What is vegan make-up – and what does it not contain?

Vegan make-up is make-up without animal ingredients and without animal testing. That sounds simple, but in practice, many cosmetics still use animal substances because of their texture, colour or shelf life. Vegan therefore means not only that there is no animal origin, but also that the product has not been tested on animals. Please note: vegan does not say anything about how natural, organic or skin-friendly a product is — other quality marks and ingredient lists are needed for that.

Which animal-derived substances are often used in make-up?

Many lipsticks, mascaras, foundations and eye shadows contain animal-derived substances that are not immediately recognisable. Below is a selection of common ingredients that you will not find in vegan make-up:

Carmine (CI 75470) is a red pigment derived from ground cochineal insects. It is widely used in lipsticks and blushers because of its intense colour.

Beeswax (Cera Alba) is used as a thickening agent and texture enhancer in mascara and lip products. Although it is a natural ingredient, it is not vegan.

Lanolin is a fatty substance from sheep's wool, often used in lip care and creams because of its moisturising properties.

Collagen is extracted from animal connective tissue and used in anti-ageing products and primers because of its firming properties.

Guanine is a glossing agent derived from fish scales, used in highlighters and eye shadows to create a pearlescent sheen.

Keratin comes from animal horns, feathers or hair and is sometimes used in mascara or eyebrow products.

Of course, this is a limited list — there are many more animal-derived substances used in cosmetics. Because they are often listed under technical names, it is not always easy to recognise them. That is why it is wise to choose brands that are transparent about their ingredients and are certified vegan.

How can you recognise truly vegan make-up?

A product may call itself “vegan”, but without independent certification, this is no guarantee. Reliable quality marks include:

• Vegan Society
• PETA Cruelty-Free & Vegan
• The Vegan Trademark

It is also important to check the list of ingredients for animal substances such as carmine, lanolin or beeswax. Brands that clearly communicate their formulas and certifications make it easier to make an informed choice.

Vegan and natural – a pure combination

Vegan make-up can still contain synthetic substances such as silicones, parabens or microplastics. These are not animal-based, but can irritate the skin or harm the environment. That is why the difference between “vegan” and “natural” is important: a product that is both vegan and 100% natural offers a purer alternative.

At Green Beauty Shop, you will find make-up brands that are not only vegan, but also certified organic, skin-friendly and sustainably produced. Some examples:

• Le Rouge Français – 100% natural, organic and vegan, with plant-based pigments and refillable packaging. Gentle on sensitive skin.
• Inika Organic – 100% natural, vegan and certified organic. Dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin.
• Zenz – Fragrance-free, sustainable, 100% natural, vegan make-up from Scandinavia, suitable for people with allergies.
• For several years now, the skin-friendly brand Odylique has been developing only new products that are completely vegan. Although a small number of existing products are not yet vegan, at GreenBeautyShop you can easily select Odylique's vegan products using the filter Composition > Vegan.

All products are cruelty-free. Using the “Composition” filter, you can easily select the vegan products from all our brands on each collection page.

FAQ – Vegan make-up

Is vegan make-up always cruelty-free?

Yes, if a product is certified vegan, it is also guaranteed to be cruelty-free. Please note: “cruelty-free” does not automatically mean “vegan”.

Is carmine always animal-based?

Yes, carmine is extracted from insects. There are plant-based alternatives, but they are rare and often less intense in colour.

Is beeswax vegan?

No, beeswax is an animal product. Vegan brands use plant-based alternatives such as candelilla wax or carnauba wax.

Is vegan make-up better for sensitive skin?

Not necessarily. Vegan does not say anything about synthetic substances. Choose brands that are both vegan and 100% natural for the best skin compatibility.

How do I know if a product is truly vegan?

Check the list of ingredients and look for reliable quality marks such as Vegan Society or PETA Vegan Approved.