Eco-beauty

WITH the growing popularity of vegetarianism and veganism has come an increasing trend towards ethically-sourced and ecologically-friendly beauty products as well.

And these products are not just for non-meat eaters too, all animal-lovers will be happy to hear there is now a long list of beauty companies who are 100 per cent cruelty-free and have committed to abiding by animal-friendly practices.

Going a step further, some products even avoid all animal-derived ingredients, such as honey or beeswax, making them suitable for vegans. Many of these products are not just on trend, they can also be highly-effective and luxurious alternatives to our usual creams, serums, and oils.

Company Optiat makes use of the half a million tons of coffee grounds that normally end up in landfill each year in the UK alone and turns them into a range of caffeine-infused beauty products.  With their body exfoliators starting at €8, this brand could smooth your skin, smell great, and even help save the planet.

For a range of products which covers the needs of both your face and body, try Pai, a brand made specifically for people with sensitive skin and which does not use animal-derived ingredients. With prices starting at €26 (from www.laconicum.com) for a complete set of skincare miniatures, Pai’s products could make a good gift for any vegan friends.

For a spa experience at home using sustainably-sourced products, check out Tropic Skincare.  This brand uses an abundance of natural ingredients to create an ethical, vegan-friendly line of lotions. Try the ‘Whipped Body Velvet Intensely Rich Butter melt’ (€33 from www.tropicskincare.com), which has won several beauty awards.

For a product that is both vegan-friendly and helps the environment as well as making you feel good, try Haeckels.

This brand used seaweed washed up on the British coastline which is normally left to decay in its ‘Sea Buckthorn Body Cleanser’ (€37 for 350 ml from www.cultbeauty.com).

If hair care is more your concern, there is a range of vegan and cruelty-free shampoos and conditioners at The Body Shop, a brand which has famously campaigned against animal testing for many years.

And finally, for the finishing touches. Vegan-friendly makeup has also grown in popularity, and again can be bought at The Body Shop.

Other brands specialising in cruelty-free makeup or vegan makeup include Axiology (www.naturismo.com), and The Ordinary.