Veganuary 2024: The Ultimate Guide on Vegan Makeup

Welcome to Veganuary 2024 – a special milestone as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of this inspiring global movement! What started as a small-scale initiative has blossomed into a worldwide phenomenon, encouraging people everywhere to embrace veganism for a month, and often, for a lifetime. But Veganuary isn't just about what's on your plate; it's a chance to rethink all aspects of our daily lives, including the beauty products we use.

Imagine if your makeup bag and skincare routine got a vegan makeover too! This January, as we explore and celebrate the power of plant-based living, let's extend the spirit of Veganuary to our beauty shelves. It's not just about ditching animal-derived ingredients; it's a journey towards more ethical, sustainable, and kind choices in our daily self-care rituals.

At Lebubè, we're not just talking the talk; we're walking the walk. Our team is thrilled to participate in Veganuary challenges, embracing the essence of this movement in our personal and professional lives. And guess what? We're bringing you along on this exciting journey! Throughout Veganuary, Lebubè will launch a series of enlightening articles focused on vegan beauty. From the ingredients in your skincare to the ethics behind your makeup, we're diving deep into what it truly means to be vegan in the beauty world.

So, whether you're a seasoned vegan or just vegan-curious, let's embark on this exciting journey together and discover how beauty and compassion can go hand in hand in Veganuary 2024!

Veganuary: More Than Just a Diet Trend

Who knew that a month-long challenge to go vegan could spark such a global movement?

Veganuary, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, has transformed from a simple idea into an international movement, redefining not only our diets but also our lifestyle choices, including the realm of beauty and skincare.

It all started back in 2014 as a bright idea by a UK-based charity. Their mission? To “inspire and support people to try vegan, drive corporate change, and create a global mass movement championing compassionate food choices with the aim of ending animal farming, protecting the planet, and improving human health” (Veganuary).

Fast forward to 2024, and Veganuary is not just a campaign; it's a global sensation! It's about making compassionate choices that are good for us, our furry friends, and the planet. From its humble beginnings, Veganuary has blossomed into a worldwide crusade that's changing how we think about what's on our plates and in our beauty kits.

By the Numbers: Veganuary's Impressive Growth

Let's rewind to 2012, when Veganuary was just sprouting its roots with a modest 3,300 sign-ups. Fast forward to 2018, and the movement had blossomed to an impressive 168,500 participants. Now, jump to 2023, and we're looking at a staggering leap to over 700,000 official participants. Veganuary is now a global phenomenon, with folks from almost every country (yep, except Vatican City and North Korea) jumping on board.

But the story of Veganuary's growth is more than a tale of numbers. In 2023, the campaign made headlines with over 6,800 media stories globally, significantly amplifying its message. The Veganuary website became a go-to resource, drawing in 2.3 million visitors seeking advice on plant-based living. The #Veganuary hashtag on TikTok alone saw over 894 million views, while the campaign's YouTube series and podcasts attracted tens of thousands of views and listens. That's viral with a capital V!

Transitioning from the digital realm to tangible changes, the culinary landscape embraced veganism wholeheartedly. The market saw the introduction of over 820 innovative vegan products, and restaurants added more than 790 new vegan menus, showcasing a diverse and delicious array of plant-based options. Talk about a vegan paradise!

The Rise of Vegan Beauty: A Market Blossoming

So, after marveling at Veganuary's skyrocketing popularity, let's chat about another area where veganism is making some serious waves: the beauty market. As of 2023, this isn't just a niche anymore; it's a booming industry worth around USD 18.03 billion! Can you believe it? It's like watching your favorite indie band hit the big leagues. This growth isn't just about numbers; it's about a shift in mindset. People are choosing products that are kind to animals and gentle on the planet, and it's reshaping the beauty shelves (Fortune Business Insights).

Now, let's peek into the crystal ball and see where this is heading. By 2030, experts are predicting that the vegan cosmetics market could reach a dazzling USD 27.04 billion. That's with a growth rate of 5.96% each year from 2023! It's clear that vegan beauty isn't just a fleeting trend; it's here to stay and grow. More and more people are looking for beauty products without any animal-derived ingredients, and the industry is listening. We're talking about a shift that's more than skin-deep; it's a change in how we think about beauty and ethics (Fortune Business Insights).

Unraveling the Lingo: Vegan, Organic, Natural, Cruelty-Free, and Halal

In the world of beauty, terms like 'vegan,' 'organic,' and 'cruelty-free' are often tossed around, but what do they really mean? Let's break it down and clear up any confusion.

Vegan:

When we talk about vegan makeup, we're referring to items that do not contain any animal-derived ingredients or by-products. This means no honey, beeswax, lanolin, collagen, albumen, carmine, cholesterol, or gelatin, to name a few. The Vegan Society defines vegan products as those that avoid animal exploitation and cruelty as much as possible, promoting the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment.

Organic:

When a product is labeled 'organic,' it means that its ingredients are derived from organic sources. This includes components grown without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMO). Organic makeup focus on sustainability and natural sourcing, adhering to strict farming standards. In the United States, the USDA certifies organic products, including beauty items. In Europe, the certification process is a bit more varied, with several organizations providing organic certifications, among which ECOCERT, ICEA and CCPB. However, remember, 'organic' doesn't automatically mean vegan, so you might still find animal-derived ingredients in these products (Medical News Today). 

Natural:

Natural cosmetic products are formulated with a significant amount of natural ingredients, which can be derived from plant, animal, or mineral sources. These products aim to minimize the use of synthetic components. Unlike organic products, 'natural' doesn't necessarily adhere to specific farming practices. Since natural cosmetics are not governed as organic beauty products, cosmetic brands do not have to meet any criteria in order to label their product as ‘natural’. As such, 'natural' is a broader term and can be subject to different interpretations by companies. Like organic products, natural ones may also contain animal-derived ingredients and are not inherently vegan (Greatist, Sophim).

Not tested on animals / Cruelty-free:

Cruelty-free refers to products that have not been tested on animals at any stage of product development. In the EU, a ban on animal testing for cosmetics and their ingredients was implemented in 2013, a stance adopted by several other countries including Canada, India and Norway.  In contrast, in the USA, there is no federal law banning animal testing on cosmetics, though 11 states have passed their own laws eo end the sale of animal-tested cosmetics (Humane Society). Certifications like Leaping Bunny provide assurance that a product is genuinely cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny). This term is often used interchangeably with vegan, but they're not synonymous. A cruelty-free product may still contain animal-derived ingredients, so it's important to check for both 'vegan' and 'cruelty-free' labels if you want to avoid animal products entirely.

Halal:

Halal beauty products are those that comply with Islamic law. This means they do not contain alcohol or any ingredients derived from forbidden animals, and they must be manufactured and stored using equipment that is free from contamination by forbidden substances. While halal products avoid certain animal ingredients, they may not necessarily be vegan, as they can include ingredients from animals that are permissible under Islamic law. We talked intensively about Halal beauty in this article.

Understanding these terms can help you make more informed choices about the beauty products you choose, ensuring they align with your ethical and lifestyle preferences.

Myth vs. Reality: Tackling Common Vegan Beauty Misconceptions

Let's chat about some myths and misconceptions surrounding vegan makeup and beauty products. There's a lot of chatter out there, and it's time to separate fact from fiction.

"Vegan Products Just Don't Work as Well":

Heard this one before? It's a common myth that vegan beauty products aren't as effective as non-vegan ones. But here's the real deal: the effectiveness of a beauty product hinges on its formulation and its active ingredients, not whether it's vegan. Many vegan products pack a punch with potent plant-based ingredients that work wonders.

"Vegan Beauty Lacks Variety":

This might have been true once, but not anymore. The vegan beauty world is booming with options. From vibrant makeup palettes to luxurious skincare, the variety is endless. Gone are the days of limited shades and textures in vegan beauty.

"Going Vegan Will Break the Bank":

There's a notion that vegan beauty products always come with a hefty price tag. But guess what? Vegan beauty comes in all price ranges. Sure, some products might be pricier due to high-quality ingredients or ethical production, but there are plenty of wallet-friendly options too.

"Vegan, Organic, Natural – It's All the Same, Right?":

Not quite! As explained above, while vegan products skip animal-derived ingredients, they're not automatically organic or natural. Vegan can include synthetic ingredients too. And just because it's organic or natural doesn't mean it's vegan. These terms are not interchangeable.

"Vegan Equals Cruelty-Free, Right?":

Not necessarily! This is a big one. Many think that if a product is vegan, it must be cruelty-free. But here's the catch: 'vegan' means the product doesn't have animal-derived ingredients. However, it could still be tested on animals. On the flip side, 'cruelty-free' means no animal testing, but these products might still contain animal ingredients. So, always double-check if you're looking for products that are both vegan and cruelty-free.

"Vegan Products are Always Gentle on the Skin":

Just because it's vegan doesn't mean it's hypoallergenic. Vegan beauty products can still pack ingredients that some folks might react to. Everyone's skin is different, so even plant-based ingredients can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Always a good idea to patch test, vegan or not!

"Vegan Beauty Products Have a Shorter Shelf Life":

There's this idea floating around that vegan makeup and skincare don't last as long as conventional products. But here's the real scoop: the shelf life of any beauty product, vegan or otherwise, depends on its ingredients and preservatives. Vegan products can last just as long as non-vegan ones if they're formulated and stored correctly.

So, there you have it – some of the most common myths about vegan makeup and beauty products debunked. The world of vegan beauty is diverse, effective, and accessible, making it easier than ever to make choices that align with your values and lifestyle.

Embrace Vegan Beauty: Your Journey Starts This Veganuary

As we wrap up this blog post, consider this a friendly nudge to give it a try this Veganuary 2024. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just starting out, there's a whole world of compassionate and innovative beauty products waiting for you. And hey, we'd love to hear about your discoveries and experiences! Share your vegan beauty finds, your favorite products, and how they've made a difference in your routine. Let's celebrate the beauty of making choices that are kind to our planet and all its inhabitants. Here's to a beautiful, vegan-friendly start to the year!

FAQs

What is Veganuary?

Veganuary is a global movement that started as a small-scale initiative and has grown into a worldwide phenomenon. It encourages people to embrace veganism for a month, and often, for a lifetime. It's not just about dietary choices but extends to other aspects of life, including beauty products.

What is the point of Veganuary?

The point of Veganuary is to inspire and support people to try vegan, drive corporate change, and create a global mass movement championing compassionate food choices. It aims to end animal farming, protect the planet, and improve human health. It also involves rethinking daily choices, like the beauty products we use.

How many people took part in Veganuary 2023?

In 2023, Veganuary saw over 700,000 official participants from almost every country in the world.

What are vegan cosmetic products?

Vegan cosmetic products are beauty items that do not contain any animal-derived ingredients or by-products. This includes avoiding ingredients like honey, beeswax, lanolin, collagen, and others. They focus on avoiding animal exploitation and cruelty.

What is the global market for vegan cosmetics?

As of 2023, the global market for vegan cosmetics was valued at around USD 18.03 billion. It's projected to reach USD 27.04 billion by 2030.

What is the difference between vegan and organic makeup?

Vegan makeup refers to products without animal-derived ingredients, while organic makeup means the ingredients are derived from organic sources, grown without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or GMOs. Organic doesn't automatically mean vegan, as these products might still contain animal-derived ingredients.

What is the difference between vegan and natural skincare?

Vegan skincare avoids animal-derived ingredients, whereas natural skincare focuses on using a significant amount of natural ingredients, which can be plant, animal, or mineral-based. Natural skincare doesn't necessarily adhere to specific farming practices and isn't inherently vegan.

Are vegan cosmetics natural?

Not necessarily. Vegan cosmetics can include synthetic ingredients and are defined primarily by the absence of animal-derived ingredients, not by being natural.

What is the difference between vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics?

Vegan cosmetics don't contain animal-derived ingredients, while cruelty-free cosmetics haven't been tested on animals. A product can be vegan but not cruelty-free if it contains no animal ingredients but has been tested on animals, and vice versa.

Can a product be vegan but not cruelty-free?

Yes, a product can be vegan but not cruelty-free if it doesn't contain animal ingredients but has been tested on animals.

Is animal testing banned in EU cosmetics?

Yes, in the EU, a ban on animal testing for cosmetics and their ingredients was implemented in 2013.

What is the difference between Halal and vegan cosmetics?

Halal cosmetics comply with Islamic law, avoiding alcohol and forbidden animal ingredients. They may include permissible animal ingredients and are not necessarily vegan. Vegan cosmetics avoid all animal-derived ingredients, regardless of their source.

Are vegan beauty products effective?

Yes, vegan beauty products can be just as effective as non-vegan ones. Their effectiveness depends on their formulation and active ingredients, not on their vegan status. Many vegan products use potent plant-based ingredients that are highly effective.