Our Guide to Vegan Skincare
As beauty professionals, it’s easy to see how shopping for skincare can become overwhelming. There’s already a plethora of products and treatments to choose from, all targeting a different skin type or concern, but throw veganism into the mix, and it becomes a whole new ball game!
In the UK alone, we are becoming increasingly more health conscious and, as a result, veganism is rising at an impressive rate. The good news? We listen to the changing needs of our customers, ensuring we continuously develop our products to meet their demands and we’re here to help you too!
Keep reading for our definitive guide to Vegan and Cruelty-Free skincare and find out how you can incorporate this new wave of products into your salon.
So, what exactly is Vegan Skincare?
Vegan skincare, contrarily to natural skincare, must use ingredients that are completely plant-derived. From cleansers to toners, moisturisers to serums, these products don’t skimp on quality and are a great addition to any skincare regime, whether you’re vegan or not.
Ingredients to Avoid
Beeswax
Although beeswax doesn’t directly come from the bee, it is known as an animal by-product because it is derived from the honeycomb that bees produce. While it should be avoiding if you are seeking vegan-friendly products, beeswax is commonly used in natural skincare due to its highly moisturising, skin softening properties.
Royal Jelly
Similarly to beeswax, royal jelly is also a bee by-product used in a host of natural skincare products to target ageing, relieve irritation and refine general skin health. The substance oozes from the glands of the worker bees and is fed to their young. Vegan-friendly alternatives include aloe vera and shea butter.
Collagen
Our skins natural collagen production depletes with age, which is why collagen-based skincare products are so popular. Collagen supplements commonly used in skincare are often produced from the bones, skin and connective tissues of animals, including cattle (Bovine Collagen) and fish (Marine Collagen), among others.
Fortunately, there are vegan-friendly plant-derived collagen alternatives available which have the same anti-ageing effect on the skin, the most common being Vitamin C. Its antioxidant properties not only make it a vital molecule for skin health but our bodies actually need it to produce collagen.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Found in fish oil, omega 3 fatty acids are well known for both their nutritional and aesthetic benefits. When it comes to skincare, they help regulate oil production, boost hydration and calm irritation.
Good news…
Omega 3 comes in several different forms, including both animal and plant-derived sources. Plant-based versions of omega 3 come from flaxseeds, chia seeds and leafy greens which are 100% vegan friendly!
Lanolin
Lanolin acts as a lubricant to prevent water loss and eliminate dry, flaky or irritated skin. The substance is secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep and acts as their waterproof barrier to protect from cold and wet conditions.
Even though Lanolin possesses moisturising properties, research also indicates the substance as a comedogenic and cause of allergic reactions, particularly in those with sensitive skin.
Lactic Acid
Often derived from milk, Lactic Acid is an AHA. It’s renowned for its ability to accelerate the shedding of dead skin cells and detoxify the complexion and is mainly found in skin-peeling or exfoliating products.
Good news…
Don’t panic if lactic acid is present in your vegan skincare regime, as there are plant-based derivatives of the ingredient.
Our Top Five Vegan Products
At MONU, we pride ourselves on our variety of cruelty-free skincare and have now developed our own range of vegan-friendly products for your clients to enjoy between professional treatments.
Energising Facial Wash
Our unique combination of zinc, magnesium, copper and ginseng provides the perfect vitamin boost for the skin. Filled with the uplifting scents of lime, mandarin and rose essential oils, this facial wash transforms into a soothing foam that nourishes, revitalises and purifies the complexion.
Toners
Toners are vital for completing the cleansing process and restoring the skins natural pH balance. All of our toners have been formulated using a natural blend of active ingredients and essential oils that not only remove bacteria from the skins surface but balance and refresh skin tone.
Skin Activator
A multi-functional wonder product, this is often referred to as the first-aid kit in a bottle. Formulated with aloe vera, it not only enhances the penetration of other products, but it helps improve the appearance of blemishes and imperfections. Apply prior to masks, oils and moisturisers or even use on its own to heal burns, rashes and other skin irritations.
Rosewood Reviving Mist
A true makeup bag essential, Rosewood Reviving Mist keeps shine under control by maintaining moisture levels and balancing oil production. Our rich combination of petitgrain, lemon and rosewood essential oils also prevents breakouts and relieves dryness.
MONUspa Shampoo & Conditioner
Enriched with panthenol and glycerine, our SLS-free Shampoo & Conditioner gently cleanse the hair without drying. Plus, the uplifting aromas of lemon, grapefruit and orange leave hair smelling gorgeous for days.
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