The Rise and Rise of Veganism!

In recent years veganism has grown enormously in popularity! With more advocates speaking up about the health and environmental benefits of following a vegan lifestyle than ever before, it seems as though the world is starting to listen. If you’re new to veganism or have always wanted to learn more about making the transition, there is a lot of information out there to sort through! That’s why I decided to delve into some research and discover the basics of what it means to be a vegan.

What is the difference between a Plant Based Diet and Veganism?

Recently I’ve been hearing a lot about the benefits of living a plant based diet, but how does this differ from being a vegan? The distinction varies from person to person, however there are some basic differences across the board. A vegan is someone who abstains from using animal/insect products in every aspect of their lives. This includes food, products used on their skin and the materials their clothing is made from. People who live a plant based diet however, are not necessarily vegan. People who live on a plant based diet may still wear leathers, wool and silk. They may still consume products made from insects such as honey and they may still use skin care with animal byproducts.

What are the health benefits of being Vegan?

Adhering to a vegan lifestyle has a long list of health benefits. Removing animal products and byproducts from your diet reduces the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol that you consume on a daily basis. If you cook your meat in vegetable oils, you will also be reducing the amount of fatty acids and trans fats consumed!²

What are the environmental benefits of being Vegan?

One of the most important environmental benefits of living a vegan lifestyle is sustainability. The meat and dairy industries play a huge part in the greenhouse gas emissions released into the environment. Agriculture alone is responsible for up to 30% of our global greenhouse gas emissions.³ Half of this amount is caused by livestock production. With the world’s obsession with eating meat, this number is only on the up and up. Agriculture is also the cause of major deforestation, freshwater withdrawals and loss of certain marine animal species.³

Vegan product recommendations!

Here on Nourished Life we have an amazing selection of vegan skincare and beauty products, with some brands being entirely vegan! Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle or want to try out the benefits first on your skin, these are some of my favourite picks!

100% Pure Coffee Bean Eye Cream
100% Pure is an entirely vegan company. They don’t use any animal products and they certainly don’t test on animals. One of my absolute favourite products is the 100% Pure Coffee Bean Eye Cream $44.95. Rich in caffeine, this antioxidant filled eye cream may help de-puff the eyes, brighten dark circles and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Made with natural ingredients including Organic Green Coffee Beans, Green Tea and Rosehip Oil, this beautiful eye cream may even increase circulation and improve under eye brightness.

Pai BioRegerenate Rosehip Oil
Another one of my go to products is the Pai BioRegenerate Rosehip Oil $39.95. Made with what they claim as being the world's most concentrated Rosehip Oil, this product works wonders on a variety of skin concerns. Whether you have dry or acne prone skin, this oil is designed to help deliver intense hydration - with a boost of vitamins and antioxidants!

Yarok Feed Your Hold Hair Spray
Their entire range of hair care products are vegan. One of my favourite products from Yarok’s range is the Yarok Feed Your Hold Hair Spray $24.95. It’s the ultimate way to keep your hairstyle in place throughout the day. This non sticky natural hairspray won’t weigh down your hair and is actually enriched with vitamins A, C and E. Perfect for on the go.

Acure Dry Shampoo
If you're anything like me, some days (okay, it is most days) I just don't have time to wash and blow dry my hair. For these instances, the Acure Dry Shampoo $19.95, is a lifesaver. Formulated with Argan Stem Cells and CoQ10, this dry shampoo absorbs oils in the hair, removes dirt and may add volume to your roots. To apply, squeeze the container to puff the product into the roots of your hair. Work into the scalp.

Lavera 2-in-1 Cleansing Milk
This Lavera 2-in-1 Cleansing Milk $15.35 is not only vegan, it’s also a bargain buy and ultra gentle. Ideal for anyone with dry or sensitive skin. The formulation is soft, creamy and helps skin retain moisture. Enriched with nourishing Vitamins A & E as well as Jojoba Oil and Shea Butter, this cleanser effectively cleans while leaving your skin supple and hydrated. It’s a great choice for anyone who likes to keep their skincare routine simple.

Moksa Olive Oil Soap Forage Farm
After a long day, there’s nothing more relaxing than showering with an all natural body wash that refreshes your skin and relaxes your senses. This Moksa Olive Oil Soap Forage Farm $7.95, comes in a beautiful Basil and Lime scent that is (of course) all-natural. All of their ingredients used are fair trade, vegan, carbon neutral and palm oil free. They are hand made, hand poured and hand wrapped.

Mukti Age Defiance Eye Serum
If you’re looking for a hard working eye serum that works to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, another great option is the Mukti Age Defiance Eye Serum $104.95. Made with Australian Bioactive Extracts including Davidson Plum, Muntries and Emu Apple, this serum also uses 5 active peptides. In a clinical study conducted by Mukti, results showed a 17% decrease in the severity of wrinkles in 15 days and 27% decrease in 30 days⁴. Not only does this serum work wonderfully, it’s also completely vegan!

Black Chicken Remedies Hydrate My Face Toning Mist
Each day without fail, I always use a natural facial toner. One of my favourite vegan toners is the Black Chicken Remedies Hydrate My Face Toning Mist $39.95. It’s formulated with a natural blend of Grapefruit and Camomile Floral Water alongside Pure Organic Essential Oils to help leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed and energised! It’s also ideal for freshening up throughout the day, when travelling or even setting your makeup. To apply this vegan toner, spritz 2-3 times onto your face before moisturising.

ECO Pimple Clear
If you struggle with acne or hormonal breakouts, the ECO. Pimple Clear $18.00, is a natural treatment that targets blemishes and may help calm irritated skin. It's made with detoxifying essential oils like Lavender and Tea Tree which may help kill acne causing bacteria and also protect against future breakouts.

Hurraw Organic Lip Balm
My absolute favourite natural lip balms are the Hurraw Organic Lip Balms $6.45. These raw, vegan and organic balms glide over the lips and provide deep hydration. They come in loads of different flavours and are also the perfect size to fit in your jeans pocket! Made with nourishing ingredients like almond oil and coconut oil, these lip balms are a beauty must have!

100% Pure Lip Glaze - Elderberry
If you like more of a tint to your lips during the day, the 100% Pure Lip Glaze - Elderberry $34.95, is a sheer pinky red that looks natural and very pretty on the lips. It's such a highly moisturising formula, making it feel more like a balm than a lipstick! It's made with soothing ingredients and actually pigmented using natural fruit pigments (not Carmine). Plus it's 100% vegan!

100% Pure BB Cream Shade 10 Luminous
For those days when you just don't have enough time to be fussing over your makeup, the 100% Pure BB Cream $44.95, comes in handy! It's a lightweight, dewy formula that melts into the skin to provide a medium to full coverage. With SPF 25+ this BB cream also offers sun protection. It's a great multi purpose product that may help conceal redness, even out your complexion and calm the skin.

(sources: ¹medicalnewstoday.com, ²ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, ³hsph.harvard.edu, ⁴Mukti Organics)