Are Your Cosmetics Vegan? - Gentle World

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Is your makeup brush made with goat hair or synthetic bristles?

Does your eye shadow have fish scales or mineral mica?

There are many alternatives to cosmetics that use animal products, and many conscious companies are providing not only vegan lines, but organic and environmentally friendly choices as well. Taking all these options into account is important when looking for companies you feel good about supporting, as well as choosing the best products to use on your skin.

Searching out and purchasing healthy and conscious cosmetics can make a world of difference. When you support animal-free and eco-friendly, you are, whether you realize it or not, sending a message to companies about what you expect on the market.

When it comes to cosmetics, plant-based and mineral-based ingredients are superior alternatives to those in animal-infused cosmetics. Inherent in these ingredients are beneficial properties that can heal, soothe and be gentle on the skin. Many plants have been used for centuries to heal ailments and skin issues, including tea tree to cleanse, chamomile to soothe and calm, and olive oil to moisturize. Minerals have been used to treat skin conditions and some, like zinc oxide, are used to actually protect the skin from sunburn. Mineral makeup is also preservative- and pesticide-free. What do vegan and environmentally friendly cosmetics look like?

Their company is transparent. You can easily find the ingredient list and they set a mission statement that clearly defines their initiatives for marketing healthy products without the use of any animals.

They use minerals and plant based ingredients. Look at the full ingredient list to see what is in your cosmetics. Oils, nut butters, herbs and plant ingredients are a must. Certified organic ingredients are also important.

Friendly and open to answering questions. If you are not sure if a company is vegan, contact them. Do they give you a direct and simple answer? “Yes, we are 100% vegan!” If not, I would suggest trying a different company.

Following is a list of a few common non-vegan ingredients that could be in your cosmetics. If you see other ingredients listed that you are not sure about, it should be easy to find out whether they’re vegan with a simple Google search.

Many times companies will label their product “cruelty free” but may still use the ingredients mentioned above, or other animal by-products. Cruelty free does not mean a cosmetic is vegan. Cruelty free means that a company did not test their product or ingredients on animals during any phase of development. Although the term “cruelty-free” does prohibit the use of animal testing, it still allows the company to use animal ingredients, which are far from cruelty-free.

Natural makeup products crafted with the highest quality certified organic ingredients, and custom formulated to improve your skin while you wear it!

The first BodySafe color cosmetic line in the world. All products are vegan and contain only six ingredients.

Plant based and vegan lip balm and moisturizer. Biodegradable with some organic ingredients.

Vegan mineral cosmetics and lip colors. Uses some organic ingredients.