The Ultimate Guide to Vegan Beauty!

As Veganism continues to grow and grow in popularity, the natural beauty industry continues to change with it! A while ago I wrote a blog post explaining all of the most common misconceptions surrounding what it means to be a vegan, how it compares to a plant based diet and all of the health and environmental benefits! Here on Nourished Life we stock a huge range of products that are both Vegan friendly and Certified Vegan. When it comes to shopping for Vegan products, it's so important to recognise the commonly overlooked (but completely safe!) ingredients that are made from animal byproducts. Whether you live a vegan lifestyle or are simply looking for some fantastic natural skincare... this is the guide for you!

What does Certified Vegan mean?

For a brand to have the Certified Vegan Trademark on their products, they need to meet strict guidelines during review by the Vegan Awareness Foundation/Vegan Action. Products with this trademark are guaranteed vegan, containing no animal ingredients or animal by-products. They also do not use animal ingredients or byproducts during the manufacturing process and are cruelty free. This Certified Vegan logo cannot be used to represent an entire company or website as it is awarded to individual products.

What is the role of The Vegan Society?

On many of our Vegan products, you may have noticed The Vegan Society logo. Introduced in 1990, this trademark established the world's first internationally recognised standard for vegan friendly products and services! With an aim to make veganism an easily adopted and universally recognised lifestyle, The Vegan Society works to reduce both animal and human suffering. Just like the Certified Vegan Trademark, the Vegan Society Trademark can only be awarded to individual products and not an entire company. For a product to be awarded this trademark, they must not contain any animal or animal byproducts, they must not be tested on animals and they must not be made using genetically modified organisms. They must also meet kitchen and hygiene standards that do not involve cross contamination with animal or animal byproducts. To shop all of our Vegan Society trademarked products, click here.

How does Veganism impact the environment?

Aside from the fact that Veganism has incredible health benefits and works to protect the lives of innocent animals, this lifestyle also has a strong positive impact on the environment. One of the biggest benefits is sustainability. According to scientists at the Smithsonian Institution, every minute seven football fields worth of land is bulldozed to create more room for farmed animals and the crops that feed these animals.¹ 80% of all the agricultural land in the US is used for the meat and dairy industry! Veganism also works to reduce the impact of pollution as The Worldwatch Institute estimates that at least 51% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions are caused by livestock and the byproducts of the livestock industry.² The agricultural industry is also responsible for 55% of the world's water usage. One cheeseburger takes 660 gallons of water to make... this is equivalent to one person showering for two months!³

How much of an impact can one Vegan make?

There's no truer example of how an individual can make a change, than the impact of the vegan lifestyle! One individual who follows a vegan diet produces 50% less CO2 emissions, usess 1/11th less oil, 1/13th less water and 1/18th less land, compared to a meat eater.³ If one person changes from eating meat to a vegan diet, they will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 1.5 tons per year! That's a huge difference you can make to the environment by simply switching up your diet and lifestyle!

Hidden ingredients to look out for if you're a vegan!

Lanolin: Lanolin is a common skincare ingredient used for its incredibly moisturising and healing properties. As Lanolin is made from the fatty substance found naturally on sheep's wool, it's not vegan.

Carmine/ Cochineal: Did you know that whenever you see Carmine, Cochineal Extract or Red 4 on an ingredients list, that product contains bugs?! Cochineal extract is taken from the Cochineal bug which are sun-dried, crushed and mixed with Carmine Acid to create the red pigment you may find in some lipsticks.

Fish Scales: Another ingredient to look out for if you're vegan is Guanine. This ingredient is extracted from fish scales and found in personal care products such as lipsticks and nail polish to achieve a pearlescent shine.

Honey: Amongst the vegan community, there is often debate surrounding whether or not Honey is considered Vegan. If you are a strict Vegan however, keep an eye out for Honey which is used in many natural skincare and beauty products, as it's highly moisturising and full of antioxidants.

What are some Vegan alternatives to Beeswax in skincare?

Beeswax is commonly used in skincare for it's non-allergenic and anti-inflammatory properties, which enables it to protect the skin from airborne allergies. It's most often found in skin and lip balms as it creates a thick, rich substance that locks in moisture and forms a light barrier on the skin. For Vegans, there are a few alternatives that work just as well in your everyday skincare products! One of these alternatives is Candelilla Wax which is a totally natural wax taken from the candelilla shrub. The wax is made by boiling the leaves and stems with a low concentration of sulphuric acid. Another great alternative is Soy Wax which is often used to create Vegan candles including the beautifully scented Vanessa Megan Soy Wax Candles!

How to find Vegan products on Nourished Life

When shopping on Nourished Life, you can filter each page to shop products that are Vegan. Simply click onto the product category you wish to shop e.g. Mineral Foundation, then click the drop down menu 'Filter by...' to choose the 'Vegan' or 'Cruelty Free' option. Then enjoy shopping for nourishing, natural and totally vegan products!

Which vegan brands do we have available?

Here on Nourished Life we stock brands that are both 100% vegan and predominantly vegan. Some of our entirely vegan brands include Neek, Inika, Happy Skincare, Hurraw, Juniper and Yarok. Companies that are predominantly vegan include Weleda, 100% Pure and Lavera. Both Lavera and 100% Pure's products are either vegan or vegetarian, depending on the inclusion of beeswax in some products.

Top 3 Vegan 100% Pure products!

1. 100% Pure Maracuja Mascara
The 100% Pure Maracuja Mascara $34.95, is 100% natural, vegan and certified cruelty free. It's the ultimate do all mascara as it lengthens, separates, thickens and conditions each individual lash! Made with nourishing ingredients including Maracuja Oil, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera and Green Tea, this mascara is smudge proof and gentle enough for sensitive eyes. It's a deep black colour naturally pigmented from Tea leaves, Cocoa and Passion Fruit Seeds!

2. 100% Pure Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream
A must have for any skincare routine, the 100% Pure Coffee bean Caffeine Eye Cream $18.95, is rich in caffeine and vegan ingredients including Organic Green Coffee Beans, Green Tea and Rosehip Oil. It has incredible anti-inflammatory properties that may help to depuff eyes and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles. This eye cream actually leaves you looking more awake and youthful! To use, dot gently around the eye area.

3. 100% Pure Caffeine Mask
Sometimes when your skin is looking dull and feeling tired, you need a skincare boost of nutrients! For those days, I love using the 100% Pure Caffeine Mask $9.95, which is rich in caffeine from Organic Green Coffee and Organic Green Tea to wake up your skin and leave you looking refreshed. It's also packed full of Hyaluronic Acid and Sea Collagen to deeply hydrate and plump the skin. Although it looks a little scary, this mask is made from a Hydrogel base of 95% water and 5% plant cellulose. To use, place carefully on your face for 15-20 minutes. Rub the residue into your skin.

Top 3 Vegan Hurraw products!

1. Hurraw! Organic Lip Balm
The Hurraw! Organic Lip Balms $6.45, are an everyday lip care staple. These highly nourishing balms are all vegan and made with high quality natural ingredients including nourishing pure essential oils. There are so many fantastic flavours to choose from, the only problem will be selecting your favourite! Some of the most popular include Papaya Pineapple, Chai Spice, Grapefruit and Black Cherry which is lightly tinted.

2. Hurraw! Organic Lip Balm with SPF15
A great alternative for the Summer time is the Hurraw! Organic Lip Balm with SPF15 $6.45! It's Tangerine Chamomile flavoured with the added benefit of sun protection. So often we forget that our lips need to be protected from UV rays too! It's a creamy formulation made with ingredients such as Red Raspberry Seed Oil that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. This lip balm is a beach necessity!

3. Hurraw! Ayurvedic Organic Lip Balm - Kapha
Based on traditional Indian medicine Ayurveda, this Hurraw! Ayurvedic Organic Lip Balm - Kapha $6.45, is made with a herbal infusion of invigorating and zesty ingredients including Grapefruit and Eucalyptus. Based on the Dosha principles, this lip balm is long lasting and very hydrating!

Top 3 Vegan Inika products!

1. Inika Vegan Lipstick - Auburn Ambition
Best suited for those with warm undertoned skin, the Inika Vegan Lipstick in Auburn Ambition $39, offers long lasting colour. It's an elegant auburn red shade with subtle shimmer to hydrate and define the lips. It's made with ultra smoothing ingredients including Avocado, Jojoba and Argan Oils for a stunning satin finish.

2. Inika Mineral Blusher Puff Pot - Rosy Glow
The Inika Mineral Blusher Puff Pot - Rosy Glow $45, is a universally flattering shade that gives your cheeks a healthy, natural flush. It's a neutral pink/ mauve shade that works with all skin tones. Made with a highly concentrated blend of Mica Pigments and Zinc Oxide, this blusher is ideal for sensitive skin as it's non-comedogenic. To use, dab onto the cheeks using the puff pot applicator.

3. Inika Face In A Box - The Essentials Starter Kit
The Inika Face In A Box $99, is the perfect way to kickstart your vegan makeup routine! It contains the very best of the Inika range including their Mineral Foundation Powder, Certified Organic Liquid Mineral Foundation with Hyaluronic Acid, Mineral Bronzer in Sunkissed, Certified Organic Pure Primer with Hyaluronic Acid, Certified Organic Natural Perfection Concealer, Mineral Setting Powder, Mineral Blush in Rosy Glow and Full size Vegan Kabuki Brush.

Top 3 Vegan Lavera products!

1.Lavera Ultra-Hydrating Cream
Ideal for anyone with sensitive or dry skin, the Lavera Ultra-Hydrating Cream $29.95, does not disappoint! Formulated with Organic Wild Rose and Macadamia Nut Oil, this daily moisturiser not only offers 24 hour hydration, but may also help plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It's also rich in Alpha-Linolenic Acid which is well known for it's healing and regenerating effect on the skin. This cream may even help lighten pigmentation marks and scarring!

2. Weleda Pomegranate Firming Eye Cream
The Weleda Pomegranate Firming Eye Cream $42.95, is formulated using organically grown Pomegranate Seed Oil and Golden Millet to fight against free radical damage. Deliciously smooth and full of antioxidants such as Argan Oil and Butcher's Broom, this eye cream helps improve the skin's elasticity and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Lavera Cleansing Gel
If you're looking for a natural and vegan alternative to the popular mainstream cleanser Cetaphil, I recommend trying the Lavera Cleansing Gel $15.35! It's a fuss free cleanser made from simple ingredients including Organic Lemon Balm and Healing Mallow. It's very gentle and suitable for all skin types, even sensitive. This cleanser really does the job! It removes everyday dirt, excess oil, impurities and even makeup, all without irritating your skin.

Top 3 Vegan Happy Skincare products!

Happy Skincare 'Over The Moon' Rich Repair Cream
Amazing for use during the Winter months, the Happy Skincare 'Over The Moon' Rich Repair Cream $30.95, is lusciously rich and made for dry or sensitive skin. This non greasy and fast absorbing product offers a boost of hydration and can even be used as a thick overnight treatment. This nourishing formula contains the beauty mineral and organic sulfur compound Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) which radically improves skin health. It also contains other nourishing ingredients including Vitamin E, Rose Otto, Shea Butter and Kakadu Plum that may help nourish, smooth and deeply moisturise the skin.

Happy Skincare 'Cloud 9' Deep Cleansing Balm
One of my favourite ways to cleanse is by using a natural cleansing balm. The Happy Skincare 'Cloud 9' Deep Cleansing Balm $33.95, cleans the skin while deeply moisturising. Made with hydrating ingredients such as Shea Butter and Aloe Vera, this cleansing balm gently lifts makeup, dirt, grime and even sunscreen from the skin. It's suitable for all skin types, particularly dry and sensitive skins. To use, work a small amount into your hands with or without a small drop of water. Massage into the skin for 30 seconds before removing with a damp towel.

Happy Skincare 'Laugh Out Loud' Active Jojoba Oil
If you're looking to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles while hydrating your skin, don't look past the Happy Skincare 'Laugh Out Loud' Active Jojoba Oil $38.95! Made with pure Jojoba Oil, CoQ10, Black Seed Oil and Camellia Oil, this serum has sebum like qualities, enabling it to absorb deeply into the skin which can help smooth out laughter lines and wrinkles. It's ideal for all skin types including those with oily/combination or acne prone skin. Apply morning and night by working 3-5 drops into the skin.

Top 3 Vegan Neek Products!

1. Neek Vegan Lipstick - Come Into My World
The Neek Vegan Lipstick - Come Into My World, $28, is the perfect nude pink. It looks amazing on all skin tones, particularly those with medium to dark complexions. This lipstick is the perfect everyday colour as it gives the lips a slight blush that's pretty and feminine. Made with hydrating ingredients such as Jojoba Oil and Shea Butter, this lipstick is all natural and cruelty free!

2. Neek Miss These Days Active Daily Moisturiser
Created from active botanical ingredients including Olive Squalene, Coconut Oil and Green Tea, the Neek Miss These Days Active Moisturiser, $44, is a do all product! This daily moisturiser contains gentle AHAs that exfoliate the skin which may promote cell turnover and control breakouts. It's a hard working product that may also prevent moisture loss and help to plump and smooth fine lines on the skin. Rich in Green Tea, this antioxidant filled moisturiser leaves you with a nourished, healthy complexion!

3. Neek Miss Divine Active Face Cleanser
If you're looking for a gentle cleanser that fights ageing, I recommend the Neek Miss Divine Active Face Cleanser, $38. It's wonderfully hydrating and may help fight off premature ageing as it is formulated with vegan ingredients including Sage, Olive and Kakadu Plum which helps to restore skin cells, plump the skin and deeply clean.

Top 3 Vegan Juniper products!

1. Juniper Skincare Teen Cleanser
If you're looking for a cleanser that can balance and purify your teenager's skin, the Juniper Skincare Teen Cleanser $24.95, is a great naturopath recommended choice! It's a water based cleanser that helps to mattify oily and acne prone skin. It's ideal for younger, teenage skin as it contains organic ingredients such as Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel and Vitamin E which may help to control breakouts. It's also a natural astringent that can help reduce redness, irritation and inflammation.

2. Juniper Skincare Calming Rose Otto Mist
The Juniper Skincare Calming Rose Otto Mist $25.95, is the most calming way to refresh your skin throughout the day. It's made with ultra calming ingredients including Green Tea and Rose Otto which can help reduce redness and soothe sensitive skin. Ideal for spraying over your face throughout the day for a boost of hydration or for setting makeup!

3. Juniper Skincare Sensitive Moisturising Lotion
Another great choice for irritated skin is the Juniper Skincare Sensitive Moisturising Lotion $34.95, specifically formulated for those with dry, damaged or inflamed skin. This practitioner grade lotion is made with hydrating ingredients including Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil and Cocoa Butter that calms without causing irritation.

Top 3 Vegan Weleda products

1. Weleda Plant Gel Toothpaste
If you're looking for a vegan toothpaste, I recommend the Weleda Plant Gel Toothpaste $9.95! It's specifically formulated for sensitive gums using a plant based formula including Ratanhia, Peppermint and Spearmint. It has a refreshing minty taste that helps to clean your teeth and keep your gums healthy!

2. Weleda Birch Cellulite Oil
To reduce the appearance of cellulite, the Weleda Birch Cellulite Oil $32.95, works to support the body's own regulating and leave your skin looking radiant. It's made with a blend of revitalising Apricot Kernel Oil, Jojoba Oil and vitamin rich Wheatgerm to improve the skin tone appearance. In a study conducted by Weleda, volunteers saw an improvement in their skin's texture by 20%, elasticity by 35% and smoothness by 21% after a month of regular use!

Weleda Almond Soothing Facial Oil
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you'll love the Weleda Almond Soothing Facial Oil $26.95. It's made with pure Sweet Almond Oil and Organic Blackthorn Blossom extract to soothe and nourish your complexion. It's a gentle facial oil that works to reduce skin irritation. It's also great for anyone with mild forms of dermatitis. You can wear it under makeup, on its own or even as an overnight treatment!

Top 3 Vegan Yarok products!

1. Yarok Feed Your Style Dry Shampoo
For those days when you don't have time to wash your hair, the Yarok Feed Your Style Dry Shampoo $29.95, comes in handy! This product is ideal for freshening up on the go, and revitalising your scalp. Made with natural ingredients full of vitamins and minerals, this dry shampoo also revives volume and absorbs excess oils and toxins in the hair!

2. Yarok Feed Your Hold Hair Spray
To make sure that your hair stays in place all day, the Yarok Feed Your Hold Hair Spray $24.95, sustains your hair without weighing it down! It's a non sticky and non aerosol product that is enriched with Vitamins A, C and E to keep your locks looking and feeling healthy. No more breathing in toxic hairspray fumes again!

3.Yarok Feed Your Volume Shampoo
The Yarok Feed Your Volume Shampoo $39.95, contains a boosting blend of aromatic botanicals and essential oils that work to visibly plump your hair. You'll have enviable body, bounce and lustre in no time at all! Containing ingredients such as Seaweed Extract, Marshmallow Root and Slippery Elm, this shampoo can help hydrate the scalp, fend off dryness and fortify the hair shaft. It's a strengthening formulation that offers a deep clean and intense volume.

(sources: ¹Smithsonian Institute, ²World Watch, ³cowspiracy.com)