Best vegan skincare to keep your beauty routine cruelty-free

We’ve tackled haircare and the brands you need to know to keep your locks silky soft, but in this roundup, we will be introducing you to the world of plant-based skincare. But don’t worry, this does not require immediate action. Introduce new products into your regime gradually in order to prevent wastage and any negative skin reactions by giving your complexion time to adjust.

You’d be mistaken to think that just because the brands below are free from any animal derivatives that they do not pack the same punch for your complexion. In our edit of entirely vegan skincare brands, you’ll find high-powered products that will work wonders whether you have normal, combination, dry or blemish-prone skin.

By nature of being vegan, plant-charged skincare products are generally composed of fewer chemicals and more natural ingredients, which makes them suited for even sensitive skin types. And the good news is, there is no category left unturned. Whether you’re in need of a new cleansing hero, hydrating moisturiser, or a supercharged serum, there’s vegan formulas aplenty - and they tend to have better eco credentials too. These products are better for your skin and the planet at the same time: win-win.

There is research to suggest that a vegan diet - generally packed with more antioxidants and vitamin-rich fruit and vegetables - can be beneficial on the skin and an effective routine will take that one step further.

Dr Shaaira Nasir, Consultant Dermatologist at sk:n shares her top tips to care for your skin, “Maintaining a regular cleansing routine is a fundamental skincare rule. Double cleansing daily will give you the best results, as it ensures all makeup, dirt and excess oils are removed from the skin each day. Avoid using products that are too harsh, as this can impair the cell structure of the skin and diminish the barrier function of the epidermis layer.”

She adds, “Along with increasing your fruit and veg intake, invest in a good moisturiser to restore the skin’s barrier and prevent water loss from the skin. Look for a moisturiser with occlusive ingredients, such as petrolatum, or ingredients that attract moisture from the surrounding environment.”

Dr Nasir also stresses the importance of including sun protection factors into your regime, “applying a SPF daily, all year round, is the most important step. This is an easy habit to drop in January, with the short days and plummeting temperatures, but don’t forget that intermittent winter sun can still cause damage, even when it’s cloudy, so keeping up this routine is crucial.”

Below we’ve put a whole host of vegan skincare brands through their paces to find the ones you need on your radar. These are hard-working products that can be used whether you are following a plant-based lifestyle or not.