Forget the long lists of ingredients to avoid and the time spent deciphering labels. Shopping for vegan cosmetics consciously is easier than you might think. These simple shopping tips will make your experience straightforward and enjoyable. Here are four essential things to know before purchasing any product, whether it’s a cream, shower gel, or other non-food item.
1) Always keep the BioDizionario handy
If you haven’t heard of it yet, it’s time to catch up. The BioDizionario is a tool that must be part of the starter pack for every respectable vegan: available online and as a real guide in paperback or ebook format, it allows you to finally understand what’s hidden behind the confusing labels and codes you encounter in supermarket aisles. A real game-changer in this regard is the BioDizionario app, which lets you photograph a product’s ingredient list and instantly identifies harmful substances and non-vegan or non-cruelty free ingredients.
2) Vegan cosmetics: certifications to watch out for (beware of imitations!)
You’ll surely know that, as a marketing ploy, many companies exploit the color green (which is why the phenomenon is called Greenwashing) or call themselves vegan when they aren’t really. These strategies are insufficient for establishing credibility. It’s crucial to verify these claims by looking for the VEGANOK certification. This certification ensures the absence of animal products in both the ingredients and packaging and confirms that the product is cruelty-free. Another reliable certification is BioDizionario approved, indicating that the product is free from any major concerns according to the BioDizionario standards.
3) Zero Waste is better
When purchasing a product, consider its impact on our bodies and animals, but don’t overlook the packaging. If faced with choosing between a plastic-packaged product and a bulk item like a bar of soap, both with good ingredient lists (INCI), always opt for the bulk or minimally packaged option. This choice benefits the environment and, by extension, us and the animals.
4) Still unsure? Consult the forum
Following the tips above, selecting cosmetic products should be relatively easy. However, seeking further advice or clarification is perfectly natural, especially when starting out. Feel free to consult our online forum where you can ask questions and share advice freely with experts and fellow users.
Entering the world of vegan cosmetics may seem daunting initially, but navigating through INCI and false certifications can become much simpler with the right tools. Help spread the word so that more people can make informed and conscious choices about their non-food purchases.
See also: Are Nail Polishes Vegan?
