Plant

Adopting a vegan lifestyle extends beyond what we eat. Many skin care and beauty items found in our bathrooms and on our dressers may still include animal-derived ingredients.

Understanding “Vegan”

With so many labels out there, it can be confusing to understand what they all mean. Let’s clarify some common terms.

Vegetarian

In the context of food, “vegetarian” refers to items that do not include animal flesh. For beauty and skin care products, it signifies the absence of animal ingredients as well.

Vegan

Vegans take it a step further; like vegetarians, they avoid animal flesh, but they also abstain from all animal products, including dairy and eggs. For beauty and skin care, this means steering clear of any products that contain or are derived from animals. Some products may even carry a certification confirming they are vegan. Typically, vegans also prefer cruelty-free options.

Cruelty-Free

This designation indicates that the product was not tested on animals, often marked with the recognized “leaping bunny” certification.

Natural

It’s crucial to note that vegan products may not necessarily be natural or non-toxic. The ideal products for vegans are those that are also natural, healthy, and cruelty-free. While sourcing such items may require extra effort, it benefits animals, the environment, and our health. Fortunately, companies meeting these criteria do exist, and their products can often be found at natural health retailers.

Ingredients to Monitor

Allantoin

This skin-conditioning agent can originate from both plants and animals, so it’s advisable to verify by checking labels or inquiring with the manufacturer.

Beeswax and Honey

Despite being vegetarian, these ingredients are not vegan. Vegan alternatives for beeswax include carnauba wax and candelilla wax, while substitutes for honey are vegetable colors and oils.

Carmine

Derived from red beetles, this pigment is commonly used in natural lip products. Beet juice serves as a suitable alternative.

Emu Oil

For this moisturizing agent, plant-based oils are good alternatives.

Lanolin

This moisturizing component is sourced from sheep’s wool. Vegans may want to note that many natural vitamin D supplements are derived from lanolin, though there are vegan options available.

Glycerin

This ingredient can be derived from animal fat or vegetable sources. If uncertain, reach out to the company for clarification.

Squalene

Traditionally sourced from shark liver, many manufacturers now extract this moisturizing ingredient from olive oil. Always check the label to confirm.

For an extensive list, visit peta.org/living/beauty/animal-ingredients-list.

Finding suitable alternatives can sometimes be a challenge. For example, Crystal Winterton, owner of Sugar & Spice Bath and Bodycare, notes that identifying substitutes for beeswax can be complicated. “I use beeswax in our deodorants for shape retention and its antibacterial properties.”

She adds, “The main challenge isn’t in product creation or recipe formulation; it’s in sourcing ingredients that align with our environmental standards. With numerous options available, thorough research becomes essential in establishing a reliable supply chain.”

The key, according to Winterton, is to choose beauty and skin care products that suit your personal needs. “Every individual will have distinct requirements for their skin care, whether they are vegetarian, vegan, or otherwise. I encourage everyone to read labels, research ingredients, and ask questions.”