Whether you’re already a vegan or are simply curious about vegan-friendly beauty, we’ll give you a quick lowdown on what these products can do for your skin and the world around you.
What is vegan skincare?
Vegan diets are becoming more popular, with an increasing number of people giving up meat for a plant-based diet. Adopting a vegan lifestyle doesn’t end with food though. Choosing clothing, household products, cosmetics and skincare products free from any animal derived ingredients is also a key part of being a vegan.
What defines vegan skincare?
Vegan skincare products do not contain any animal by-products or ingredients. Animal by-products such as honey, beeswax, lanolin, collagen, carmine, cholesterol, gelatin, squalene and stearic acid are commonly used in the majority of leading brands’ beauty products and cosmetics. From moisturisers and cleansers to soaps and fragrances, these ingredients are frequently found in an extensive range of skincare products.
How can I tell if a product is vegan?
Certified vegan products feature two logos by Vegan Action and The Vegan Society on their packaging to indicate that they don’t contain any animal ingredients. Familiarising yourself with animal-derived ingredients and checking product packaging is another way to find vegan-friendly products. PETA’s Animal Ingredients List is just one source of this information.
What is the difference between vegan and cruelty-free products?
Many assume that if a product is vegan it has not been tested on animals, but this may not always be the case. Unless it’s stated on the packaging, it’s possible that a vegan skincare product may have been through some animal testing. To ensure this isn’t the case, look out for the Leaping Bunny logo. It appears on certified cruelty-free products to show that they have not been tested on
What are the effects of vegan products on your skin?
Usually made from natural or organic ingredients, cruelty-free and vegan skincare products tend to be gentler on the skin. Those with sensitive, easily irritated or allergy-prone skin may find these products especially beneficial as they also tend to contain fewer ingredients that aggravate any skin conditions or cause reactions.
What are some other benefits of vegan skincare?
Along with a vegan diet, choosing plant-based skincare is kinder to animals as they do not use animal by-products, and are usually produced without animal testing. However, keep in mind being vegan-friendly does not guarantee that all vegan products have not been tested on animals.
To be certain, go for products that are both vegan and cruelty-free. If you’re trying to lead an eco-friendly lifestyle, choosing vegan products may also have an impact on the environment. According to a 2010 report by the United Nations Environment Programme, animal products are key cause of environmental problems including climate change, water depletion and soil erosion.
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