Have you ever heard of vegan skincare? It is quickly becoming a significant concept in the beauty industry, resonating deeply with those eager to adopt a cleaner, more ethical lifestyle. The shift began with veganism, but it’s more than about diet. It reflects a broader commitment to social & environmental responsibility. As this philosophy extends into other aspects of life, why not consider it for your skincare routine, too?
What Is Vegan Skincare?
Vegan skincare focuses on products entirely free of animal-derived substances, ensuring inclusivity and alignment with vegan principles. From facial cleansers to rejuvenating serums, these vegan products use plant-based ingredients, synthetic alternatives or innovative formulations that work effectively without animal input.
Why use vegan skincare?
- Environmentally friendly
- Gentle on skin
- Rich in Nutrients
- Innovative, high-performance formulas
- Promotes ethical consumption
Does Vegan Also Mean Cruelty-Free?
Are cruelty-free skincare products 100% vegan? Not necessarily.
The terms vegan and cruelty-free often intertwine, but they address different ethical aspects of beauty products.
As mentioned, vegan skincare refers to the absence of animal ingredients. Cruelty-free, on the other hand, indicates that the product and its ingredients haven’t been tested on animals.
Check the labels carefully!
Most vegan skincare products align with cruelty-free standards, but a vegan product might still use ingredients tested on animals. Similarly, cruelty-free items may include animal-derived ingredients. That’s why it’s important to check labels carefully if you’re seeking both vegan and cruelty-free options.
Ingredients to Avoid in Vegan Skincare
Want to start a vegan skincare routine? Be aware of common animal-derived ingredients in beauty products. Here are some key ingredients to watch out for:
- Beeswax and Honey: These natural ingredients have been a staple in the beauty industry for many years. Vegan options exclude them to avoid potential disruption to bee populations and ecosystems.
- Lanolin: Extracted from sheep’s wool, this ingredient has been favoured for its gloss-inducing properties. However, the industry now presents many plant-based alternatives that eliminate the need for animal by-products like lanolin.
- Collagen: Traditionally sourced from animals, collagen is celebrated for enhancing skin elasticity and strength. Vegan skincare shifts focus to plant-based or synthetic collagen, which offers similar benefits.
- Tallow: Tallow, commonly derived from the fatty tissue of sheep or cattle, is often used in conventional skincare products like soaps and creams. In contrast, vegan skincare relies on plant-based oils and kinds of butter.
- Retinol: Often derived from animal sources, retinol is a form of vitamin A used for its anti-ageing properties. Vegan alternatives include carotenoids from plants, which can be converted into vitamin A, offering similar benefits without harming animals.
- Squalene (not to be confused with squalane): Traditionally obtained from shark liver oil, squalene is used in many moisturising products for its hydrating effects. Due to ethical and conservation concerns, vegan skincare uses plant-derived squalane instead.
Additional non-vegan ingredients include:
- Glycerin
- Keratin
- Guanine
- Albumen
- Casein
- Hyaluronic Acid (animal-derived)
- Silk Proteins
- Beta-carotene (Sometimes animal-derived, but often plant-based. Verify the source if not explicitly stated as vegan)
What Are Vegan Ingredients in Skincare?
After identifying what to avoid, let’s explore the powerful ingredients that define vegan skincare. These plant-based and synthetic alternatives provide all the benefits of conventional skincare without compromising ethical standards.
At Everything Hair, you’ll find mindfully sourced vegan alternatives to common animal by-products, such as:
- Squalane
Squalane offers a humane alternative to animal-sourced squalene, providing similar effective results. Derived from olives, rice bran, and sugarcane, squalane is known for its soothing and hydrating properties. Products like DS Laboratories CBD Booster use squalane to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and protect against drying environmental stressors.
- Vegan Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid can come from animals, but vegan versions are made through bacterial fermentation of yeast and glucose (derived from beans and potatoes). Look for products like our Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Booster. It contains ten different forms of hyaluronic compounds, and its water-based hydration will help your skin surface look plump, even and elastic.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide boosts skin elasticity and enhances the barrier function. It also helps fade discolourations, reviving a healthy and even tone. That’s why you’ll often find it in vegan skincare products like dark spot correctors and brightening serums.
- Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has robust antibacterial and antifungal qualities, which provide a natural alternative to harsh chemical treatments. It is often a primary ingredient in vegan skincare products designed for deep cleansing.
Also, tea tree oil is beneficial in avoiding skin irritations often associated with sensitive areas. Its soothing capabilities make it a popular additive in vegan shaving formulas. Products like Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Shave Gel use tea tree oil to reduce razor burn and prevent ingrown hairs, offering a smoother and more comfortable shave.
- Broad-spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD is especially beneficial for acne-prone or sensitive skin. With its omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, CBD supports the immune system and promotes healthier skin by balancing hydration and calming irritation. A great example of a product that uses these benefits is Advanced CBD Blemish Defense. It combines broad-spectrum CBD with alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids to help prevent acne, reduce clogged pores, and improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles & uneven skin tone.
Other popular vegan ingredients include:
- Aloe Vera
- Natural oils like coconut, argan, and jojoba
- Shea Butter
- Witch Hazel
- Ceramides (Plant-derived)
- Glycerin (Vegetable-derived)
- Peptides (Synthetically produced)
- Salicylic acid
The Value of Informed Choices
Recognising vegan skincare products takes more than just reading the list of ingredients. But how do you know if a product is truly vegan?
- Vegan Certifications: Check for logos that confirm the product is certified vegan, ensuring it meets strict production standards and principles.
- Product Descriptions: Many brands clearly label their products as vegan on packaging or online listings.
- Brand Research: Check if the brand is entirely vegan or offers specific vegan lines.
- Vegan Apps: Use tools like the “Is it Vegan?” app for quick verification while shopping.
Where to Find Vegan Skincare in South Africa?
Choosing vegan skincare is more than about picking products labelled as vegan. It’s also about supporting brands committed to sustainable and ethical practices.
At Everything Hair, we embrace sustainable and ethical practices wholeheartedly! We are committed to offering a diverse range of vegan skincare products that cater to different skin needs without compromising ethical standards. Visit our online shop to find the perfect vegan solutions for your skin and take a more mindful approach to beauty! Explore our selection of premium skincare and hair care products, or head to our blog for more beauty tips!
