Why it’s important to support Vegan and Cruelty-Free practices and products
Unsurprisingly when we consider our skincare regime our main priority is ‘will the product work? 'Will it fix my pesky pimples?’ ‘Will it make my dark circles less obvious?’ 'Will it help prevent wrinkles?'
Admittedly, what ingredients are used and how ethical those products are, can be a secondary thought. Do you ever reflect on the production processes or whether a product is vegan?
As environmental and ethical issues are raised in conversations, the terms “vegan skincare” and “cruelty-free” often appear. But what do these terms actually mean - further on from their actual definitions? And what are the real implications of disregarding a cruelty-free and vegan approach to skincare?
We will dispel some common misconceptions, explain why supporting cruelty-free and vegan is the best and most ethical way to shop for skincare products, and what to look out for when you are purchasing.
Vegan skincare can be defined as a product that has been made without any animal products or byproducts. By contrast, cruelty-free is defined by Choose Cruelty Free Australia as “Cruelty-free relates to animal experimentation and whether or not a product and its ingredients have been animal-tested.”
No one tests on animals anymore
It is hard to believe, but animal testing is still widely practised and in-fact, by law in China every imported cosmetic product is required to undergo animal testing.
It’s not safe to test on humans
The chemicals used in animal tests aren’t safe for humans and that is one issue. Another is the actual validity of animal testing results, which is debatable. With inconsistencies based on species, age, sex and the health of the animal exposed. At best, animal testing is unreliable, in our opinion cruel and unnecessary.
It is only mice and rabbits that are used for animal testing
While rabbits and mice are often used, guinea pigs, dogs, sheep, pigs and even monkeys in other parts of the world are used in animal testing practices.
Natural skincare doesn’t work as well
Synthetic cosmetics are full of unidentifiable ingredients, that are harsh and damaging to your skin. Naturally-derived skincare products are safer for you, better for your skin and the environment. The natural skincare category is backed by considerable research into naturally-derived ingredients that offer the same benefits to those chemically produced and heavily used. We are lucky to have a host of natural ingredients here in Australia that offer wonderful benefits to the skin. For example, Kakadu Plum (found in our Vitamin C+ Serum) which has 50 times the amount of Vitamin C per 100grams than oranges. The world's richest source of Vitamin C.
Why Choose Cruelty-Free and Vegan Skincare Products
Sustainability
The environmental impacts of animal-testing and non-vegan skincare practices are of concern to us here at BBSC, whats more they fuel an already rapidly declining planet.
We often hear about the environmental impact of farming and other animal practices in terms of food. However the environmental impact of using animal products and byproducts within the beauty industry is also hugely detrimental. Vegan Australia explains that to consider vegan alternatives is one of the simplest ways to reduce environmental impact.
By choosing vegan and cruelty-free skincare you are supporting skincare practices that are ethical and environmentally more sustainable.
A Healthier You - Inside & Out
Our skin absorbs 60% of what is applied to it. Polluting your skin and body with harmful chemicals and animal byproducts can be known to cause irritation and clog your pores.
Skin thrives when we rely on the natural elements, minimal makeup, plenty of water and plant derivatives that each contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Each key ingredient used in our Byron Bay Skincare range has been formulated with this is mind. For example, we use naturally-rich in moisture ingredients like Coconut and Argan Oil and Shea Butter, as well as calming Chamomile, Aloe Vera and Vitamin C, and unique Australian botanicals which offer fabulous active benefits to the skin. Ingredients are sourced and blended to promote your skin's own natural behaviours such as cell renewal, barrier protection, healing and collagen stimulation. Natural skincare works in-sync with your body rather than introducing potentially harmful synthetic ingredients.
At Byron Bay Skincare we are proud a 100% naturally-derived, Vegan and Cruelty Free skincare brand.