Veganism isn’t just about food — the concept has now entered the world of cosmetics. With growing consumer awareness and concern for the environment and animal welfare, this trend has gained tremendous momentum.

This concept is known as vegan beauty. Simply put, vegan beauty refers to beauty products made without any animal-derived ingredients and not tested on animals.

The vegan beauty trend aligns closely with the rise of clean and sustainable beauty. It emphasizes the use of natural, eco-friendly ingredients. One of the main appeals of vegan beauty is that it’s often safer for people with sensitive skin.

Natural ingredients tend to be gentler and more soothing for sensitive skin. Vegan products are generally free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and animal-derived ingredients — all of which can potentially cause irritation or allergic reactions.

What Makes a Product Vegan?

A beauty product is classified as vegan when it is formulated without any ingredients or by-products that come from animals. This means common ingredients such as beeswax, lanolin, and animal fats are excluded. Instead, vegan cosmetics rely on plant-based ingredients and synthetic alternatives to achieve the desired effects.

Beyond vegan formulations, many consumers also seek products that are cruelty-free — meaning they are not tested on animals. These certifications are provided by various organizations, and brands often display the labels proudly on their packaging.

According to the Humane Society of Australia, “around 500,000 animals suffer and die every year globally just for cosmetics.” This practice is not only cruel but also wasteful and entirely unnecessary.

However, it’s important to note that the terms “cruelty-free” and “vegan” are not identical. While vegan products are by definition cruelty-free, not all cruelty-free products are vegan — as some may still contain animal-derived ingredients.

The Benefits of Using Vegan Beauty Products

Over the past decade, Google Trends data has shown a steady rise in interest in vegan beauty, with the UK, Ireland, and Australia being the leading drivers of this plant-based beauty movement. The vegan beauty market is expected to continue expanding, with the global vegan cosmetics industry projected to reach $21.4 billion by 2027.

Vegan beauty formulations offer a variety of benefits. First, using vegan beauty products helps reduce animal cruelty. Second, vegan beauty relies on ingredients like plant extracts, coconut, olive, soy, and almond oils.

These plant-based ingredients are proven to be beneficial for the skin, hair, and nails as they are rich in minerals and nutrients that moisturize and strengthen. Additionally, plant-based chemistry used in vegan formulations contributes positively to environmental protection and sustainability.

Popular Vegan Ingredients in Beauty Products

1. Plant-Based Squalane

Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced by human skin cells. Thanks to its antioxidant and detoxifying properties, it helps fight skin damage and boosts collagen production.

2. Vegan Waxes

Extracted from plants like soy or wild mango, vegan waxes are popular in cosmetics for thickening oil-based formulations and stabilizing solid products such as lipsticks. Besides being eco-friendly, they help refresh and improve skin elasticity while providing a protective barrier.

3. Soy Protein

Sourced from soybeans, it’s a natural antioxidant known for its soothing and regenerative effects on the skin.

4. Almond Oil

This popular vegan ingredient is known for its anti-inflammatory and emollient properties, as well as its rich nutritional content.

5. Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

A naturally occurring carbohydrate — or glycosaminoglycan — found throughout the body’s connective tissues. It helps maintain skin structure, hydration, and plumpness.

6. Coconut Oil

Extracted from mature coconut kernels, coconut oil is prized for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, promoting skin and oral health. With its hydrating and nourishing abilities, it’s a versatile staple in both skincare and haircare routines.