Embracing a vegan lifestyle goes beyond dietary choices; it also extends into our personal care routines. Many skincare and beauty items found in our bathrooms and bedrooms may have animal-derived ingredients.
Understanding “Vegan”
With numerous definitions around us, it can be confusing to differentiate between various terms. Let’s clarify.
Vegetarian
The term “vegetarian” indicates that a food item does not include meat. In the context of beauty and skincare products, it signifies that they are free from animal ingredients.
Vegan
Vegans take a broader approach. Much like vegetarians, they avoid eating meat, but they also refrain from consuming any animal products such as dairy and eggs. In the realm of beauty and skincare, vegans avoid products that contain or utilize animal-derived components. Vegan products can also carry certification labels, and typically, vegans opt for cruelty-free items.
Cruelty-Free
This label indicates that a product has not undergone testing on animals, which is often marked by the well-known “leaping bunny” symbol.
Natural
Keep in mind that vegan beauty products are not inherently natural or nontoxic. The ideal products for vegans are those that are also natural, healthy, and cruelty-free. While this may require extra effort, it benefits animals, the environment, and our own well-being. Many companies meet these standards and offer their products at natural health retailers.
Ingredients to Be Aware Of
Allantoin
This skin-soothing agent can originate from either botanical or animal sources, so it’s wise to inquire or check the product labels.
Beeswax and Honey
Although these ingredients are vegetarian, they are not suitable for a vegan lifestyle. Alternatives to beeswax include carnauba wax and candelilla wax, and for honey, consider vegetable-based colors and oils.
Carmine
This colorant, extracted from red beetles, is commonly found in natural lip products. Beet juice serves as a viable alternative.
Emu Oil
For this non-vegan moisturizing agent, plant and vegetable oils are suitable substitutes.
Lanolin
This moisturizing agent comes from sheep’s wool. Vegans may want to note that numerous natural vitamin D supplements are derived from lanolin, though vegan options are available.
Glycerin
This prevalent ingredient can be derived from either animal fats or plant sources. If you’re uncertain, it’s best to reach out to the company.
Squalene
Once obtained primarily from shark liver, many brands now extract squalene from olive oil. Always read labels to confirm sourcing.
For an extensive list, visit peta.org/living/beauty/animal-ingredients-list.
Finding alternatives can sometimes be challenging. Crystal Winterton, the owner of Sugar & Spice Bath and Bodycare, mentions that substituting beeswax can present difficulties. “I use beeswax in our deodorants to maintain product structure and provide antibacterial benefits.”
She adds, “The real challenge lies not in creating products or recipes but in sourcing ingredients that align with our environmental principles. With countless options available, thorough research is essential to establish a reliable supply chain.”
Ultimately, choosing beauty and skincare items should be a personal choice. “Each individual has distinct needs for their skincare regimen, regardless of whether they identify as vegetarian, vegan, or something else,” Winterton advises. “I encourage people to examine labels, research ingredients, and ask questions.”
