How to Find Vegan Skincare
Vegan skincare has gotten extremely popular in the past couple of years as more and more people become aware of the impact that beauty products are having on both their own health and the health of the earth. With a growing concern for animal welfare and sustainability, vegan skincare is a reasonable switch to make. This compassionate and eco-friendly option is actually available all around you if you know where to look.
But what exactly is vegan skincare and how does it differ from traditional skincare products?
Vegan skincare is a type of skincare that does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. Some common ingredients from animals or animal byproducts include beeswax, lanolin, and collagen, all of which are commonly used to formulate with in traditional skincare products. In addition to avoiding these ingredients, vegan skincare brands tend to also prioritize the use of natural and organic ingredients. These ingredients are also are gentler on the skin and the environment.
One of the main benefits of vegan skincare is that it is usually cruelty-free. But not always. Some traditional skincare products have been tested on animals to determine their safety. But this type of testing in the modern world is painful and unethical, especially since other equally effective testing methods now exist. Vegan skincare products, tend to value animals and as a result, are often not tested on animals making them a more ethical and compassionate company.
In addition to typically being cruelty-free, vegan skincare brands also tend to value the environment as well, often choosing more sustainable options than traditional skincare brands. There are some commonly used ingredients that are derived from non-renewable sources, such as petroleum and mineral oil. Sounds gross right? Like, who is putting that on their face? Well, no one should be, but some people are without realizing it. These ingredients are not sustainable long term and are extremely harmful to the environment. Vegan skincare products, on the other hand, often prioritize using natural and organic ingredients. Ingredients that are sourced from renewable sources, making them better for the planet over time.
So, it’s fair to say that vegan skincare is good for the environment and better for the animals. But the benefits don’t stop there, most importantly, vegan products are great for your skin. Traditional skincare products are sometimes formulated with harsh chemicals that can irritate and dry out the skin. Traditional does not always mean better. Vegan skincare products don't tend to have these adverse effects for the skin. These products are formulated with natural and organic ingredients that are gentler on the skin and can even be more beneficial for certain skin concerns than traditional products. The most common are plant-based oils such as jojoba oil and coconut oil which are ideal at moisturizing the skin and reducing inflammation.
Another benefit of vegan skincare is that it is often free from synthetic fragrances and preservatives which can irritate the skin and contain harmful chemicals. Vegan skincare products, on the other hand, often use natural fragrances and preservatives, which overall, are just, better for the skin.
If you are considering transitioning to a vegan skincare routine and want to ensure that you are using products that are suitable for your skin type, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Identify your skin type: It's important to determine your skin type, just in general. Knowing your skin type allows you to carefully choose the skincare products that have been formulated specifically for you so that you can see all benefits you want to see in your skin. If you have oily skin, look for vegan skincare products that are lightweight and oil-free. For those of you whose skin is on the drier side, reach for products that are rich and hydrating. And, if you have sensitive skin, products that are gentle and free of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances are ideal for you.
Read labels and ingredient lists: Not all products labeled as "natural" or "organic" are guaranteed to be vegan as well, so make sure you read the ingredient list of the products you’re thinking of buying thoroughly. Look for products that are not formulated with any animal-derived ingredients.
Consider natural and organic ingredients: One of the main benefits of vegan skincare products is that they tend to contain natural and organic ingredients that your skin and the environment prefer. But not all of them do, so make sure you’re being picky when selecting your products. Reach for plant-based oils, like coconut oil, avocado oil, and almond oil, as well as other natural ingredients, such as aloe vera and chamomile.
Look for products that are suitable for your skin concerns: If you have specific skin concerns you want to address, like acne or aging, look for vegan skincare products that have been formulated to address these concerns, there are plenty. For example, ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree oil are ideal for helping acne-prone skin recover and heal. If you are more concerned about aging, search for vegan products that contain antioxidants, such as vitamin C or green tea.
Vegan skincare can be a great option for those who are looking for products that are better for themselves, the environment, and of course, for the animals. Vegan skincare products can contain a wide range of nourishing and hydrating ingredients that benefit the skin, and they are generally free of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances. However, it's important to read labels and ingredient lists carefully to ensure that you are using truly vegan products.
