As more people adopt a vegan lifestyle, it's essential to ensure that the products we use in our daily lives align with our values. While it may seem daunting to switch to a vegan beauty routine, there are plenty of options available that are both cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.

When looking for vegan beauty products, it's important to ensure that the ingredients listed are all of natural origin and are not tested on animals. One way to check if a product is cruelty-free is to look for the Leaping Bunny logo, which guarantees that no animal testing was involved in the product's development.

Here are five vegan beauty products that you can add to your routine:

1. Plant-based fragrance oils

Plant-based fragrances are an excellent choice for vegans who want to smell fresh without using traditional perfumes that contain animal ingredients. These oils are often derived from natural, raw botanical sources and contain pure essential oils. They are also more concentrated than traditional perfumes, so you only need a small amount to keep you smelling great all day long.

You should also check out my Wild natural deodorant review for a plant-based deodorant that's also zero-waste!

2. Synthetic makeup brushes

High-tech synthetic fibers perform just as well, if not better than animal hair brushes, and are easier to clean. Additionally, they repel bacteria better than animal hair does, making them a more hygienic choice. Synthetic brushes are also ideal for people with allergies to animal hair.  If you are vegan then you'll always have to choose synthetic make-up brushes.

3. Non-leather makeup bags

Choosing a non-leather makeup bag is an essential part of adopting a vegan lifestyle fully. Avoiding animal products should extend to all aspects of our lives, including the products we use. While you may already avoid leather shoes and handbags, it's important to ensure your makeup bag is also non-leather.

4. Mineral foundation

Mineral foundation is a popular choice for vegans because it uses natural pigments and minerals that work with your skin, not against it. It provides full coverage without clogging pores, and some even have healing properties for problem skin. Always check the ingredients list to ensure they are all of natural origin, and are vegan and cruelty-free.  Choose a natural skincare brand such as Tropic Skincare who offer a mineral foundation that is powered by intelligent, active botanical extracts of oil leaf, sea buckthorn, and vitamin e.

5. Beeswax-free mascara

Some vegans choose to avoid beeswax and honey because it involves human exploitation of another species.  According to PETA, some farmers at larger bee farms cut off the queen bee’s wings to prevent her from leaving the colony.  Many mascaras contain beeswax, so it's essential to read the label carefully if you want to avoid it. If the company cannot provide a straightforward answer about whether their product is vegan, it may be best to look for an alternative.

What are some common animal ingredients found in beauty products?

Some common animal ingredients found in beauty products include beeswax, lanolin, carmine, and guanine. It's important to read the ingredient labels carefully to ensure that the products you're using are free from animal ingredients.

Are vegan beauty products more expensive than non-vegan products?

Not necessarily. While some vegan beauty products may be more expensive, there are plenty of affordable options available such as Benecos makeup. It's always a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase.  Follow our tips on how to save money on beauty products.

Can I find vegan beauty products at my local drugstore?

Yes, you can find vegan beauty products at most drugstores. Look for brands that are certified cruelty-free and vegan, or read the ingredient labels to ensure that the products you're using are free from animal ingredients.

Can I still use my favourite non-vegan beauty products if I'm vegan?

While it's ultimately up to you, many vegans choose to avoid non-vegan beauty products because they contain animal ingredients or have been tested on animals. However, if you have non-vegan products that you love and don't want to replace, you can continue to use them until they run out.

What are some vegan and cruelty-free skincare brands?

There are many vegan and cruelty-free skincare brands available, including Benecos, Sukin, Barry M, Lush, Moo & Yoo, Faith In Nature, and Pacifica Beauty. Do your research and read reviews to find the best brands for your specific skincare needs.

Final word

In conclusion, incorporating vegan beauty products into your daily routine is a small but impactful step toward living a more ethical and sustainable lifestyle.  Veganism isn't just a beauty trend or diet trend, it's a lifestyle choice with a moral standing. It's important to remember that being vegan isn't just about what we eat but also extends to the products we use. By choosing vegan beauty products, we can make a positive impact on animals and the environment.  

And, don't beat yourself up if you make a beauty mistake and accidentally use a non-vegan product.  There are so many things to learn, ingredient names that aren't obviously animal-sourced, that it can take time.  Most companies will openly label products as vegan, if they are, so you can be certain.