Are you thinking of making the switch to vegan skincare?
Switching all your beauty products won’t be cheap. So here are some of the most important things to know before you spend money on vegan skincare products.
1. Know What Vegan Skincare Actually Means
Vegan skincare means no animal ingredients. Think: no beeswax, no lanolin, no honey. It’s all about plants and minerals!
This approach focuses on using plant-based and mineral-based ingredients that can nourish, hydrate and protect your skin without harming animals.
2. Vegan and Cruelty-Free Are Not the Same
Cruelty-free products aren’t tested on animals but can still contain animal ingredients. Vegan means no animal testing AND no animal ingredients — a win-win!
When shopping, look for labels like the Leaping Bunny or PETA’s cruelty-free logo to ensure your products are both cruelty-free and vegan.
3. Know Which Ingredients to Watch Out For
Ingredients that are usually animal-derived include stearic acid, glycerin and collagen. Check for plant-based sources instead — for instance, plant-based glycerin is usually derived from soybeans or coconuts.
Similarly, look for products that specify “plant-based collagen” or “vegetable stearic acid” to avoid animal derivatives. Similarly, terms like “carminic acid” (crushed beetles) and “keratin” (animal hair) are red flags. Knowing these terms helps you make informed choices and avoid hidden animal products.
Read more: The Little-Known Skincare Ingredients That Aren’t Vegan
4. Natural Doesn’t Always Mean Better
Some natural ingredients can cause allergies. Patch test new products! Even natural ingredients like essential oils can be irritating to some skin types. Conducting a patch test on a small area of your skin can help you avoid adverse reactions.
Also, be aware that “natural” doesn’t automatically mean safe or suitable for everyone, so always check the ingredient list and consult a dermatologist if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
5. Vegan Skincare Can Be More Eco-Friendly
No animal farming means less environmental impact. Many vegan brands also use sustainable practices, such as recycled packaging or supporting reforestation projects.
6. It’s Good to Support Local Brands
The UK has some amazing vegan skincare brands. Shopping local means supporting ethical, homegrown businesses. Brands like Evolve Beauty and Faith in Nature offer fantastic vegan options.
7. Vegan Skincare Can Be Budget-Friendly
Not all vegan products are pricey. Brands like Superdrug offer affordable vegan options. You don’t need to break the bank to make ethical choices.
You can find quality vegan skincare that fits your budget by exploring budget-friendly brands and looking for sales and discounts. Many supermarket own brands now offer vegan lines that provide effective skincare without the high cost.
8. Look out for Ethical Packaging
Many vegan brands use recyclable or biodegradable packaging. Love your skin — love the planet! Look for brands that prioritise minimal plastic use and offer refill options.
Choosing products with eco-friendly packaging not only supports your skincare routine but also contributes to reducing environmental impact. Brands committed to sustainable packaging often highlight these efforts on their labels, making it easier for you to make environmentally conscious choices.
9. Consider Subscription Boxes
Try vegan skincare without the commitment. Subscription boxes like The Vegan Kind deliver monthly goodies. It’s a fun way to discover new products and brands. These boxes often include various skincare items, from cleansers to moisturisers, allowing you to test and find what works best for your skin.
Subscription boxes can also introduce you to lesser-known vegan brands and exclusive products, expanding your skincare repertoire without the hassle of extensive research.
10. Be Aware of Common Allergens in Vegan Products
Watch out for common allergens like nuts or soy in vegan products. Always check the ingredients. If you have specific allergies, many brands offer allergen-free options. It’s important to read labels carefully and consult a dermatologist to avoid adverse reactions.
Some vegan skincare products also list potential allergens prominently, making safe and informed choices easier.
11. Look for Vegan Perfumes
Yes, they’re a thing! Brands like Eden Perfumes offer a range of scents without animal ingredients. You can smell amazing without compromising your values. Vegan perfumes use plant-based essential oils and natural extracts to create delightful fragrances.
These perfumes are also often free from harmful chemicals, making them healthier for your skin and overall well-being. By choosing vegan perfumes, you support cruelty-free practices and enjoy luxurious scents guilt-free.
12. Some Brands Support Charitable Causes
Many vegan brands donate a portion of their profits to animal charities. Your purchase can make a difference! Check the brand’s website to see how they give back. Supporting these brands helps you maintain an ethical skincare routine and contributes to broader efforts in animal welfare and environmental protection.
By choosing products from companies that align with your values, you can amplify your impact and support important causes with every purchase.
13. Simplify Your Routine
With fewer synthetic chemicals, vegan products can simplify your skincare routine. Less is more! Basic routines with cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen can be incredibly effective. Simplifying your routine can also reduce the risk of irritation and make it easier to maintain consistency.
To streamline your daily regimen, opt for multi-functional products that provide multiple benefits, such as a moisturiser with built-in SPF or a cleanser that also tones.
14. Get a Good Makeup Remover
Vegan makeup removers like micellar water or coconut oil are gentle and effective. They remove makeup without stripping your skin’s natural oils. These products are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, making them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Using vegan makeup removers can help maintain your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it clean, soft and hydrated.
15. Sunscreen Solutions Can Be Vegan Too!
Yes, vegan sunscreens exist! They protect your skin and the ocean reefs. Look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients provide broad-spectrum protection without harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs.
Vegan sunscreens are also often free from synthetic additives, making them a safer choice for your skin and the environment.
16. Community Support Is Everything
Join vegan skincare communities on Facebook or Reddit for tips, reviews and support. These groups can offer recommendations and help troubleshoot any issues you might have.
17. Read the Reviews
Always read reviews and do your research. Sites like Ethical Elephant provide detailed vegan product reviews. Reviews from real users can give you insight into product performance.
18. Transition Slowly
Introduce vegan products into your routine gradually to avoid overwhelming your skin. This helps your skin adjust and reduces the risk of irritation.
19. Opt for Multi-Purpose Products
Look for multi-purpose vegan products to save money and reduce waste. Think: lip and cheek tints! A single product can simplify your routine and lighten your travel bag.
20. Choose Salon Treatments Wisely
Vegan options for facials and treatments are available in many UK salons. Ask ahead! Many spas now offer vegan-friendly services. These treatments use products free from animal ingredients and testing, allowing you to indulge in luxurious skincare while adhering to your ethical values.
You can enjoy a pampering session from vegan facials to body scrubs, knowing that the products align with your lifestyle.
21. Vegan Skincare Is for the Whole Family
Vegan skincare can be safe and effective for all family members, including babies. Gentle formulas without harsh chemicals make them ideal for delicate skin. Products formulated with natural, plant-based ingredients are often hypoallergenic and free from irritating additives, making them suitable for everyone from kids to adults.
Using vegan skincare can provide peace of mind that your family’s skin is cared for with gentle, ethical products.
22. Enjoy the Feel Good Factor
Knowing your skincare routine is kind to animals and the planet feels pretty amazing! Plus, many people report that vegan skincare makes them feel more connected to their ethical values.
Thinking about making the switch? Now you know the essentials! Vegan skincare is not just a trend — it’s a movement towards healthier skin and a healthier planet.
Really glad to see vegan skincare getting the spotlight it deserves! Had no idea that vegan doesn’t automatically mean cruelty-free. Thanks for the enlightening article
Curious about the claim that vegan skincare can be more eco-friendly. Does this consider the entire lifecycle of the product, including packaging and transport?
i think while vegan skincare is a step in the right direction, we shouldn’t ignore the broader issue of consumerism in beauty. Thoughts?
Spot on! It’s about making informed choices and understanding the impact beyond just the label.
Looking for a good vegan makeup remover, any recommendations? Cheers!
Vegan skincare for the whole family, because my toddler definitely needs a detox from all that steak and dairy he’s not consuming.
love the idea of supporting local brands that make vegan products, gonna add that to my blog. thx for the inspo!
Didn’t realize that natural doesn’t always mean better. It’s been an eye-opener, gonna think more critically about my choices now.
A vegan perfume, because my current one, eau de beef, is really not working for me.
Are there any common allergens in vegan skincare products I should be aware of for my kids?
It’s important to remember that just because a product is vegan, doesn’t guarantee it’s effective or better. Do your research.