A new survey conducted by Flawless Lashes by Loreta shows 34% of non-meat eaters are still knowingly using animal by-products within their cosmetics.
After surveying over 500 UK-based vegetarians, Flawless Lashes by Loreta can reveal 36% are still unaware that makeup can contain products derived from animals. Of those who were aware of these products being used throughout the industry, 34% still knowingly used these products.
The strongest factor to consider from these results is why these animal lovers are spending on products containing ingredients they actively avoid consuming?
There is an abundance of substitutes, both natural and synthetic available for use within makeup, there is little reason why companies continue to use animal products.
With such a tremendous focus on climate change and reducing our carbon footprint within the media, Flawless Lashes by Loreta are also bringing to our attention the impact of the cosmetic industry on the planet. The rearing of livestock for these by-products is contributing to this.
The public is urged to be conscious of diet and fashion choices to reduce damage to our environment and companies providing these are pressured to change. There is little urgency to put the same pressure upon the cosmetic industry.
Flawless Lashes by Loreta want to highlight the importance of providing choice to the market and making consumers aware of the alternatives that are available. Likewise, ensuring the public is aware of what ingredients derive from animals as this may not be labelled clearly.
Furthermore, the importance of the cosmetic industry making the change to extend the availability of vegan makeup on the market to satisfy consumers and cut carbon emissions.
Below is a list of the most common animal-based ingredients used withing makeup:
- Keratin – a popular ingredient for products that can help strengthen hair and nails and is very popular in shampoos and conditioners. This protein is taken from the hair and horns of various animals
- Cera Alba – more commonly known as beeswax. Used to prevent oils and other liquids from separating and helps skin absorb moisture. Cera alba is used within lip balms, lipsticks, soaps, and moisturisers.
- Tallow – this is animal fat, most often taken from farmyard animals. You can find this in nail polish, soap, foundation, and eye makeup. It can also be listed as oleic acid, oleyl sterate, and oleyl oleate.
- Guanine – we all love a sparkly eyeshadow or a shimmering highlighter, but their origins are not so glitzy. Fish scales are used to create this glittering effect.
- Lanolin – sheep’s wool used in lip balms, sticks, and glosses. This is also a common allergy so a plant-based version is available of the same name, be careful to check which one you are buying.
- Shellac – you may not have realised the popular manicure product actually refers to an ingredient – bugs, lac bugs to be precise, these little insects give your nail polish the shine and strength shellac is famous for.
- Carmine – most commonly used in lipsticks, blushes and nail polish. Carmine is created by crushing tiny insects called cochineals that give a vibrant red. This can also be labeled as natural red 4, E120 and C.I 75470.
If more manufacturers are willing to make this change, not only will our environment benefit, animal lovers will be able to make a wider selection of purchases in alliance with their beliefs. Therefore, creating consumer satisfaction and environmental benefits.
Flawless Lashes by Loreta are an award-winning provider of lash extensions, strip lashes, and a vegan-friendly makeup range.
