Do you know what’s in your makeup? If you’re looking to re-stock on some everyday products, this list contains my favorite vegan and cruelty-free makeup that ranges from only 4 to 38 dollars!
What is the difference between vegan and cruelty-free?
If a product is vegan, that means it doesn’t have animal animal-derived ingredients. Products that are not vegan can contain some strange and frankly disturbing ingredients: bugs, hooves, and other animal secretions. Hard pass.
Cruelty-free products were developed without testing on animals. Conventionally, makeup products are applied on, force-fed to, and injected in rabbits, guinea pigs and other rodents. Their reactions, or lack of, allow those ingredients to be used in products for human use.
There are incentives for cosmetic companies to continue animal testing, because it is simply cheaper and more efficient. The practice of of testing on animals was popularized in the 1930s, when Food, Drugs and Cosmetics Act was passed.
Most products that are cruelty-free rely on ingredients that have already been tested on animals proven to be not harmful, so they don’t require more. There are now over 40 effective non-animal tests that can be used to prove ingredient safety, like the EpiDerm Phototoxicity test (which mimics skin to test irritation and light sensitivity caused by ingredients) and the Bovine Cornea Opacity and Permeability test (which tests eye corrosion).
What is “clean” makeup?
“Clean” and other non-regulated terms are just buzzwords that are slapped on the label to help sell products without clearly outlining what makes them so. “Clean” may look more tempting or make costumers feel they are make an “ethical” purchase, but it means literally nothing.
Even products that are vegan and cruelty-free may contain ingredients that some would consider not “clean”– like talc, parabens, phthalates (can disrupt the endocrine system, responsible for hormone production).
Vegan and cruelty-free are meaningful in terms of moral and environmental goals, you should also consider the ingredient and product as a whole. All the -ides and -ates and -hydes on the ingredient list can be quite overwhelming.
That’s why I highly recommend looking up products on EWG Skin Deep. It only takes a few minutes, and you get a clear and science-based picture of what you’re putting on your face. I don’t think it’s a big deal if some of your makeup has a yellow or even red score– it’s just worth keeping in mind the next time you buy more.
I’ve listed the following items because they have a reasonable price range, can be found at major drugstores and online easily, and don’t have multiple “red”zone ingredients according to EWG. Makeup is a personal choice, and these are just what I find works for me.
SuperGoop! Smooth + Poreless Mineral Matte Sunscreen ($38)
SuperGoop! products are an investment, but they last forever and are so gentle on your skin! I love this sunscreen (renamed Mattescreen SPF 40) because it can work as either a primer or light foundation, because it has a hint of color and evens out skin texture. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of my skincare routine, which you can read more about here.
Milani Baked Blush ($7.99)
Great for a natural pop of color, I love Milani Blush because of the shimmery, marbleized finish. The brand also has a huge range of colors for all skin shades, and can be found at most drug stores. Can’t beat the price either!
BITE Beauty Agave+ Daytime Vegan Lip Balm ($14)
It’s common for lip balms to contain petroleum jelly (petrolatum), which is an oil byproduct. It temporarily makes your lips feel moisturized, but it’s sealing over the top layer, not actually providing hydration. BITE Beauty’s lip balm uses agave nectar, mongongo oil and cocoa butter to provide long-lasting relief.
Milk Makeup KUSH Clear Brow Gel ($20)
My brows can’t be tamed, but this clear brow gel keeps them locked in place and looking defined. I love the earthy smell and the tiny brush head. In my opinion, gelled brows make a subtle but notable difference it how put-together you look!
Pacifica Stellar Gaze Length & Strength Mineral Mascara ($14)
Sometimes mascara with less chemical-y ingredients lack staying power, but Pacifica has great hold without being stiff. Along with making your lashes doll-like and soft, it can be layered while the first application is still slightly wet for a more dramatic effect.
Physicians Formula Conceal RX ($10)
A little of this product goes a long way, so the tube lasts forever! This concealer is very full coverage, and great for under eyes, around your nose, or anywhere you want to make even. Physicians Formula is also one of my favorite brands for bronzer, setting spray and other beauty products.
Ilia The Necessary Eyeshadow Palette ($38)
All Ilia products are high-quality, but their eyeshadow is second to none. Their palettes are pigmented, moisturizing and the colors can be combined for everyday or nighttime looks. I like how all their shadows, even the ones that shimmer or glitter, don’t use talc. If you have sensitive skin, I recommend avoiding talcs and other ingredients that can irritate your skin.
E.L.F. Velvet Matte Lipstick ($4)
This is my favorite item on this list, and coincidentally the least expensive! E.L.F is one of the few brands where every product they sell is vegan and cruelty-free. E.L.F. products are super affordable and available at nearly every drugstore.
What are your make-up staples? Are they vegan and cruelty-free? To be truthful, this was one of the last areas of my life I “transitioned” from animal-based products because it was overwhelming to figure out what fit my values and budget.