Build your very own vegan-friendly skincare routine using at-home ingredients
As part of our Conscious Choices campaign, we’re on a mission to help you create a self-care regime that is kinder to animals – and creating your own skincare products at home using natural ingredients might be a great place to start. These at-home beauty fixes are not only vegan-friendly and avoid animal testing, but you will more than likely have most of these ingredients already – making them budget-friendly too!
DIY scrubs
Making your own exfoliating scrub at home is a great way to ensure you are using all-natural ingredients which are animal-free and kinder to your skin. Take coffee for example –not only does it work as a great exfoliant to help remove dead skin cells, but it contains an antioxidant called caffeic acid which stimulates collagen production 1. Why not give your skin a makeover by creating your own home-made coffee scrub?
Did you know you can also create exfoliants using natural skincare ingredients such as ginger? By incorporating ginger into a body scrub recipe, you could potentially decrease inflammation of the skin and help detoxify it.
Fruity face masks
Many fruits have beneficial properties that can promote skin health when incorporated into face mask recipes. For example, bananas contain many nutrients that promote skin health such as potassium, vitamin B-6 and vitamin C 2. You can also make your own brightening face mask using blueberries and lemons. Blueberries contain antioxidant properties that are known to protect against free radicals and repair previous damage to the skin barrier. By combining them with the high vitamin C in lemon juice, you can leave your skin feeling refreshed and renewed.
Multi-purpose coconut oil
Coconut oil is a heavy natural oil, meaning it allows for long lasting moisture and it’s also multifunctional. Coconut oil is a great alternative to products like deep body moisturisers, cuticle oils, hair masks and it can also be used to remove make up. Simply rub a small amount between your hands before massaging onto your face and rinsing with a soft face cloth.
Sensitive skin
Aloe vera gel is an amazing natural skin care ingredient that provides benefits for many skin types. It’s well known for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and moisturising properties that leave the skin feeling soothed and looking radiant. It absorbs easily, making it ideal for oily skin as it helps remove excess oil whilst still helping your skin retain moisture. It’s also ideal for sensitive skin and promoting skin healing.
Depuff eyes with sliced cucumber
Cucumber is a great natural remedy for depuffing the eyes, as it helps to calm delicate areas of the skin. Top tip - instead of slicing cucumber into circles, grate and wrap in a paper towel before placing over closed eyes as the grating helps to release active enzymes and promote greater soothing properties.
Natural custom face oil
If you are prone to dry skin, you can help boost skin hydration by creating your own at-home custom face oil. Combining any essential oil of your choice with plant oils like avocado oil or argan oil could help reduce dryness, and leave you with a glowing complexion.
We hope these natural skincare remedies have inspired you to switch up your skincare routine so that you can start making daily choices that are kinder to animals. For more tips on how to live a vegan lifestyle beyond food, be sure to follow our Conscious Choices campaign on Facebook, Instagram and X.
Disclaimer: Many homemade remedies can benefit your skin and complement your skincare routine, but it’s crucial to be mindful of your personal skin’s needs and test ingredients before implementing them into your skincare routine so you can avoid harming your skin. If you experience any adverse reactions, such as redness, itching, or irritation, stop use immediately and be sure to seek advice from a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns or conditions.
References:
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Cizmarova, B., Hubkova, B., Bolerazka, B., Marekoba, M. and Birkova, A. (2020). Caffeic acid: a brief overview of its presence, metabolism and bioactivity, Bioactive Compounds in Health and Disease, 3(4): 74-81. [online] Available at: (PDF) Caffeic acid: a brief overview of its presence, metabolism, and bioactivity (researchgate.net) [Accessed 07.07.2023]
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Cherney, K. (2019). Can a Banana Face Mask Help the Health of Your Skin? [online] Available at: Banana Face Mask Benefits for the Skin and How to Try It (healthline.com) [Accessed 07.07.2023] - Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP from Walden University and University of Louisiana
The views expressed by our bloggers are not necessarily the views of The Vegan Society.
