Since the entry into force of the Law, a new countdown has begun in Europe: millions of rabbits have stopped dying for the sake of the rapid development of the beauty industry. From now on, all cosmetics sold in Europe are tested only on groups of cells, or by other alternative methods known to modern science.
Ethics Degree
The most responsible beauty aficionados prefer to buy not only “cruelty-free” cosmetics (“cruelty-free”, without cruelty), but also only those that do not contain various animal components. Many cosmetic brands in the composition of their creams introduce, for example, caviar, or parts of the stomachs of some animals. In decorative cosmetics, carmine is actively used, which is, in fact, a dye from ground red bugs. Many cosmetic components are obtained on the basis of wool, which, in turn, is often obtained by very inhumane methods. The most popular component widely used in cosmetology is honey, which for various reasons is also not used by many Europeans.
Certificates
Europe is one of the most favorable places for adherents of an ethical lifestyle. It offers not only vegan cosmetics, i.e. free from all animal components, but also cosmetics, whose ingredients are obtained without the participation of pesticides and other hazardous substances, namely, products certified by one of the environmental certificates. Most often, the presence of a certificate is indicated directly on the packaging of a cosmetic product. The most recognizable of them in Europe are: BDIH (German eco-standard certificate), ECOCERT (independent European certificate for eco-cosmetics) and USDA organic (American certificate for organic products). Modern cosmetology offers halal products, nickel-free, lactose-free, gluten-free cosmetics and many other options, each of which, as a rule, has its own certificate, and, therefore, a corresponding mark on the package.
Ecology
What do environmental certificates mean most often? The lists of each individual organization issuing the certificate vary. These may include that all wild plants used in the manufacture of a given cosmetic product must be wild-recovered; or that the ingredients must be sourced only in the region where the cosmetics are made, so as not to litter the environment through unnecessary transportation. Many certifications also take into account the quality of packaging – for example, a certification firm may require biodegradable materials from a manufacturer. All certificates are united by one main parameter: the absence of chemicals in the composition.
Where can I buy
Numerous sites across Europe offer natural and vegan cosmetics. They require payment of delivery, guided either by weight or by country of the addressee, or they exempt the buyer from paying for it when ordering for a certain amount.
The European Internet space is literally replete with online stores where you can order cosmetics of the category under discussion from virtually any country in the world. At least a basic knowledge of English will open up the huge possibilities of the sites below.
1.
An expensive designer clothing site that also sells luxury cosmetics. A huge selection of natural, pseudo-natural (where about 20% of the ingredients are chemical) and vegan cosmetics with delivery to Russia at a cost of 23 euros. About twice a year, the site arranges promotions and delivers goods for free around the world. To keep track of these dates, it is worth subscribing to their mailing list.
2.
Worldwide shipping is free on orders over £50. Otherwise, you will have to pay the amount of 6 pounds sterling. They sell only natural cosmetics. Recently, the site has a “Vegan” section, where only cosmetics without animal components are presented. In addition to cosmetics, on the site you can buy personal and feminine hygiene products.
3.
Europe’s largest website for natural products based in the UK. Shipping is free worldwide. Maximum number of days to wait: 21. Sales, promotions, many categories. Huge selection of cosmetics with customer reviews (in English). Each product has a card with all the information: full composition, certificates, how to use, for what type of skin, etc. Paradise for fans of natural cosmetics.
4.
Huge British site with natural cosmetics. Shipping on purchases of £10 or more is free worldwide. Reviews from buyers, information, convenient sections, an incredible selection of products in each category. With each purchase, your account on their website is credited with 10% of the cost, which you can use on your next purchase. Constant sales with discounts of 35-70%. Any brand you have ever heard of will most likely be on this site.
These stores are among the largest in Europe and offer products from hundreds of companies from all over the world. Very often they hold various promotions. Sign up for their newsletter and you won’t miss the next sale. Stores that specialize specifically in ethical and ecological cosmetics always place all certificates on their websites with explanations of what each of them means. And there, believe me, the most sophisticated buyer will find the goods to their liking. Prepare, however, your gold reserves. Firstly, when you first visit these sites, your eyes will widen, and secondly, keep in mind that the price of a good natural face cream starts at 20 euros per jar. On these sites you can find them for 12-14 euros.