The End of an Era: REN Clean Skincare to Shut Down After 25 Years
On May 1, 2025, parent company Unilever announced that it would be shutting down REN Clean Skincare, a brand that has been a benchmark for “clean” beauty for over two decades. The brand, which was founded in 2000 by Rob Calcraft and Antony Buck, has been a trailblazer in the industry, eliminating parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances or dyes, and petrochemicals from its formulas.
“We are proud of the REN team for all they have accomplished during 25 years of business, putting ‘clean’ skin care on the agenda and creating positive change for both people and planet and thank them as they continue to support us through this closure.”
A Representative from Unilever
The brand’s commitment to clean beauty has been unwavering, and it has been a driving force behind the growth of the natural and organic beauty industry. REN Clean Skincare’s products have been free from harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients, making them a favorite among consumers who prioritize their health and the environment.
- Eliminated parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances or dyes, and petrochemicals from its formulas.
- Used natural and organic ingredients in its products.
- Developed products that were gentle and effective for sensitive skin.
The brand’s success can be attributed to its commitment to clean beauty, and its influence can be seen in many “clean” and “green” beauty companies that have followed in its footsteps. A Tribute to REN Clean Skincare
As a beauty editor, it’s always painful to watch a beloved brand shut down, especially one as pioneering as REN. I remember picking up the cult-favorite Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask after reading about it in Alessandra Codinha’s skincare routine, well before I knew anything about the power of exfoliating acids.
| Product | Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask |
| Benefits | Exfoliates and brightens the skin |
I eagerly slathered the bright orange goo over my 24-year-old complexion in the bathroom of my first NYC apartment, and marveled at how clear and soft my skin felt after rinsing it off. The entire process—from buying the bottle at the Columbus Circle Whole Foods on my measly salary to pampering my skin as a burgeoning beauty fanatic—felt significant, even if I didn’t fully appreciate the beginnings of my eventual career in the industry. A Lasting Impact
While it’s true that the beauty industry is constantly evolving, and brands like REN Clean Skincare are a natural part of that evolution, it’s still sad to see a brand with such a strong commitment to clean beauty shut down. REN Clean Skincare’s influence can be seen in many “clean” and “green” beauty companies that have followed in its footsteps. Shopping List
* Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask
* Other REN Clean Skincare products
A Message from the Author
As a beauty editor, I’ll be stocking up on a few more bottles of my favorite REN Clean Skincare products to bid the beauty pioneer farewell. It’s a small way to show my appreciation for the brand’s contributions to the industry, and to celebrate the impact it has had on my career as a beauty editor.
Clean beauty refers to a philosophy that prioritizes the use of natural and organic ingredients, and the elimination of harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients from beauty products.
Sustainable beauty refers to the use of beauty products that are environmentally friendly, and that prioritize the well-being of both people and the planet.
Natural beauty refers to the use of beauty products that are made from natural ingredients, and that are free from harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients.
Organic beauty refers to the use of beauty products that are made from organic ingredients, and that are free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and petrochemicals. The Future of Clean Beauty
While the shutdown of REN Clean Skincare may come as a shock to many, it’s not the end of the clean beauty movement. There are many other brands that are committed to clean beauty, and that are continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in the industry. As the demand for clean beauty continues to grow, it’s likely that we’ll see more brands emerge that are committed to using natural and organic ingredients, and eliminating harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients from their products. The future of clean beauty is bright, and it’s an exciting time to be a part of the industry.