Cardiff is currently witnessing an increase in the demand for beauty products that are entirely organic, vegan and cruelty-free
A Lush bath bomb, cruelty-free and vegan
With the demand for beauty products constantly on the rise, many are now looking to tweak their beauty regimes and regiments.
The sphere of veganism has not only captured the world of gastronomy but has also slowly closed in on the cosmetic arena. Although cosmetic companies have been around for ages, the demand for particularly ethical products is a more recent trend.
This demand has consequently led to the opening of numerous beauty salons and cosmetic companies that make it a point to be ethical in the running of their businesses. One such organic sanctuary is Luna Boutique, known to be Cardiff’s first organic beauty salon.
Luna Organic Beauty Boutique on Merthyr road is a tale of a dream that met reality, spanning over 20 years. Salon owner Sam started out in the industry with a diploma in beauty therapy, with big ambitions of owning her own beauty salon or spa.
Trained in reflexology and reiki with a keen interest in diet and health, Sam went on to pursue her goal. Having sensitive skin herself, Sam began her research on natural skincare ingredients as soon as she could.
On a trip to Morocco she learnt of their renown argan oil, and from then on was on the lookout for natural ingredients of the highest calibre; finally creating the first Luna Organic Skincare product.
Another local business that is determined to provide high quality vegan and cruelty-free products is Miss Patisserie, which can be found in High Street Arcade. Creator Charlotte Ridgwell made her first ever bath bomb after buying a DIY craft kit when she was recovering from a broken leg.
Having always been interested in learning about different scents and essential oils, she never looked back since. Miss Patisserie focuses on creating products for the ethical consumers of today.
They believe in the power of natural ingredients and the multitude of benefits they can have on the body and mind. “I saw a documentary about five years ago on dogs being used for animal testing in the cosmetic industry and was completely horrified we do this for the sake of shiny lips and hair! It was heartbreaking, I simply couldn’t use any other product that was tested on animals.
“I’m pleased that more companies are looking at their ethics and love to support smaller independent businesses trying to make a change such as Miss Patisserie.” Says customer Danielle Lee Mills.
Consumer awareness and conscious purchasing
As chemical ingredients are being used now more than ever, leading to a high amount of unhealthy reactions, consumers are starting to be cautious with their purchases and making more informed decisions.
As a fundamental part of their work ethic, major handmade cosmetic company Lush is constantly working on various campaigns and protests. If you walk into a Lush outlet you will not only find yourself in an olfactory paradise but you will also be well informed by the ever-so-friendly staff on a charity or campaign that Lush might currently be part of.
For instance, their scheme for black Friday this year was not having a sale, but working towards spreading awareness on the endangered orangutans of Sumatra.
The consumers of today make informed decisions, consciously learning about their product before purchasing
Their limited-edition orangutan soap bar that was patchouli and orange scented and made of extra-virgin oil from Nias in Sumatra, helped fund this vital reforestation campaign. It certainly attracted large crowds, and thus increased both awareness and consumer base. The orangutan special soap sold out in the span of a few hours.
This gives us perspective as to how the public is starting to get in the groove of being informed on their products before buying them.
Beauty blogger, Nia Patten says “I do an awful lot of research before buying anything. I tend to buy brands which I know for a fact are cruelty-free, like Deciem. Going cruelty-free seems like an obvious thing to do now, it’s really not that hard in this day and age when there is so much information readily available.
“The world is becoming a lot more conscious of animal cruelty in general. Veganism is becoming more popular, so I’m sure the demand for cruelty-free products will keep increasing.”
Cruelty-free is more than just a trend
“Animal testing is not really necessary. With recent technology, it is not required to ensure that product is safe, whereas perhaps before it was the only option they had. I think that coupled with the fact that people are becoming more conscious is together creating a higher demand.” Says retail assistant of Miss Patisserie, Louise Bawtree.
Some cosmetic giants do not test on animals in the EU because of the law, but do test on animals in their international branches, for instance in China, where it is a must to test on animals by law.
Lush cosmetics has inculcated this policy as one of their core values and so does not trade with China.
Luna Organic Beauty Boutique also includes anti-animal testing in their philosophy or values. They also support multiple organic and natural skincare brands that complement the treatments they offer.
According to their philosophy, ‘green beauty is more than a trend, it is a lifestyle to a healthier wellbeing’.