FIRST OFF, WHAT’S VEGAN SKINCARE?
Vegan skincare refers to skincare products that are free of animal derivatives – yes, that includes natural ingredients such as honey, beeswax, lanolin and milk-derived lactic acid.
WHAT INGREDIENTS SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR IN SUCH PRODUCTS?
It depends on your specific skin concerns. Ingredients such as shea and cocoa butters are great hydrators, while antioxidant-rich oils such as argan, sweet almond and camellia seed offer loads of benefits for the skin. For those with acne-prone skin, look out for ingredients such as witch hazel and tea tree oil.
IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VEGAN AND NATURAL SKINCARE?
Contrary to popular belief, vegan skincare and natural skincare aren’t the same thing. How so? Just because a product is vegan doesn’t mean it’s all-natural; some vegan products have chemical ingredients that aren’t derived from animals. Natural skincare products, on the other hand, are reportedly chemical-free.
WHAT BENEFITS DOES VEGAN SKINCARE OFFER?
Good vegan skincare brands pack their products with great-for-skin vitamin- and antioxidant-rich ingredients. If you choose wisely, your skin will be treated to the very best nature has to offer.
ARE THERE ANY PITFALLS TO USING VEGAN SKINCARE?
As many vegan skincare products are made without preservatives, they tend to have shorter shelf lives as compared to non-vegan ones from mass brands (up to two or three years).
OUR TOP PICKS:
Antipodes Joyous Proteinrich Night Replenish Serum, $93.
This night serum is packed with goji berry extract, which has 19 kinds of amino acids to make your complexion more even-toned and youthful-looking. It’s best for dry to normal skin types.
Handmade Heroes Beauty Warrior Face Mask Purifying Clay Mask, $22.90.
To use, mix two small spoonfuls of this French green clay mask, formulated with ingredients such as vitamin E, with water. Then, apply a generous layer to the face, or use it as a spot treatment. Leave on for 10 minutes before washing it off.
Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Eye Treatment, $81.
This gel is made with organic, antioxidant-rich botanical extracts to help brighten up dark circles and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It absorbs almost instantly and leaves a silky finish on skin.
Balm Kitchen Relaxing Jasmine & Lavender Body Balm, $25.
This rich body balm is great for super-dry skin – and a must-bring if you’re travelling to cold countries. I love using this on damp skin at night, right after a warm bath. Its soothing scent of roses and lavender is a major plus.
This story was originally published in the February 2016 issue of Her World magazine.
