Being chemical free, cruelty free, and nutrient-rich has gained vegan products consumer attention and loyalty.

◊ By Shikhee Agrawal

 Visit ORGANIC SHOP by Pure & Eco India

For the uninitiated, vegan products are those that are alchemised using strictly plant-based ingredients. This means vegan products do not contain any component that is animal derived (such as animal fat, milk, etc). Nor will a vegan product ever be tested on animals.

Needless to say, as all ingredients in these products are plant based, the usage of chemicals is absent in their formulation. Given that 60% of the products we use on our skin and scalp are absorbed into our bodies, this is very good news for us as consumers because vegan products ensure safety.

Furthermore, the plant-derived ingredients (coconut milk, ginger, aloe vera, seaweed, tea tree, green tea, chamomile, etc) in vegan formulas, naturally, contain more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to repair and hydrate the skin, as opposed to the chemical concoctions that flood the market in the name of skincare.

Here’s why it’s cool to use vegan products:

SAFE TO USE: Since they comprise natural ingredients and are devoid of chemicals, vegan cosmetics have no known side effects. Since the products are 100% vegetarian and are formulated without colourants, butylated hydroxytoluene, formaldehyde and silicone, they do not harm us.

BETTER FOR SKIN & HAIR: Unlike in conventional cosmetics, when a vegan product mentions plant extracts, it means real plant extracts were actually used in the product—as opposed to essences and fragrances merely proxying real plants.

Due to the fact that real fruits, vegetables, and other plant derivatives go into the making of vegan products, they are generously packed with antioxidants and vitamins and are, therefore, healthier for the skin.

100% CRUELTY FREE: Chemical products harm the ecosystem and pollute the environment during production. Not only that but they cannot be produced without the torture of innocent animals. Hapless rabbits, dogs, hamsters and mice are subjected to unspeakable cruelty during their manufacture and testing.

The thought of another living being suffering for your mascara, eyeliner, lipstick or cream is discomfiting, especially when there is a peaceful alternative available, which is actually better for you.

Vegan beauty products are never tested on animals. They are free from beeswax, collagen, gelatin, honey, carmine, cholesterol, milk, lanolin, shellac and other animal-derived ingredients—serving as not only a healthier but also a far more humane option.

In our increasingly eco conscious world, people are learning to see past the razzle dazzle of big brands and expensive packaging—and register what exactly it is they are using and how it impacts them. Therefore, vegan products—which are kind to people, animals and the planet—will only gain more ascendance with the passage of time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The author is a luxury retail and skincare professional and is currently Assistant Vice President at Kiehl’s India.