Well, for starters, many lip balms are made with beeswax (which isn’t vegan). And, unfortunately, a lot of lip balms are still tested on animals (so, not cruelty-free). Thankfully, there are dozens of companies making vegan lip balms that are both cruelty-free and made without any animal products!

So…are you ready to give your lip balm collection an upgrade? Below you’ll find the most popular brands to look out for that are both fully vegan and cruelty-free. By choosing these products, you not only support a cruelty-free lifestyle but also contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate beauty industry.

Ingredients to Avoid in Vegan Lip Balm

When your lips are dry or downright scruffy, sometimes you just grab the first lip balm you see. But, don’t forget to steer clear of ingredients derived from animals or insects. Here’s what you want to avoid:

• Beeswax (produced by bees)
• Honey (a product made for bees by bees)
• Carmine (red pigment obtained from crushed cochineal insects)
• Collagen (uses animal connective tissues)
• Lanolin (produced by sheep’s wool)

Vegan beauty products, including lip balms, other skincare products, mascara, foundation, sunscreen, deodorant, and more, are crafted with the conscious choice to avoid any animal-derived ingredients. Instead of beeswax, these lip balms often use plant-based waxes like candelilla or carnauba wax to provide the same moisturizing benefits without relying on bees. This way, you can enjoy soft and smooth lips without compromising your vegan values.

What’s even more exciting is that a number of vegan makeup companies are eliminating plastic lip balm tubes that end up in landfills. Instead, they’re finding innovative, eco-friendly ways to package lip balm in cardboard tubes that are fully biodegradable (or even compostable).

Best 100% Vegan Lip Balm Brands

If you’re into vegan living, it’s not just about what you eat but what you put on your lips too, like lip balm. With so many choices out there, finding a lip balm that’s totally vegan can be tricky. The brands below are made without any icky animal stuff—just pure plant power to keep your lips happy, hydrated, and cruelty-free!

Crazy Rumors

These adorable and flavorful lip balms offer a whimsical twist to lip care with an array of imaginative and delicious scents. Crazy Rumors cruelty-free and vegan lip balm not only indulges your senses with its creative flavors but also provides a hydrating and nourishing experience for irresistibly soft lips. Make sure to check out all of the amazing flavors! Our favorites include: Throwback 90s, Leaping Bunny, Cinnamon Bun, Dragonfruit, Grape Jelly, Orange Creamsicle, and Root Beer!

Booda Organics

Booda Organics Lip Balm is a rich and organic solution for keeping your lips luxuriously moisturized. Packed with a blend of nourishing oils (including coconut, sweet almond, jojoba, and olive), this vegan and cruelty-free lip balm from Booda Organics offers a natural and effective way to achieve soft, supple lips. We love that it’s 100% biodegradable and plastic-free. Choose from Mint, Cocoa, or Naked. An all-time favorite!

Hurraw!

Hurraw Lip Balm offers a luxurious and all-natural solution for lip care enthusiasts. With a wide range of delightful flavors and a commitment to using premium organic ingredients, Hurraw lip balms are a nourishing and cruelty-free choice for achieving soft, healthy lips. Collections such as Seasonal, Aura Accent, Essential, Flavor Combo, Tinted, PlantColor, BalmToo, Ayurvedic, Classic, and Slider Tins are definitely worth checking out!

Pacifica

Pacifica Lip Balm is a cruelty-free and plant-powered solution for beautifully hydrated lips. Infused with nourishing botanicals and free from animal-derived ingredients, this lip balm provides a luscious and sustainable way to keep your lips soft and moisturized. Choose from Bali Coconut, Rainbow Watermelon, and Island Vanilla.

Alpine Provisions

This herbal lip balm by Alpine Provisions is a wilderness-inspired, organic lip care essential crafted with botanical ingredients to keep your lips hydrated and protected. This biodegradable, vegan, and cruelty-free lip balm blend the purity of nature with effective moisturization, ensuring your lips stay soft and healthy in any environment. The Rosemary Mint flavor is gender-friendly and wonderfully invigorating.

Coconut Matter

Coconut Matter Lip Balm is a tropical delight that brings the nourishing power of coconut to your lips. With organic and sustainably sourced ingredients, this vegan and cruelty-free lip balm provide a luxurious and hydrating experience, leaving your lips feeling pampered and velvety smooth. Available in Smooch Hydrating Lip Tint (shades shown below), Clear Lip Care, and Coconut Lip Balm (Peppermint, Grapefruit, and Lavender).

Ellovi

Ellovi Lip Butter is a pure and minimalist lip care solution, made with just six natural ingredients to provide intense hydration without any unnecessary additives. This vegan and cruelty-free lip balm embody Ellovi’s commitment to simplicity, leaving your lips soft, smooth, and free from unwanted chemicals. Lip butters come in Original, Tinted Rose, Nirvana, and Lavender.

Ethique

Ethique’s lip balm is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice for lip hydration complete with compostable packaging. This vegan and cruelty-free lip balm not only keeps your lips moisturized with nourishing ingredients but also aligns with Ethique’s dedication to reducing environmental impact through their plastic-free approach. Flavors include Sugarplum, So Cocoa, Peeped Up, Juicy, and Nectar.

Meow Meow Tweet

Meow Meow Tweet Lip Balm is a delightful vegan and cruelty-free lip care essential crafted with organic ingredients. Bursting with moisturizing goodness like cocoa butter and essential oils, this balm pampers your lips while embodying the brand’s commitment to ethical and sustainable beauty. Packaged in eco-friendly compostable cardboard in the flavor of Rosemary Eucalyptus.

Alida Pure

Classic and creamy vanilla lip balm from Alida Pure is a botanical blend which nourishes and revitalizes your lips naturally. With organic and cruelty-free ingredients, this luscious balm provides a soothing and hydrating experience, leaving your lips feeling soft and rejuvenated. The flavor is warm, slightly sweet, and not at all artificial. Lovely!

In the vibrant world of vegan lip balms, a cruelty-free and plant-powered smile is just a swipe away. With so many new brands committed to excluding animal-based ingredients, finding a lip balm has never been easier. Embrace the nourishing embrace of vegan lip balms, leaving your lips supple, soft, and guilt-free. Hoorah!

The post Your Guide to Vegan Lip Balm appeared first on World of Vegan.

Good news, beauty enthusiasts! Being vegan in this era means basking in the glory of incredible lash options. With new releases almost daily, our excitement is palpable. Even household beauty brands, once distant from the cruelty-free scene, are pivoting to embrace vegan formulations. It’s a remarkable shift that speaks volumes about the evolving beauty landscape.

So, what makes a mascara truly fabulous in the vegan realm? Stick around as we unveil the most fabu-lash choices to adorn your eyes. The world of vegan beauty is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and your lashes are in for a revolution!

Is Mascara Vegan?

You may be surprised to hear that mascara is typically not vegan. Mascaras may not be vegan because formulas often contain ingredients made from animals. Ugh! Here are is a list of commonly used mascara ingredients that are not vegan-friendly. Be careful when buying mascara and keep an eye out for these animal-derived additives.

Animal Ingredients Found in Some Mascaras:

• Beeswax – Beeswax is created by bees, which makes it not vegan, just like honey. It’s often added to mascara add a smooth texture and thickness to the formula.
• Collagen – Collagen is a protein made from the tissues of animals. This animal collagen ingredient is not vegan, but collagen can also be created from plant-based sources.
• Guanine – Derived from fish scales.
• Lanolin – Lanolin is made from sheep’s wool and is primarily used for its ability to moisturize.
• Panthenol – This lubricating ingredient is derived from meat and honey, both of which are not vegan-friendly.
• Shellac – Shellac is made from crushing the outer layer of insects.

Mascara is vegan only when there are no animal ingredients or animal-derived ingredients involved in the product.

What Makes Mascara Cruelty-Free?

It may sound bizarre, but a product labeled cruelty-free is not necessarily vegan, and a vegan product is not necessarily cruelty-free. What’s the difference? Vegan refers to the ingredients in the product (if there are zero animal ingredients, it’s considered vegan). Cruelty-free, on the other hand, refers to the animal testing status. If the product wasn’t tested on animals, it’s considered cruelty-free!

Now it’s important to not that the cruelty-free status can get a little more complicated when we consider parent companies, and if products are sold in China where animal testing is required by law. This is a personal decision each person can make,

Are you okay with a product that was not tested on animals if the brand is owned by a parent company that does test on animals? Some vegan are, others are not. Are you okay with a brand that starts to sell in China and at that point their products are tested for the Chinese markets? That is yet another consideration for companies that grow and expand abroad. Some companies decide not to sell in China specifically because they want to remind fully cruelty-free, which is a pretty cool move that we love to support.

What Are You Looking For in a Mascara?

Before you even start browsing the beauty counter, think long and hard about your lashes. In what way do you want to make them different or better than ever? Are you looking for:

• Affordable and Accessible – Brands that you can find almost anywhere with any budget.
• Natural – Closest to your everyday eye, but a bit more pronounced.
• Tubular – Teaming up with new technology for easy eye enhancement removal.
• Volume – A look with lots and lots of lashes and pizazz.
• Waterproof – Wishing to laugh or cry without care.

Best 100% Vegan Mascara Brands

Get ready to flutter those lashes with joy! We’ve rounded up the coolest 100% vegan mascara brands for your playful peepers. From funky colors to mega volume, these mascaras prove that cruelty-free can be seriously fun. Let the lash party begin!

Elate

Elate Cosmetics’ mascara is a game-changer, offering a vegan formula that lengthens and defines lashes for a naturally striking look. With nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil and organic white tea, Elate mascara not only enhances your lashes but also cares for them, leaving you with bold, beautiful eyes.

E.L.F.

E.L.F. Cosmetics mascara is a budget-friendly gem that delivers big on impact. With its volumizing and lengthening formula, this vegan mascara effortlessly amps up your lashes for a bold and budget-friendly beauty boost. We also love that this completely vegan brand is easy to find at your local drugstore, grocery shop, or shopping center!

FitGlow

Fit Glow Beauty’s mascara is a luxurious vegan option that adds drama and definition to your lashes with its rich, long-lasting formula. Packed with organic ingredients and designed to promote lash health, this lovely mascara elevates your eye game while nourishing your lashes for a stunning, natural finish.

INIKA Organics

Inika Organics mascara is a standout choice, offering a 100% natural and vegan formula that defines lashes with precision and elegance. Infused with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and aloe vera, this mascara not only enhances your eyes but also cares for your lashes, giving you a cruelty-free beauty experience.

Milk

MILK Makeup’s mascara is a game-changer, providing an innovative and vegan formula that delivers bold volume and intense definition. With a unique blend of plant-derived ingredients, MILK mascara ensures a high-impact lash look while maintaining a commitment to clean beauty.

KVD Beauty

KVD Beauty’s mascara is a go-to choice for those seeking a cruelty-free, high-performance option. With its vegan formula and bold, long-lasting results, KVD mascara adds a touch of edgy glamour to your lashes, making a statement without compromise.

Pacifica

A long-time love! Pacifica Beauty’s mascara stands out as a vegan must-have, featuring a nourishing formula that adds length and definition to your lashes. With ingredients like coconut oil and vitamin B, this mascara not only enhances your eye game but also promotes lash health for a naturally stunning look.

PUR

PUR Cosmetics’ mascara is a lash-transforming essential, boasting a cruelty-free formula that delivers intense volume and length. With precision and drama in mind, PUR mascara ensures bold, beautiful lashes without compromising on ethical standards.

Thrive Causemetics

Thrive Causemetics’ mascara is a game-changer, offering a vegan and cruelty-free formula that elevates lashes with unbeatable volume and length. Infused with orchid stem cell complex, this mascara not only delivers a striking look but also nourishes and conditions lashes for a truly empowering beauty experience.

Tower 28

Tower 28 Beauty’s mascara is a vegan delight, providing a clump-free formula that adds natural-looking definition and volume to your lashes. Designed for sensitive eyes, Tower 28 mascara embraces clean beauty, ensuring a flawless application for a effortlessly chic finish.

Urban Decay

Urban Decay’s Wild Lash mascara is a showstopper, offering a vegan formula that provides bold volume and length for a truly dramatic effect. With its cruelty-free commitment and intense black pigment, this luxurious mascara ensures your lashes make a fierce statement without compromise. Although all of Urban Decay’s products are vegan, they have an impressive line of vegan and cruelty-free makeup.

Vegan Cruelty Free Mascara Q&A

If you have any other questions on your mind about mascara, feel free to ask us questions in the comments at the end of the article. We’re happy to help!

Is There Vegan Mascara at Ulta?

You bet! Ulta has a great search engine when it comes to narrowing down your needs. If you choose mascara, vegan, and then cruelty-free, you’ll get an entire page of helpful suggestions. Here are just a few that stand out to us:

• E.L.F. – Lash It Loud Volume Mascara
• Pacifica – Vegan Collagen Fluffy Lash Thickening & Lengthening Mascara
• Too Faced – Better Than Sex Voluminizing Mascara
• Ulta – New Heights Mascara
• Well People – Expressionist Mascara

Is it Possible to Find a Tarte Vegan Mascara?

Definitely! Tarte’s Big Ego has a false lash effect in classic black. You can find it both on the Tarte website and in many beauty shops.

Which Maybelline Mascara is Vegan?

We hate to break it to you, but even though Maybelline’s “Green Edition” mascara contains no animal-based ingredients, it’s not cruelty-free. Both this company and their parent company, L’Oreal, still test on animals.

Find Your Favorite Mascara With Vegan Beauty Subscription Boxes

If you’re new to the land of vegan mascara, and aren’t sure which brand to try, check out our guide to vegan subscription boxes! These can be a fantastic way to explore and discover new vegan and cruelty-free brands without having to pay full price for any of the products. Once you’ve found the brands you love, then you can cancel your beauty box subscription and invest in the products you love long-term! A few of our favorites include:

• Vegan Cuts Beauty Box
• Kinder Beauty (founded by vegan actresses Daniella Monet & Evanna Lynch)
• Petit Vour
• Love Goodly

Above all, it’s important to keep both our lashes luscious and also stay clear of animal cruelty. Similarly, we want to support brands that go out of their way to bring us vegan-friendly make up options. Don’t you agree? Meanwhile, we can always give our voices to beauty brands and beg for better products that are easy on the environment, as well as our eyes.

The post Vegan Mascara Guide: The Best Cruelty-Free Brands for Lovely Lashes appeared first on World of Vegan.

Whether you’re a passionate vegan or searching for the perfect gift for a vegan friend or loved one, you’ll be delighted to discover the world of luxury vegan gift ideas. From exquisite fashion accessories to cruelty-free cosmetics and gourmet treats, this article explores a range of lavish options for those who appreciate the finer things in life while staying true to their ethical values.

Sustainable Leather-Free Vegan Watch

Timepieces can be both elegant and cruelty-free. Consider gifting a stylish vegan watch from companies like Votch, Hurtig Lane, or Corkor. These brands offer exquisite watches made from eco-friendly materials such as Piñatex (pineapple leather) or cork, combining fashion and sustainability in one stunning accessory.

Designer Vegan Handbag

For the fashion-forward vegan in your life, consider gifting a luxurious vegan handbag from renowned brands like Stella McCartney, Matt & Nat, or JW PEI. These designers have mastered the art of creating high-quality, stylish handbags without using any animal-derived materials. From classic to contemporary styles, there’s a vegan handbag to match every taste, and dozens of vegan handbag brands to explore.

A Subscription to A Vegan Subscription Box

This is the gift that keeps on giving. By gifting a 3-month, 6-month, or one-year subscription to one of the many vegan subscription boxes out there (such as the Vegan Cuts Snack Box or Vegan Beauty Box), you’re giving a surprise dose of happiness every single month. Explore our guide to vegan subscription boxes to help you choose!

Handcrafted Pottery

Elevate your gifting game with exquisite, handcrafted vegan pottery pieces. Artisans around the world create unique ceramic works of art that are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. These pieces add a touch of rustic elegance to any home, making them the perfect gift for those who appreciate the beauty of sustainable craftsmanship.

Professional-Quality Chef’s Knife

For the culinary connoisseur in your life, a high-quality chef’s knife is an essential luxury. Precision, balance, and durability are the hallmarks of these kitchen tools, ensuring that every culinary creation is a masterpiece. Whether you’re shopping for a home chef or a professional, a chef’s knife is a gift that will be cherished for years to come.

An Almond Cow Plant Milk Maker

What’s an Almond Cow? Only the hottest new kitchen appliance that makes it crazy-easy to make your own nut milk from scratch in moments! This is a perfect gift for a sustainability-advocate or anyone who wants to save money and reduce packaging waste. They can say farewell to single-use milk cartons forever!

A High-Speed Blender

A brand-new high-speed blender (such as a Vitamix) wrapped up with a bow sits high on this list. It’s the gift that can be used almost every day for years to come. A high-speed blender is a godsend, especially for vegans who dream of making the creamiest cashew cheese sauce and most perfectly smooth green smoothies. The price tag keeps many from investing in this themselves, but if you really want to make a friend or loved one squeal, this will do it! Unless they already have one, that is. In that case, read on, dear friend.

A Beautiful Vegan Outerwear Piece

One of the beauties of choosing a cruelty-free lifestyle is that suddenly clothing, shoes, and jackets become a lot more affordable. With leather and wool off the table, shopping might typically take place at stores like Target because they use mostly man-made materials.

But guess what? High-end vegan pieces are out there, and the relative rarity makes them that much more special! Several companies exist that make luxury vegan outerwear that any gal or guy would cherish.

Ethical Jewelry

If you’re going to get your loved one a piece of jewelry, you’ll get infinite bonus points for going the extra mile and getting it from a conscious retailer. I’m talkin’ about a vegan jeweler (yes, they exist!). A great vegan jewelry shop option is Christy Robinson Design (stamped vegan jewelry) and there are lots of makers on Etsy.

Cruelty-Free Beauty Products

Pamper your loved one with a selection of vegan beauty products that are not only cruelty-free but also luxurious. Brands like Fenty Beauty, Tarte Cosmetics, and Too Faced offer a wide range of vegan makeup and skincare items. From silky foundations to shimmering eyeshadows, these products are sure to make any beauty enthusiast smile.

Vegan-Friendly Fragrances

A luxurious scent can make a memorable gift. Many high-end perfume brands have embraced veganism by offering fragrances that exclude animal-derived ingredients and animal testing. Brands that make exclusively vegan perfume are also growing and offer a dazzling array of perfumes that come in beautifully designed bottles. If you want to make the gift extra-special, make your own vegan perfume!

Artisanal Vegan Chocolates

Indulge your loved ones’ taste buds with gourmet vegan chocolates from artisanal chocolatiers. Brands like Hu Chocolate, Raaka Chocolate, and Alter Eco offer a variety of delectable options, from dark chocolate bars to truffles. These vegan chocolates are crafted with care, making them the perfect gift for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Vegan-Friendly Wine and Champagne

Toast to special occasions with vegan-friendly wines and champagnes. Many wineries now produce wine without using animal-derived fining agents, making it easier than ever to find a bottle of exquisite vegan wine or bubbly. Brands like Frey Vineyards and Domaine Carneros offer a wide selection of vegan options that are perfect for celebrations.

A Vegan Meal Delivery or Meal Kit Service

We could all use more delicious home cooked meals with less effort, right? Today there are tons of vegan meal delivery services that could be a wonderful treat for someone special. Some of the services send frozen meals to your doorstep that you can simply heat and eat, while others send recipes with all the pre-measured ingredients so you can follow the instructions and make a dish at home from scratch.

The first is a great option for the busy mama who would give anything for a little more time in life, and the latter is great for the novice chef who is eager to practice home cooking (vegan-style).

A Fun Trip to a Vegan-Friendly Destination (Like Portland)

One of the best gifts one can give is an experience, and travel to a vegan-friendly city is bound to be an amazing one. The memories you’ll share on a trip to a vegan metropolis like Portland, Los Angeles, New York City or Berlin will be unforgettable. Make it extra-special by making reservations at a fancy vegan restaurant and planning a surprise visit to a local animal sanctuary!

If you’re unable to plan the trip yourself, you can give your loved on a certificate to airbnb or their favorite airline so they can book it themselves.

The Ultimate Vegan Getaway

How about a blissful vegan getaway? You can book a stay at an all-vegan resort such as The Stanford Inn By The Sea (in Northern California). Colleen Patrick-Goudreau also hosts annual vegan trips for the most adventurous among us. Others vegan retreats to look out for include: VegNews Vacations and Holistic Holiday at Sea.

A Generous Gift Certificate

A gift card makes a great gift option when you want to splurge on someone special, but don’t know exactly what they like. You can get a gift card to a vegan restaurant, a spa, or one of their favorite shops. Who doesn’t a shopping spree?

Luxury vegan gift options are on the rise, catering to those who want to enjoy the finer things in life while upholding their ethical principles. From designer handbags to sustainable watches, cruelty-free beauty products to artisanal chocolates, there’s a luxurious vegan gift for everyone. By choosing these thoughtful presents, you not only show your appreciation for your loved ones but also support the growing movement toward a more compassionate and sustainable world. So, go ahead and indulge in luxury while staying true to your vegan values – it’s a win-win for all!

The post 16 Luxury Vegan Gift Ideas That Any Herbivore Will Love appeared first on World of Vegan.

What exactly are vegan candles made from, and how do you buy both ethical and high-quality options? It’s about time we illuminate the secrets behind commercial candle-making.

Are Candles Vegan?

Some candles, but not all candles, are vegan. Since candles can be made from so many different materials, you always need to check labels to see exactly what you’re getting for every purchase. Let’s take a look at possible ingredients, additives, and issues.

What Are Candles Made Of?

Just like baking a cake, there’s no one way to go about it. Candles have been made for centuries using anything available, especially in times of scarcity. That’s why you might encounter some unsavory elements where you least expect it. Here are a few common candle bases:

Vegan Candle Wax

• Soy wax: Made from soybean oil, soy wax is arguably the best plant-based material for making candles with. It has a relatively low melting point, which makes it longer lasting, and hard enough to be stable without any additives. On top of that, it’s carbon-neutral, clean burning with no soot, and highly sustainable.
• Coconut wax: Coconut meat that isn’t up to snuff as food doesn’t go to waste; it’s ideal for turning into wax! One of the benefits of coconut wax is that it’s a great carrier for scented oils. It’s ideal for aroma therapy but has a very soft texture, which is why it’s often blended with other waxes.
• Gel wax: Created from a combination of mineral oil and polymer resin, this wax is translucent and has a jelly-like texture. This unique consistency makes it a great artistic medium, since it can suspend glitter, sand, marbles, and other decorative items.
• Paraffin wax: Affordable and abundant, paraffin wax is very popular for making many things, including crayons, lubricant, and of course, candles. It’s vegan but comes with a fair amount of controversy. Paraffin wax is made from petroleum, created by the process of refining crude oil into gasoline.
• Carnauba wax (also known as palm wax): Just like palm sugar and palm oil, it’s very important to make sure you’re buying sustainable products. Conventional palm farming is responsible for immense environmental destruction, including deforestation of the world’s most diverse rainforests.

Non-Vegan Candle Bases

• Beeswax: As a critical part of beehive infrastructure, harvesting beeswax can be deadly to a fragile colony. The wax is never removed independently, but it goes along with the honey and honeycomb as well. This deprives the bees of the food they’ve worked so hard to produce, along with the storage space they’ve used to preserve it.
• Tallow: Luckily, this antiquated ingredient is rarely used in candle making anymore. Tallow is rendered animal fat, which is as unpleasant to use as it sounds. No matter how many essential oils, you can never completely cover the aroma, to say nothing of the inherent cruelty involved.

Most candles are made from a blend of waxes and oils, so be sure to read all the way through the label to make sure you don’t miss something. It can be as little as 5% beeswax that ruins an otherwise perfect purchase.

Vegan Candle Brands We Love

There are plenty of brands that only produce high-quality, fully plant-based candles. If you just want to relax by the candlelight without putting your detective hat on, here are a few of our favorites, including the most notable vegan candle brand, GoodLight!

GoodLight Candles

GoodLight makes clean-burning, paraffin-free candles that support sustainable palm farmers and benefit orangutan rescue and rehabilitation. Their offerings run the gamut from home décor scented candle jars and tins to functional and ceremonial candles, with scents (or not) for every occasion. They make the most accessible Hanukkah candles, vegan birthday candles, tealights, tapers, pillars, and more.

Hyde Nor Hare

Hyde Nor Hare is a vegan-founded small candle company that has a wide variety of naturally scented candles. Their candles are made of soy wax, a raw cotton or paper wick, phthalate-free fragrance oils, a glass jar, and a metal lid. That’s it. Pure and simple. Plus, they donate 5% of their profits to JP Farm Animal Sanctuary, which we love!

Big White Yeti

Big White Yeti candles not only have fantastic names (like “Champagne Problems” and “Sugar, Spice, and Reproductive Rights”), but they’re all vegan too! The candles are made with soy wax (no chemical hardeners, phthalates, or any of the yucky stuff), and and even the scents that reference things like “honey” are synthetic and vegan. They come in small tins and larger frosted glass or amber jars.

Coco Benjamin

Coco Benjamin offers 100% vegan soy candles that are hand-crafted and infused with premium scents. Fill your home with the smell of warm cherry pie or fresh linen with the flick of a match.

BLKessense

BLKessense offers cruelty-free tabletop candles and vegan wax melts that are hand-poured using coconut soy wax. These candles are lovingly handmade in Berkeley, California, but can ship across the US.

Hithys

Hithys has giftable vegan candle tins that you can order right from Amazon.

Grow Fragrance

Grow Fragrance makes 100% plant-based candles that are free from toxins. Enjoy cozy fragrances like ginger pumpkin, pomegranate fig, bamboo, and lavender blossom.

Pet House Candles

The brand One Fur All makes a broad line of soy wax candles, reed diffusers, room sprays, and wax melts inspired by our furry companions. They are formulated to neutralize pet odors, and are made from 100% plant-based wax in the United States.

Lochtree

Lochtree’s Sustainable Soy Wax Candles are hand-poured, eco-friendly candles made with soy wax and essential oils, avoiding harsh chemicals and wasteful packaging. These candles offer a variety of natural fragrances, such as Lemongrass, Orange Cinnamon Clove, Lavender, Cypress Patchouli & Sage, and Geranium & May Chang, each providing a unique, clean aroma for a cozy ambiance. Packaged in recyclable aluminum tins with plastic-free wicks, they ensure a clean burn and minimal environmental impact.

Coconut Bowls Candles

The beloved brand Coconut Bowls not only makes gorgeously and sustainably crafted bowls made from coconut shells. They also make soy candles! These unique candles make fantastic gifts and can be a sweet way to treat yourself.

Mrs. Meyers Candles

Mrs. Meyers makes scented soy candles in little tins and larger glass jars, that align with the scents of their cleaning products. They usually release new or seasonal scenes over the holidays.

Etsy Shops with Homemade Candles

Etsy is a fantastic place to shop small for artisan-made candles. A simple search for “vegan candles” will provide a whole array—just beware, some shops use the vegan keyword even when the product isn’t vegan, so you may see some beeswax candles pop into the mix.

“Accidentally Vegan” Candle Options

You can find some fantastic “accidentally vegan” candles from mainstream stores and brands. But beware, it can be a little tricky to determine if candles in-the-wild are in fact truly vegan. A candle labeled “soy wax” is likely vegan, but unless it’s specifically labeled vegan, or you contact the company, it’s hard to tell for sure.

Some popular candle companies like Yankee Candle can also be an option! Most of Yankee Candle’s candles are vegan, except those that contain beeswax. However, Bath & Body Works is far less reliable, as it’s nearly impossible for consumers to trace the origin of their candle ingredients.

No matter which ones you choose, you’ll be glad you went the extra mile in finding candles that align with your ethics and the sustainability of our planet.

Specific Types Of Candles

Vegan Birthday Candles: The candles are some of the smallest and quickest burning around. They’re always made with food-safe ingredients, since there’s a good chance they’ll drip onto your cake before you finish singing “happy birthday.”

Vegan Hanukkah Candles

Very similar to birthday candles but larger and longer lasting, Hanukkah candles are sometimes blessed by a rabbi to be deemed suitable for the holiday. You can buy them in packs that are exactly enough to celebrate the 8 nights without running short.

Taper Candles

Otherwise known as dinner candles, these are tall, slender candles that can burn for roughly 8 hours and need a holder to stand upright. Many taper candles are made from parafin wax and are vegan-by-default, but you can also find vegan candle makers who sell beautiful options.

Pillar Candles

Thick enough to stand alone, these are some of the most popular candles for home décor. The wicks tend to burn a divot into the center, so the wax doesn’t overflow onto countertops or tables. Many brands make “accidentally” vegan pillar candles, while others are clearly labeled vegan!

Tea Lights

Small, lightweight, and very inexpensive, tea light often come in packs of a dozen or more. They’re ideal for mood lighting, jack-o-lanterns, or memorials. They last for about 2 hours apiece. Brands including GoodLight offer vegan tea lights that can be purchased in sets.

Frequently Asked Questons

Q: Are Yankee Candles vegan?

A: Most Yankee Candles are made from plant-based ingredients, but not all. The tall taper variety are made with beeswax, making them not vegan, but all the rest are made from paraffin wax.

Q: Are Bath & Body Works candles vegan?

A: Sourcing for Bath & Body Works’ candles is far from transparent, making it difficult to get clear answers about what you’re really getting for your money. Although it many seem to be made with plant-based materials, there’s no consistency across the brand, and some activities have found animal testing involved in production. You want cruelty-free candles, you’re better off shopping elsewhere.

Q: What are candle wicks made of?

A: The most common core materials for candle wicks are cotton, paper, zinc, and/or tin. The differences will determine for how long or cleanly the candles burn. Fortunately, these are all vegan, so there’s no ethical concern about the material here.

How Can You Make Your Own Vegan Candles?

If you’re an avid crafter and DIY-fanatic, you might enjoy making your own vegan candles from scratch! You can make exactly what you want, ensure the highest quality ingredients go into them, and create some lovely gifts to share with friends and family.

• Don’t want to purchase specialty waxes right away? For an easy way to make candles from household items, you can make an Olive Oil Menorah, using small glass votives, olive oil, water, and wicks. That’s all it takes to have your own Hanukkah miracle!
• Create a simple scented Soy Candle in mere minutes that will last for hours of burn time. Any glass, jar, or cup will do for a vessel, which means you have plenty of options for personalization.
• Get your artist’s hat on and make a beautiful Gel Candle, in any color or pattern your heart desires. This is a great activity to get the kids involved in, too. Just be careful when handling hot wax.

More Vegan Resources for Holidays & Celebrations

• Compassionate Gift Guide
• Vegan Holiday Guides
• Delicious Vegan Birthday Cake Recipe
• How to Celebrate a Vegan Hanukkah
• Cozy Fall Festive Recipes
• Plant-Based Winter Recipes & Desserts

This article was written with support from GoodLight — a mission-driven candle company dedicated to making beautiful plant-based candles that are clean-burning, eco-conscious, naturally scented, and affordable.

The post Vegan Candles: Best Cruelty-Free Soy Wax Candles for Every Occasion appeared first on World of Vegan.

Shop smart and chose from a wide range of ethical, plant-based bundles carefully curated for discerning tastes. There’s a mind-boggling number of companies offering completely vegan options at every price point, which makes the biggest challenge simply deciding which one is best.

The following vegan gift boxes are perfect for:

• Holiday gifts (Christmas, Hanukkah, etc.)
• Birthdays
• Anniversaries
• Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Easter
• Get Well Gifts
• Sympathy
• Thank You Gift
• Congratulations Gift
• Host/Hostess Gift
• College students
• Corporate gifts

For even more gift-giving resources, don’t miss our Vegan Gift Guide and our Vegan Store, where you’ll find over a hundred gift ideas.

What Goes Into A Vegan Gift Basket?

Every unique basket typically has a theme that unites the items within. In terms of specifically vegan options, that simply means that no animal products make the cut. That excludes anything containing meat, dairy, eggs, and honey when you consider consumables, and silk, wool, leather, and other derivatives in terms of household goods, clothing, cosmetics, and beyond.

These are great options when shopping for someone with intolerances, a limited diet, or ethical concerns. Just be sure to double-check the contents of each item if it’s a severe or life-threatening allergy.

This is especially true for companies that aren’t exclusively vegan, and even more so for those producing food themselves, as cross contamination is a very real concern. When it comes to packaged goods, not every company lists exactly what goes into each bundle, or the individual ingredients they use. It’s worth sending them an email or giving them a phone call to be safe.

What Are The Best Food Gift Baskets?

Food is the most popular types focus for gift baskets, since everyone enjoys a sweet or savory treat. It’s a universal language that every speaks and can appreciate! Choose from a wide range of options from the comfort of your home, available for direct delivery with just a few days’ notice.

Harry & David‘s Gourmet Dried Fruit & Charcuterie

World renown for their luxurious selection of gourmet fruits, it all began with the idea of selling fresh pears by mail. This was almost one hundred years ago, ages before online shopping was even remotely possible, putting the innovative businessmen well ahead of their time. They continue to innovate with all sorts of snack assortments, including wine pairing for a truly indulgent experience. You can even find a Vegan Charcuterie Collection worthy of the fanciest five-star restaurants!  

Feel Better Gift Basket

If you know someone who could use a little extra comfort, whether they’re facing life’s challenges, recovering from an injury, or coping with loss, our “Sending Hugs” care package is the perfect way to show you care. Available for quick shipping on Amazon, this thoughtful gift includes a pair of plush cloud socks, soothing herbal tea, a calming soy candle, nourishing vegan hand cream, a fragrant sachet of dried lavender for relaxation, and a charming ceramic mug. It’s a spa-like retreat in a box, designed to make them feel better and brighter.

Edible Arrangements Fruit Bouquets

Food gifts are often indulgent affairs, which is tough for anyone on a restricted diet. You can still give a healthy edible present that will brighten anyone’s day when you start with fresh fruit! Edible arrangements can turn whole berries, melons, and grapes into works of healthy art, carving them to look like brilliant bouquets of flowers.

Keep in mind that the chocolate-dipped options all contain milk, but you can search specifically by dietary restriction to filter out any unsavory ingredients.

Beautiful Collection of Soy Candles

Give the gift of warmth to a cherished friend with this beautifully designed selection of hand-poured soy candles. These cruelty-free candles are elegantly encased in decorative tins suitable for any occasion, be it a birthday celebration, holiday festivity, or a thoughtful gesture to lift spirits during recovery. You can easily find them on Amazon for your convenience.

Vegan Baked Goods from Online Vegan Bakeries

A box of cookies, brownies, cake, cupcakes, cakesickes, cake pops, or any other sweet treat is one of the most guaranteed ways to send a dose of happiness right to someone’s doorstep. This round-up of vegan bakeries that ship provides many options to choose from.

Fat Badger Bakery makes it easy to ship individually-wrapped cookies that you’d never know are vegan. If you’re looking for an even more decadent and creative delivery, Karma Baker has some of the most fun vegan treats around.

Holiday Popcorn Tin

If you thought going vegan meant missing out on those festive super-sized holiday tins of sweet and savory popcorn and kettle corn, think again! Popinsanity Artisanal Popcorn has every size, flavor, and combination imaginable, and all of their flavors except for three are vegan! The non-vegan flavors to avoid are: S’mores, Rocky Road and Peppermint Hot Chocolate.

Wine Lover’s Organic Vegan Box of Wine

If you have a wine lover in your life, send them a box of organic vegan wines! There are several vegan-friendly wine brands sprouting up that can ship. Kind of Wild is one of the most notable, loved for their gorgeous wine labels and gift packages that come in a pack of three or six different bottles. Take a look at our Vegan Wine Guide for excellent ethical brands for any occasion.

Maple Lover’s Gift Box

Everyone loves maple syrup, right? But many people have never tried (or even heard of) other maple products, making this gift box is both fun and a very unique surprise.

This vegan maple gift box includes pure maple syrup, maple candy, maple cream, maple sugar, and vegan pancake mix. Maple candy and maple cream are both so incredibly tasty it’s hard to believe they’re real—and vegan!

Olive Oil Gift Box

One of the best things about vegan gift boxes, is that they contain products the recipient will actually use! Olive oil is an essential staple in most households, so a set of quality olive oil varieties or olive oil and vinegars makes for a great gift, especially for a host or hostess, or the foodies in your life. Splurge on a fancy brand with a very flavorful olive oil, like those from Wild Groves, Brightland, or this gift set on Amazon.

Spoonful of Comfort

Share a heartwarming meal of comfort food with those you love, even if you can’t be there to cook it in person. Soup is good for the heart and soul, which is why it’s the focus of these cozy gourmet bundles. The vegan meal is complete with vegetable soup, dinner rolls, cookies, and even a shiny new ladle to serve it in style. There’s enough to feed a family, so everyone can appreciate such a thoughtful, inclusive gift.

PlantBelly

PlantBelly is an online vegan grocery store that offers some of the coolest vegan grocery products available. If you want to gift a box of plant-based deliciousness to a special someone, they put together special gift packages you can order. They come in themed bundles like Snack Attack, Bar Cart, and Plant Meats.

Vegan Box of Chocolate

Whether you’re surprising your lucky love for Valentine’s Day, or sending much-needed chocolate to a grieving friend, you have many vegan chocolate boxes to choose from. Visit our Vegan Chocolate Guide to explore the vast array of brands making vegan chocolates easy-to-find.

Sjaak’s makes some of the most divine chocolate around, including elegantly boxed vegan chocolate truffles—and they are a fully vegan brand. No Whey! Foods is another dairy-free brand with lots of options to choose from.

Vegan Subscription Box (Snack, Beauty, or Lifestyle)

For the adventurous, ethical foodie, companies like Vegan Cuts offer monthly snack boxes comprised of exciting new vegan products from both established and startup brands. Discover the hottest flavor innovations before they hit store shelves, without worrying about sending potential animal ingredients.

You can also find cruelty-free beauty boxes, home boxes, lifestyle boxes, and more.

Plant-Based Meal Delivery

A meal delivery package makes a great gift option for anyone who is in a particularly difficult or overwhelming chapter of life. Fresh cooked and frozen meals will be delivered to the recipients doorstep so they can simply heat-and-enjoy when they’re ready.

Best Vegan Lifestyle Gift Baskets

There’s no one-size-fits all option when it comes to gift-giving. There are choices to suit the specific needs and wants for people of every walk of life, specifically tailored to more personal passions.

Cruelty-Free Beauty Box (Kinder Beauty, Petit Vour, Vegan Cuts, etc.)

Pamper your loved ones with a monthly beauty box, filled with full-sized high-end products that are guaranteed non-toxic, cruelty-free, and plant-based. The retail value could be over $100, which makes any combination of makeup, hair care, body and skincare products a real steal at the much lower box price.

Lovevery Kids Play Kits

If you’re looking for a great gift for kids, order one of their play kits! They are organized by age, so you can easily pick out the perfect box for your recipient even if you know very little about kids and what they like.

Plant Box Co

For the succulent-lover in your life, send them a gift that will stay with them for years to come. Choose from a curated bundle of drought-resistant xerophytes with cozy scented candles or build your own bespoke combination. Even for those that don’t have a naturally green thumb, care instructions ensure success for gardeners of all skill sets.

Attach A Sweet Gift Tag

Add a whimsical personal touch to any gift basket with World of Vegan’s animal-inspired gift tags! Just print them out on cardstock or printer paper, punch a hold, and attach them to your gift!

Gifting Thoughtfully for a Kinder World

As we wrap up our exploration of the wonderful world of vegan gift baskets, we hope you’ve been inspired to share the joy of cruelty-free and eco-conscious giving with your loved ones. These thoughtfully curated vegan gift baskets are not only a delightful way to express your love and appreciation but also a way to support compassionate living and sustainable choices.

Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to spread some vegan goodness, there’s a perfect vegan gift basket or option for every situation. Gratitude for delivery drivers and postal carriers can also be shared through snack carts right outside your door. You can also explore the World of Vegan Gift Guide for more than 100 gift ideas for everyone in your life. Happy gifting!

The post Vegan Gift Baskets for Every Occasion appeared first on World of Vegan.

Remember, it’s not necessary to throw out everything you already own and buy new products all at once. Take your time and, when the product is used up, use the opportunity to purchase a better, vegan and cruelty-free replacement. It may feel like slow progress at first, but you’ll have a fully transformed ethically aligned makeup cabinet before you know it!

If you’re just dipping your toes into natural, sustainable, and kind beauty, consider subscribing to one of these Vegan Beauty Subscription Boxes! These monthly sampling boxes make it easy for you to try out many brands at a fraction of the retail price.

Beauty lovers, if you’re as enthusiastic as we are, let’s dive right in!

Vegan Makeup and Beauty Guides

Looking for a specific type of product? These resources can help you find your favorite consciously crafted mascara, all-natural skincare, and more.

• Kind Mascara Guide
• Vegan Skincare Guide
• Animal-Friendly Foundation Guide
• Lucious Vegan Lip Balm Guide
• Vegan Nail Polish Brands
• Cruelty-Free Shampoo and Conditioner Guide
• Best Vegan Deodorant Brands
• Guide to Vegan Soap
• Vegan Sunscreen Brands

How Can I Tell if Products Are Cruelty-Free? 

One topic that might be confusing at first is whether products are cruelty-free, vegan, or both. Although these terms are similar, they’re not the same. A beauty product that is cruelty-free is not necessarily vegan. Let’s go deeper and simplify things:

What does vegan mean?

Vegan means that the product is made without any ingredients that come from an animal, including animal derivatives (like honey and beeswax) and coloring agents or dyes (like those made from crushed beetles). You can also explore our “What is a vegan?” guide to learn more.

What does cruelty-free mean?

Cruelty-free means that the products were produced without the use of animal testing or experimentation (also known as vivisection).

What About Parent Companies?

Parent companies are single companies that have a controlling interest in another company (or multiple) companies, including smaller spin-off companies or ones acquired from a take-over or merger.

Many vegan and cruelty-free beauty brands have parent companies that are not vegan or cruelty-free. It’s up to you to decide if that’s a company you want to support or not. There’s both a good side and bad side to that issue.

On one hand, buying beauty products from these types of companies can really help. Your decision to buy shows that the consumer wants products without any animal-based ingredients or horribly painful and inhumane testing. On the other hand, you have to come to terms with ultimately supporting a company that makes its profits from exploiting animals.

Luckily, every year, more and more parent companies are going cruelty-free (and sometimes vegan!) due to customer demand. Let’s hope that the future is full of only vegan beauty products!

Vegan Labels and Cruelty-Free Bunny Logos

Leaping Bunny Certified 

When you see the Leaping Bunny symbol, it means you can be sure that the product is truly cruelty-free. The testing for certification is exacting and and guarantees that any goods with this label “are free of animal testing at all stages of product development“. Not only is Leaping Bunny internationally recognized, it is a simple and easy way to recognize if a beauty (or household) item is cruelty-free.

PETA Certified Cruelty Free

According to the PETA website, they consider companies to be “cruelty-free” (under their Global Beauty Without Bunnies program) only under these specific conditions: they “must not only ban animal tests but also refuse to use any animal-derived ingredients, such as honey, beeswax, or carmine, in its products.”

Unofficial Cruelty-Free Logos

If you don’t see these specific logos or symbols, be wary! There aren’t always laws to prevent companies from adding their own labels. They may look similar but, really, wouldn’t mean a thing. Keep an eye out for the real thing. You can also download apps to your phone such as Bunny Free (by PETA), Cruelty-Free (by Leaping Bunny), or Cruelty-Cutter (by The Beagle Freedom Project) to double check brands.

100% Vegan and Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands 

The following brands are not only entirely vegan, but they’re also cruelty-free. You can shop for makeup items from any of these companies without worrying about ingredients. From makeup sponges and mascaras to brushes and blushes, they’re all up for grabs!

• Adorn Cosmetics
• Au Naturale
• Axiology
• Barry M.
• Beauty Without Cruelty
• EcoTools
• Elate Beauty
• E.L.F
• Emani
• Gabriel Cosmetics
• Habit Cosmetics
• Herbivore Botanicals
• Inika Organic
• Lime Crime
• Mad Hippie
• Medusa’s Makeup
• Milk Makeup
• Pacifica Beauty
• POPBeauty
• Range Beauty
• Real Techniques
• Red Apple Lipstick
• Sepharine Botanicals
• Trust Fund Beauty

If you’re searching for an extra special self-care treat for yourself or a glorious gift for a friend, any of these brands will be a beautiful choice!

A Closer Look at Vegan Brands

Adorn Cosmetics – Nature’s Palette for Your Beauty: Adorn Cosmetics believes in harnessing the power of nature to enhance your natural beauty. Their vegan makeup collection is a celebration of earthy tones and organic ingredients, making it the perfect choice for eco-conscious beauty enthusiasts.

Au Naturale – Beauty as Pure as Nature: Au Naturale’s commitment to purity is evident in every product they create. With their vegan cosmetics made from ethically sourced ingredients, you can indulge in guilt-free beauty routines that embrace your natural radiance.

Axiology – Lipstick with a Purpose: Axiology redefines beauty with their line of vegan lipsticks that not only deliver stunning shades but also support ethical and sustainable practices. Adorn your lips with a purpose, knowing you’re making a positive impact.

Barry M. – Bold and Beautiful, Without Cruelty: Barry M. invites you to express your bold side with their cruelty-free cosmetics. From vibrant eyeshadows to playful nail colors, their vegan products offer endless options for creating captivating looks.

Beauty Without Cruelty – Compassion Meets Glamour: Beauty Without Cruelty embodies the essence of cruelty-free beauty. Their vegan makeup and skincare products prove that you can look glamorous while upholding a compassionate ethos.

EcoTools – Brushes with a Conscience: EcoTools offers makeup brushes that not only feel luxurious against your skin but also respect the environment. With their vegan brushes, you can effortlessly blend and buff, knowing you’re making eco-friendly choices.

Elate Beauty – Elevate Your Beauty Rituals: Elate Beauty invites you to elevate your beauty rituals with their sustainable, vegan cosmetics. Experience the fusion of conscious choices and radiant results in every product.

E.L.F – Affordable Glamour, Always Vegan: E.L.F.—which stands for Eyes, Lips, Face—understands that beauty shouldn’t break the bank. Their affordable and vegan makeup and skincare range ensures that everyone can enjoy a touch of glamour without compromise.

Emani – Vegan Beauty, Redefined: Emani redefines vegan beauty with their high-performance cosmetics. Dive into a world of vibrant colors and long-lasting formulas that prove you don’t need animal-derived ingredients to shine.

Gabriel Cosmetics – Nature’s Inspiration, Your Beauty: Gabriel Cosmetics takes inspiration from the natural world to create vegan beauty products that enhance your inner and outer beauty. Their diverse range ensures there’s something for everyone.

Habit Cosmetics – Nails That Breathe, Naturally: Habit Cosmetics believes in nail care that’s as gentle as it is beautiful. Their vegan nail polishes allow your nails to breathe, thanks to a unique formula free from harmful chemicals. Experience nail artistry with a conscience.

Herbivore Botanicals – Nature’s Elixir for Your Skin: Herbivore Botanicals combines the power of plants with vegan-friendly ingredients to offer skincare solutions that nourish and rejuvenate. Pamper your skin with these botanical elixirs.

Inika Organic – Beauty Rooted in Nature: Inika Organic is your go-to for vegan and organic makeup that harnesses the purest ingredients from nature. Experience makeup that not only enhances your beauty but also supports a commitment to a cleaner planet.

Lime Crime – Unleash Your Inner Unicorn: Lime Crime encourages you to express your unique style with their vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics. Dive into a world of vibrant colors and imaginative makeup possibilities.

Mad Hippie – Skincare with a Peaceful Purpose: Mad Hippie combines the power of science and nature to create vegan skincare products that are as peaceful as they are effective. Transform your skincare routine into a mindful, eco-friendly experience.

Medusa’s Makeup – Embrace Your Inner Goddess: Medusa’s Makeup invites you to embrace your inner goddess with their bold and cruelty-free cosmetics. Unleash your creativity and confidence with their vegan beauty products.

Milk Makeup – Express Your Self-Expression: Milk Makeup is all about self-expression through makeup. Their vegan cosmetics offer innovative and playful ways to showcase your unique style, empowering you to be your authentic self.

Pacifica Beauty – Beauty by the Sea: Pacifica Beauty brings the spirit of the ocean to your beauty routine. Their vegan skincare and makeup products are like a breath of fresh sea air for your skin.

POPBeauty – Pop Your Beauty Game: POPBeauty is all about amplifying your beauty game. With their vegan cosmetics, you can easily achieve show-stopping looks that turn heads and make a statement.

Range Beauty – Shades for Every Skin Tone: Range Beauty is on a mission to provide vegan makeup that suits every skin tone. With a diverse range of shades, their products cater to everyone, ensuring that no one is left out of the beauty conversation.

Real Techniques – Makeup Artistry, Simplified: Real Techniques offers professional-grade vegan makeup brushes and tools that simplify the art of makeup application. Elevate your skills with these trusted tools.

Red Apple Lipstick – Beauty That’s Good Enough to Eat: Red Apple Lipstick creates vegan lip products that are so deliciously good, you’ll want to wear them every day. Enjoy a range of lip colors without compromising your principles.

Sephirine Botanicals – Blooming Beauty in Every Shade: Sepharine Botanicals celebrates the beauty of botanicals in their vegan makeup. From earthy neutrals to vibrant blooms, their shades capture the essence of nature’s beauty.

Trust Fund Beauty – Sassy and Cruelty-Free: Trust Fund Beauty brings sass to your beauty routine with their vegan nail polishes and cosmetics. Unleash your inner diva while staying true to your cruelty-free values.

Cruelty-Free Brands With Vegan Options 

It’s inspiring to see so many beauty brands go completely cruelty-free in the last few years. In the future, it would be wonderful to see even more make the switch. While these companies are not fully vegan, they do offer a number of cruelty-free makeup or beauty options.

100% Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands

• 100% Pure
• Alima Pure
• Anastasia Beverly Hills
• Colourpop
• Josie Maran
• Lily LoLo
• Mineral Fusion
• NYX
• Saie
• The Body Shop

Cruelty-Free Brands Owned By a Parent Company That Tests on Animals

• Aveda
• Bare Minerals
• Carol’s Daughter
• Dermalogica
• KVD (Kat Von D) (100% Vegan)
• Smashbox
• Tarte
• Urban Decay

Bonus Tip: If you shop at Ulta, they have a page entirely devoted to cruelty-free brands and specific beauty items. Just make sure to check that they’re vegan before buying.

Best Drugstore Brands With Vegan Options

If you’re away from home and need a spur-of-the-moment drugstore beauty buy, these are the brands to look out for. Because some of them have both vegan and non-vegan options, make sure to check the labels or quickly visit their website for ingredient details. Sometimes, this is a great way to find new favorites!

• ColourPop
• Covergirl
• Essence
• Flower
• L.A. Girl Cosmetics
• Milani Makeup
• NYX
• Pacifica Beauty (100% Vegan)
• PIXI
• Revolution
• Winky Lux

Tip: Bookmark this page or add this link to the notes on your phone so you can easily pull up the page to specific products that are vegan-friendly. Makes your shopping less stressful and super speedy. That way, you have more time at home to spend enjoying your new pretty purchases!

Which Mainstream Beauty Brands Are Cruelty-Free?

Delightful DIY Natural Beauty Recipes

• Vanilla Latte Coffee Body Scrub
• Vegan Solid Perfume
• Deodorant Paste

Share Your Favorite Vegan and Cruelty-Free Beauty Brands

Friends love to share! When it comes to the hundreds of vegan-friendly beauty products you can buy, it can certainly get overwhelming. If you have any tried and true beauty essentials in your makeup bag (or skincare drawer), make sure to comment below with your favorites.

The post Vegan Makeup Brands (100% Cruelty-Free) appeared first on World of Vegan.

These boxes introduce you to an extensive range of captivating vegan items, from sumptuous cosmetics to mouthwatering plant-based snacks, opening doors to unique and eco-conscious brands you might not have discovered otherwise. Subscribing to these boxes also helps support ethical and sustainable companies, contributing to a more compassionate world.

Beyond convenience and discovery, there’s a sense of anticipation and joy that comes with receiving a subscription box every month. It’s like unwrapping a surprise present filled with thoughtfully curated vegan treasures, making it a perfect way to pamper yourself or delight a loved one.

As you unwrap the contents of a subscription box, you’ll not only enjoy outstanding products but also be inspired to embrace a more conscious and ethical lifestyle. So, whether you’re taking your first step into the vegan lifestyle or simply looking to enhance your cruelty-free choices, these vegan subscription boxes offer a wealth of benefits to the receiver and the planet!

The Best Vegan Box Subscriptions

Today, it’s hard to keep track of all the options out there—and that’s where we come in! We’ve compiled a list of the best vegan subscription boxes we could find, with a description of each, the price per month, photos, and, for those we’ve tried out, our opinion about whether or not it’s worth your dough. 

A vegan subscription box is right for you if…

You want to treat yourself to an occasional surprise and explore new things in the vegan world to find out what you love and what you don’t. And they’re perfect if you want to send a fantastic vegan gift to a friend!

Subscription boxes can be a great way to discover new vegan-friendly companies and try new products without paying full-price. And—even more excitingly—without having to scrutinize labels. Plus, it’s an easy way to treat yourself to a gift that will be waiting for you on your doorstep after a long day at work. 

Benefits of Subscription Boxes 

• Get an exciting surprise gift delivered to your doorstep 
• Save money (you’ll get to try products at a small fraction of the full retail price)
• Discover new vegan brands you adore 
• Share with friends when you receive items you don’t personally love
• Support a small business (many of these are small vegan-owned businesses)

You should not subscribe to a vegan subscription box if…

You’re just looking to save money on snacks and products. While the value of almost every box is well above the cost of the box, that doesn’t mean you’ll save money by subscribing. You will often receive products that you don’t need or that are not suited to your taste. 

OK, now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s jump into your options!

Types of Vegan Subscription Boxes

Subscription boxes come in every form for almost any category of life imaginable. Looking to discover vegan beauty brands, animal-friendly lip balm, natural deodorant, and cruelty-free skincare? There are vegan beauty boxes galore! Prefer soy-wax candles, jewelry, and accessories? Go for a lifestyle box! There are boxes for yogis, spiritual junkies, wine lovers, and even dogs.

Here are just a few popular categories:

• Food & Snacks
• Bath, Body & Beauty
• Lifestyle (home accents and accessories)
• Produce & Farm Boxes
• Wellness & Health
• Fitness & Athletics
• Yoga & Meditation
• Crystals & Mindfulness
• Wine & Spirits
• Kids (books, sustainable toys, and beyond)
• Companion Animals (pets)
• Plants & Succulents

And the list goes on! In this article, we’re focusing on the most popular vegan-specific subscription boxes that are perfect for gifting and self-care. Treat yourself!

Vegan Food & Snack Boxes

Vegan Cuts Snack Box (US)

This vegan subscription box is one of the most popular on the market. It was founded back in 2011 as one of the first of its kind, and is still going strong today. Vegan Cuts has a monthly snack box packed with ten or more vegan munchables, including salty snacks, sweet treats, beverages, teas, and other fun foodie favorites. The box includes a mix of sample and full-sized items. 

Price: $25

Vegan SnackSack

SnackSack’s vegan subscription box is a monthly delight for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle. This unique discovery box is all about wholesome and delicious vegan snacking. Each box is thoughtfully curated, introducing you to a wide range of flavors and textures, with 11-13 surprise vegan snacks.

They are artfully centered around seasonal themes and flavors, providing a diverse and fun snacking experience. From top-quality chips to nourishing granola bars, you’ll discover and savor well-known plant-based brands. SnackSack offers a vegan and vegan and gluten-free option in their subscription boxes!

Price: $27

The Vegan Box (Australia)

This Australian-based subscription box company is 100% vegan and each box contains a variety of 6 – 10 snacks, superfoods, skincare, and eco-lifestyle products. Products come in a combination of full, travel, and sample sizes.

Price: $29 (plus shipping)

Vegan Beauty Boxes

Better Beauty Box

Better Beauty Box offers a fantastic vegan subscription box for conscientious beauty lovers. With each delivery, you’ll receive a handpicked selection of four to five premium, cruelty-free, full-sized beauty products that align with your values and well-being. Choose from a monthly, three-month, or yearly subscription, all with free shipping.

From essential skincare products to makeup basics, this box covers your beauty essentials while staying committed to ethical and sustainable principles. Explore the world of clean, vegan beauty and find your new go-to products through Better Beauty Box.

Price: $35-$40

Kinder Beauty Box

The Kinder Beauty Box is a newer box to hit the scene and has quickly become one of the most popular boxes of all time. This box was founded by vegan actress Daniella Monet and Harry Potter star Evanna Lynch.

Both passional vegan activists, these two unstoppable superheroes teamed up together to launch a box that delivers the most natural, health-conscious, cruelty-free, and always vegan beauty to your doorstep each month. It’s been amazing watching this box take off!

Price: $26

Medusa’s Makeup

Medusa’s Makeup subscription box is the ideal option for those who prioritize cruelty-free beauty. Within each monthly box, carefully selected by their beauty team, you’ll discover an assortment of four to six full-sized, high-quality products, spanning from versatile primers to eye-catching glitters and the occasional skincare gem. Choose from a wide array of fun add-ons if you’d like!

Whether you’re a makeup maven or a skincare aficionado, Medusa’s Makeup subscription box is the perfect way to explore innovative vegan beauty products while supporting ethical choices in the beauty industry. Plus, for every subscription, the company donates to an animal sanctuary!

Price: $30-$35

Nourish Beauty Box

Nourish Beauty Box offers a vegan subscription box that’s a beauty lover’s dream. Each month, you’ll receive a carefully curated selection of four full-sized, high-quality, cruelty-free beauty products that are not only good for you but also good for the planet.

From nourishing skincare essentials to vibrant makeup, this box has it all. Plus, they’re committed to sustainability and eco-conscious packaging. It’s the perfect way to discover new vegan beauty must-haves while supporting ethical and environmentally-friendly choices.

Price: $30

Petit Vour 

Oh, how I love finding the bright pink Petit Vour box in my mailbox! Petit Vour is one of my favorite of all the boxes. It always seems to include at least one high-quality product that I wouldn’t have bought on my own, but that I absolutely adore. The Petit Vour boxes include both samples and full-sized products—but even the samples within the box always feel substantial (not some flimsy one-use packet that feels like it was pulled out of a magazine).

I’ve seen fragrances, hair care products, nail lacquers, eye shadows, body scrubs, and more in these boxes. It’s one of the most affordable boxes out there. It’s perfect for anyone who needs a good pampering!

Price: $18-$22

Vegan Cuts Beauty Box 

This was one of the very first vegan beauty boxes, and is still one of the best known. Vegan Cuts beauty boxes are packed with between four and seven products—a mixture of full and sample sizes. The total value of the box will be at least $35, but typically it is far higher.

They include products like lip balms, mascaras, moisturizers, face masks, and more. Free shipping in the US, additional cost to Canada and Worldwide.

Price: $25

Vegan Lifestyle Subscription Boxes

Goddess Provisions Box 

This vegan goddess box is always 100% vegan, created by the founders of Vegan Cuts. It’s designed to awaken the goddess within us and is packed full of natural, spiritual goodies for the type who loves crystals, aromatherapy, slowing down, and leading a soulful and inspired life. This box includes 5-7 items each month with a total value of at least $80, and is a favorite of many! 

Price $33

Love Goodly 

One of the newbies on the market, Love Goodly is quickly gaining momentum because it’s a really special box. What do I mean by special? It’s thoughtfully curated to include items you’re likely to cherish, including full-sized and deluxe sample items like pampering products, jewelry, snacks, and eco accessories.

That’s right—this box breaks the snack box / beauty box / lifestyle box divide, and combines them all in one! If you’re only going to subscribe to just one box, this is a great option. Love Goodly boxes are delivered every other month, with free shipping to the US (excludes AK and HI). 

Price: $35-$49

All True (Previously CauseBox)

This is currently one of our favorite subscription boxes — but unfortunately, it is not 100% vegan. However, there is always a fully vegan option you can choose. The AllTrue subscription box is a cause and mission-driven lifestyle box that features a range of products for the home, for the body, for your wardrobe, and even some technology gadgets and vegan leather bags.

Many products featured in the box are artisan-made and involve some element of social good. It’s a pricier box, but it only comes quarterly, and if you sign up for a year, you can choose which items you want in your box each quarter, which is really fun. Many of my favorite things came from this box!

Price: $65-$70

Vegan Kids Unboxing “The Vegan Kind” Subscription Box 

In this fun video, sweet vegan kids unbox The Vegan Kind box and share the snacks they find inside—complete with a taste-test and honest review!

More Vegan Gift Ideas

• Ultimate Vegan Gift Guide (more than 100 gift ideas for everyone on your list)
• Vegan Mother’s Day Gift Guide
• Luxury Vegan Gift Ideas
• 20 Best Vegan Gift Baskets Guide
• Online Vegan Bakeries That Ship
• Best Vegan Cookbooks for Gifting
• Vegan Holiday Guides

If we missed any of your favorite vegan subscription boxes, you’re welcome to share them in the comments below!

The post Best Vegan Subscription Box Guide — Snacks, Beauty, Lifestyle, & Beyond! appeared first on World of Vegan.

Say farewell to harsh chemicals and animal-derived ingredients and hello to a more nurturing way to pamper your skin. Let’s explore the gentler side of self-care, where kindness reigns supreme with cruelty-free cleansing products.

This vegan body wash guide is part of our Vegan Bath, Body, and Beauty series, which include vegan soap, shampoo and conditioner, skincare, and more.

Ready to embrace the pampering power of plants? Let’s get squeezing!

What is Vegan Body Wash?

You may be wondering what could make a body wash non-vegan. (We don’t drink body wash, right??) But, you’d be surprised at how many beauty products are not vegan-friendly. As long as your favorite brand (or lucky brand-to-be) does not contain any ingredients derived from animals or tested on animals, it’s vegan.

The most common animal ingredients to avoid when shopping for body wash are:

• animal fats
• milk
• honey
• beeswax
• lanolin

When shopping for a daily body wash, you can look for certifications such as the PETA approved or the Leaping Bunny logo, which guarantees that the product is vegan and cruelty-free. You can find many amazing liquid cleansers with different formulations, scents, and textures to cater to different skin types and preferences, just like non-vegan body washes.

100% Vegan Body Wash Brands

Your daily shower routine is about to get a clean-and-green makeover as we share the best vegan body wash brands that not only nourish your skin, but are also completely cruelty-free. From lush botanical blends to innovative formulas, this ultimate selection of body washes will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Whether you have sensitive skin, dry skin, or specific fragrance preferences, you can find a vegan body wash that suits your needs.

Alpine Provisions

Celebrated as one of the most eco-conscious body care brands in existence today, Alpine Provisions is known for its commitment to sustainability and high-quality ingredients. Their use of organic, wild-harvested essential oils offers invigorating scents inspired by the great outdoors.

In addition to their emphasis on premium ingredients, the brand also showcases a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, using eco-friendly packaging and supporting reforestation efforts. For consumers seeking a harmonious blend of luxury, efficacy, and sustainability, Alpine Provisions provides a body wash experience that aligns with these values.

Dr. Bronner’s

An all-around favorite! This miracle-working castile soap is a versatile and eco-friendly product known for its purity and multi-use capabilities. Made with organic and fair-trade ingredients, it provides a gentle yet effective cleanse for both your body and various household needs, all while adhering to the brand’s commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Choose from seven classic scents, or even the unscented, baby-safe option.

Pacifica Beauty

Pacifica’s gorgeous body washes offer a cruelty-free and vegan-friendly cleansing experience with delightful natural fragrances. Infused with skin-loving ingredients, it leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and pampered without harming animals or the environment. You’ll love their fantastic scents including Lavender Moon, Island Vanilla, Strawberry Peach, and Coconut Cream! Also, keep an eye out for skin-specific body washes like Glow Baby and Acne Warrior.

Everyman Jack

Everyman Jack body wash is a men’s grooming essential crafted with naturally derived ingredients, offering a refreshing and invigorating shower experience. With a range of over nine masculine scents, it effectively cleanses and revitalizes the skin, making it a go-to choice for men looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use product.

Native

This amazing body wash is a dermatologist-tested, sulfate-free formula that provides a gentle and effective clean. With over 17 enticing classic and 4 limited edition scents, Native’s body wash leaves your skin feeling fresh and naturally moisturized, making it a popular choice for those looking for a high-quality, skin-friendly body wash that is gender-neutral.

Herban Cowboy

The proudly vegan brand Herban Cowboy is one of the first brands to make vegan body washes crafted without animal products or harmful chemicals available and mainstream. They are recognized for their masculine scents and array of products from deodorants to cologne and perfume.

Acure

An amazing body wash brand that is plant-based and cruelty-free. Acure’s refreshing and natural formula is infused with beneficial botanicals and is free from harsh chemicals. This body wash leaves your skin feeling clean and rejuvenated. Take your pick from Seriously Soothing (a fav!), Ultra Hydrating, Energizing, and Conditioning formulas—they’re all wonderful options for your skin.

Everyone

Everyone’s 3in1 soap is a versatile and gentle skincare solution suitable for all skin types, made with plant extracts and essential oils to cleanse and nourish. Its inclusive approach to skincare caters to a wide audience, leaving skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. Their seven scents are heavenly, but you can also choose a scent-free version and even gallon jugs on Amazon.

GingerLily Farms

A lovely and economical body wash! Ginger Lily Farms offers luxurious and nourishing products formulated with high-quality ingredients, such as aloe vera and vitamins, to cleanse and hydrate your skin. Their invigorating scents and gentle cleansing make it a delightful addition to your daily shower routine. It’s easy to buy on Amazon and comes in at least nine fabulous scents.

Love Beauty & Planet

Love Beauty and Planet body wash is a vegan-friendly and eco-conscious choice, infused with ethically sourced ingredients and packaged in 100% recycled bottles. This body wash not only pampers your skin with delightful fragrances but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and responsible beauty practices. We love their Rose Water & Niacinamide scent!

Method

Method body wash offers a eco-conscious and refreshing cleansing experience with its biodegradable and naturally derived ingredients. This plant-based cleanser not only washes your skin effectively but it also leaves you feeling revitalized while minimizing your environmental impact. With a choice of over 14 different scents and skin-specific formulas, you’re bound to find the perfect one for your skin type.

Raw Sugar

This simply luxurious body wash is a clean and revitalizing skincare essential, with plant-derived ingredients and pure cold-pressed extracts for gentle yet effective cleansing. This nourishing body wash hydrates and refreshes your skin, leaving it soft and delicately scented with the essence of natural fruits. They offer over 9 refreshing scents, as well as five fun kids’ scents and four body wash + soak options for an unbelievable bath time experience.

Seaweed Bath Co.

The Seaweed Bath Company body wash is a rejuvenating cleanser enriched with seaweed extracts to make it natural and soothing. Infused with essential oils and organic ingredients, this cruelty-free body wash nourishes the skin in a wonderfully refreshing and invigorating way. Choose from scents like: Eucalyptus Peppermint, Rosemary Mint, Grapefruit Orange, Lavender, Vetiver Geranium, Orange Cedar, Citrus Vanilla, and even unscented.

Cruelty-Free and Vegan Body Wash FAQs

Body Wash vs. Soap: A Sustainability Perspective

When evaluating the environmental footprint of our daily hygiene routines, the choice between body wash and bar soap is significant. Here’s a breakdown of the sustainability considerations for each.

1. Single-Use Plastic Packaging

Body Wash: Most body washes are packaged in single-use plastic bottles, which contribute to plastic waste. Even if recyclable, not all bottles make it to recycling facilities, and those that do often require significant energy to process. A few companies, such as Alpine Provisions, offer body wash in aluminum bottles that can be recycled again and again indefinitely.

Soap: Bar soaps typically come with minimal packaging, often in the form of paper wrap or a cardboard box, both of which are more easily recyclable and biodegradable than plastic.

2. Production & Transportation

Body Wash: As a liquid product, body wash contains water and is consequently much heavier and bigger in volume than solid soap, making it heavier packaging and transportation and more energy-intensive. This increases its carbon footprint.

Soap: Soaps are solid, and as such are more concentrated and lighter in comparison. This means less energy is used in transportation.

3. Product Longevity

Body Wash: Due to its liquid consistency, users might use more product than necessary, leading to faster depletion and the need for repurchase. Liquid products also often require more stabilizers or chemical additives to extend the shelf life of the product.

Soap: With proper storage, bar soaps can last longer, meaning fewer purchases over time and less overall consumption.

From a sustainability standpoint, bar soap generally has a lower environmental footprint than body wash due to its minimal packaging, lower water content, and longer lifespan. However, consumer choices such as opting for body washes in eco-friendly packaging or supporting companies that employ sustainable practices can still make a positive difference. As always, informed choices are key to fostering a sustainable future.

Choosing Cruelty-Free Soap or Body Wash is a Kind Choice

Incorporating vegan body wash into your daily routine is not just about cleansing your skin; it’s about more compassionate choices in your everyday life.

So, as you savor the luxurious lather and enjoy the guilt-free fragrance, remember that every shower is a small yet impactful step towards a kinder world, both for yourself and the environment. Embrace the beauty of cruelty-free cleansing and make your daily ritual a celebration of ethical self-care!

More Helpful Vegan Skincare Guides to Try

• Best Vegan & Cruelty-Free Skincare Brands
• Ultimate Guide to Vegan Soap
• Luxurious Vegan Body Lotion
• Top Vegan Sunscreen Brands
• Vegan Deodorants That Actually Work

Cover photo sourced from Canva.com

The post Vegan Body Wash appeared first on World of Vegan.

Join us as we embark on this colorful journey into a world where conscious beauty meets vibrant, ethically-aligned nails, setting a new standard for vegan-certified beauty brands, ethical and eco-conscious fashion, and consciously crafted nail care.

What is Vegan & Cruelty-Free Nail Polish?

When it comes to nail polish, you’ll want to look for two—or ideally 3—things.

1. It’s made without any animal products
2. The polish is cruelty-free, meaning it was produce without the use of animal testing
3. It’s natural (or “healthy”), and made without the top toxins and carcinogens commonly found in nail polishes (such as formaldehyde).

Some brands that are not vegan do offer vegan-friendly nail polish options (like 100% Pure, which is mostly vegan, but not entirely). Other brands that have vegan options are not cruelty-free (they may test on animals here in the U.S. or sell their products in China where animal testing is required).

Since we’re entering a time when there is such a plethora of options out there, I’m only including nail polish brands that offer a 100% vegan line of polishes on the list below.

Vegan Nail Polish Brands

All of the brands below carry 100% vegan nail polish options. Many (but not all) of these options are also natural, non-toxic, gluten-free, and beyond. You can find options for vegan gel nail polish, acrylic nail polish, long lasting nail polish, clear base coats, top coats, and even antifungal nail polishes!

786 Cosmetics

786 Cosmetics offers a stunning array of vegan nail polish shades inspired by diverse cultures and countries, providing a unique and globally-inspired nail color experience.

Deco Miami

Deco Miami combines vegan and cruelty-free nail polishes with chic, retro-inspired packaging for a touch of vintage glamour in modern beauty routines.

Dimension Nails

Dimension Nails boasts nail polishes infused with stunning holographic effects, adding an extra dimension to your vegan manicure.

Dr.’s Remedy

Dr.’s Remedy, founded by podiatrists, takes a scientific approach to vegan nail polish, offering shades that promote nail health with natural ingredients.

Ella + Mila

Ella + Mila showcases a delightful selection of vegan nail polish colors, coupled with their commitment to creating products that are both safe and stylish.

Kester Black

Kester Black impresses with their sustainable practices and an extensive palette of vegan nail polish shades, inspired by the beauty of Australia.

Lauren B. Beauty

Lauren B. Beauty stands out with their luxurious vegan nail polish collections, inspired by the chic and glamorous lifestyle of Los Angeles.

Londontown Lakur

Londontown Lakur combines the sophistication of London with vegan nail polish that nourishes and strengthens your nails.

Mineral Fusion

Mineral Fusion, a brand committed to purity and sustainability, offers vegan nail polishes infused with mineral-rich ingredients, ensuring both vibrant color and nail health in every application.

NCLA

NCLA Beauty offers a wide variety of vegan nail polish shades, including trendy collaborations and unique collections to suit every style.

Pacifica

Pacifica Nail Polish, readily available at mainstream stores like Target, offers an accessible and extensive collection of vegan nail polish shades.

Piggy Paint

Piggy Paint specializes in non-toxic, kid-friendly vegan nail polish, ensuring a safe and fun manicure experience for children.

Trust Fund Beauty

Trust Fund Beauty combines humor and style in their vegan nail polish collections, providing a dose of playfulness with every coat.

Full List of Cruelty-Free Vegan Nail Polish Brands

• 786 Cosmetics
• Aquarella
• Barry M
• Base Coat Nail Salon
• Beauty Without Cruelty Nail Polish
• BKind
• Candy X Paints
• Color Club
• Dazzle Dry
• Deco Miami
• Dimension Nails
• Dipwell (vegan acrylic nail polish dip system)
• Dr. Remedy
• Ella + Mila
• Elle Polish
• Fairypants
• Floss Gloss
• Gitti
• Habit Cosmetics (eco-friendly nail polish)
• Heroine.NYC
• Jolie Vegan Nail Polish
• Karma Organic Spa (Karma Hues)
• Kester Black
• La Colour Couture
• Lauren B. Beauty
• Live Love Polish
• Londontown Lakur
• LVX
• Madam Glam
• Manicurist
• Miss Frankie
• Nailberry
• NCLA Beauty
• Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
• Olive Ave
• OOO Polish
• ORLY
• OZN
• Pacifica Nail Polish (available at Target and other mainstream stores)
• Palate Polish
• People of Color Beauty
• Picture Polish
• Piggy Paint (kids non-toxic nail polish)
• POPbeauty
• Pretty Woman NYC
• Priti NYC
• Raw Nails
• Sienna Byron Bay
• SOPHi Nail Polish
• Sparitual Vegan Nail Polish
• Sundays
• Tenoverten
• TOMATO
• Trust Fund Beauty
• Veque

Did we miss your favorite cruelty-free nail polish brand? Give them a shout in the comments below!

Kids Nail Polish

Painting nails can be a really fun activity for kids—but it’s important to find options that are not only cruelty-free, but also non-toxic and safe for little ones.

The most notable kids nail polish brand is Piggy Paint, which they call as “natural as mud.” We’ve tested Piggy Paint nail polish with lots of kids and little hands, and they’ve all loved it. This polish is not meant to be long lasting—but rather a fun activity that can easily come off without nail polish remover if desired.

Nail Polish Removers

When you switch to more natural nail polish, you may as well switch to more conscious polish remover as well. After all, we vote with our dollars! Here are a few of the vegan options that exist today. You can order many of these online, find them at natural foods stores, and even at grocery stores like Sprouts and Whole Foods.

• Ella + Mila Soy Polish Remover
• Karma Naturals
• Mineral Fusion
• Plant Therapy Tropical Flower Acetone-Free Remover
• Priti NYC Soy Nail Polish Remover
• Zoya 3-in-1 Remove+

A Few of My Favorite Nail Polish Brands

I filmed a video sharing some of the vegan-friendly nail polish brands I’ve tried and my thoughts about each. Watch below!

Vegan nail polish was once nearly impossible to find, but today dozens of brands have sprouted up changing the game in the nail decor industry. These days you can even find entire nail salons that are cruelty-free, or at the very leave offer vegan and cruelty-free nail polish options!

There is an eco-friendly nail salon down the street from me in Sacramento that has an entire wall of cruelty-free nail polishes to choose from. In fact, everything they use in the salon (such as nail polish remover and lotion) is cruelty-free and natural. If you can support those more conscious salons, all the better!

But if you go to a salon you’re not familiar with or you know is not particularly vegan-friendly, you can always bring your own polish with you and they are generally happy to use that. Want bonus points? Leave them with a polite request to carry some vegan polishes in the future. It’s sure to help their business as much as it will help you!

More Vegan Beauty & Lifestyle Guides

Discover an abundance of vegan beauty and lifestyle wisdom right here at World of Vegan. Whether you’re looking to revamp your skincare routine, explore cruelty-free fashion, or embark on a sustainable living journey, our curated guides have you covered. Dive into our extensive collection, featuring everything from plant-based makeup essentials to tips for eco-friendly travel. We’re your trusted resource for all things vegan, helping you lead a compassionate and cruelty-free lifestyle with ease!

• Best Vegan Lip Balm Guide
• Cruelty-Free Vegan Shampoo and Conditioner Brands
• Vegan Skincare Brands List
• Vegan Deodorants You Should Know
• Awesome Vegan Handbag Brands
• Best Vegan Shoes Guide
• Best Vegan Subscription Boxes
• Cruelty-Free Cleaning Product Brands
• Vegan Toothpaste Guide
• Best Vegan Shampoo Bars

The post Vegan Nail Polish Guide: List of the Best Cruelty-Free Brands & Natural Nail Lacquer Options appeared first on World of Vegan.

In this toothy guide, we’ll share the top vegan floss brands, packed with natural goodness and vibrant flavors, proving that taking care of your pearly whites can be as delightful as it is responsible. You’ll even find some zero-waste options. So, brace yourself for a floss-tastic adventure where sustainability meets smile-ability!

Remember that vegan toothpaste and floss go hand-in-hand when it comes to keeping your teeth healthy, strong, and free of disease. Let’s dive in between the teeth and find the very best dental floss brands.

Is Floss Vegan?

Not always. Non-vegan ingredients such as beeswax, silk, and even honey are often used in packaged floss. These are made from animal-derived ingredients and should be avoided. Be careful when choosing flosses using glycerin. Try to make sure that they are vegetable-based.

What is Vegan Floss?

Vegan floss is dental floss that is entirely free of animal-derived ingredients and is produced without harming or exploiting animals in any way. It’s a cruelty-free alternative to traditional dental floss, which may use materials like silk, which comes from silkworms.

Plant-based materials are the best choice for floss. Corn and bamboo floss is much better choice for the environment and can be usually be composted at home.

Best 100% Vegan Floss Brands

The perfect complement to brushing! Many dentists tell us that, in some cases, flossing might be even more important than brushing. But, doing both is always the best choice. Luckily, there are plethora of choices for vegan-friendly floss on the market today – yay!

Better and Better

Natural and plant-based nylon Better and Better floss is a safe and gentle option. Their products are refillable, gluten-free, safe, and gentle. Their floss is free from parabens, teflon, plastic, petroleum, sulfates, and animal-products. This brand prides themselves on having vegan-friendly floss that also has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. An excellent choice!

The Humble Co.

This dentist-developed floss is a sustainable option made from eco-friendly materials like PLA from corn and used natural candelilla wax. This cruelty-free brand offers recyclable paper bag packaging and three flavors of floss (lemon, fresh mint, and cinnamon). The Humble Co. is one of the very first brands to offer a biodegradable floss pick option.

Cocofloss

A super fun and eco-friendly brand that uses packaging made from recycled water bottles. Their cellulose floss has an awesome cleansing texture that is free from toxins, BPA, sodium laurel sulfate, parabens, and PFAS. With fantastic flavors like mixed fruits, delicious mint, fresh coconut, pure strawberry and cara cara orange, you can’t go wrong with this choice.

EcoDent

This trusted brand of vegan-friendly, nylon floss comes in a recyclable paper box that is also biodegradable. Its vegetable and rice bran wax base is light, smooth and economical. EcoDent offers three essential oil flavors—mint, cinnamon, and cranberry. You can find this brand at many health-conscious grocery stores.

Georganics

Using corn-based PLA, plastic-free Georganics offers three flavors of vegan and cruelty-free floss. Choose between charcoal, orange, and spearmint—all are compostable and refillable. With eco-friendly glass dispensers and stainless steels lids, you can get much better than this!

Hello

A popular brand that is easy to find in stores. Hello floss is PFAS-free and GMO-free and comes in peppermint or activated charcoal flavors. This floss has a great, non-shredding texture and it very easy to use.

Huppy

This vegan, plastic-free floss is eco-friendly and compostable. Huppy’s fresh peppermint flavor is also hard to beat. Each adorable little jar is refillable and is completely without chemicals. Using candelilla wax and corn starch, this floss is silky and glides wonderfully between your teeth.

Poppits

This grippy fiber floss has a natural corn base with a minty flavor. Poppits comes in a eco-friendly glass container with a metal cover, which is handy for traveling. They also offer 100% plastic-free toothpaste in three flavors/types.

RiseWell

A safe and natural floss option that is gluten-free and has no artificial flavors, parabens, or teflon. The hydroxyapatite-infused polyester floss helps to remineralize and protect tooth enamel. Risewell’s scrubby texture cleans extremely well and has a lovely spearmint flavor.

Brands with Vegan-Friendly Floss Options

While these brands aren’t 100% vegan, they do offer a selection of awesome, teeth-cleaning flosses. These fantastic flosses may be more readily available in stores around you without a monthly subscription. Make sure to let us know in the comments below if you have a favorite floss that is not on this list!

• Bambaw’s eco-friendly sustainable floss uses plant-based PLA from cornstarch and has a refreshing peppermint flavor. Their zero-waste, refillable, stainless steel container is also a winner.
• Dental Lace has a plant-based bamboo floss that is refillable and cruelty-free. The glass container is great for on-the-go and traveling. You can choose from unflavored or activated charcoal options.
• EcoRoots offers a charcoal bamboo option that is eco-friendly, compostable/recyclable, gluten-free, and fluoride-free. This floss also contains no preservatives, colorings, or artificial sweeteners. The brand uses candelilla wax, peppermint, and tea tree oils to coat and flavor their gentle floss.
• Radius Dental Floss also has a two vegan-friendly floss options that are resistant to shredding and are free of SLS, gluten, GMOs, parabens. There offer three flavors (Peppermint, Vanilla Mint, and Clove Cardamom) of Vegan Sponge Floss and a Peppermint Vegan Anywhere Floss with no artificial colors, sweeteners, or preservatives.

Vegan Floss FAQs

Incorporating cruelty-free floss into your dental routine is not only an eco-friendly option, but also guarantees a sparkling smile without animal cruelty. With so many sustainable options on the market, it’s easier than ever to make a positive impact on your oral health and the planet. So, go ahead and make the switch to planet-friendly floss—your smile and our Earth will thank you for it.

More Healthy Vegan Lifestyle Guides to Try

If you loved this guide, we know you’ll love these fabulously fun guides for everyday vegan life.

• Plant-powered Makeup Mavens, you’ll adore our Vegan Foundation, Vegan Mascara, and Vegan Lip Balm guides!
• If your skin is your first priority, check out these Vegan Soap, Vegan Suncreen, and Ultimate Skincare guides.
• When lovely locks are what you desire, you’ll find tons of tips and tricks in these Vegan Shampoo & Conditioner and Vegan Hair Loss articles.

The post 13 Vegan Dental Floss Brands with Eco-Friendly + Plastic-Free Options appeared first on World of Vegan.

If you’re wondering which way to turn when it comes to hydrating your skin, keep reading. We’ll share all of the top-notch brands with plant-based ingredients and even eco-friendly packaging. These skin-loving brands not only prioritize your skin’s well-being but also champion sustainability.

Let’s dive right in and discover which brands leave your skin the most refreshed and rejuvenated without harming any animals in the process. Are you ready to make nourished skin your priority?

Are Body Lotions Vegan?

Shopping for the best body lotion might not make you think twice about ingredients. But, not all body lotions are vegan-friendly. Some brands contain animal-based products such as:

• beeswax
• collagen
• glycerin
• honey
• lanolin
• keratin
• squalene

When choosing a lotion, you want to make sure that these ingredients are not on the list. Or, if they are, they are plant-based instead. Unfortunately, many brands will “update” their formulas (especially seasonally) and add ingredients that are not vegan. One way to double check is to visit the brand’s website and look carefully at the ingredients list. You could also send a message to the brand and ask as well.

What Makes Lotion Vegan?

Lotions are wonderful for keeping the outer layer of the skin moisturized and protected against aging and the elements. For a lotion to be considered vegan, it must have only plant-based (no animal-derived) ingredients. A body lotion is vegan and cruelty-free if it also is not tested on animals at any stage of the process. Here are the most common vegan-friendly lotion ingredients:

• Nut and Seed Butters and Oils (shea, coconut, cocoa, almond, sesame, jojoba, etc.)
• Fruit and Vegetable Oils (olive, grapeseed, carrot, seabuckthorn, avocado, etc.)
• Waxes (carnauba, candelilla, rice bran, berry, sunflower, etc)
• Essential Oils (lavender, rose, chamomile, sandalwood, eucalyptus, etc.)
• Aloe Vera

100% Vegan Body Lotion Brands

These luxurious brands are the perfect choice for conscious consumers seeking soft, smooth skin. All of these cruelty-free body lotion companies offer affordable, easy-to-find, and effective options. With so many choices, you’re bound to find a marvelous match for your unique skin type and needs.

Acure

An amazing vegan brand that offers the most skin-quenching and soothing lotion on the market. Their 24 Hour Moisture Lotion is free of parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, formaldehyde, and cruelty. With a blend of cocoa butter and oatmeal, this luscious lotion is incredibly calming to sensitive skin.

Alba Botanica

Plant-based and cruelty-free Alba Botanica has a line of Very Emollient Body Lotions that is widely known and loved. Besides fresh and fabulous scents, their formulas have no artificial colors, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances. All of their products are hypoallergenic and easy to find in stores. We love that they use recycled materials, too!

Andalou Naturals

Andalou Naturals is dedicated to non-GMO, cruelty-free, and vegan skincare. Their small, but mighty line of body lotions include scents such as Lavender Thyme, Mandarin Vanilla, Kukui Cocoa, Citrus Sunflower, Sensitive 1000 Roses, Cannacell, and Men Engergizing. With a base of rosehip and argan oils, plus cocoa and shea butter, your skin is bound to feel smoother and more supple in seconds!

Ceramedx

If you’ve been searching for a cruelty-free replacement for CeraVe, this is the brand to buy! Ceramedx lotions are like a skin spa in a bottle, pampering your skin with the superpower of ceramides, the guardians of your skin’s moisture barrier. Their luxurious lotions are your secret weapon against dryness and environmental stress, rejuvenating and replenishing your skin’s natural defenses. Free from harmful ingredients and animal-derivatives, Ceramedx is a skincare superhero that leaves your skin not only healthy but radiantly glowing.

Dr. Bronner’s

Dr. Bronner’s body vegan lotions are superb. The unique and refreshing essential oil scents include: Lavender Coconut, Orange Lavender, Patchouli Lime, and Peppermint. The Peppermint scent is wildly invigorating and will certainly perk you up. The moisturizing base of jojoba and coconut oil are sure to give your skin a boost. After showering or washing your hands, this organic, cruelty-free hand and body lotion is a great choice for starting off your day with energy and freshness.

Everyone

This B-Corp company never disappoints with its high quality, plant-based products. Not only are their bottles 100% post-consumer recycled, but their lotions are vegan, cruelty-free, and non-GMO. Using coconut oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera as a base, Everyone’s formula is gentle, light, and moisturizing for all skin types. Their delightful scents include Citrus + Mint, Coconut + Lemon, Lavender + Aloe, Ruby Grapefruit, and also Unscented.

Ginger Lily Farms

This economical and eco-friendly lotion brand is PETA-certified, 100% vegan, and cruelty-free. Their blend of shea butter, vitamin E, and aloe vera is extremely soothing and easily accessible on Amazon. Ginger Lily Farms formula is free of toxins, parabens, sulfates, phosphates, and is also gluten-free. Choose from these options: Fragrance Free, Champagne Mimosa, Island Tranquility, Apple Pear, Ocean Breeze, Aloe Vera, Coco Mango, Hemp, and Argan Oil.

Hempz

A wonderfully smooth and satisfying lotion is perfect for all skin types. This popular, cruelty-free company offers a vast selection of alluring scents for any season or skin condition. Hemp oil, the main ingredient, is the basis of this brand’s success. THC-free, gluten-free, paraben-free, and offering 48 hours of hydration. One of our favorites!

Osea

The ultimate in vegan skin luxury! Osea’s phenomenal Undaria Algae body care line comes in oil, lotion, or butter to fit anyone’s needs. Using top quality vegan and natural ingredients, each of these body moisturizers will quench any loss of moisture in no time. The scent is absolutely gorgeous and worth every penny. Smoothing, hydrating, firming, and absorbs quickly.

Pacifica Beauty

One of the most accessible and affordable vegan beauty brands in our favorites list! Pacifica never disappoints with their gorgeously packaged and scented products that truly give results. This lovely nourishing and lightweight lotion line is created without parabens, phthalates, SLS or mineral oil. Moon lotions come in five sensational scents: Dream, Flower, Silver, Sunrise, and Neon.

The Body Shop

The Body Shop has always been cruelty-free, but they’ve committed to becoming fully vegan by the end of 2023. Their popular body butters come in a classic round metal tin are a body-care staple for many. They are moisturizing, nourishing for the skin, and a silky smooth formula. The Body Shop has an ever-growing lineup of scents which are clearly labeled vegan on the front of the package!

“By December 2023, we aim to have all our product formulas certified by The Vegan Society. It is possible that old formulations which have not been certified by The Vegan Society may still be present in the market at that point, as those products are being sold through.”

Best Plastic-Free and Zero Waste Options

When you want to do the best for your body, as well as for the planet, a vegan body lotion bar is the way to go. Without any extra packaging to throw away or recycle, you’re saving a good amount of energy and waste for Planet Earth. These cruelty-free lotion brands are the best on the market. There’s an outstanding option for everyone, even for the little people in your life!

EcoRoots Lotion Bar

A solid body lotion in a tin! This brand uses a mixture of candelilla wax, cocoa butter, shea butter, and plant oils to create a lovely, easy-to-use moisturizer. Comes in natural or coconut scents and makes your skin soft and smooth.

Ethique Butter Blocks

This popular Australian brand offers at least five superb scents of body moisturizer (Sweet Orange and Vanilla, Jasmine & Ylang Ylang, Lavender & Vanilla, Coconut & Lime, Coconut & Lemongrass, and Love Baby Bar), as well as an unscented option. Ethique’s palm-oil free, solid sticks come in a convenient covered cardboard tube and last for a long time.

Happi Hippo Organics Lotion Bar

This adorable, plant-based, and all-natural body lotion bar is also completely biodegradable! Happi Hippo doesn’t use artificial dyes or fragrances. Their formula is hand-crafted and made in small batches for the best quality. Scents include: Lemon Meringue, Rose, Lavender, Chocolate Orange, Lemon Hibiscus Raspberry, Cocoa Butter, Citrus Lavender, Coconut Lime, Coconut Mint Lavender, Lavender Eucalyptus, Orange Vanilla, Raspberry Vanilla, and Raw Shea.

Kate McLeod Body Stones

These plant-based lotion bars are nourishing and wonderfully moisturizing. Kate McLeod’s body stones are carefully crafted with cocoa butter and almond oil, as well as essential oils. This brand prides itself on using both locally sourced and high-quality ingredients. The finished solid vegan body lotion is not sticky or greasy, but easily absorbed.

More Cruelty-Free Body Lotion Options

It’s so exciting that more and more brands are either becoming 100% vegan or increasing the animal-free products in their line. If you’re searching for even more body moisturizing brands, here are a few additional lotions to look into:

• Kopari Beauty
• Love, Beauty & Planet
• Seaweed Bath Company
• Truly

Body Lotion FAQs

More Vivacious Vegan Beauty and Body Care Guides

• Setting aside time for a spa day? Look no further than these helpful guides on Vegan Body Wash, Vegan Skincare, and Vegan Candles to make your experience sensational!
• Calling all make-up mavens! You’ll love browsing through the brands in this Vegan Makeup list!
• Dying for a DIY day? How about making a batch of vegan deodorant, coffee body scrub, or solid perfume?
• If you adore fragrance like we do, check out our Vegan Perfume Guide and whip up a bottle of your very own perfume oil!

Now that you’ve had a glimpse into the world of playful pampering, it’s time to embrace the wonders of vegan lotion. These vegan and cruelty-free lotion brands are here to make your skin dance with joy, leaving you feeling happily hydrated and moisturized to the max!

The post 18 Vegan Body Lotion Brands to Nourish Your Skin appeared first on World of Vegan.

You might be wondering: What is vegan skincare? What do I look for? How do I get started on a new skincare routine? Which companies offer vegan skincare products? No worries, lotion-loving friends! We’ll answer all of those questions and more.

Before we start, consider the contents of your bathroom counter and muddle through your medicine cabinet. Dig out all of your cleansers, moisturizers, scrubs, masks, and serums and pile them in front of you. Are any of them clearly marked as vegan or cruelty-free? It’s totally okay if you can’t figure it out or are too afraid to look.

Let’s investigate together!

What Is Vegan Skincare?

To start, we’ll keep it simple. Here’s what it means to be vegan. And here is why so many people choose to be vegan. At World of Vegan, we consider skincare to be vegan if:

1. The product is made without any ingredients that come from an animal.
2. The item is also cruelty-free, meaning that it was produced without the use of animal testing.

Although there are other issues to consider such as natural vs. synthetic, organic vs. non-organic, or even the environmental impact of certain ingredients, these two principles are the most important in identifying if skincare is vegan or not.

What Is the Difference Between Regular and Vegan Skincare?

When we think about skincare, animal products don’t immediately come to mind. At least, not like they do with food or drink. It’s really easy to overlook the fact that many basic ingredients found in the most popular beauty products are not vegan. 

‘Regular skincare’ might refer to readily available, over-the-counter, and mainstream products which may or may not include vegan-friendly ingredients. On the other hand, ‘vegan skincare’ can easily be misconstrued as something elite, expensive, and hard to find. 

The only thing that differs between ‘regular’ and vegan skincare are the ingredients. Our goal is to find an option that keep our skin gorgeous and glowing, without anything to do with the animals we love. 

Cruelty-Free & Vegan Skincare Brands

Which Skincare Brands Are Vegan And Cruelty-Free?

Because new skincare brands coming out on the market all the time, these are just a few of our tried-and-true favorites. We’ll be updating this list often, so make sure to check back when you’re searching for new vegan skincare options.

• Activist Skincare
• Acure
• Arbonne
• Aveda
• Beauty Without Cruelty
• Biossance (sold at Sephora)
• Bulldog Skincare for Men
• Coconut
• Cover FX
• Dear Dahlia
• Derma-E
• Dr. Paw Paw
• Eco Tools
• E.L.F.
• Elate Cosmetics
• Ellovi
• Emani
• Ethique
• Everyday Minerals
• Grace & Stella
• Fleur & Bee
• Fourth Ray Beauty (sold at ULTA)
• Franklin & Whitman
• Herban Cowboy
• Herbivore Botanicals
• Hylunia (Ancient Ayurveda & Modern Science)
• Inika Organic
• Juice Beauty
• Made by Sunday
• Mad Hippie
• Maelove
• Meow Meow Tweet
• Not to Die For
• Osea
• Pacifica
• Plant Department Skincare (Plant DPT)
• Province Apothecary
• Puracy
• Sukin (Australia)
• The Ordinary
• Thrive Causemetics
• Upcircle
• Versed
• Wildling
• Youth to the People
• Zatik Natural (100% Organic)

Skincare Brands with Many Vegan Options

• 100% Pure
• Aavrani
• Alba Botanica
• Allies of Skin
• Andalou Naturals
• Balance Me (UK)
• Cocokind
• Desert Essence
• Ecco Bella
• Every Man Jack
• Glossier
• Glow Recipe
• Green Goo
• Indie Lee
• Kaja Beauty (sold at Sephora)
• LUSH
• Mychelle Dermaceuticals
• Nourish Organic
• psa
• The Body Shop (will soon be 100% Vegan!)
• Ursa Major VT
• Yes to

Best Eco-Friendly Skincare Brands (Vegan & Cruelty-Free)

• Elate Cosmetics
• Ethique
• Meow Meow Tweet
• Osea
• Sbtrct (UK)

Best Vegan Skincare for Men

• Bulldog (100% vegan)
• Herban Cowboy (100% vegan)
• Every Man Jack

Vegan Beauty Subscription Boxes

If you’re like to explore vegan skincare and beauty brands and products without investing in full-size products, consider subscribing to a vegan beauty box. Here are the three most popular vegan beauty box options today: 

• Vegan Cuts Beauty Box
• Petit Vour 
• Kinder Beauty Box

As a subscriber to a vegan beauty subscription box you’ll receive a sampling of vegan products every month—usually a mix of skincare, body care, and makeup—at a fraction of the full retail price. This is a great option for anyone who hasn’t yet landed on their favorite vegan skincare products and brands, or if you’l like to build up a collection.

Which Skincare Ingredients are NOT Vegan?

While this is not a complete list of all of the skincare ingredients that are not vegan, these are the most commonly known and used in commercial skincare products. 

• Lanolin – Used to soften and moisturize, this emollient is made from sheep’s wool, and can easily be swapped with a plant-based oil (olive, jojoba, etc.) or butter (like coconut or shea)
• Beeswax – A natural wax produced by honey bees, it helps to keep liquids and solids together in a mixture, and can be substituted with a plant-based wax such as soy, candelilia, or carnauba.
• Glycerin – Traditionally made using animal fat, this moisturizing ingredient can be replaced by a vegetable glycerin instead.
• Squalene – This additive is often used for anti-aging products and is primarily made from shark liver oil. You can also find plant-derived forms from olives or wheat germ.
• Stearic Acid – An emulsifier and emollient that is usually derived from an animal’s stomach (such a pig, cow, or sheep). It can simply be replaced by a plant-based stearic acid, which would also be less irritating to the skin.
• Oleic Acid (aka Tallow) – Though this skincare softener can be made using plant-derived fats (like coconut, almond, or olive), it’s most commonly made from animal fat.
• Casein (or Sodium Caseinate) – A conditioning treatment that is made with cow’s milk. An alternative can be created by using a plant-based milk instead.

Are Collagen and Elastin Vegan?

Until recently, collagen and elastin have been entirely animal-based. Both collagen and elastin are proteins extracted from the various parts of an animal, usually a cow or horse. Collagen is made with fibrous proteins of the animal tissue, bone, skin, or ligaments, while elastin is created from the muscles, ligaments, and aortas of animals.

But, thankfully, science is truly coming along in the skincare world. There are now plant-based collagen options manufactured using yeast and bacteria. Pacifica has a range of vegan collagen skincare utilizing this new technology. In addition, the company, Geltor, has taken advantage of the fermentation process to invent a PETA-approved elastin ingredient for use in skincare. 

Yay for science!

Is Vegan Skincare Better?

Often, but not necessarily. You would think that any vegan skincare product would be the better choice (and when it comes to the animals, it always is!), but it really depends on how these non-animal ingredients interact with your own skin or skin type. Also, keep in mind, that every person is unique and reacts differently to certain ingredients.

Sometimes, using a petroleum-based product can wreak havoc on the skin due to the man-made chemicals. On the other hand, if you have sensitivities to nuts or seeds, you might want to be extra careful of natural oils that come from almonds, coconut, or sesame. What may work for one person may not work for another. There’s a lot of trial and error, but it’s well worth it in the end.

For the best chance at high-quality vegan skincare, here’s what to strive for:

• Easy-to-understand ingredients (like natural oils, aloe vera, and plant-based waxes)
• Very few, if any, chemical additives or preservatives (which tend to be irritating to the skin)
• Organic or locally made (ideal, but not necessary for clear, healthy skin)

Are More Expensive Products Always A Better Choice?

It might be surprising to learn that many of the low-end skincare companies have a number of accidentally vegan products, while many of high end, more expensive brands have less. Why is that? It’s mostly due to the fact that lower-end brands use synthetic ingredients such as mineral oil, as the basis of their products.

Since mineral oil is an industrial by-product, it’s inexpensive and readily available. The high-end companies tend (not always, of course) to use more “natural” ingredients. Sadly, those end up being focused primarily on animal-based, rather than plant-based, substances like beeswax, collagen, lanolin, etc.

Sadly, there isn’t an easy “yes” or “no” answer to this question. Some affordable vegan skincare products may have better options than more expensive brands, or vice versa. It truly depends on the company and product itself. This is a great opportunity to do a bit of extra investigating on your own. (Though, we’re happy to give you a little guidance.)

How Do I Start a New Skincare Routine?

When you’re embarking on a new beauty routine, it’s best to stick with the basics. After that, you can add on whichever plumping and pampering practices you like! If you’re anything you’re like us, you’ll find it fabulously fun to experiment and observe the results.

First, choose a vegan makeup remover (if you wear makeup), a cleanser, and a vegan moisturizer. Then, follow these simple steps every evening before bed (very important) and in the morning, if you wish. 

1. Remove Makeup – Make sure to use a cloth or product especially made for removing make up. In a pinch, a simple base oil (such as almond, coconut, or jojoba) will do the trick. Massage a nickel-sized amount of oil onto dry skin for about 30 seconds and wipe off lightly with a cloth (never use paper towels or toilet paper––they’re much too drying on the skin).
2. Cleanse – Wet skin using lukewarm water, use your fingers to apply cleanser, and gently massage into the skin for a minute or two. Rinse with lukewarm or cool water. Pat with a soft towel.
3. Moisturize – Before your face is completely dry, you can apply the vegan moisturizer (amount should be shown on the product) all over the skin using gentle upward and outward motions.

What Else Should I Add to My Vegan Skincare Routine?

These alluring extras may a bit of brightness and a touch of TCL when your skin needs it the most. Feel free to pick and choose the products that suit you best. It’s all about you and what you love.

• Toner – You can use this daily to remove any traces of dirt or impurities left in the pores of your skin after you wash your face. It also helps to restore your skin’s pH level, smooths rough patches, and aids in improving skin tone. 
• Exfoliation – This process removes dead skin cells from the surface of your skin using either a physical tool, cleansing grains, or chemicals. Be careful to choose the best option for your skin-type. Some chemical exfoliants can be harsh on the skin. 
• Serum – They sound so magical, don’t they? A serum is designed to deliver high concentrations of vitamin-rich ingredients. A few drops pressed into the skin before applying cruelty-free moisturizer is all that you need.
• Eye Cream – As you get older, the skin around your eyes thins and causes drooping. Totally natural, but also a bummer. To keep this area hydrated, try adding a tiny, pea-sized amount of cream around the eyes. Apply with your ring finger (will give the least amount of pressure) in slow, circular motions.
• Lip Balm – (Our favorite!) This is probably the least necessary before bed, but also the most luxurious. Adding a super smooth swipe to your lips will make them even softer and more supple in the morning.

DIY Vegan Skincare

This suggestion is for all of you DIY-lovers out there! While there are many amazing options for vegan and cruelty-free skincare in stores and online, making your own can be even better. If you have the time (or just love to experiment with creating concoctions), try making your own vegan skincare!

Recipes for homemade products can range in difficulty from super easy to craftily complicated. It’s totally up to you to choose the product that’s right for you. We suggest starting out small. Find a skincare recipe with only one or two ingredients and see if you like it.

You might find that you love making your own beauty essentials so much that you never want to buy them again. Or, you may find this process incredibly tedious and not worth your time. You’ll never know unless you give it a try.

Here are a few of our favorite books for do-it-yourself vegan skincare:

• The Compassionate Chick’s Guide to DIY Beauty: 125 Recipes for Vegan, Gluten-Free, Cruelty-Free Makeup, Skin and Hair Care Products by Sunny Subramanian, founder of Vegan Beauty Review
• Plant-Powered Beauty: The Essential Guide to Using Natural Ingredients for Health, Wellness, and Personal Skincare by Amy Galper
• Homemade Organic Skin & Body Care: Easy DIY Recipes and Natural Beauty Tips for Glowing Skin (Body Butters, Essential Oils, Natural Makeup, Masks, Lotions, Body Scrubs & More – 100% Cruelty Free) by Carmen Reeves

Vegan Beauty & Skincare Podcast Episode

In this episode of The Plant Powered-People Podcast, hosts Michelle Cehn and Toni Okamoto chat with longtime vegan beauty guru Sunny Subramanian about skincare and her top cruelty-free beauty tips.

Looking For More Vegan Beauty Guides?

• Vegan Body Lotion
• Vegan Perfume Guide
• Guide to Vegan Nail Polish
• Vegan Deodorants That Work
• Vegan Body Wash
• Best Vegan Shampoo Bars
• Vegan Lip Balms We Can’t Live Without
• Vegan Soap Guide
• Cruelty-Free Mascara for Kind & Luscious Lashes
• Vegan Sunscreen Guide
• Best Vegan Foundation
• Vegan Floss Guide

This vegan skincare guide is not sponsored by any of the brands or companies mentioned, and we only share products and companies we sincerely adore! Love a vegan skincare brand that you don’t see listed? Let us know in the comments! 

The post Vegan Skincare Guide—Best Cruelty-Free Skincare Brands & Tips to Veganize Your Routine appeared first on World of Vegan.