Why People Need To Switch To Vegan Skincare Products
In recent years, the popularity of vegan skincare, makeup and cosmetic products has rocketed. A study from one particular retailer notes a sales increase of an incredible 750 percent on their vegan skincare range.
Much like a vegan diet, vegan skincare products, such as this Flawless Facial Serum, omit the use of any animal-based products and byproducts. They focus on using plant-based or natural ingredients instead. But what is the hype surrounding plant-based cosmetics, and what are some key reasons for you to consider making the switch?
It's cruelty-free
One of the main reasons that people choose vegan skincare is because it is cruelty-free. Every year, 115 million animals are used for testing worldwide. These animals are often kept in terrible conditions and subjected to pain, fear and distress throughout their short lives. In many cases, the failure rate of these experiments is greater than 90% as the results cannot be accurately translated to humans, so the whole process is pointless and unnecessary. People feel very strongly about these senseless and outdated methods and are voting with their wallets. If everyone switched to vegan skincare products, millions and possibly even billions of animals could be saved from a life of pain and misery.
It's safer
Manmade cosmetics tend to include a lot of different chemicals that may come with their own side effects, but plant-based products are derived from nature. Our bodies often have a hard time processing complex chemical compounds that are unfamiliar to them, and they can lead to irritation and allergies. In the case of skincare products, this can mean exacerbating conditions such as acne and eczema. Those who suffer from sensitive skin issues may find that switching to vegan products gives their skin a break from chemicals and additives, leaving them with a fresh, glowing complexion.
It's also worth noting that experts tend to refer to the skin as the largest organ and "the window to the body". This means that anything we put on it can be absorbed into the body through the bloodstream and does have an effect on our internal organs. Switching to natural skincare products won't just benefit what you see on the outside; it can also improve how you feel on the inside.
It's sustainable
Another strong case for switching to vegan skincare is to help save the planet. Again, those in the younger generation are becoming more aware of their carbon footprint and trying to live and shop in more environmentally-friendly ways. Vegan skincare producers care about the environment and try to work with naturally sustainable products that won't run out or destroy the natural habitat of wildlife. You'll also find that vegan skincare providers try to use eco-friendly packaging, such as recycled paper/card and air pillows in place of styrofoam and bubble wrap.
Manmade products, however, rely on heavy factory work and lab practices to create their products, all of which is damaging the environment. They also use a large volume of plastic in their packaging, which isn't biodegradable and is contributing to the pollution of our oceans.
It's affordable
It is a misconception that vegan skincare is more costly than non-vegan skincare. Perhaps the idea comes from the fact that organic food types can be more expensive. However, in skincare and cosmetics, the difference in price between vegan and non vegan options is much more subtle. In lower-end products, many skincare items are actually cheaper than non-vegan versions. In mid to high range, the difference between the two is much smaller, so they are entirely comparable in terms of price. With nothing to lose but lots to gain with natural skincare that is great for the planet, why wouldn't you at least give it a try?
It's natural
Nature heals. It really is that simple. All of the goodness that comes from the natural world can be found in vegan skincare products with none of the unpleasantries that complex chemical compounds can cause. For centuries, natural products like lavender and aloe vera have been used to treat ailments and promote good skincare. Plants are one of the richest sources of natural vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, so embrace them and give your skin a natural glow. If this isn't enough to persuade you, it's worth remembering that lots of non-vegan products contain a number of dubious animal byproducts such as urine, insects and ground-up animal parts. With vegan products you know from the start that everything your body is absorbing is natural and straight from the earth.