WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN VEGAN SKINCARE PRODUCTS - LABELS, TERMINOLOGY, INGREDIENTS & MORE

When seeking out vegan skincare products understanding what to look for in their formulations can help you make more informed choices. But with so many terms like “cruelty-free,” “plant-based,” and “natural” thrown around, it can be hard to know what’s really in that bottle on your shelf. So what do these terms really mean? More importantly, how can you tell if the product you're holding is truly vegan? 

Whether you are new to vegan skincare or trying to refine your routine, understanding common ingredients and labels and being aware of key terminology can make all the difference. Read on as we take you through exactly what to look for when making your purchases. 

Vegan Skincare Labels

Skincare labels can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to vegan products but a few key points will help you quickly spot what matters. It is important to note that a good vegan skincare product should be both free of animal-derived ingredients and not tested on animals. You should also be aware of “greenwashing,” attempts from brands that claim to be eco-friendly or vegan without the necessary certifications. Here’s what to check for on the labels; 

• Animal-Derived Ingredients - Some skincare ingredients come from animals, even when you might not expect it to. Look for alternatives to ingredients like beeswax, lanolin, or collagen, which can be found in non-vegan products.
  
  
• Plant-Based Substitutes -  Instead of animal-based ingredients, vegan skincare often uses plant oils, extracts and essential oils.
  
  
• Testing Policies -  “Cruelty-free” means that no animals were used in testing the product or its ingredients. However, be sure the product is both vegan and cruelty-free, as some cruelty-free products can still contain animal-derived substances.
  
  

• Ingredient Transparency - Brands that are proud of their vegan status often provide clear, detailed ingredient lists, sometimes even with explanations of where their ingredients come from.
  
  
• Ethical Practices - Vegan brands often highlight their environmental and ethical practices. Look for claims of sustainability, eco-friendly packaging and ethical sourcing, which usually accompany brands passionate about their vegan status.
  
  
• Recognised vegan certifications -  For an extra layer of confidence, check for recognised vegan certifications. For example, The Vegan Society's sunflower logo guarantees that no animal ingredients were used and the product has not been tested on animals. 

Common Terminology in Skincare Products

When navigating the terminology associated with skincare products, apart from the vegan certifications and logos you can also check if the following can be identified;

• Cruelty-Free -This term means that the product was not tested on animals. While cruelty-free products can still contain animal-derived ingredients, vegan products are both cruelty-free and free of animal by-products.
  
  
• Paraben-Free - Parabens are preservatives used in cosmetics that can sometimes cause irritation. Paraben-free labels are often seen in vegan products, ensuring a cleaner formulation.
  
  
• Sulfate-Free - Sulfates can strip natural oils from your skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Sulphate-free products are gentler, making them a better choice for sensitive skin types.
  
  
• Natural -  While “natural” may sound appealing, it doesn’t always mean vegan. Some natural ingredients, like honey or beeswax, are animal-derived, so always double-check if the product is truly vegan.
  

Key Vegan Ingredients to Look For

Vegan skincare products often utilise plant-based ingredients, which can be equally (if not more) effective than their non-vegan counterparts. Here are some ingredients to look out for:

• Argan Oil -  Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, argan oil is a popular ingredient that helps hydrate and soften the skin without clogging pores.
  
  
• Jojoba Oil - Known for mimicking the skin’s natural sebum, jojoba oil is excellent for moisturising while balancing oily skin.
  
  
• Tea Tree Oil  0 A powerful natural antibacterial and antifungal agent, tea tree oil is a favourite in vegan skincare for its acne-fighting properties.
  
  
• Avocado Oil - Full of vitamins and nutrients, avocado oil nourishes the skin, promoting elasticity and hydration.
  
  
• Aloe Vera -  Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera is perfect for calming irritated skin and reducing redness.

Benefits of Vegan Skincare

Opting for vegan skincare not only benefits the planet, animals and the environment around you but also supports the health of your skin. Vegan products are generally packed with more natural and plant-based ingredients, reducing the risk of harsh chemicals and allergens. They are also often more sustainable, using eco-friendly packaging and ethical sourcing.

Some key benefits of switching to vegan skincare include;

• Gentler on Sensitive Skin -  Without harsh chemicals or animal-derived ingredients, vegan skincare products tend to be gentler on the skin.
  
  
• Environmentally Friendly - Vegan skincare products are often produced with sustainable practices and avoid contributing to the disruption of the planet.
  
  
• Healthier Formulations -  With a focus on plant-based ingredients, vegan products often come packed with vitamins, antioxidants and essential oils, promoting healthier skin overall.
  

Barbology London - Your Go-To Solution for Vegan & Cruelty-Free Skincare

At Barbology London, we understand that modern men seek a skincare routine that is both effective and ethical. That’s why our products are certified vegan by The Vegan Society, cruelty-free and free from harmful chemicals like parabens. Made in the UK and designed for all skin types each of our products includes a unique blend of essential oils, including argan, avocado and tea tree, to ensure your skin and beard are well-nourished and rejuvenated.

With Barbology London, you can confidently embrace a skincare routine that aligns with your values, without compromising on quality or results!