Vegan Makeup, is it for me?
In recent years, the number of Vegan consumers has been growing considerably. Many makeup brands have become more conscious of animal cruelty issues and their effects on society as a whole, resulting in many of those brands refuse to apply any animal ingredients in their products. Nevertheless, some brands may not be wholly vegan in all product lines – but provide some Vegan beauty products.
Vegan vs Vegan-Friendly – What’s the difference?
“Vegan” and “Vegan-Friendly” cosmetics are defined as beauty products that do not contain animal ingredients, animal by-products, or any other animal-derived ingredients such as beeswax, honey and so on. If the products are labelled “Vegan” by Vegan Action – The Vegan Society and PETA, it can guarantee that the products contain only plant-based ingredients. On the other hand, the label “Vegan-Friendly” is claimed by only manufacturers. It has not been registered by Vegan-Certifying Organizations to ensure that such Vegan product meets their standards.
While the definition of “Cruelty-Free” is a creation and a production process without animal testing or harm. However, even though many products are labelled vegan, it does not mean all vegan products are cruelty-free. The products can be tested on animals and can still legally claimed as Vegan.
Why should I use Vegan makeup?
There are several benefits associated with Vegan products. Firstly, Vegan makeup and skincare are generally more gentle on your skin. Vegan makeup products are formulated with hypoallergenic formula, including gluten-free which is ideal for those who have sensitive, irritating skin conditions and especially for people who suffer from celiac disease and other inflammatory skin conditions. Moreover, avoiding cosmetics and skincare products with harmful chemicals and animal-by ingredients is useful for the body in the long term and can restrain serious health conditions. The second advantage is that vegan makeup are usually more eco-friendly. As Vegan makeup are almost chemical-free, resulting in fewer toxins are released into the atmosphere. In addition, many companies tend to use recyclable, biodegradable and non-toxic packaging, leading to the reduction of landfills. Lastly, vegan makeup production supports animal welfare. Using cosmetics that are consisted of animal by-products leads to the slaughter and cruel treatment of more animals. So, the only way to stop these actions is to stop purchasing the products that contribute to such issue.
Any downside on vegan makeup?
Of course, there are some disadvantages to Vegan makeup. Firstly, Vegan makeup does not come with as many colour and shade options. Because the bright colours are made of artificial ingredients, causing limited to a smaller number of shades. Next, Vegan makeup might not last long. Most products need some level of preservatives which are synthesized ingredients. As a result, your vegan makeup may have a shorter shelf life.
Vegan makeup are suitable for all people who are aware of animal cruelty issues and environmental problems and want to actively address these issues. It is also most suitable for people who want to care more for their health by avoiding harmful chemicals and animal-by ingredients which can effectively prevent severe health conditions in the long run.
References
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Cosmetics, B., n.d. Vegan Beauty Products. [Online]
Available at: https://www.bhcosmetics.com/pages/resources-vegan-beauty-products
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Elephant, E., 2020. Vegan Beauty Basics (Quick & Easy Guide to Understand What Vegan Beauty Is). [Online]
Available at: https://ethicalelephant.com/vegan-beauty-cosmetics-explained/
[Accessed 29 April 2021].
Marković, A., n.d. Vegan Makeup: A Guide to Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Brands. [Online]
Available at: https://www.unsustainablemagazine.com/vegan-makeup-a-guide-to-cruelty-free-cosmetics-brands/
[Accessed 29 April 2021].
Rania, P., 2018. Pros and Cons of Organic Makeup and Cosmetics. [Online]
Available at: https://makeupandbody.com/pros-and-cons-of-organic-makeup-and-cosmetics/
[Accessed 29 April 2021].
Williams, A., 2014. 5 Myths About Vegetarian and Vegan Makeup. [Online]
Available at: https://www.qcmakeupacademy.com/2014/05/5-myths-vegetarian-vegan-makeup/
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