As many of you are aware, the current state of our planet could be much better. Despite the news, we are encouraged to see that more small businesses are working to reduce the impact they are having on animals, the planet, and humans. You'll often hear companies mention terms like 'cruelty free skincare' and 'vegan skincare' and other jargon but many consumer do not know what they mean. Here’s a handy blog post to explain more about cruelty free skincare and vegan skincare and why we believe vegan skincare is the future and the best choice for everyone.

What is cruelty-free skincare?

Firstly, it is worth noting that animal testing has been banned in the United Kingdom and the European Union since 2013. It has also been illegal to sell cosmetics products within the EU which have been tested on animals or contain ingredients tested on animals. Therefore all skincare made and sold in the UK and EU can be defined as cruelty free skincare which is reassuring for careful consumers. However not all skincare can be classed as vegan.

What does vegan mean?

If something is vegan, that means that none of the ingredients originated with an animal. Instead, absolutely everything comes from plants. The same goes for vegan skincare, vegan clothing, vegan food, vegan anything! Cruelty-free only refers to products that aren’t tested on animals. Those products can often still include animal ingredients like cow’s milk, beeswax, honey, cochineal dye (red pigment made from crushed beetles), and lanolin (a fatty substance derived from sheep's wool), among others. So, if you want animals to be left to live in peace then vegan skincare is for you. Also vegan skincare products are actually better for your skin. But why? What difference do a few animal ingredients make? Eliminating animal products from your skincare means eliminating a lot of the issues and additives that can come along with them, especially if you have sensitive skin or any other specific concerns like rosacea or psoriasis. However it is worth noting that some skin problems are hormonal and cannot be cured by choosing the right ingredients. In vegan skincare, plants are the primary source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, all of which are the ultimate way to hydrate, protect, and nourish your skin. So, it’s worth taking the time to read ingredients to make sure it’s only organic and natural, non-toxic ingredients that you’re using on your epidermis.

Organic and Natural Skincare: A Win for Plant Earth

It’s not just you and the animals who will benefit from organic and vegan skincare. Opting for plant-based ingredients is actually better for the planet, too. The process of raising and processing animals for food and other ingredients is extremely hard on the environment. Animal agriculture actually causes huge amounts of greenhouse gas emissions than can be avoided by going vegan. So while driving a hybrid or electric is a step in the right direction, cutting back on animal ingredients is much better! The animal agriculture industry is also a leading cause of deforestation and pollution — so opting for plants as an alternative helps to cut back on all this bad news. It’s all about reducing our environmental footprint and pressurising our government to do more.

The Benefits of Vegan Skincare

Just because you choose to use vegan products doesn’t mean you have to label yourself vegan or change your whole lifestyle. These are inclusive products that are good for ALL skin types, regardless of how you eat or what you wear. At Nathalie Bond, our vegan skincare ingredients are chosen because they are natural, minimal, and nourishing, so they’re less likely to lead to irritation or other issues that can come along with chemicals, animal ingredients, or other additives. We're delighted that so many customers with sensitive skin have found that our products has really helped their skin. Plants are the greatest source of nutrients and good-for-you antioxidants, so no matter what, organic and natural skincare is a win for your skin! Think of it this way: would you rather put vitamin C, rosewater and aloe vera on your skin — or polyethylene, parabens and sodium lauryl sulfate? Plant-based ingredients are the good-for-you way to get that glow you’re going for.

Know Who You’re Buying From: Nathalie Bond

At Nathalie Bond, we’re a very company based in North Wales that makes an organic skincare range that's good for you, good for the planet and it's actually affordable. Our skincare products are packed with carefully selected botanical ingredients that are time-tested and proven to work gently. Our collection is 100% vegan and cruelty-free and are free of nasties like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, silicones, and artificial fragrances. We’re also a sustainable skincare brand. Our products are crafted with sustainably sourced ingredients and are made with 100% recyclable glass bottles jars and cardboard!

Our Ultimate Eco Friendly Product

The product we recommend the most is our Nathalie Bond Soap Bars. They are handmade, vegan, made with sustainable organic ingredients and are packaged in plastic free cardboard boxes so we're not causing tons of plastic to go to waste like many brands do. They are suitable for all skin types and are designed for washing your face, body and your hands so you don't need to be tricked into buying three different products that essentially do the same thing! Also did we mention that they are gentle enough for kids and sensitive skin - the Gentle Soap Bar is the best option. 

If Nathalie Bond sounds like your kind of clean skincare brand, check out our product range! Also, stay in touch with our blog for tips on easy, affordable and healthy skin care choices and ways to get your glow on!