The rise of vegan makeup brands has created a seismic shift in how we define and experience cosmetics. From vibrant lipsticks that empower without harm to mesmerizing eyeshadows that capture the essence of nature, vegan makeup brands have transcended the boundaries of traditional beauty.
Many makeup brands claim they offer vegan products. Hence, before we explain what makeup companies are vegan, let’s discuss the meaning of vegan makeup.
What is Considered Vegan Makeup?
Such cosmetic products are free from animal-derived ingredients or by-products. On top of that, the brands don’t test them on animals during any stage of the production process. Here are detailed characteristics of vegan makeup.
No Animal-Derived Ingredients
Vegan makeup excludes all ingredients of animal origin, such as beeswax, lanolin, collagen, carmine (a red pigment from insects), and various animal fats and oils. Instead, these products use plant-based and synthetic alternatives.
Cruelty-Free
Vegan makeup brands ensure they don’t test their products on animals. This commitment extends from individual ingredients used in the formulation to the finished products.
Transparency
Vegan makeup brands are transparent about their ingredients and animal testing policies. They often provide ingredient lists, cruelty-free certifications, and other information to help consumers make informed choices.
Natural and Synthetic Ingredients
While vegan makeup can contain plant extracts, oils, and minerals, it also frequently incorporates synthetic alternatives to replicate the properties of animal-derived ingredients.
Environmentally Conscious
Vegan makeup brands often align with environmentally friendly practices, striving to minimize their impact. The process may involve sustainable sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and reducing carbon footprints.
Allergy-friendly
Vegan makeup can be a suitable choice for individuals with allergies to animal-derived ingredients, as it eliminates the risk of exposure to these allergens.
Although there’s a relationship between vegan and cruelty-free, these are distinct concepts. Therefore, a product can be cruelty-free (not tested on animals) without being vegan (containing animal-derived ingredients), and vice versa. To get makeup products that are vegan and cruelty-free, look for specific certifications or labels, check ingredient lists, and research.
The Difference Between Vegetarian and Vegan Makeup
The main difference between vegetarian and vegan makeup lies in the ingredients used in their formulations.
Vegetarian makeup products do not contain ingredients obtained from slaughtered animals. However, they may have ingredients like beeswax, honey, lanolin, and milk-derived substances (e.g., lactose, whey) obtained without causing harm to the animal. Hence, vegetarian makeup products suit people who abstain from meat but use animal by-products in non-food items.
On the other hand, vegan makeup excludes all animal-derived ingredients, including those obtained without causing harm to an animal. It is entirely plant-based or formulated using synthetic alternatives for ingredients commonly sourced from animals. Vegan makeup is cruelty-free by default, meaning it does not involve animal testing.
In summary, while vegetarian and vegan makeup brands avoid components from slaughtered animals, vegan makeup companies exclude animal-derived ingredients. Therefore, vegan makeup is a stricter and more comprehensive category of cruelty-free and animal-friendly cosmetics. Finally, we can tell you what makeup companies are vegan.
7 Vegan Makeup Brands
1. Kat Von D Beauty
Kat Von D Beauty is like a canvas for self-expression, where makeup becomes a daring art form. Founded by the iconic tattoo artist Kat Von D, this brand targets those who aren’t afraid to push boundaries and embrace their individuality with bold and cruelty-free cosmetics.
2. Cover FX
Cover FX is a beauty brand with top-tier cosmetics and a conscious approach to makeup. With a commitment to being vegan and cruelty-free, Cover FX specializes in an inclusive range of foundations catering to diverse skin tones.
3. Milk Makeup
Imagine makeup products that are as easy to apply as they are chic to display on your vanity. Featuring products like the iconic Kush Mascara and the multi-tasking Blur Stick, Milk Makeup is a brand for those who crave beauty products that champion ethical and sustainable practices in the world of cosmetics.
4. Anastasia Beverly Hills
Founded by the visionary Anastasia Soare, it’s the go-to brand for creating immaculate brows that frame your face like a work of art. While not entirely vegan, they offer a selection of vegan products clearly labeled for those looking for cruelty-free options.
5. Urban Decay
Their products are like an urban playground for makeup enthusiasts, offering a kaleidoscope of vibrant eyeshadows, iconic setting sprays, and bold lipsticks that refuse to conform to the ordinary. Urban Decay’s makeup arsenal empowers you to express yourself boldly and beautifully, all while supporting a brand that champions animal-friendly practices.
6. Too Faced
It creates makeup that’s as fun as it is fabulous. Although not entirely vegan, Too Faced has vegan options for the ethically conscious beauty enthusiast. From their iconic Better Than Sex Mascara that delivers lashes fit for a Hollywood starlet to their Sweet Peach Eyeshadow Palette, which smells as delightful as it looks, Too Faced is all about infusing joy into your beauty routine.
7. e.l.f. Cosmetics
This beauty gem offers a treasure trove of cruelty-free and mostly vegan makeup and skincare products. With an extensive range from luscious lipsticks to dazzling eyeshadows and complexion-perfecting foundations, e.l.f. Cosmetics is known for its affordable prices.
These are just a few examples of makeup brands that offer vegan products. It’s worth noting that many other brands are expanding their vegan offerings or have specific vegan lines.
How Do You Know if a Skincare Product is Vegan?
To determine if a skincare product is vegan, you can follow these steps:
Check the Ingredient List
Examine the product’s ingredient list. Look for any ingredients of animal origin. Most non-vegan compositions contain beeswax, lanolin, collagen, carmine (a red pigment from insects), and animal fats and oils.
Look for Vegan Certification
Some skincare products proudly display vegan certifications from reputable organizations like The Vegan Society or PETA.
Contact the Brand
If you’re unsure about a product’s vegan status, reach out directly. Most brands have customer service or contact information on their websites. Ask them specific questions about the ingredients and animal testing policies to confirm if the product aligns with vegan principles.
Read Labels and Packaging
Sometimes, skincare products include statements on their labels or packaging indicating that they’re vegan and cruelty-free.
Research Online
Online beauty forums and social media groups can be valuable tools for researching the vegan status of skincare products. You may find reviews and discussions from other consumers who have verified a product’s vegan credentials.
Check for the Leaping Bunny Logo
The Leaping Bunny logo is a well-known symbol for cruelty-free products. While it doesn’t guarantee a product is vegan, it does confirm that the manufacturer didn’t test it on animals. You can cross-reference this with ingredient information to ensure it’s also free from animal-derived ingredients.
To find more vegan and cruelty-free makeup brands, check this list from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
