Choosing vegan is a step towards living a more eco-friendly lifestyle – so we’re all for it. As conscious consumers, we are used to being mindful about what we put in our bodies. But what about on our skin? Vegan skincare is one of the best ways to ensure that your regime is as kind to your skin as it is to the planet.  Read on to find out the benefits of vegan skincare and how to incorporate vegan products into your regime.

What is vegan skincare?

Vegan products do not use any animal ingredients or animal by-products in the formulation. To trust that a formulation is truly vegan, look for an independent certification from an international organisation such as the UK Vegetarian Society (VegSoc). VegSoc is one of the world’s most recognised certifiers of vegan and vegetarian products.

What does vegan certification mean?

Certification by VegSoc confirms there are no animal ingredients or by-products in the formulation; the formulation has not been tested on animals; and there has been no contamination during the production process. When you see a VegSoc logo on a product such as Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream, you know you’re getting the benefits of vegan skincare that is truly vegan.

What are the benefits of vegan skincare?

It contains nourishing ingredients

Because vegan skincare products do not rely on animal ingredients, they are more likely to turn to nourishing natural ingredients instead. Nutrient-rich plant oils such as avocado oil and rosehip oil; Vitamin C-rich bioactives like Kakadu plum and kiwi seed oil; and native botanicals such as kawakawa and Pohutukawa contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that cultivate healthy skin.

Buyer beware: Be sure to read labels carefully, as synthetic ingredients can still be considered vegan. Look for natural formulations with a high concentration of bioactives and botanicals.

Vegan skincare is planet-friendly

The benefits of vegan skincare include sustainability. That’s because vegan skincare is free from the harmful production processes associated with raising animals. The United Nations Environment Programme and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have both highlighted the destructive effects of animal agriculture on our planet.

Buyer beware: It’s not just about formulation. Plastic packaging can be harmful to animals, so look for vegan products that are packaged in recyclable and sustainable materials like glass and aluminium. Hallelujah Lime & Patchouli Cream Cleanser is the perfect substitute for cleansers in plastic tubes, thanks to its premium tinted glass packaging.

Vegan skincare is kind to skin

When vegan formulations are built on clean ingredients from nature, instead of toxic synthetic ingredients, they are gentler on skin. If your skin is easily irritated or experiencing inflammation, choosing vegan is a great choice to bring your skin back to a healthy baseline without compromising efficacy. For example, Glow Vitamin C Daily Serum features bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol. This ancient herb contains none of the irritating side effects of retinol, yet it is just as effective at smoothing the appearance of fine lines and offering antioxidant protection.

Buyer beware: Be sure to check the label, as chemical and synthetic ingredients can still be considered vegan. Our products are free from parabens, petrochemicals, and toxic nasties which cause irritation.

How to get started on your vegan regime

If you’re not ready to commit to a full plant-powered skin care routine, that’s ok! Start by incorporating a small number of formulations into your routine and see how your skin likes them. Discover the benefits of vegan skincare with three certified vegan formulations that harness the best vegan ingredients.

Hallelujah Lime & Patchouli Cream Cleanser & Makeup Remover

A creamy vegan cleanser that gently removes impurities and makeup whilst replenishing natural oils. Perfect for all skin types, especially dry and combination.

Key ingredients:

1. Kawakawa – a natural skin tonic that calms and soothes

2. Avocado oil – replenishes skin’s healthy oils

Glow Vitamin C Brightening Serum to cleansed skin

A light-wear gel serum for instantly luminous, dewy skin. If you are experiencing dull or lacklustre skin, this is your must-have – but all skin types will benefit.

Key ingredients:

1. Kakadu plum – Nature’s richest source of Vitamin C

2. Bakuchiol – a natural alternative to retinol

Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream

A cloud-soft moisturiser to calm, clear, and hydrate skin. Suitable for all skin types, especially when skin is stressed or blemished.

Key ingredients:

1. Probiotics – good bacteria for healthy skin

2. Plant hyaluronic acid – draws moisture into the skin