Free Delivery On Orders Over £40
Vegan & Cruelty Free
vegan beauty brands UK

A Guide to the Best Vegan Beauty Brands in the UK

by Apex marketing smm in News

If you have been exploring the world of vegan beauty for a while, you will know how refreshing it feels to discover products that are kind to your skin, the planet, and animals. The clean beauty movement has grown so quickly in the UK, and there is now a whole range of vegan beauty brands that can easily rival anything found on the high street. This guide brings together some of the best vegan beauty brands in the UK, along with a few reflections on the products that have found their way into my own routine.

Choosing vegan beauty is not just about trends. For many people, it is about knowing that the products they use every day do not rely on animal testing or animal-derived ingredients. It is also about feeling good in the choices you make, especially when those choices support cruelty free practices and sustainable formulations. Whether you love skincare, makeup, perfume or body care, there are plenty of vegan beauty products out there that perform beautifully without compromising your values.

Before we get into the list of favourite brands, let us take a moment to look at something that many people find confusing. The words cruelty free and vegan often get used together, but they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference helps when searching for new cosmetics, especially if you are trying to build a routine that aligns with your ethics.

What is the difference between cruelty free and vegan

Cruelty free beauty products are never tested on animals. This is the key thing to look for if animal welfare is your priority. Cruelty free means no testing at any stage of the development process, which is why certifications like the Leaping Bunny or Beauty Without Bunnies are so helpful. They offer reassurance that the brand meets recognised standards and supports ethical testing practices.

Vegan beauty products contain no animal-derived ingredients. This includes common components like beeswax, lanolin, honey or carmine. A product can be labeled vegan without being cruelty free, and the same applies the other way around. A cruelty free product can still contain animal-derived ingredients. If your goal is to use products that are fully plant-based, you will want to look for the word vegan or check for recognised stamps from groups like the Vegan Trademark or PETA’s approved vegan label.

The overlap is significant, as many vegan beauty brands in the UK are also cruelty free, but the distinction matters. Once you understand it, shopping becomes much easier, and you can quickly identify which brands match your personal values.

My favourite vegan beauty products

Over the years, I have slowly built a small collection of vegan beauty products that feel like firm favourites. Some of them have been long-standing repeat purchases, and others are newer discoveries that have quickly become part of my everyday routine. It is lovely to find items that not only work well but also align with a more mindful and sustainable way of living.

In my makeup bag, there are a few items that I return to again and again. My black eyeliner from a vegan beauty brand has been a staple for years. It glides on easily and stays put, even on busy days. The same goes for the nail polishes from a brand that uses plant-based formulas. Their colours are stunning and they dry beautifully. I also have a little trio of vegan perfumes that feel like a treat for day or evening. Each has a delicate fragrance made from naturally inspired notes.

More recently, I have been trying an eyeshadow palette that uses mineral pigments. The shades blend softly and work nicely for both daytime and nighttime looks. I have also switched to a vegan face powder that has been praised widely in the clean beauty community. It gives my skin a subtle matte finish without drying it out, which is quite a relief during winter when my skin becomes more sensitive.

In the bathroom, my routine has taken on a bit of a coffee theme. A vegan coffee scrub is something I reach for often, especially when I want smoother skin. I also use a similar scrub for the body, made with clean ingredients that leave my skin feeling refreshed. For cleansing, I enjoy a gentle jelly cleanser followed by a nourishing face oil that keeps my skin hydrated and soft. During colder months, I rely on a vegan lip scrub to remove any dryness and keep my lips smooth.

What I love most about these vegan beauty products is not just how they perform but how they make me feel. It feels good to know that what I am putting on my skin comes from brands that take their ethics seriously. Many of them use natural ingredients, avoid common irritants, and create products designed with sustainability in mind. There is something very grounding about knowing your beauty routine supports a kinder way of living.

Best vegan beauty brands in the UK

There are many brilliant vegan beauty brands across the UK, each offering something a little different. Some focus on luxury skincare made with organic ingredients. Others specialise in minimalist makeup, colourful polishes, natural perfume, or upcycled skincare formulations. What unites them is their commitment to animal friendly and plant-based beauty.

You will find skincare brands that use cold-pressed oils, botanical extracts and probiotic blends. There are makeup brands known for their high performing vegan formulas and beautiful shade ranges. There are also fragrance houses creating natural scents from sustainable sources. Body care brands are using upcycled coffee grounds, fruit enzymes and natural exfoliants to create products that feel good and do good.

Many of these brands offer refillable packaging, small batch production or eco friendly materials. Others concentrate on clean formulations that cut out common harmful ingredients, making them ideal for sensitive skin. The UK vegan beauty space is incredibly diverse, and there truly is something for everyone.

Whether you love a simple routine or prefer a full collection of products, you can build a complete beauty regimen using vegan items from trusted UK brands. Makeup, skincare, perfume, hair care, body care and cleansing products can all be found in vegan formulations that work beautifully.

FAQs

What does vegan beauty mean
 Vegan beauty refers to cosmetics and skincare products made without any animal-derived ingredients. This includes beeswax, lanolin, honey, collagen and carmine. Vegan beauty products can still vary in formulation, so checking the label or certification is helpful.

Are cruelty free and vegan the same
 They are related but not identical. Cruelty free means the product has not been tested on animals. Vegan means the product contains no animal-based ingredients. Some products are both, but not always.

How do I know if a beauty brand is vegan
 You can look for clear vegan labeling or check for recognised certifications from groups such as the Vegan Trademark or PETA’s approved vegan list. Many brands also list their ingredient sourcing policies on their websites.

Why choose vegan beauty products
 People choose vegan beauty for many reasons. These include supporting animal welfare, avoiding certain allergens, adopting a plant-based lifestyle or choosing more sustainable formulations. Vegan beauty products have also improved significantly in quality over recent years.

Previous Post Next Post

Related Posts

fill in thin eyebrows

Discover How to Fill In Thin and Sparse Eyebrows

Full, well-shaped eyebrows have a way of transforming your entire face. They frame your eyes, add lift, bring balance to your features and give a polished look even when the rest of your makeup is minimal. Yet many people struggle with thin brows, sparse brows, or gaps caused by overplucking or natural hair loss. The good news is that achieving natural, fuller-looking brows is entirely possible with the right routine and a few well-chosen products. Whether your brows are barely visible or simply need a little definition, learning how to fill in thin and sparse eyebrows can make a huge difference to your everyday look. This guide walks you through clear, simple brow routines for every brow type, so you can create a natural finish that suits your face shape and style. From precision pencils to long-wear gels, here’s how to build brows that look fuller, lifted and beautifully defined.   The Best Ways to Fill In Thin Eyebrows Thin brows benefit from definition and structure without looking harsh. The aim is to lift the natural shape and create fullness that still feels soft. Start by brushing your brows upwards using the spoolie on a precision dual-ended brush. This helps you see your natural brow shape and identify where the gaps sit. After brushing them into place, apply a long-wear eyebrow gel over the top. A smudge-proof and water-resistant gel helps outline your arches and provides a base layer of colour that lasts. Use the angled end of the brush to sculpt your shape, focusing on areas where the brow is narrow or tapering. Next, take a micro-sculpt refillable brow pencil and use light hair-like strokes to build natural-looking density. The slanted tip helps you mimic the direction of real brow hairs while keeping the finish soft. If your brows are noticeably thin towards the tail, work carefully from the centre outward to avoid harsh lines. Finish your look with a clear brow gel to set everything in place. A clear gel helps maintain shape throughout the day while keeping the effect natural. A light coat is all you need to add definition and hold without stiffness.   The Best Ways to Fill In Sparse Eyebrows Sparse brows often have uneven patches where the hair is thinner and needs detailed filling. The process is similar to working with thin brows, but with extra focus on blending. Start by using eyebrow gel and a spoolie brush. Brush the hairs upwards to see the natural shape, then apply the gel to enhance structure. This first step helps create an even base before adding finer details. After shaping the brows, reach for a micro-classic easy fill brow pencil. This type of pencil usually features a smooth wax formula and a slim 2.5mm tip, which helps you fill in the smallest gaps with precision. Work slowly, adding hair-like strokes only where you need them, keeping the colour soft and blendable. Once the sparse areas are filled, apply a fluffy brow wax to add fullness and hold. A lightweight formula that sets for up to 16 hours is ideal, especially if you want brows that stay lifted all day. With its micro-sized applicator, brow wax helps coat even the tiniest brow hairs, boosting volume while keeping everything in place.   How to Fill In Balding Eyebrows Balding brows often have visible gaps or sections where hair growth has reduced. This requires a slightly more structured routine to recreate the look of real brow hairs. Begin with eyebrow gel and a duo-ended precision brush. Brush the hairs upwards using the spoolie, then apply the gel to map out your brow shape. Use the angled brush to sculpt the arches and gently fill the larger gaps with a natural layer of colour. Next, pick up a thicker brow pen duo. This type of pen usually features two tips: one classic tip for defining shape and one micro tip for creating extremely fine strokes. Start with the classic tip to outline the arch, then switch to the finer tip to build delicate hair-like details. This combination allows you to mimic natural growth patterns and fill the balding area convincingly. To complete the routine, apply a brow lamination effect gel. A gel that holds for up to 16 hours gives a lifted, brushed-up finish that adds volume and structure. The lamination effect helps keep each stroke in place without stiffness.   How to Fill In Eyebrows When You Have None For those with little to no brow hair, the goal is to design brows from scratch using soft shading, detailed strokes, and careful placement. Start by mapping out your brow shape using a soft brow define and fill powder duo. With its two blendable shades, you can mix a colour that suits your complexion and sketch a natural outline. Use a small angled brush to place gentle powder strokes where your brows should sit, focusing on symmetry and softness. Once the shape is mapped out, use a dual precision brow liner pencil. A pencil with a large angled tip allows you to draw soft strokes that resemble real brow hairs. After shaping the outline, switch to the micro tip to add finer details, particularly at the front of the brow where natural hairs tend to be lighter and more spaced. After defining the structure, set the brows with fluffy brow wax. A formula containing plant-based biodegradable fibres is ideal because it grips the skin and adds the illusion of real hair. This step helps seal the colour while lifting the brows for a natural finish. Finish with a multi-use highlight duo pencil. Use the matte end to brighten the brow bone and enhance the arch. The shimmer end can be added lightly to the eyelids, cheekbones, or even down the nose for extra glow. A pencil with a built-in sharpener is helpful for keeping your lines neat and defined.   FAQs How do I choose the right shade for my brows? Aim for a shade that matches your natural hair colour or is one tone lighter for a softer look. Why does my brow makeup look harsh? Try using lighter pressure, softer strokes, and more blending. Avoid drawing solid lines. How long should a brow routine take? With regular practice, most brow routines take only a few minutes. Can these techniques work for mature brows? Yes. These steps are suitable for all ages and help add natural definition where hair has thinned over time. Is brow wax better than brow gel? Wax often adds more volume and hold, while gel gives a cleaner, sleeker finish. Many people use both together.

Learn more
brow lamination aftercare

Laminated Brow Aftercare 101: What to Do (and What to Avoid)

Brow lamination has become one of the most sought-after beauty treatments for achieving fuller, more defined brows. Whether you’ve had your brows laminated at a salon or tried an at-home kit, aftercare plays a vital role in maintaining those sleek, lifted results. The process may give you instantly fluffier brows, but the real secret to keeping them healthy and long-lasting lies in how you care for them afterwards. Understanding what to do and what to avoid after brow lamination ensures your results stay soft, smooth, and perfectly in place. Here’s everything you need to know about laminated brow aftercare, from the first 24 hours to daily upkeep.   What Is Brow Lamination Aftercare & Why Is It Important Brow lamination is a chemical process that softens and reshapes your brow hairs, allowing them to be styled into a new direction for a fuller and more polished look. After the treatment, the hair cuticle remains open and flexible, making your brows more vulnerable to external elements like water, heat, or skincare products. This is where aftercare becomes essential. Proper aftercare ensures your brows set correctly in their new shape, prevents dryness or frizz, and helps the treatment last its full duration. Think of it like a freshly styled blow-dry—your brows need time to settle. By treating them gently in the first few days and following a nourishing routine, you’ll maintain that lifted look for up to six to eight weeks. Skipping or ignoring aftercare can cause the brow hairs to dry out or lose their structure. Taking the right steps protects the lamination and keeps your brows strong, conditioned, and healthy.   The First 24 Hours: Do’s and Don’ts The first day after your brow lamination is the most crucial period. Your brows are in their most delicate state and need to be treated with extra care to prevent them from losing their shape or becoming damaged. Avoid getting your brows wet, which includes steam from hot showers or saunas. Water can interfere with the lamination solution before it has fully set. Try not to touch, rub, or apply makeup or skincare products near the brow area during this time. Sleeping face-down or on your side can also disturb the shape, so resting on your back is ideal. Instead, let your brows rest and settle. Avoid brushing them until the following day, and resist the urge to over-style them too soon. If possible, stay out of humid environments and avoid excessive sweating from workouts. This short period of restraint helps your brows lock into their new, lifted form for the long term.   After 24–48 Hours: Daily Care Routine Once the initial setting period is over, you can introduce a gentle care routine to keep your brows soft and nourished. Hydration is the key to maintaining healthy laminated brows. Start by applying a nourishing brow oil or serum daily. Products rich in natural ingredients like argan oil, castor oil, or vitamin E help restore moisture, strengthen the hair, and promote healthy growth. Massage a small amount into your brows before bed to condition them overnight. When brushing, use a clean spoolie and light pressure to maintain shape without tugging. Always brush in the natural direction of the lamination. This simple habit keeps your brows tidy while avoiding unnecessary stress on the hair. Be mindful of what you apply to your face. Avoid exfoliants, retinol, or acids near your brows, as these can weaken the bonds created during lamination. Stick to gentle cleansers and avoid heavy creams or oils that could affect the lamination’s hold. To prolong your results, space out your treatments by at least six to eight weeks. Giving your brows time to recover between sessions prevents over-processing and keeps the hair strong and flexible.   Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Laminated Brows Caring for laminated brows doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small changes to your routine can make a big difference in how long your results last. Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent brow hairs from becoming misaligned while you rest. Avoid waterproof brow products that require scrubbing to remove, as harsh cleansing can cause the hair to weaken or break. Instead, choose lightweight, water-based formulas that wash off easily. If you notice your brows starting to feel dry or coarse, apply a conditioning mask or a few drops of nourishing oil in the evening to restore softness. Consistency is key—regular maintenance will keep your brows looking salon-fresh for weeks. Avoid exposure to excessive heat such as saunas, steam rooms, or direct sunlight, as these can dry out the laminated hair. Gently pat your brows dry after cleansing instead of rubbing them with a towel. With steady care, you’ll not only preserve your results but also improve the overall health of your brows, making each lamination look better than the last.   Keep Your Brows Healthy Between Treatments Healthy brows are the foundation for flawless lamination results. Between appointments, focus on hydration, gentle cleansing, and a balanced routine that supports hair growth. Incorporate a lightweight brow serum or oil into your nightly skincare routine to replenish nutrients lost from the chemical process. Products containing keratin, biotin, or peptides help repair and strengthen the hair shaft over time. Avoid frequent waxing or plucking, as this can cause thinning and disrupt the uniform appearance of laminated brows. Instead, use a spoolie to shape and tidy your brows daily. A small amount of brow gel can help maintain the desired hold without stiffness. It’s also important to allow your brows to breathe. Give them a break from heavy makeup or gels every few days to avoid product buildup. Staying consistent with your aftercare not only keeps your brows in top condition but also ensures your next lamination treatment takes evenly. For best results, book your next appointment every six to eight weeks, depending on your hair growth cycle. This interval keeps your brows looking naturally full while preventing over-processing.   Final Thoughts Laminated brows may look effortless, but the secret to maintaining their shape and shine lies in consistent aftercare. A mindful routine of gentle handling, regular nourishment, and protective habits ensures your laminated brows stay lifted, glossy, and healthy for weeks at a time. Remember, brow lamination is low maintenance, not no maintenance. Taking a few minutes each day to care for your brows will extend the life of your treatment and keep your look fresh and defined. With the right aftercare and products, you can enjoy soft, smooth, and flawless brows that truly frame your face.   FAQs What should I avoid after brow lamination? Avoid getting your brows wet for at least 24 hours after treatment. Stay away from steam, saunas, and harsh skincare products around the brow area. How long do laminated brows last? With proper aftercare, your laminated brows can last between six to eight weeks, depending on your natural hair growth and daily care routine. Can I apply makeup after brow lamination? You should wait at least 24 hours before applying any makeup or brow products. Once the setting period is over, you can style your brows as usual using gentle products. Do laminated brows damage natural hair? Not if you follow proper aftercare and give your brows time to recover between treatments. Regular use of nourishing oils or serums helps strengthen the hair and prevent dryness. How soon can I have another lamination treatment? It’s recommended to wait a minimum of six weeks before your next session. This allows the brows to fully recover and ensures healthy, lasting results.

Learn more
eyebrow tint

What to Do When Tinting Your Eyebrows Goes Wrong: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tinting your eyebrows is a simple and effective way to enhance your natural features and achieve a more polished, low-maintenance look. But as anyone who’s tried it knows, things don’t always go to plan. Maybe your brows turned out too dark, too uneven, or simply not the colour you were hoping for. The good news is that most eyebrow tinting mishaps are fixable with a calm approach and the right steps. This step-by-step guide will help you correct a tint gone wrong safely and effectively, using simple techniques and gentle products.   Stay Calm The first and most important thing to remember when your eyebrow tint goes wrong is not to panic. It’s completely normal to feel frustrated or anxious if your brows look too dark or patchy, but acting impulsively can make the situation worse. Take a moment to breathe and remind yourself that tinting mistakes are temporary. Eyebrow tint usually fades naturally over a few days as the skin renews itself and the colour softens. Most corrections can be done at home with patience and care. Staying calm allows you to assess the situation logically and prevents you from reaching for harsh products that might damage your skin or brow hair.   Assess the Situation Before you start correcting the tint, take a close look at your brows under good lighting. Identify what exactly went wrong. Are your brows too dark overall, uneven in patches, or tinted outside the natural shape? Understanding the issue helps you decide the best course of action. If only one area looks darker, you might only need to target that specific spot. On the other hand, if the overall shade is too intense, you’ll need a more general approach to lightening the tint. It’s also worth noting how recent the tinting was—corrections are easiest within the first 24 hours, when the colour is still settling.   Act Quickly Timing matters when it comes to fixing eyebrow tinting mistakes. The sooner you address the issue, the easier it is to correct. If you’ve just finished tinting your brows and realise they are darker than expected, start working on them within the first 24 hours. During this window, the colour pigment hasn’t fully bonded to the hair shaft and skin, meaning you can gently remove or lighten it. If you wait too long, the tint will set more firmly and be harder to fade. However, even after the first day, regular cleansing and exfoliation can gradually reduce the colour intensity. Acting promptly simply helps you achieve faster results.   Prepare Supplies Before you begin, gather everything you’ll need for safe and effective correction. Having your supplies ready helps you avoid unnecessary stress and ensures you don’t damage your brows by rushing. You’ll need: Cotton pads or soft cloths A gentle make-up remover (preferably oil-free and suitable for sensitive skin) A mild facial exfoliator Lukewarm water A nourishing brow or facial oil for aftercare Optional: a colour corrector or tint remover made specifically for eyebrows Always use gentle, skin-friendly products to avoid irritation. Harsh cleansers or alcohol-based removers can dry out your skin and make the problem worse.   Remove Excess Tint If your eyebrow tint is noticeably too dark, the first step is to remove some of the excess colour. Dampen a cotton pad with make-up remover and gently swipe it over the tinted area. Don’t scrub or rub aggressively, as this could irritate your skin or pull out brow hairs. Focus on light, circular motions to lift the colour gradually. If you don’t see immediate results, repeat this process a few times, giving your skin short breaks in between. You can also try a gentle cleanser with micellar water to help lift surface pigment without causing damage. Avoid using bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or any harsh lightening chemicals. While these might seem like a quick fix, they can damage both the skin and brow hair, leaving you with irritation or uneven patches. Patience and gentle care are far safer and more effective.   Exfoliate After you’ve removed as much surface tint as possible, mild exfoliation can help fade any residual colour, especially if it’s stained your skin. Choose a gentle facial exfoliator designed for sensitive areas, and use it sparingly—once or twice daily until you see improvement. Apply a small amount using your fingertips and lightly massage over the brows for a few seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water. This process helps remove dead skin cells, encouraging the tint to fade more evenly. Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can lead to redness or flakiness. If your skin feels sore or irritated, stop and allow it to rest before continuing. Once you’ve finished exfoliating, apply a nourishing brow oil or moisturiser to keep the area hydrated.   Wait Patiently Sometimes, the best approach is simply to wait. Eyebrow tint naturally fades within a few days as your skin renews itself and oils from your skin gradually break down the pigment. If the colour is only slightly darker than you intended, patience may be all you need. Avoid over-correcting or applying multiple treatments in quick succession. Too many interventions can cause dryness, irritation, or even damage to your brow hairs. Instead, focus on gentle cleansing and moisturising while the tint fades on its own. You’ll likely find that after a few days, your brows look softer and more natural.   Seek Professional Help If your brows still look uneven or you’re unsure how to proceed, it’s always wise to seek help from a professional brow specialist or esthetician. They have the tools and experience to correct tinting mistakes safely without compromising your brow health. A professional can assess the tone, determine the best correction technique, and even blend the colour to create a more natural finish. They may also recommend a mild tint remover or colour adjustment treatment suited to your skin type. Reaching out to an expert doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’re protecting your brows from potential damage.   Avoid Further Tinting Until Issue Resolved It’s important to resist the urge to fix the problem by applying another tint immediately. Layering more pigment on top can worsen the situation and lead to unnatural colour buildup. Your brows need time to recover before undergoing another chemical treatment. Wait until your current tint has faded completely and your skin feels healthy before considering a new tint. This gives your brows time to regain their natural oils and strength. In the meantime, use a tinted brow gel or powder to soften the appearance if needed.   Prevent Future Mishaps Learning from the experience is the best way to avoid repeating it. Always perform a patch test before using any tinting product, even if you’ve used it before. This ensures you’re not allergic to the formula and gives you a chance to preview the colour. Follow the product instructions carefully, paying attention to the recommended processing time. Leaving tint on for even a few minutes longer can result in a much darker outcome. If you’re unsure about mixing ratios or timing, it’s worth booking a professional tinting appointment instead of attempting it at home. Lastly, keep your brows healthy by maintaining a consistent care routine. Regular cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and nourishing oils will keep them strong and ready for future treatments.   FAQs Can I lighten my eyebrows immediately after tinting? Yes, but only using gentle methods such as micellar water, make-up remover, or mild exfoliation. Avoid using bleach or strong chemicals, as these can irritate the skin. How long does it take for eyebrow tint to fade naturally? Most tints begin to fade within three to five days and can last up to two weeks depending on your skin type, cleansing habits, and the product used. Is it safe to exfoliate tinted eyebrows? Yes, as long as you use a mild exfoliator designed for sensitive skin. Avoid over-exfoliating to prevent irritation. What should I do if my eyebrow tint is uneven? You can gently remove darker areas using a cotton pad with make-up remover or seek professional help for a colour adjustment. Can I re-tint my eyebrows right away? It’s best to wait at least four to six weeks before re-tinting to allow your brows to recover fully.

Learn more

About

We only carry designs we believe in
ethically and aesthetically – original,
authentic pieces that are made to last.

Learn more

Shop

Customer care

© 2026 MAE&CO COSMETICS. Powered by Shopify

  • American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Diners Club
  • Discover
  • Google Pay
  • Maestro
  • Mastercard
  • PayPal
  • Shop Pay
  • Union Pay
  • Visa