Plantiful pampering

Aisles of our favourite stores are lined with the latest skincare and make-up products, each promising to give us clear skin and a flawless complexion. But recently, there has been a boom in vegan and cruelty-free options for its bountiful goodness.

As The Vegan Society puts it: "Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude - as far as is possible and practicable - all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment."

In skincare, the labels "vegan" and "cruelty-free" are used interchangeably, but what exactly do they mean. We're here to break it down for you. Brands that boast both labels mean that they do not contain animal by-products and were not tested on critters either. Furthermore, they have been clinically proven to cause less irritation with long-term usage.

Spread the love

Marks & Spencer's has a range of personal care products that are 100 per cent cruelty-free and made using plant-based ingredients. The collection contains 25 high-quality products designed specially by experts in London to help customers take care of hair, body, hands and lips. Prices start from Dh20, and the new range is available in Marks & Spencer stores and M&S Food app.

Soothe sensitive skin

If you're one among many that suffer from Rosacea, then the Rosalique 3-in-1 Anti-Redness Miracle Formula SPF 25 Cream is a solution for you. Specially concocted for hyper-sensitive and redness-prone skin, it contains the highest quality ingredients, including vitamins and minerals such as a-Bisabolol, Zeolite and Provitamin B5 to conceal, treat and protect, while acting as a fab dewy primer. Rosalique is priced at Dh195 and available at Bin Sina Pharmacies and online on cigalahmedpharm.com

Bare and beautiful

Inspired by the ageless landscape of Australia, rich with minerals and nourishing botanicals, Sukin products contain 98.8 per cent natural ingredients, bursting with antioxidants and actives to bring out the very best in skin. Its range features hydrating toners, foaming cleansers, hand and nail cream, shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant. Sukin is available at LIFE Pharmacy, Lifestyle and Watson's retail outlets throughout the UAE, with prices starting from Dh25.

Get the glow

The Branding Room, located in Jumeirah Village Circle, offers a Probiotic Base Facial aids and repairs skin barriers for protection with the help of live probiotics. It is anti-ageing and revitalising at the same time. With natural ingredients such as EESE and potent effect at the same time. It is suitable for all skin types, and costs Dh325.

Green with beauty

For a wholesome experience, head over to the Organic Glow Beauty Lounge. Known as the UAE's first fully green ladies' salon, it boasts the exclusive use of organic, vegan, cruelty-free products and their eco-friendly interiors. Services include organic sugaring, natural hair treatments, ammonia-free hair colour, fruit facials, freshly-blended body scrubs, formaldehyde-free nail treatments, and much more. A mani-pedi combo is Dh180.