Plant Power

THE BENEFITS OF VEGAN SKINCARE 

Did you know that your skin, as the largest and most porous organ of your body, absorbs about 60% of the products you apply directly to it?

This is both a comforting and terrifying thought: yay,  skincare works! But also, yikes—many of our daily products are synthetic, over-processed and full of preservatives, or other endocrine-disrupting toxins.

As a collective, we have become more and more aware of the ingredients in our products, making the popularity and accessibility of vegan skincare skyrocket. Since they are made without animal ingredients, vegan products offer a high-quality alternative that won't clog pores nor aggravate sensitive skin, making it the ideal solution.

WHAT MAKES SKINCARE VEGAN?

Skincare products can be certified vegan if they are produced without harming animals . In other words, they are cruelty-free, meaning that the brand has not tested the product’s efficiency on animals. It also means they don’t contain any animal ingredients nor animal by-products, such as beeswax, gelatin, or lanolin.

It is also important to note that all vegan products are cruelty-free, but not all cruelty-free products are vegan.

SO…IS VEGAN SKINCARE BETTER FOR YOU?

In theory, yes.

Logically, if your physical health improves and energy levels increase when you eat vegan foods, then your skin should also thrive when absorbing vegan ingredients. And if you can make-do without specific medical-grade ingredients, vegan skincare can work for you.

According to Dr. Hooman Khorasani, chief of the dermatologic and cosmetic surgery division at Mount Sinai, vegan skincare products “tout the same general benefits of a vegan diet in terms of reducing environmental damage and promoting kindness towards animals.”

But most importantly, they can be incredibly beneficial for your skin, since vegan ingredients such as aloe vera, rose oil, mint, and lavender have been used for ages due to their natural healing and cosmetic properties.

SHOULD YOU OPT FOR VEGAN PRODUCTS?

Vegan skincare products are also known to be vitamin-rich, as well as full of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They are usually made with fewer ingredients, making it easier to know exactly what’s going on your skin and into your body. 

Vegan products are much less aggressive and irritating on the skin, as they exclude animal-based by-products and ingredients. If you are someone with sensitive, reactive, or condition-prone skin, animal ingredients can be harsh on the skin and clog your pores, further aggravating the initial problem. In this case, vegan products are a soothing alternative.

Also, because there are now so many different types of vegan skincare products, there is bound to be a perfect match for your needs, regardless of your skin’s age or texture.

IN CONCLUSION

Depending on your skin type as well as your skin’s needs, you may benefit more from specific medical-grade ingredients that are not typically found in vegan skincare lines. If ever you are hesitant about trying a new vegan skincare line or have any other related questions, please do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our skincare professionals at our Virtual Medispa, right [here]. 

A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE #VEGAN RECOMMENDATIONS:

FLAWLESS DAILY CLEANSER by Pö Derma (made in Montreal) $68

Eliminate surface impurities for optimum balance and flawless clarity. Botanical cleanser targets impurities that cause blemishes and dullness of complexion. A mild formula suitable for all skin types, in particular those that are oil sensitive and rosacea-prone.

SUBLIME SKIN EYE CREAM by [ comfort zone ] $94

Innovative eye contour cream formulated with peptides, flavonoids, caffeine, and aescin for a complete action on lines, wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness. The eyes look younger, the skin more compact and smooth.

ER+ RADICAL RECOVER AFTER-SUN LOTION by Coola Suncare $56

Save the skin you’re in with this ultra-moisturizing and deep-soothing lotion that uses organic Agave’s natural moisture binding mechanisms for environmental defence and calming sunburn. This miracle plant provides superior hydration and promotes collagen synthesis while offering UV protection and clinically proven relief from sunburn. Rich with organic ingredients, Radical Recovery™ After-Sun Lotion will nourish, repair, and keep skin youthful and naturally glowing all year long.

HAND CREAM by / skin regimen / $29

An aromatic moisturizing hand cream for soft and nourished hands. Formulated with Tulsi and Longevity Complex™, it preserves the beauty and health of your hands by counteracting external aggressions and physiological dehydration. A fast-absorbing formula, with no greasy residue, and natural rebalancing and reinvigorating aroma for mind and body. Recommended for cold climates and after frequent hand-washing/disinfecting. 

OXYGENATING FOUNDATION by Oxygenetix $98

Oxygenating Foundation breathes, protects, and heals as you wear it. And by using a unique aloe vera base, this foundation is both antibacterial and soothing.

ROSEHIP EXFOLIATOR by iLike Organic Skin Care $72

This Vitamin C-rich exfoliating and clarifying mask from iLike organic skincare gently removes impurities. It's Lactic Acid content loosens dead cells while rosehip and light herbal oils hydrate the skin. The scrubbing particles are cornmeal pieces. Use it on your face or your body.

Until next time: take care of the skin you’re in!

Mathilde