The skincare industry is on the rise. People of all ages are looking to achieve healthier and younger-looking skin. This has resulted in a dramatic increase in sales of skincare products.

The worldwide skincare industry is worth over 130 billion dollars as of 2019. And the United States boasts the most rapid growth within that market. 

But one of the fastest-growing sectors of that market is vegan skincare. Many consumers are realizing the benefits of plant-based products formulated for skincare. Why are sales of these vegan skincare brands surging?

In this article, we'll take a look at some of the science behind eco-friendly skincare. 

What Is Vegan Skincare? 

All aspects of a vegan lifestyle work without animal products. Non-vegans are also learning that the use of animal products can be less healthy.

More consumers are eliminating animal products from their diets. They're doing the same with their beauty products too. And many are moving toward more sustainable skincare brands.

But what is vegan skincare? The creation of vegan skincare products uses no animal products at all. Additionally, the manufacturers must not test any of their products on animals.

Plant-based materials are the primary ingredients in these skincare products. Many irritating and harsh chemicals are not included in the formulation process. 

Vegan skincare brands commit to quality. This offers more ways to keep animal products out of their skincare routines.

Vegan skincare brands also dedicate time to educating the general public. With this knowledge, people can make better choices. Adding vegan skincare products promotes healthier skin.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Skincare? 

Many shoppers have questions. Do vegan products work like the brands I've been using for years? Can I live without my favorite brands and products? Why make the switch to vegan products?

Almost all beauty products rely on the use of animal products and ingredients. These ingredients can include collagen proteins and even dyes made from animals. Vegan products never use animal ingredients. Instead, these products focus on more ethically sourced materials.

But vegan skincare is not just for those who follow a strict vegan diet and lifestyle. Today, many people are making more ethical and health-conscious choices. Many vegan skincare brands are seeing a noticeable increase in sales. 

How Does Vegan Skincare Benefit the Environment? 

Many of our shopping and brand choices impact our environment. Consumers are now shopping smarter.

The farming of animals for food and other by-products has a significant impact on the world around us. Climate security and freshwater reserves may be at risk.

Eliminating the use of animal products reduces the impact on the environment. Choosing plant-based skincare lessens the amount of waste from the animal industry. Less animal waste also reduces greenhouse gasses.

Also, many vegan skincare brands are more conscientious when it comes to packaging. Sustainable packaging means less plastic ends up in our landfills and waterways.

Many eco-friendly products are manufactured by smaller businesses that may be local to you. This eliminates costly and wasteful shipping practices. Buying local has the added benefit of supporting your community.

The Benefits for Your Skin 

Plant-based skincare products remove animal products from their formulas. Also, these products tend not to use harsh chemicals. The absence of these chemicals results in a better product and better results.

Additionally, many plant-based ingredients outperform their counterparts. Some nutrients derived from plants perform better on human skin. The benefits are fewer allergic reactions, less dryness, and improved texture.

Vitamins and minerals from plant-based sources may be the best choice for those with sensitive skin. Vegan skincare products can also help target specific skin issues like discoloration, fine lines, and sun damage.

Vegan products also tend to have fewer ingredients. This can help consumers better understand what is in their product. It's also easier to know which of these ingredients have a negative impact on the skin. 

Be sure and take the time to inspect labels. It's the easiest way to be sure your products are, in fact, vegan.

How to Identify Vegan Products

Precise labeling is critical when it comes to determining whether a product is vegan or not. Accurate labeling can be a gray area, especially in the United States. Some brands may try to capitalize on the growing vegan market without creating actual vegan products.

Manufacturers use taglines such as "all-natural" or "hypoallergenic" without any regulatory oversight. These terms are confusing. Shoppers may think they're purchasing a safer or more ethically sourced product.

Vegan skincare products display the recognizable "V" logo. Look for the rabbit symbol to be sure the product was not tested on animals. Yet products can be vegan without being cruelty-free, so it's best to double-check the labels.

Some ingredients can be tricky when sourcing vegan products. Ingredients like beeswax and honey are popular in skincare. These are natural products and could be construed as vegetarian, but neither is vegan.

Another way to ensure your product is vegan is to check the allergen list. Companies are required to list potential allergens on skincare products. If that list contains eggs, dairy, or another animal product, you can be certain it is not vegan. 

The Best Vegan Skincare Brands 

As with any type of skincare product, the choices are many and can be overwhelming. But many familiar brands are changing their formulas to include vegan ingredients. You might find that a brand you've been loyal to for years has introduced one or more vegan alternatives. 

You can buy vegan skincare at your favorite drugstore or department store. You can even find some vegan products in your favorite subscription beauty box.

Also, you can try a subscription that features only vegan skincare brands. The shopping opportunities are endless.

Product lines like Youth to the People and True Botanicals are very popular. Both are vegan and cruelty-free.

Some better-known brands like L'Oreal use vegan ingredients. But they cannot advertise as vegan nor cruelty-free since not all the ingredients are vegan. The Body Shop products are 100% vegetarian and cruelty-free, but only some of their products are vegan. 

Checking labels is crucial to ensure your sustainable skincare products are actually vegan. 

Adding Vegan Skincare to Your Routine 

Now you've made the decision to shift toward a more vegan lifestyle, so it's time to start adding products. One of the easiest ways to start is with a facial cleanser. What do you like about your current cleanser? Which vegan skincare brand is comparable? 

Are you working with a physician for any specific skin problem? If so, make it a priority to have a conversation about new products before you begin.

Be sure to start with a spot test to gauge the risk of an allergic reaction. Then use your new product for about a week.

Take note of any changes you encounter. Does your skin look and feel better? Do you notice any improvements in tone and texture? 

If you find the first product is giving good results, it might be time to add another. A vegan moisturizer is a good second step.

Vegan cosmetics are excellent products to add to your makeup bag. Choose a vegan product when you need a new mascara or lip gloss. 

If you like the product from the first brand, you can choose another from the same line. Or you can try something from another brand. The choices are endless!

Making a change to your tried and true beauty routine can feel daunting. But let's be honest. Who doesn't love trying out a great new beauty product? Or even an entire line?

You're likely to find your new favorite among the many vegan choices. 

Make the Switch to Vegan

Going vegan is a choice that more and more people are making. These efforts help improve our own health and the health of our planet. Eco-friendly skincare is a great way to begin making the shift away from the use of animal products. You're also moving toward a more sustainable way of life.

Vegan lifestyles are becoming more mainstream. This means we'll start seeing more action from top skincare companies across the globe.

We can expect more vegan skincare brands in the future. We can also expect more transparency when it comes to labeling and ingredients. 

Change Your Choices and Change Your Life

Are you ready to start swapping out your chemical-heavy skincare products and begin using healthier and more sustainable products? Use these tips and visit our blog to discover which types of vegan skincare brands are right for you! It's time to begin your own journey toward healthier skin and a healthier planet.