Duminy

“Featuring collagen peptides enhanced with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, silicone, zinc, B-vitamins, and magnesium, this certified-clean product supports strong hair, glowing skin, and resilient nails.” – Longevity

Grab it here.

THE LASER BEAUTIQUE SKIN FOOD – Tzvia Herman

Skin Food is ideal for anyone seeking to anti-age skin, hair, and nails.

Clinically shown to reduce eye-wrinkle depth by 68% and boost dermal thickness by 80%, this collagen-boosting formula enhances firmness, density, and hydration. Its unique peptides trigger fibroblasts to increase collagen production, thereby rebuilding the skin’s structure for a firmer, more youthful appearance.

Grab it here.

NON-TOXIC BEAUTY TREATMENTS

TREATMENTS FOR FINE LINES AND WRINKLES

SCULPTRA (POLY-L-LACTIC ACID) – Dr. Anushka Reddy

A biodegradable injectable that stimulates natural collagen production. Long-lasting results reduce the need for frequent touch-ups. Sustainable in both material use and treatment intervals.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

MULTI- DIMENSIONAL STRATEGY – Dr. Ean Smit

For those experiencing fine lines, wrinkles, facial sagging, or volume loss, I recommend a multi-dimensional approach that combines laser technology, radiofrequency, and ultrasound, providing a powerful, non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical interventions.

These modalities work synergistically to stimulate collagen, tighten the skin, and restore youthful contours, yielding proven results.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

PRP (PLATELET-RICH PLASMA) SKIN REJUVENATION – Dr. Janine Olivier

This cutting-edge treatment, derived from your blood, is a true marvel in aesthetic medicine. Experience a natural facelift as PRP stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Say goodbye to dull skin, as PRP enhances skin texture and promotes a youthful radiance.

Versatile and safe, this procedure offers a personalized approach to addressing various concerns, from signs of aging to skin rejuvenation.

How it works:

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) skin rejuvenation is a cutting-edge, non-surgical cosmetic procedure in aesthetic medicine and dermatology. By utilizing the patient’s own blood components, PRP stimulates collagen production, improving skin texture and promoting a youthful complexion.

This treatment is renowned for its natural approach, providing a quick and minimally invasive option to enhance skin health and appearance.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

TREATMENTS FOR FACIAL SAGGING AND VOLUME LOSS

PLLA BIOSTIMULATOR WITH HYALURONIC ACID FILLERS – Dr. Debbie Norval

PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) gradually stimulates your collagen, elastin, and dermal white adipose tissue (DWAT), offering a natural lift, glow, and improved skin thickness over time. It also has epigenetic effects, switching on collagen-producing genes and reducing collagen breakdown. When paired with anatomically placed HA fillers, it delivers true facial harmony to restore lost volume. Both are biodegradable and long-lasting.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

ULTHERAPY – Dr. Anushka Reddy

• Ultrasound-based lifting treatment with no downtime.
• Stimulates collagen naturally; no disposables or surgical waste.
• Results can last up to 12-18 months, with a minimal environmental footprint.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

SKINTYTE LASER, LASER GENESIS, AND TIXEL – Dr. Vanessa Lapiner

1st: SkinTyte. The non-invasive laser treatment deeply heats the dermal collagen while cooling the outer skin. This controlled heating causes collagen contraction, initiating the body’s natural healing process and leading to new collagen formation over time.

2nd: Laser Genesis uses a non-ablative Nd:YAG laser to heat the upper dermis below your skin’s surface. This controlled heating stimulates collagen growth, helps reduce redness and pigmentation, and gently tightens the skin.

3rd: Tixel is a non-invasive skin-resurfacing and rejuvenation treatment that uses Thermo-Mechanical Action technology (a heated titanium tip touches the skin briefly, creating controlled micro-injuries) to deliver controlled heat to stimulate collagen production and skin renewal, which improves texture, reduces fine lines, and tightens the skin.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

TREATMENTS FOR DRY OR DEHYDRATED SKIN

HYDRAFACIAL – Dr. Anushka Reddy

Now available with sustainable, cruelty-free serum options.

• Hydrates, exfoliates, and brightens, while minimizing
• Ideal for eco-conscious skin clinics and

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

PROFHILO – Dr. Alek Nikolic

Profhilo is a revolutionary injectable treatment made with patented NAHYCO technology. This innovation yields a unique hyaluronic acid gel that hydrates the skin and provides prolonged stimulation of dermal cells.

Once injected, Profhilo spreads smoothly beneath the skin, acting as a hydrator and a collagen stimulator. It activates skin-cell receptors to improve elasticity, counteract laxity, and restore firmness.

By triggering the natural production of collagen and elastin, Profhilo enhances skin texture, tone and overall radiance, offering a subtle yet powerful rejuvenation from within.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

DERMOELECTROPORATION – Dr. Cara Duminy

Dermoelectroporation utilizes current to deliver products, such as hyaluronic acid, into the deeper layers of the skin, enhancing lasting hydration.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

TREATMENTS FOR THINNED LIPS

HYALURONIC ACID DERMAL FILLER WITH ANATOMICAL PRECISION – Dr Debbie Norval

Rather than over-volumizing, I favor a subtle, structure-respecting approach using a filler specifically designed for lips. Precise placement (based on deep anatomical knowledge) helps maintain natural proportions, prevents migration, and reduces the need for dissolving or repeat corrections. A natural result is the sustainable one.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

LIPLASE LIP VOLUMIZATION – Dr Janine Olivier

LipLase, a specialist laser treatment for lips, is the latest non-invasive, non-surgical lip- plumping procedure. Fotona LipLase lip volumization stimulates collagen regeneration through laser energy, resulting in fuller, smoother lips. LipLase is perfect for volumizing lips without the discomfort of needles.

How it works:

LipLase uses a laser to heat the deep layers of the lips and stimulate collagen production. The outer lip and surrounding skin are treated, along with the inner lip, to stimulate collagen from both sides. This ensures the lips are left fuller, smoother, and more youthful. There is no downtime or risk of bruising.

Expected results:

Instant lip plumping from the first session, before you leave the room.

Three to four treatments in a series are recommended for optimal, long-lasting results. This treatment stimulates your natural collagen production, so maintenance treatments occasionally are encouraged.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

RESTYLANE KYSSE FILLERS – Dr Vanessa Lapiner

This beautiful, subtle lip enhancer features innovative XpresHAn technology, designed to move naturally with your facial expressions, while maintaining definition and volume. Unlike traditional fillers, Kysse integrates smoothly into the tissue, making lips feel soft, natural, and completely like yours. It’s flexible when you smile, speak, or kiss, yet structured enough to hold its shape. Ideal for subtle lip rejuvenation, not over-volumizing.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment. 

TREATMENTS FOR STUBBORN FAT POCKETS

CRYOLIPOLYSIS – Dr Ean Smit

Our clinic’s expertise extends to non-invasive body treatments, utilizing fat-freezing technology (cryolipolysis) that does not employ harmful chemicals or products. –

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

LIPOSOLUTION SA – Dr Debbie Norval

This injectable treatment uses phosphatidylcholine and deoxycholic acid to break down small, stubborn fat pockets (such as under the chin, around the bra line, or on the abdomen). A safe, non-surgical alternative to liposuction, it offers visible contouring with minimal downtime. Doctors must complete both theoretical and practical training before providing this treatment, ensuring the safety and reliability of the results.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

COOLSCULPTING ELITE – Dr Anushka Reddy

• Non-invasive cryolipolysis with new energy-efficient
• Shorter session times reduce power
• Highlighting clinics that use renewable energy and green

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

TREATMENTS FOR UNWANTED HAIR

BEAURAZE – Tzvia Hermann

• 100% biodegradable, helping reduce single-use plastic and lower carbon emissions, one shave at a time.
• Three premium blades for a close, clean
• Includes a reusable handle and three replaceable heads, for long-lasting
• Designed with a comfortable, non-slip grip for total control.
• Bio-material from wheat straw is used for the handle and blade holder.
• Cost is more affordable than non- degradable three-blade razors.
• Eco-friendly and budget-

Grab it here.

FOREVEBARE BBL – Dr Vanessa Lapiner

ForeverBare BBL is one of the most powerful devices on the market, leading to superior results.

• Comfortable treatments: uses a motion-based delivery that gently heats the follicles, rather than zapping them all at
• Speed: The large spot size enables speedy treatment sessions.
• Effective on all skin types

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

BREAST AUGMENTATION

FAT GRAFTING – Dr. Nicolette Landman

The use of fat grafting in breast augmentation is an increasingly popular alternative to breast implants. The benefits include softer and more natural outcomes, free from foreign bodies. Thus, no risk of implant leakage, foreign-body reaction, capsule contracture, or the need to replace implants. Liposuction can be used to harvest fat, allowing you to also slim down in those stubborn areas.

Unfortunately, it has its limitations.

Only a modest increase in volume is possible (usually half to one cup size).

Up to 30-50% of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body, requiring touch-up procedures.

Results can be unpredictable, and you may need multiple sessions to achieve the desired volume and symmetry. It can be pricier than implants, especially if multiple sessions are required. Small lumps may form in the breast tissue, which can complicate the interpretation of mammograms. Patients who seek moderate natural enhancement and have sufficient donor fat may consider this procedure, which avoids implants.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

NOSE AUGMENTATION

NON-SURGICAL RHINOPLASTY – Dr. Nerina Wilkinson

Non-surgical rhinoplasty is a refined, minimally invasive way to enhance the shape and contour of the nose, without surgery, implants, or long recovery periods. Using hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, we can achieve subtle, natural-looking results that bring balance and harmony to your facial features.

Beyond its aesthetic benefits, this treatment also supports skin rejuvenation. Hyaluronic acid promotes hydration, stimulates collagen production, and improves skin texture and elasticity in the treated areas – delivering both sculpting and anti-aging effects in one clean, efficient procedure. From an eco-conscious standpoint, this approach eliminates the need for synthetic implants or surgical materials, resulting in a much lower environmental footprint. With no operating-room waste, minimal downtime, and no reliance on permanent foreign materials, non-surgical rhinoplasty reflects a new era of clean aesthetics: regenerative, biocompatible, and mindful of both your body and the planet.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

EXCESS ABDOMINAL FAT

FAT GRAFTING, LIPOSUCTION, AND CLEAN ENERGY-BASED DEVICES – Dr Nerina Wilkinson

For those seeking to reduce excess abdominal fat while enhancing skin tone and texture, combining liposuction, fat grafting, and energy-based treatments – such as Morpheus8 or CoolSculpting – offers a clean, sustainable solution. This approach removes unwanted fat and repurposes it to restore volume in other areas of the body, reducing waste and eliminating the need for synthetic fillers or implants.

Unlike traditional surgical options that rely heavily on manufactured materials and often generate more post-operative waste, this method is rooted in biological harmony. Your fat becomes a regenerative tool – rich in stem cells that improve skin quality, elasticity, and collagen production – while energy-based devices work non-invasively to tighten and tone the skin without harsh chemicals or disruptive procedures.

The result? A holistic, body-positive treatment that’s gentle on your system, minimizes environmental impact, and aligns with conscious beauty values. It’s about working with your body – not against it – while making choices that support both your long-term wellness and the planet.

Visit the website for more information about the treatment.

GRAB A COPY OF OUR LATEST LONGEVITY

This beauty guide, and many other articles, can be found in our latest “Back to the Earth” edition.

From expert insights with Dr. Zach Bush, Dr. Ash Kapoor, Oscar Chalupsky, Dr. Ela Manga, Dr. Maureen Allem, Dr. Anushka Reddy, Dr. Des Fernandes, Dr. Craige Golding, and many more, this issue explores everything from food, clean beauty, sustainable living, fashion, travel, and other mindful choices.

While available nationally in Southern Africa at your nearest Woolworths, Exclusive Books, and selectively at Superspar, Pick’n Pay, Airport lounges, and your local garage shop, you can also buy a digital copy at Zinio.com.