Close-up of a man typing on a keyboard, ideal for business themes.
Developer AccessibilityUI Accessibility

How to Stop the Blinking Cursor (Text Caret | ) in Zoom Docs and AI for Web

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a blinking line while trying to think, you know how distracting it can be. In Zoom Docs and the Zoom AI Companion, that rhythmic flash can feel like a tiny metronome counting down your productivity.

Fortunately, you can “freeze” the cursor using a custom Userscript. This guide will show you how to install Tampermonkey and apply a script to keep your cursor steady and solid.

Part 1: Getting Tampermonkey

Tampermonkey is the world’s most popular userscript manager. It allows you to run small “patches” of code on specific websites to change how they look or behave.

1. Download for Your Browser

Visit the Official Tampermonkey Website or use the direct store links below:

2. Enable Developer Mode (Chrome/Edge Only)

In 2026, many browsers require a quick security toggle to run scripts:

  1. Go to chrome://extensions or edge://extensions.

  2. Switch the Developer Mode toggle (top right) to ON.

Part 2: The “Solid Cursor” Script

Once Tampermonkey is installed, follow these steps to create your theme:

  1. Click the Tampermonkey icon in your browser toolbar.

  2. Select Create a new script.

  3. Delete everything in the editor and paste the following code:

JavaScript
// ==UserScript==
// @name         Zoom Docs & AI - Solid Cursor
// @namespace    http://tampermonkey.net/
// @version      1.2
// @description  Stops the cursor from blinking in Zoom Docs and Zoom AI Companion
// @author       Gemini
// @match        https://docs.zoom.us/*
// @match        https://*.zoom.us/*
// @grant        GM_addStyle
// ==/UserScript==

(function() {
    'use strict';

    const css = `
        /* Targets the custom cursor used in Zoom's editor */
        .ProseMirror-cursor, 
        [class*="cursor"], 
        [class*="caret"] {
            /* Keep it visible */
            visibility: visible !important;
            opacity: 1 !important;
            display: block !important;
            
            /* Stop the blink animation */
            animation: none !important;
            -webkit-animation: none !important;
            
            /* Style adjustment: Make it easier to see since it's static */
            border-left: 2px solid #2D8CFF !important; 
        }

        /* Target the AI Companion chat container specifically */
        .zm-ai-chat-input-box [role="textbox"] {
            caret-color: #2D8CFF !important;
        }
    `;

    if (typeof GM_addStyle !== "undefined") {
        GM_addStyle(css);
    } else {
        const style = document.createElement("style");
        style.textContent = css;
        document.head.append(style);
    }
})();

  1. Go to File > Save in the Tampermonkey editor.

Part 3: How it Works

The script works by injecting a “Global Override” into the Zoom interface.

Most modern text editors (like Zoom Docs) don’t use the default browser cursor; instead, they create a small div element that sits on top of the text and uses a CSS @keyframes animation to fade in and out. By setting animation: none !important, we tell the browser to ignore the “blink” command and keep the element fully opaque at all times.

Customizing Your Theme

Inside the script, you can change the look of your new static cursor:

  • Change Color: Change #2D8CFF to red, black, or any hex code.

  • Change Thickness: Change 2px to 4px if you want a block-style cursor.

Troubleshooting

  • Not working in the AI Chat? If the AI chat box uses a “Native Caret,” the browser manages the blinking internally. If the script doesn’t stop the blink there, it’s because the browser’s engine is overriding the web code.

  • Script not loading? Ensure the Tampermonkey icon shows a green “1” when you are on the Zoom Docs page, indicating the script is active.

Fortunately, you can “freeze” the cursor using a custom Userscript. This guide will show you how to install Tampermonkey and apply a script to keep your cursor steady and solid.

Part 1: Getting Tampermonkey

Tampermonkey is the world’s most popular userscript manager. It allows you to run small “patches” of code on specific websites to change how they look or behave.

1. Download for Your Browser

Visit the Official Tampermonkey Website or use the direct store links below:

2. Enable Developer Mode (Chrome/Edge Only)

In 2026, many browsers require a quick security toggle to run scripts:

  1. Go to chrome://extensions or edge://extensions.
  2. Switch the Developer Mode toggle (top right) to ON.

Part 2: The “Solid Cursor” Script

Once Tampermonkey is installed, follow these steps to create your theme:

  1. Click the Tampermonkey icon in your browser toolbar.
  2. Select Create a new script.
  3. Delete everything in the editor and paste the following code:

JavaScript

// ==UserScript==
// @name         Zoom Docs & AI - Solid Cursor
// @namespace    http://tampermonkey.net/
// @version      1.2
// @description  Stops the cursor from blinking in Zoom Docs and Zoom AI Companion
// @author       Gemini
// @match        https://docs.zoom.us/*
// @match        https://*.zoom.us/*
// @grant        GM_addStyle
// ==/UserScript==

(function() {
    'use strict';

    const css = `
        /* Targets the custom cursor used in Zoom's editor */
        .ProseMirror-cursor, 
        [class*="cursor"], 
        [class*="caret"] {
            /* Keep it visible */
            visibility: visible !important;
            opacity: 1 !important;
            display: block !important;
            
            /* Stop the blink animation */
            animation: none !important;
            -webkit-animation: none !important;
            
            /* Style adjustment: Make it easier to see since it's static */
            border-left: 2px solid #2D8CFF !important; 
        }

        /* Target the AI Companion chat container specifically */
        .zm-ai-chat-input-box [role="textbox"] {
            caret-color: #2D8CFF !important;
        }
    `;

    if (typeof GM_addStyle !== "undefined") {
        GM_addStyle(css);
    } else {
        const style = document.createElement("style");
        style.textContent = css;
        document.head.append(style);
    }
})();
  1. Go to File > Save in the Tampermonkey editor.

Part 3: How it Works

The script works by injecting a “Global Override” into the Zoom interface.

Most modern text editors (like Zoom Docs) don’t use the default browser cursor; instead, they create a small div element that sits on top of the text and uses a CSS @keyframes animation to fade in and out. By setting animation: none !important, we tell the browser to ignore the “blink” command and keep the element fully opaque at all times.

Customizing Your Theme

Inside the script, you can change the look of your new static cursor:

  • Change Color: Change #2D8CFF to red, black, or any hex code.
  • Change Thickness: Change 2px to 4px if you want a block-style cursor.

Troubleshooting

  • Not working in the AI Chat? If the AI chat box uses a “Native Caret,” the browser manages the blinking internally. If the script doesn’t stop the blink there, it’s because the browser’s engine is overriding the web code.
  • Script not loading? Ensure the Tampermonkey icon shows a green “1” when you are on the Zoom Docs page, indicating the script is active.

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Furniture & Hardware

Rockwool Safe ‘n’ Sound Mass Loaded Vinyl

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

Managing the acoustic landscape of a home requires looking beyond personal wearable devices and focusing on the structural bones of a sensory environment. This stone wool insulation is designed to be integrated within the walls during construction or renovation to create a more controlled auditory sanctuary. From a sensory perspective, its primary value lies in its density and unique fiber structure, which excel at absorbing the heavy, low frequency sounds that often bypass thinner materials. For those sensitive to the tactile nature of sound, such as the rhythmic thrum of a washing machine or the deep vibration of a television in an adjacent room, this material provides a significant reduction in the physical resonance that can travel through a house. It addresses the vibration as much as the noise, which is vital for preventing the somatic irritation that comes with bass heavy triggers.

While it is a powerful tool for sound dampening, it is important to manage expectations regarding total isolation. This product is a sound reducer rather than a complete soundproofing solution that would create a true vacuum. Higher pitched sounds or very sharp sudden noises may still find pathways through gaps in construction or along shared structural beams. However, the overall effect is a noticeable softening of the environment, making the background hum of a household feel more distant and less intrusive. By significantly lowering the decibel floor of a room, it creates a more predictable and less taxing space for those who struggle with auditory processing or misophonia. It serves as a foundational layer in building a home that respects sensory diversity and minimizes the need for constant avoidance.

Pros: It is highly effective at reducing the transmission of bass and low frequency vibrations through walls. The material is fire resistant and contributes to a more stable and quiet home environment.

Cons: It is not a 100 percent soundproof solution and works best when combined with other acoustic treatments. Installation is generally limited to the construction or renovation phase since it must be placed inside the walls.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4n6TS8e

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Scent-Management

Innqoo Gold Candle Warmer Lamp

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

Integrating scent into a sensory space often comes with the unwanted anxiety of an open flame or the unpredictable flicker of a traditional candle. This lamp offers a more regulated sensory experience by utilizing heat to release fragrance, which creates a consistent and predictable olfactory environment. For those who find the visual stimulation of a dancing flame distracting or overstimulating, the steady glow of the halogen bulb provides a much more grounded atmosphere. The gold finish and structured design offer a pleasing visual aesthetic that fits well into a curated calm down corner or a professional workspace where safety is a primary concern. It effectively bridges the gap between functional light and sensory regulation.

Beyond the olfactory benefits, the lamp serves as a versatile light source. The illumination is soft and adjustable, allowing a person to dial in the exact intensity needed to feel comfortable without the harshness of overhead fluorescent lighting. This control is vital for managing sensory overload, as it transforms a room into a controlled sanctuary. Because it lacks the combustion of a lit candle, it eliminates the sensory trigger of smoke and the sharp, sometimes acrid smell that occurs when blowing a candle out. It is a thoughtful addition for anyone who needs to manage their environment with precision, offering a safe and visually soothing way to engage with aromatherapy.

Pros: The lack of an open flame makes it significantly safer for bedrooms and sensory spaces. It functions as an adjustable light source to help control visual input. The design is aesthetically pleasing and durable.

Cons: The bulb can become quite warm to the touch which requires careful placement. It relies on a power outlet which limits portability within a room.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4espEum

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Headphones and Earbuds

Soundcore Q20i Review

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

When managing sensory input, the physical presence of a device is often just as important as its acoustic performance. These over the ear headphones offer a utilitarian approach to sound management that leans heavily into the necessity of environmental control. From a tactile perspective, the fit is noticeably firm. While this creates a secure seal that is vital for isolation, the clamping force is on the tighter side. For those with high tactile sensitivity, this pressure may transition from a sense of security to a source of discomfort during extended wear. It is the kind of physical feedback that requires a period of habituation or perhaps frequent breaks to avoid the feeling of being squeezed.

The auditory experience is functional and consistent with what one might expect from a budget friendly accessible device. The sound quality is adequate for masking triggers or focusing on a task, providing a clear enough signal without being overly sharp or fatiguing to the ears. Where these headphones truly excel from a sensory standpoint is in their ability to create a significant barrier against the outside world. The active noise cancelling is robust, offering a deep sense of relief from the unpredictable sounds of a shared environment. For individuals who use sound management as an adaptive strategy to navigate the world, pairing these with earplugs creates a near complete acoustic vacuum. This combination can be a vital tool for those moments when complete silence is the only way to regulate a taxed nervous system.

Pros: The noise cancelling is highly effective at dampening environmental triggers and can achieve near total silence when used in conjunction with earplugs. The over the ear design provides a reliable physical barrier against external noise.

Cons: The tight clamping force can cause physical discomfort or ear pain during long sessions. The sound quality is standard and may not satisfy those seeking a high fidelity audio experience.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4uksl5E

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Headphones and EarbudsSleep Aids

Soundcore Space A40 Review

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

Finding earbuds that accommodate sensory sensitivities often feels like a trade-off between physical comfort and acoustic isolation. The Soundcore Space A40 positions itself as a versatile option, particularly for those who prioritize the tactile experience of wearing a device for many hours at a time. From a sensory perspective, the most immediate benefit is the low-profile design. The buds sit remarkably flush against the ear, which minimizes the intrusive pressure often felt with bulkier models. This is especially relevant for side sleepers or individuals who find traditional earbuds create a painful leverage point against the pillow. The material feels smooth and lacks sharp edges, allowing it to rest in the concha of the ear without triggering the immediate urge to remove them due to physical fatigue.

While the physical fit is a success for tactile comfort, the auditory environment they create is more complicated. For those navigating misophonia or general sound hypersensitivity, the active noise cancelling is a primary tool for survival in public spaces. These earbuds offer a decent reduction of low-frequency hums, but they struggle with higher-pitched ambient sounds. In a grocery store setting, the overhead music and the sharp clatter of carts still cut through even when personal audio is playing. This lack of a total vacuum might be disappointing for those who rely on silence to prevent sensory overload. The sound profile itself is clear enough for daily use, providing a balanced experience that does not lean too heavily into aggressive, vibrating bass which can sometimes be overstimulating. They serve as a gentle, budget-friendly entry point for anyone needing a comfortable physical fit above all else.

Pros: The slim design is exceptionally comfortable for side sleeping and long-term wear without causing ear soreness. The price point makes sensory accessibility more affordable. The battery life is reliable for all-day use.

Cons: The active noise cancelling is not strong enough to fully mask environmental triggers like background music or sharp overlapping voices. The sound quality is standard rather than immersive.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tcLqG0

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Furniture & HardwareSensory Tools

Alvantor Bed Tent

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

I reached out to Alvantor because I was really curious about how their bed tents would be for a sensory space. A space in your house with sensory toys or soothing materials can be helpful for misophonia, so I decided to try this! I received the tent for free, but that does not color my opinions of the product, as nothing was promised other than a tent in exchange for a fair and truthful review.

I have set it up in the basement because there’s nowhere else in my house with room. Luckily, I have an extra bed so I set it up there. The set up was very simple and straight-forward. I was worried because I HATE putting tents together, but all I had to do was insert 3 poles, and the rest of the tent just “popped up” ready to go.

I can also say that the tent is VERY STURDY because my cat is constantly jumping on the top of it, and there’s been no tears as of yet. I haven’t gotten all of my sensory tools in here, but I’ve been loading it up with pretty colored lights, play dough, coloring tools, fluffy pillows, and crafts, and I’ve been very happy with the size and space inside the tent so far. I’ve also gone into the tent when feeling overwhelmed, and I must say that it was nice to escape from the world for a time. The feeling of privacy and safety really does work with these tents, and is a great way to have a separation from the busy world.

I am going to put bright sheets and blankets in the tent so that it feels like a very soothing environment. As you can see, my cat agrees that this tent is a really nice sensory space.

The only real “draw back” is that they’re pricey and have import fees if you’re not in the USA, but they’re still a great value, and I haven’t found anything like it.

The smaller twin versions of these tents would be awesome for parents trying to build a sensory space for their kids in small homes. They also come in pink!

I recommend this product, and I’m really excited to spend more time in my tent.

Find on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3QNeg2j

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Earplugs

A Sensory-Focused Review of Loop Earplugs

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

For those of us who experience the world at a higher volume than others, the environment isn’t just “loud”—it’s invasive. Whether it’s the sharp “clack” of a keyboard, the hum of a refrigerator that feels like it’s vibrating inside your skull, or the overwhelming wall of sound in a grocery store, sensory overstimulation can trigger a physical “fight or flight” response.

I tested the Loop Earplugs to see if they could provide a functional “volume knob” for the world without making me feel isolated or physically uncomfortable.

The Tactile Experience: Fit and Feel

For sensory-sensitive individuals, what goes in the ear is just as important as what the ear hears. Many foam earplugs feel itchy, exert too much pressure on the ear canal, or fall out.

  • Weightlessness: Loops are incredibly light. Once they are seated correctly, the physical “presence” of the plug fades away quickly, which is vital for those with tactile defensiveness.
  • Customization: They come with multiple sizes of silicone and foam tips. This is a game-changer. Being able to find a tip that doesn’t feel like it’s “stretching” my ear canal reduced the claustrophobic feeling often associated with earplugs.
  • The Profile: Because they sit flush within the ear, there’s no snagging on hair or pressure when leaning against a pillow.

The Auditory Shift: Muting the “Jagged” Edges

The primary goal wasn’t to achieve total silence, but to filter the sharpness out of the environment.

  • The “Loop Experience” Effect: These are designed to take the edge off. They don’t muffle the world into a muddy mess; instead, they seem to shave off the high-frequency “peaks” of noise. The screech of a subway or the clatter of dishes becomes a duller, more distant thud.
  • Managing Internal Noise (Occlusion): One hurdle for sensory-sensitive people is the “underwater” sound of their own voice or heartbeat when wearing plugs. While Loop hasn’t eliminated this entirely, it is significantly less jarring than traditional foam plugs, making it possible to hold a conversation without feeling overwhelmed by the sound of your own breathing.

Environmental Regulation: Where They Shine

I tested these in several high-stimulus environments:

  1. The Social “Wall of Sound”: In a busy cafe, the “Experience” model allowed me to focus on the person across from me while the background roar of the espresso machine and surrounding chatter was pushed into the deep background. It lowered my baseline anxiety significantly.
  2. Focus Time: At home, the “Quiet” model was effective at masking the low-frequency hums (AC units, distant traffic) that usually prevent my brain from settling into a task. It created a “sensory bubble” that felt protective rather than isolating.

The Verdict: A Tool for Self-Regulation

If you live with a nervous system that is constantly “on alert” due to sound, Loop earplugs act as a much-needed filter. They don’t just stop noise; they reduce the sensory load on your brain.

Pros for Sensory Seekers/Avoiders:

  • Visual Appeal: They look like jewelry or high-end tech, reducing the “medical” feel.
  • Portability: The tiny carry case fits on a keychain, ensuring you have a “reset button” available when an environment becomes too much.
  • Durability: Easy to clean and reuse, which is great for those who are particular about hygiene and textures.

Cons:

  • The Case: The case is very small and can be finicky to open if you have fine motor sensitivities.
  • Trial and Error: It takes a few tries to figure out the “twist-and-lock” motion to get the perfect seal.

Final Thought: For anyone navigating a world that feels too loud, too sharp, or too “close,” these are a sophisticated tool for regaining control over your personal space. They don’t just protect your hearing; they protect your peace of mind.

Find on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49VYF7Q

Directly from Loop: https://loop-earplugs.sjv.io/c/1270068/3406540/16615

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Quiet Keyboards and Mice

The Logitech M240 Silent: A Portable Sensory Solution

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

For many individuals with sensory processing sensitivities, the environment doesn’t stop at the edge of the gaming monitor. Whether you’re working in a library, a quiet cafe, or a shared home office, the sharp “snap” of a standard mouse can be a constant auditory irritant.

The Logitech M240 Silent is designed specifically for these low-impact environments, prioritizing auditory “neutrality” in a compact, portable form factor.

Why the M240 Fits a Sensory-Friendly Lifestyle

While high-end gaming mice focus on “macro” buttons and rapid-fire response, the M240 focuses on SilentTouch Technology. This proprietary design reduces clicking sounds by over 90% compared to standard mice like the Logitech M185.

For someone with sound triggers, this takes a click from a sharp, distracting peak (around 58 dB) down to a soft, muffled whisper (around 42 dB).

Pros:

  • Acoustic Insulation: Uses internal polymer dampers to absorb vibration, removing the high-frequency “ping” found in budget hardware.
  • Tactile Consistency: Despite being quiet, it retains a soft tactile “bump,” providing physical feedback without the auditory tax.
  • Bluetooth Simplicity: Eliminates the need for a USB dongle, reducing visual clutter and the “buzzing” or interference sounds sometimes associated with 2.4GHz receivers.
  • Ultra-Lightweight: At just 73g, it requires very little physical effort to move, which is a plus for those who experience motor-based sensory fatigue.

Cons:

  • Simple Feature Set: With only three buttons, it isn’t ideal for heavy gaming or complex video editing that requires many shortcuts.
  • Compact Size: It is a “travel-sized” mouse. Those with larger hands or those who prefer a full-palm “resting” grip may find it causes hand cramping over long sessions.
  • No Dedicated DPI Button: Adjusting the cursor speed requires software, which might be a hurdle if you frequently switch between tasks that require different sensitivity levels.

The Sensory Experience: Beyond the Sound

When evaluating hardware for sensory disorders, the vibration and surface feel are just as important as the decibels.

  • The Click: The M240 feels “cushioned.” Instead of a metal-on-metal snap, it feels like pressing into a firm rubber membrane. It’s a “dull” sensation rather than a “sharp” one.
  • The Scroll: The wheel is designed for “line-by-line” scrolling. It has a subtle, notched feel that provides a steady rhythm without the loud ratcheting sound of mechanical wheels.
  • The Surface: It features a smooth, matte plastic finish that is resistant to that “sticky” feeling some plastics develop, which can be a common tactile “ick” for many users.

Final Verdict

The Logitech M240 isn’t a “power user” tool, but it is an exceptional sensory accessibility tool. It is arguably one of the most affordable ways to instantly lower the “noise floor” of your workspace. If you find the constant clicking of a standard mouse contributes to your end-of-day sensory exhaustion, this is a low-cost upgrade with a high-impact reward.

Sensory Tip: If the sound of the mouse sliding across your desk is still too loud, pair the M240 with a thick cloth desk mat. This will dampen the “thump” of the mouse landing and the “scratch” of the plastic feet against a hard surface.

Find on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4w7d5e1

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Quiet Keyboards and Mice

The Best Silent Gaming Mouse for Sensory Accessibility

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

For many gamers with sensory processing disorders (SPD), autism, or sound sensitivities, the “click-clack” of a standard mechanical mouse isn’t just a background noise—it can be a significant source of sensory overload. While the gaming industry often prioritizes “tactile” and “clicky” feedback, these features can make gaming inaccessible or even painful for those who need a calmer auditory environment.

Whether you are looking to reduce your own sensory input or trying to create a more inclusive environment for a housemate or partner with sound sensitivities, finding a truly silent gaming mouse is a game-changer.

Why Sensory-Friendly Hardware Matters

Standard gaming mice are designed for high-tactile feedback, which usually results in sharp, high-pitched clicking sounds. For neurodivergent individuals, these repetitive sounds can lead to:

  • Sensory Overload: The accumulation of small sounds leading to fatigue or “meltdown.”
  • Hyperacusis: An increased sensitivity to certain frequencies and volumes.
  • Loss of Focus: Difficulty filtering out peripheral noise to concentrate on the game.

The Top Pick: MOJO Pro Performance Silent Gaming Mouse

After extensive searching for a mouse that balances professional-grade specs with sensory-friendly silence, the MOJO Pro Performance (MJ-189) stands out as the premier choice.

Pros:

  • Near-Total Silence: Unlike “quiet” mice that still have a dull thud, this uses specialized silent micro-switches for almost zero decibel output.
  • High Customization: Features 9 programmable buttons, allowing you to map complex commands and reduce the need for loud keyboard clicks.
  • Gaming Grade Specs: With a PMW3336 sensor and up to 12,000 DPI, it doesn’t sacrifice performance for silence.
  • Wired Reliability: No need to worry about battery buzz or the sudden sensory disruption of a dying wireless connection.

Cons:

  • Price Point: It is a specialized piece of hardware and is priced higher than standard office mice.
  • Durability: Like many silent switches, they can lose their “dampening” feel after years of heavy use and may eventually need replacement.

Sensory Experience Review

The experience of using a truly silent mouse is transformative. It removes the “stutter” of auditory feedback, allowing the user to focus entirely on the visual and haptic flow of the game. For families or roommates, it also eliminates the “second-hand” sensory impact—allowing one person to play high-intensity games (like MOBAs or FPS titles that require heavy clicking) without disturbing the peace of the shared living space.

Final Verdict

If you find yourself reaching for noise-canceling headphones just to deal with your own mouse clicks, or if you find the “clicky” nature of gaming gear to be a barrier to entry, the MOJO Pro Performance is a vital accessibility tool. It proves that you don’t have to choose between being a competitive gamer and having a calm, sensory-safe environment.

Other Considerations for a Sensory-Friendly Setup:

  • Silent Keyboards: Look for “linear” switches (like Cherry MX Silent Red) or membrane keyboards to match your silent mouse.
  • Desk Mats: A large cloth desk mat can dampen the “thump” of the mouse moving against a hard surface.
  • DPI Settings: High DPI allows for smaller physical movements, which can be helpful for those with motor-related sensory sensitivities.

Find on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3P2fCpk

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Happy woman in bathrobe applying skincare routine with cotton pad indoors.
Clean Beauty

What is Clean Beauty?

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

“Clean beauty” is a term that has no official meaning. For some their idea of clean beauty is products free from parabens, phthalates, and various other ingredients that have fell out of favour in the past two decades. For some, clean beauty is completely natural and has no sythentic products. For others, synthetics are fine so long as they are nature-identical or have sufficient safety data. 

This lack of transparency or official term makes the world of “Clean” beauty confusing for many who are new to the concept. 

Organizations that rank skincare and products like Skinsafe, EWG, and the Yuka app have differing views on safety as well. Some of these apps have been accused of cherry-picking data or being overly cautious about studies that have not been replicated, or are only in animal populations and thus not necessarily as harmful to humans as they were to the subjects of the study. 

In my case, clean beauty also doesn’t have titanium dioxide because I’ve noticed I’m sensitive to this ingredient. There is some data that shows titanium dioxide may be unsafe but most of this is in foods, and in the EU titanium dioxide is no longer allowed in food products. Personally, I try to avoid a lot of metals including aluminum. Whether or not an individual is comfortable with an ingredient is subjective. As we wait for studies to formulate conclusive opinions, we must let our own comfort levels dictate what products we feel safe using on our skin and in our bodies. 

When brands say they are “CLEAN” there is nothing to prove that this is true, because the definition of clean is little more than a marketing gimmick. Numerous clean brands use lake dyes in their makeup, something I’ve personally never considered clean. 

For me clean beauty is about evaluating a product based on my personal needs, the ingredients, and the over-all safety. In the past I have done charts of all my skincare products to see which ingredients overlap. ChatGPT or Gemini can be useful for this as it can re-arrange all of your ingredient lists into a nice graph to see every ingredient you’re using over-all. I find this useful to see over-all exposure and figure out my comfort level with a certain product. This can also be useful if you keep a list of products that make you break out or that you didn’t like so that you can cross reference their ingredients. 

Over the past ten plus years I’ve tried to have beauty products that are as clean as possible. When I first started this journey in 2014 I was shipping in my products from Italy and France to Canada. Now, I’m still buying from Australia and random shops worldwide so this hasn’t necessarily changed. What did change was the marketing surrounding clean beauty. Suddenly every brand is “CLEAN” or “PARABEN FREE” despite looking at full ingredient lists and realizing that the product is full of other chemicals that are unnecessary, allergens, or even potential endocrine disrupters, neurotoxins, or carcinogens. Those big 3 are what I try to avoid most in products— secondary is the skin reactions I have and how well products work for me— and third is how well the formulations work in general. I have personally been more leniant on some preservatives (so long as not parabens) especially for products with a long shelf life. While a product might be “more natural,” than an another, bacteria is also natural. For me the entire point of clean beauty is feeling good about personal care for myself and my loved ones. Remember, one person’s allergies might be another person’s favourite ingredient. 

Clean beauty is beauty that you can feel good about.

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