The best after-sun products are clean; they’re formulated without synthetic chemicals like parabens and oxybenzone that can harm your skin, and lightweight so they won’t clog pores, letting heat escape your body.

Choose products that are infused with natural and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, hydrating ones like hyaluronic acid and anti-oxidants such as green tea, tiger grass and sunflower oil. Formulations with a cooling effect are a big plus to help reduce inflammation, and those with ceramides are effective in locking in moisture.

Whether you’re looking for lightweight serums for everyday use, soothing creams and balms or refreshing gels, here are eight of the best clean and cruelty-free after-sun products.

See also: 6 Sustainable Sun Hats & Visors for Summer Protection

Boscia Cica Soothing Universal Cream

This lightweight, vegan gel-cream contains cica, or tiger grass, sourced from Korea, which offers antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions, helping soothe and repair the skin while reducing redness. The formulation also features lactobacillus ferment, a probiotic that helps rebalance your microbiome, protect against pollution-induced damage and help your skin rebuild its natural defences.

Other ingredients include ginger root extract, another anti-inflammatory that soothes irritations, and ceramides that help lock in moisture. It can be used on the face or body and is naturally scented with an aromatic blend of orange and lavender oils.

Available on Amazon

Coola Radical Recovery After Sun Lotion

This deeply hydrating vegan lotion contains a moisture-locking base of organic agave and aloe vera, enriched with antioxidants and nourishing oils from sunflower, sweet orange and mandarin peel, combined with anti-inflammatory lavender oil and calming cedarwood.

70 percent of this after-sun lotion’s ingredients are certified organic, it’s reef-friendly, can be used daily – and it smells great!

Available at Harvey Nichols

Badger After Sun Balm

This soothing body balm conditions and smoothens parched skin directly after sun exposure, or straight after a shower or bath.

It uses a combination of moisturising cocoa and shea butters, extra virgin olive oil and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory essential oils of lavender, tangerine, tea tree and wild marjoram, plus rosemary and ginger extracts. Meanwhile, eucalyptus and peppermint offer a cooling effect.

Available at iHerb

Dr. Barbara Sturm Aloe Vera Gel

This soothing and cooling gel is made from 90 percent aloe leaf juice extracted from hand-selected, organic aloe vera plants. It also contains purslane, a plant rated for its anti-aging and antioxidant properties. Purslane helps reduce visible signs of irritation and works together with panthenol (vitamin B5) to soothe the skin.

This gel can be used on the face and body and is recommended after sunbathing, waxing or epilation.

Available at Net-a-Porter

Babo Botanicals After Sun Soothing Hydrating Gel

This cooling and non-sticky organic formula is quickly absorbed by the skin and is gentle enough for children and adults alike.

Formulated with 75 percent aloe vera juice, it contains antioxidant and anti-bacterial green tea and arnica which help soothe and repair the skin; hyaluronic acid and rosehip oil to hydrate and lock in moisture; and anti-inflammatory witch hazel and eucalyptus, which provide a cooling and refreshing effect.

Available at Babo Botanicals

Mill Creek Botanicals Aloe Vera Soothing Gel

This moisture-rich, quick-absorbing vegan gel comprises mostly of organic aloe vera extract, combined with anti-oxidant cucumber to help keep the skin protected, while providing relief for skin irritations, sunburn, minor burns and even insect bites.

Other ingredients like comfrey and allantoin further assist the skin’s healing process. As well as being a great after-sun product, it can also be used as a cooling after-shave balm for men and women.

Available at iHerb

Pai Instant Kalmer Serum

Made for hyper-sensitive skin, this vegan fragrance-free serum works to reduce redness and calm the skin quickly with a ceramide-rich formulation that combines anti-inflammatory sea aster, calming oat extract, antioxidant magnolia berry extract and hyaluronic acid to soothe stressed skin while repairing damage.

Pai decided against adding common cooling ingredients like menthol and eucalyptus to ensure this serum can be used by people with ultra-sensitive skin conditions, such as eczema and rosacea.

Available at Lookfantastic

Nuori Sun Repair Serum

This deeply rehydrating vegan serum contains a potent mix of plant-based, bio-fermented sorbitol and chamomile flower that work to reduce inflammatory reactions; natural hyaluronic acid and sucrose complex for hydrating and locking in moisture; and vitamins C and E to neutralise free radicals. Liquorice root extract also inhibits melanin production, reducing signs of photo-ageing.

Available at Smallable

Read also: 8 Cruelty-Free, Vegan and Reef-Safe Sunscreens

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What is dry brushing?

Dry brushing is a type of exfoliating body massage that uses a special brush, leaving your skin smooth, soft, glowing and more luminous. Devotees of this ritual, including celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Miranda Kerr and Elle Macpherson, also attest to its additional benefits – such us the feeling of relaxation during brushing; reducing the appearance of cellulite; and even lymphatic drainage, helping the body release toxins by stimulating its pores and opening them up to release sweat.

Its origins date back a few thousand years. Ancient Egyptians were said to have used the dry body brushing technique to exfoliate, following this with natural enzymes from our milk or wine for soft, supple skin.

Hailing from India, Ayurvedic dry brushing – called garshana – uses raw silk, linen gloves or a natural bristle body brush to stimulate circulation and blood flow. Meanwhile, in ancient China, dried fibres of a gourd fruit – or the modern-day loofah – were used, either alone or mixed with sesame oil to remove dead skin, and stimulate circulation along the lung, stomach and liver meridians.

See also: 8Shades Of… Kavita Khosa of Purearth

How to dry brush?

Before showering, when you’re completely dry, brush your skin using wide, circular clockwise motions, starting at your feet and moving up your body towards the heart. Use light pressure in areas where your skin is thin, and harder pressure on thicker skin like the soles of your feet.

When brushing your arms, move towards the armpits. Avoid any sensitive areas or where skin is broken; skip your face too. The process should take anywhere between five to 15 minutes. Take a cool shower to help remove dry skin, dry off and moisturise with a plant oil, or your preferred hydrating body cream.

How often should I dry brush?

Based on a variety of sources and reviews online, there isn’t really a consensus on how often one should dry brush. Some do it daily while others, once a week.

Dr Barbara Sturm, a German aesthetics doctor and founder of her eponymous anti-ageing and clean skincare line, recommends dry brushing twice a week: “I like using a body brush before taking a shower, and after using an anti-ageing body cream to nourish and hydrate the skin,” she says. She adds that dry body brushing is an important part of one’s skincare routine and an effective way to treat cellulite at home.

But before you start typing the words “dry brush” into Google, some words of caution: the ritual may not be for everyone. US-based dermatologist Dr Michelle Henry says that while a dry brush helps encourage effective circulation and lymphatic drainage, excessive or improper use can cause irritation and inflammation.

People with skin issues like eczema and psoriasis should avoid dry brushing over inflamed areas. Those with more active melanocytes, or with darker skin, should also watch out for a risk of hyperpigmentation, or darkening certain areas of the skin due to constant rubbing. Always wear sunscreen and use gentle skincare after dry brushing.

7 Of The Best Vegan, Cruelty-Free Body Brushes

Dry brushes come in a variety of designs and materials. Natural bristle brushes give a firm pressure, while synthetic ones are softer and less stiff. Here are our top picks of cruelty-free and vegan brushes to try:

Best Natural Bristles

Aromatherapy Associates Polishing Body Brush

Available at Aromatherapy Associates

Best for Sensitive Skin

Dr. Barbara Sturm Body Brush No. 1 (Soft)

Available at Net-a-Porter

Best for Men

Dr. Barbara Sturm Body Brush Medium

Available at Mr Porter

Best Budget

EcoTools Dry Brush With Cruelty-Free Bristles

Available at iHerb

Best for Leg Cellulite

Legology Lymph-Lite Boom Brush For Body

Available at Net-a-Porter

Best Long Handle

Joanna Vargas Ritual Brush

Available at Revolve

Best Synthetic Bristles

Mio Body Brush

Available at Lookfantastic

See also: Gua Sha – Better Than Botox?

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Frizz happens when the level of humidity in the air is greater than the level of water in your hair. As the moisture in the air rearranges the bonds inside each hair fibre, what was once a smooth look turns into chaos. Exposure to the sun, chlorine or saltwater, as well as heat from styling tools, also causes hair damage – usually resulting in dry and brittle strands, broken or split ends, thinning and discolouration.

So whatever you’ve got planned outdoors for summer, we’ve come up with a shortlist of hair products for your styling armoury – keeping your locks hydrated, healthy and silky-smooth throughout the season and beyond.

These products are all clean, meaning they’re free of parabens, phthalates, oxybenzone and synthetic fragrances that could harm you or the oceans. We’ve also looked for brands that use naturally derived and sustainably sourced ingredients and recyclable or no-waste packaging, and of course, which don’t test on animals. Here’s to more good hair days!

See also: 8 Ingredients To Avoid In Your Shampoo

Frizz, Frizz, Go Away

Briogeo Farewell Frizz Creme

Suitable for all hair types, including colour-, keratin- or chemically-treated or relaxed hair, Briogeo’s Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection & Heat Protectant Creme is a vegan formulation that not only prevents kinks and poufiness, but also protects hair from the damaging effects of hot tools, like irons and hair dryers.

Ingredients include a hydrating blend of rosehip, argan and coconut oils, plus vitamin E to nourish and revitalise dry or damaged strands.

Available at Sephora HK

Shea Moisture Frizz Free Curl Mousse

Shea Moisture is a clean and cruelty-free line of hair products made with fair trade ingredients. Shea Moisture’s Frizz Free Curl Mousse is great for enhancing waves while reducing frizz without weighing hair down. Featuring shea butter and coconut oil to moisturise and repair dry and brittle hair, its formula also includes neem oil to control any kinks.

Its coconut and hibiscus scent transports you to a tropical island instantly. Use on damp hair, applying two to three pumps to each section, and comb through. 

Available at iHerb

Paul Mitchell Anti-Frizz Leave-In Treatment

Formulated with sustainably sourced ingredients – including 86 percent that are naturally derived – Paul Mitchell’s Clean Beauty Anti-Frizz Leave-In Treatment calms and protects locks against humidity, making hair more manageable and easier to style with continued use.

Cold-pressed almond oil helps nourish and strengthen hair with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, while hyaluronic acid provides hydration to help prevent future breakage. Even better, it comes in recyclable, bio-based packaging made from sugarcane.

Available at LookFantastic

The Honest Company Conditioning Detangler

Featuring a nourishing blend of ingredients like jojoba protein, shea butter, quinoa extract and argan oil, The Honest Company’s Conditioning Detangler leaves dry hair frizz- and knot-free – keeping it smooth, soft and hydrated, with a sweet vanilla and orange scent. It’s lightweight and gentle enough to use everyday and also works great after a swim.

Available at The Store HK

For A Squeaky Clean

Love Beauty & Planet Blooming Color Shampoo

A micellar-water based shampoo, Love Beauty & Planet’s Blooming Color Shampoo is sulfate-free, protecting colour-treated hair with a mix of coconut oil, murumuru butter, rose water and plant-based cleansers. 93 percent of its ingredients are naturally derived, creating a formula that breaks down completely, unlike many shampoos that don’t decompose fully over time.

This shampoo also comes in two other formulas – Argan Oil & Lavender for frizz control, and Coconut Water & Mimosa Flower for strengthening and volume.

Available at iHerb

Innersense Detox Hair Mask

Innersense’s Detox Hair Mask is a clarifying treatment with a relaxing scent of sage and vanilla that can be used for all hair types and textures. Charcoal, kaolin and certified-organic white vinegar gently remove build-up from the hair shaft, helping bring microparticles to the surface without stripping hair of natural oils.

Available at Niche Beauty

Create Your Own Waves

Rahua Enchanted Island Salt Spray

No time for a beach trip just yet? Get an effortless tousled beach wave anytime by spritzing Rahua’s Enchanted Island Salt Spray on dry or damp hair to create volume and texture.

Naturally anti-bacterial pink sea salt detoxifies and exfoliates the scalp, giving hair a tousled look, body and hold. Meanwhile, guava hydrates and softens, while antioxidant hibiscus helps boost shine, strengthens, reduces UV damage and provides hair colour support. Vitamin C-rich passion fruit also helps regulate the optimal pH balance for your hair and scalp.

Available at SSense

Ouai Air Dry Foam

One of the cult brand’s best-selling products, Ouai’s Air Dry Foam creates beautifully air-dried, frizz-free, beachy waves that last the whole day. It’s formulated with kale extract that helps smoothen locks, giving hair a defined natural finish – without the curling iron!

Available at Sephora HK

BeautyBio Healthy Scalp Dry Shampoo

A dry shampoo that gives hair an ultra-clean feel, plus great volume and lift, BeautyBio’s Healthy Scalp Dry Shampoo uses the brand’s proprietary Flash Wash Technology to deep clean the scalp, while its FolliGRO complex goes into the roots to encourage hair growth.

Its formulation includes loquat leaf, which increases hair density, strength and thickness; rosebay extract, which dissolves scalp build-up, soothes inflamed skin and reduces flaking; and larch tree, which balances sebum production, preventing hair from getting and looking greasy. The alcohol- and starch-free formula leaves hair feeling fresh without any chalky feel, and with a radiant sheen.

Available at Harrods

See also: 8 Safe & Sustainable Shampoos in Hong Kong

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It’s easy to get stumped with all the new sustainability terms cropping up – but fret not! As part of our ‘Sustainability Defined‘ series, 8Shades is here to help guide you through the confusing world of responsible fashion, with these useful definitions for ten common sustainability terms.

See also: 10 Useful Food Sustainability Terms

Deadstock Fabric

This may sound an unnerving term, but there’s nothing sinister about it! When fashion industry people refer to ‘deadstock fabric’, they’re talking about surplus or leftover fabric, which wasn’t used or sold and would have been ordinarily thrown away. Instead artisans repurpose these materials, breathing new life into them by incorporating them into their existing designs or creating entirely new pieces with them, thus extending their lifespan and enhancing their sustainability.

Downcycling

This is what happens when you break down a product to extend its life, keeping it from ending up in landfill. An example of this is when you use old socks or garments as cleaning rags, or when clothing is shredded down for its fibres to be used as insulation stuffing. A popular example of downcycling is Nike breaking down old sneakers to be used to make basketball courts.

Fair Fashion

Also known as ‘fair trade’, this term is similar to its food equivalent – meaning companies that carry this label have ensured that the workers who make its clothes have been paid a fair wage and work at factories that meet or exceed safety guidelines.

Natural Fibres

These are fibres like cotton, linen or wool that come from plants and animals, instead of synthetic sources like polyester. Though these are generally more sustainable, not all natural fibres are biodegradable – especially if they’re treated with chemicals during the manufacturing process. For instance, while leather is a natural fibre, it actually has a larger carbon footprint than polyester.

Organic

While closely associated with food sustainability, the term ‘organic’ can also be found in fashion. Organic clothing means clothes that were made from materials like cotton, wool or hemp that have not been genetically-modified or grown with chemicals. In addition to not using any pesticides, organic clothing also has the added benefit of being biodegradable.

Pre-Loved vs Vintage

Both of these refer to second-hand items that you might come across via a thrift shop, hand-me-downs or swapping with friends. ‘Vintage’ items have the added distinction of being over 20 years old and accurately representing the style of a certain era, like bell-bottom jeans from the 1970s.

See also: 8Shades Of Christina Dean of Redress

Sustainable Collections

This is usually a brand’s way of highlighting their eco credentials, with collections that include items or accessories made from organic materials or eco-friendly packaging. Examples of this include Stella McCartney’s Mylo Bag that’s made from lab-grown mushroom leather and Zara’s Join Life Collection that uses fibres sourced from controlled-growth and protected forests.

See also: Why Is Sustainable Fashion More Expensive Than Fast Fashion?

Upcycling

This is essentially the opposite of downcycling. While both processes turn waste into usable material, upcycling involves repurposing waste to make it into a better product – for example, sewing shirts into bags or making leather scraps into mobile device cases.

Vegan

In addition to being cruelty-free and not tested on animals, vegan fashion also does not use any animal byproducts – so leather jackets, fur coats and wool mittens are a big no no.

Zero-Waste

The fashion industry is notorious for creating a lot of rubbish. Zero-waste fashion aims to minimise the amount of waste created during the manufacturing process, as well as considering how items can be repaired to keep them out of landfill for as long as possible. An example is using fabric scraps to create other fashion items.

See also: 8 Sustainable Fashion Brands in Southeast Asia to Know

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Why? Because there’s nothing worse than makeup melting in the 40-degree heat and 80 percent humidity, messing up that glowy, dewy look you were going for – the one that perfectly matches your favourite swimsuit, beach hat and cover-up, relaxing microbead-free salt scrub and virgin pina coladas.

With spiking temperatures – and we know how this feels given Hong Kong’s recent hot weather warnings – the key to looking fresh is to swap out your foundation with a light, hydrating, tinted moisturiser that won’t weigh you down, delivering the coverage you need while giving your skin a breather.

Tinted moisturisers can save a lot of prep time too, as the latest formulations also double up as skincare, incorporating ingredients that can fix imperfections, enhance your complexion and boost hydration, all while protecting you from sun damage. Some address specific concerns like oily or dry skin, with continued use resulting in better skin.

So for all the outdoor frolicking you’ve got planned this season, we’ve selected eight of the best-performing vegan and cruelty-free tinted moisturisers, which are also all free of parabens, silicones, phthalates, PEGs and sulfates.

See also: 8 Cruelty-Free, Vegan & Reef-Safe Sunscreens

Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint

Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint SPF30 is a multi-tasking tinted moisturiser. This liquid formula is blended with niacinamide, plant-derived squalane and hyaluronic acid to help nourish, balance and moisturise skin. It goes on light and adjusts to your natural colour, resulting in a radiant complexion.

Available at Net-a-Porter

Tarte’s Maracuja Tinted Hydrator

With 20 shades available, Tarte’s Maracuja Tinted Hydrator delivers sheer, buildable coverage while infusing skin with up to 12 hours of hydration, thanks to an oil rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin C from the maracuja super fruit. Easy to apply with your fingertips, this product helps visibly even out skin tone and minimise the appearance of imperfections. The formula also includes hyaluronic acid, vegan collagen and turmeric root extract, a soothing ingredient that helps reduce redness.

Available at Sephora Hong Kong

Bare Minerals’ Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream

BareMinerals’ Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream SPF30 boasts a 24-hour hydration boost that increases skin’s moisture levels by 215 percent with just one week’s use, based on the average results from a US independent clinical study. With buildable sheer to light coverage, the formula visibly evens skin tone and blurs imperfections, creating a dewy, healthy glow – plus it’s oil- and fragrance-free.

Available at BareMinerals

The Ordinary Serum Foundation

The Ordinary Serum Foundation with SPF15 is a lightweight formula that glides on effortlessly, pretty much like a regular serum. It comes in 36 different shades, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every skin tone. There are additional shades for silver and gold highlights too, which are infused with metallic effect pigments to add a luminous effect to skin (look for shades that end with S or G).

Available at The Ordinary

Huda Beauty’s Glowish Multidew Skin Tint

Huda Beauty’s GloWish Multidew Skin Tint is ideal for giving dry skin an all-over glow. This creamy, fragrance-free formula has the coverage of foundation, with the lightweight texture of a tinted moisturiser. Available in 13 shades, it also features moisturising and antioxidant functions, thanks to hydrating plant-derived squalane, Damascus rose oil which soothes and clarifies, and red bell pepper extract, which protects the skin against digital blue-light pollution.

Available at Sephora Hong Kong

Kosas Tinted Face Oil

Kosas Tinted Face Oil is a clean, weightless foundation formulated with six nourishing botanical oils such as avocado and meadowfoam to moisturise, plump and improve skin’s appearance. Soothing red raspberry and meadowfoam oils calm the skin, while camellia and rosehip seed oils work to balance and brighten your complexion. With a serum-like consistency, the oil gives a natural, dewy finish; in a consumer study, using it for 28 days resulted in brighter skin, a more even skin tone and reduced blemishes.

Available at Revolve

Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint

If you think your skin needs a bit more hydration plus anti-ageing ingredients, Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint SPF15 comes infused with the brand’s unique Hyaluronan Complex that boosts moisture levels, while tightening the skin and filling in wrinkles. Coming in 12 shades, its lightweight creamy texture – think whipped cream – offers medium to full coverage, while pearlescent pigments provide a luminous glow.

Available at Hourglass

Chantecaille’s Just Skin Tinted Moisturiser

Chantecaille’s Just Skin Tinted Moisturiser with SPF15 is a three-in-one formula that provides hydration, sun protection and foundation-like buildable coverage. A unique blend of thyme and butterfly bush extracts offers powerful antioxidant protection, while hyaluronic acid seals in the moisture. It’s a great product to use if you have concerns with blemishes and discolouration, with a velvety smooth texture, and it comes in eight shades.

Available at Chantecaille

See also: 8 Waterless Beauty Products for Summer

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As a responsible 8Shader, there are three key things you’ll want to look for in sunscreen, apart from how effective it is in protecting your skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays, that is:

• the product must be cruelty-free (not tested on animals)
• vegan (doesn’t use any animal-derived ingredients),
• and reef-safe if using at the beach.

Ingredients to look for and avoid

When selecting sunscreen, go for products that use mineral compounds, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, to block UV rays. The size of the minerals matters as well, as nanoparticles, which are smaller than micro particles, can be toxic in high concentrations. Check the label and opt for those that mention ‘micro-sized’ or ‘non-nano’ minerals, and avoid anything with exfoliating beads, as this is a form of microplastic that can harm ocean life.  

Organic compounds like oxybenzone can induce allergies and affect hormones in humans, and ingredients like octocrylene and octinoxate can cause bleaching and death to corals. To keep your skin, and ocean life happy, formulations must not contain any of these harmful substances either: homosalate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), parabens and triclosan.

Skincare experts also advise sticking with lotions and avoiding sprays as much as possible, especially if they contain titanium dioxide, as these can be harmful to health when inhaled.

The final deciding factor would be for products that cut back on single use plastic packaging and have containers that are recycled, reusable or are made of biodegradable, plant-based materials, like cardboard.

Here are eight of the best cruelty-free, vegan and reef-safe sunscreens for daily use:

1. Best Tinted Sunscreen

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 combines skincare, makeup and sun protection into one, with an ultra lightweight coverage shielding skin from UVA, UVB, UVC and blue and infrared light, using non-nano zinc oxide. Silicon, oil and fragrance-free, the tinted moisturiser comes in 27 shades to match every skintone, and is enhanced with hyaluronic acids, plant-based squalene, and niacinamide, sealing in hydration, while softening the skin and working to diminish fine lines.

ILIA has also partnered with 1% for the Planet and is donating 1% of all its Super Serum Skin Tint sales toward reforestation efforts, with a goal of planting 1 million trees by the end of 2023.

Available at Revolve

2. Best Daily Sunscreen for the Face

A cult fave, Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen is invisible and glides on like a dream. Perfect for wearing alone or under makeup, it’s antioxidant-rich while providing SPF 40 and protection from blue light, to. Formulated without oil, it ensures a shine-free finish while keeping your makeup in place. What’s not to love?

Available at Sephora

3. Best Daily Sunscreen for the Body

Perfect for sun-soaked days but light enough for daily use, COOLA’s Classic Sunscreen Spray is both antioxidant-rich and moisturising with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It features a natural guava mango scent and is housed in recyclable, plant-based tubes sourced from sugar cane. Of course, it’s also vegan, gluten-free, paraban-free and reef-safe!

Available at Goxip

4. Best Sunscreen for the Beach

With its lightweight and water-resistant formulation, Mimitika’s Summer Essentials SPF Face and Body Set is all you need for your next trip to the beach. The set comes with an SPF50 face sunscreen, SPF30 sunscreen for the body, as well as a soothing after-sun body lotion with aloe vera and coconut oil. Mimitika’s sunscreen contains seaweed extract, which stimulates melanin production ensuring a glowing, healthy tan, and vitamin E, which neutralises free radicals promoting a youthful glow.

Available at The Organic Store

5. Best Mineral Sunscreen

Supergoop’s Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30 is a non-nano zinc oxide sheer skin protector that helps filter blue light and prep the skin for makeup. Developed with the brand’s breakthrough SheerMatrix Technology, the formula suspends the sunscreen actives in a matrix without compromising efficacy, so it instantly blends to a natural, smooth finish that wears well alone or as a primer under makeup.

Available at Sephora HK

6. Best Sunscreen for Outdoor Sports

Created for those with active lifestyles and love the outdoors, Juice Beauty’s Sport sunscreen is made with certified organic ingredients like jojoba, soothing aloe and mineral broad spectrum zinc, offering ideal, water- and sweat-resistant protection for up to 80 minutes. Re-applying is easy as the formula absorbs quickly. Juice Beauty also comes in sustainable FSC paper packaging.

Available at Juice Beauty

7. Best Sunscreen for Babies and Kids

Use as much of the Erbaviva Baby Sunscreen as you want– this award-winning, organically crafted sunscreen provides full spectrum protection and is gentle enough for babies, so it’s great for the entire family. Infused with sunflower, jojoba oil and essential oils of chamomile and lavender, it features a lightweight and silky formula that absorbs quickly and is water-resistant.

Available at Nourish Clean Beauty

8. Best Sun Protection for the Lips

Don’t forget to protect your lips! Keep chapping and dryness at bay with Babo Botanicals’ Lip Tint SPF 15, which comes in three shades: beach rose, wild rose and crimson rose. A proprietary Nutri-Sooth Complex with antioxidants and vitamins smoothes and conditions while offering protection and a pretty sheen.

Available at Goxip

See also: How to Have a Sustainable Day at the Beach

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The post 8 Cruelty-Free, Vegan and Reef-Safe Sunscreens appeared first on 8Shades.

However, we 8Shades gals have to be incredibly vigilant about which lash extensions to go for, as they can come in a range of different materials, from synthetic – what we want to go for – to mink, silk, horsehair and even fox fur – what we want to stay away from.

According to Humane Society International, around 100 million animals are bred and killed on fur farms every year, specifically to supply fur to the fashion and cosmetic industry. Majority of these are minks, with their soft fur used for coats, jackets, trims, and false eyelashes.

By wearing only cruelty-free falsies and supporting companies who produce them, we’re taking a stand against the horrible practice of fur farming. Synthetics are affordable, look good, and there’s an extensive range of styles and lengths to choose from. You can also choose companies that focus on sustainable practices.

Here are some of our top picks for cruelty-free and vegan false lashes to try on for your next Zoom call:

Velour Lashes Effortless Kit

Velour Lashes’ The Effortless Kit is the go-to collection for newbies. There’s no need to measure and trim, just glue, and voila! The kit comes with an easy lash applicator, and latex-free lash adhesive, which is long-lasting and dries completely invisible. Going for a natural look? Go for Would I Lie? Velour lashes are vegan and cruelty-free and do not contain latex, parabens, formaldehyde, phthalates, mineral oil, sulfates and benzenes.

Available at Revolve.com

Ardell Naked Lashes 421

Designed to blend seamlessly with your natural lashes, for a barely there look, Ardell Naked Lashes in 421 feature a lightweight invisiband and create subtle volume and length. The midi-length false lashes feature a rounded, criss-cross wispy style. Ardell offers an extensive range of other affordable lash styles too. The company has confirmed that it doesn’t test on animals and is completely cruelty-free.

Available at LookFantastic.com

House of Lashes – Noir Fairy Lite

House of Lashes’s Noir Fairy Lite brings intensity and dimension to the eyes, perfect for a glamorous night out. Made from high quality synthetic fibres, each pair can be used up to 15 times. The lash band is made from a flexible, comfortable and thin blend of cotton. All of the company’s lashes are cruelty free and come in recyclable packaging.

Available at LookFantastic.com

Tarteist PRO Cruelty-Free Lashes

Tarteist Pro Cruelty-Free Lashes aim to dramatically boost volume and length with lightweight vegan fibers that blend with your own lashes for a natural effect. There are six different styles: Little Black Dress is for everyday wear, Flirt is long and wispy; Goddess features multi-length fibers with dramatic volume; Sweetheart lengthens; Girl Boss adds dramatic length and dimension; and Center of Attention builds volume from the inner corner out. Apply with tartiest PRO lash adhesive.

Available at Sephora HK

Eylure Fluttery Intense 175 Lashes

Lightweight, reusable, and cruelty-free Eylure’s Fluttery 175 Lashes are the pair to go for when you want extra volume and definition during the day. The falsies’ synthetic fibres feature an angled shape that is fuller, longer, and denser on the outer edges, for a wide-eyed look that will make your eyes pop. The fibres are set on an invisible band that hugs the eye contour for comfort, precise application and discretion. Adhesive is included.

Available from LookFantastic.com

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When choosing face creams and body lotions, it would be great to know that the products that rescue you from your skincare woes are also free from harmful chemicals like phthalates and parabens; do not contain animal-derived products like carmine, lanolin or beeswax; and are never tested on animals.

Here are our picks for the best vegan, cruelty-free face and body moisturisers for various skin types:

Facial moisturisers

For Dull, Dry Skin

Wonderfully luxurious with a proprietary blend of detoxifying compounds and plant-based squalene, designed to protect the skin from harmful elements, Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Moisture Cushion helps you say goodbye to dullness and dryness, offering time-released, deeply penetrating hydration to your face and neck. Antioxidants, peptides and essential oils work to fight visible signs of ageing, leaving your skin soft and supple.

Available at Sephora HK

For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

A combination of aloe barbadensis leaf juice, sage extract, sandalwood and apple oils make up Tata Harper’s lightweight Clarifying Moisturiser. Specially formulated for blemish-prone skin, the product increases hydration levels while working to remove congestion from the surface.

Available at Net-a-Porter

For Combination Skin

A buttery-soft sleeping cream, Algenist Genius Sleeping Collagen works overnight to give skin a dewy feel and intense nourishment. Working when the skin is at its optimat recovery time, the cream uses concentrated plant collagen, collagen amino acids and ceramides that help provide a visibly smoother, glowing and renewed complexion when you wake up.

Available at Sephora HK

For Sensitive Skin

An oil-free, fragrance-free lightweight gel, Perricone MD High Potency Classics: Hyaluronic Intensive Moisturiser infuses skin with much-needed hydration while reducing the appearance of fine lines. The formulation includes three types of hyaluronic acid: one to plump skin, one for continuous hydration and one to help prevent moisture loss. DMAE and rosemary leaf extract helps lift and tighten skin over time.

Available at LookFantastic

All-in-One Set

Working together to leave your skin and lips thoroughly moisturised and ready to withstand the elements, Dr. Barbara Sturm’s 6-step Winter Kit includes the Cleanser, Face Mask, Night Serum, Calming Serum, Face Cream Rich, and Lip Balm in deluxe and miniature sizes, all in a travel-friendly, reusable fabric bag which is part of the brand’s migration to sustainable packaging.

Available at Joyce Beauty

Body Lotions, Oils and Butters

Augustinus Bader’s The Body Oil

Powered by the brand’s TFC8 Complex and plant-based actives, Augustinus Bader’s The Body Oil is a wonder elixir–with a silky, rich texture that’s non-greasy and fast-absorbing, the oil deeply hydrates and conditions the skin, while helping minimise stretch marks and scarring, and lightening dark spots and cellulite. The fragrance-free formula won’t clog your pores and it’s great for all skin types.

Available at Joyce Beauty

Drunk Elephant TLC Glycolic Body Lotion

Drunk Elephant’s TLC Glycolic Body Lotion contains a blend of 10% AHAs which gently exfoliates the skin to resurface dull and uneven areas. A mix of plant oils and butters such as passionfruit, apricot, marula and shea work together to soothe irritable skin, while Vitamin F, squalane and niacinamide work to create a stronger, healthier acid mantle. The formulation is fragrance free and at an ideal pH of 3.5.

Available at Sephora HK

LIHA Gold Shea Butter

Liha Beauty’s Gold formula is made from organic shea butter, which, for many cultures, is a cure-all for dry skin, to scars and stretch marks. The creamy formulation is rich in vitamins E and A, great antioxidants that promote cell regeneration. To apply with ease, allow it to melt in your hands first.

Available at Net-a-Porter

See also: Shop Local: 8 Homegrown Clean Beauty Brands in Hong Kong

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The post 8 Vegan and Cruelty-Free Moisturisers For Winter appeared first on 8Shades.

What is carmine?

Cochineal is a red insect dye that has been used for centuries to dye textiles, drugs and cosmetics; it has been used to dye lipstick, blush and eyeshadow. 

The cochineal bug is native to Central and South Americas and has been used to create a red dye since the time of the Aztecs. It quickly became a source of wealth – royalty wanted the bright colours for themselves, and the British hired pirates to steal gold, cochineal bugs and other valuables from ships. 

To create carmine, the cochineal insect is boiled, sun-dried, crushed and then mixed with an acidic alcohol solution, which brings out vibrant colours ranging from crimson to pink, purple or peach, but it is most commonly used to create red dye. It takes around 70,000 cochineal insects to make just one pound of dye.

Obviously, cosmetic companies aren’t too keen on listing “crushed bug” on their ingredient lists, so besides being listed as carmine, cochineal could also be listed as “crimson lake,” “natural red 4” or “CI 75470.”

Is Carmine Dangerous?

Don’t freak out – aside from the risk of an allergic reaction, carmine is considered safe, as it’s a natural substance and isn’t linked to any specific health risks. However, products containing carmine aren’t considered to be “cruelty-free” for obvious reasons. 

Carmine-Free Lipsticks

If you’d rather not have crushed bugs smeared on your face, you’ll be pleased to know that some brands are working to produce lipsticks that contain carmine alternatives. Here are three of our picks: 

Hourglass Confession Ultra Slim High Intensity Lipstick in Red O

Created in celebration of World Vegan Day on 1 November 2021, this highly pigmented lipstick is developed using a carmine alternative and is long-lasting. 

Available at Net-a-Porter

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Lucky Cherry

Charlotte Tilbury refuses to test on animals, creating cruelty-free makeup that is used on celebrities around the world. This lipstick is not only intensely pigmented and long-wearing while being intensely comfortable, but it also contains orchid extracts to help soften and condition your lips!

Available at CharlotteTilbury.com

Tarte Tarteist Quick Dry Matte Lip Paint

Besides being completely cruelty-free, this liquid-to-matte liquid is full coverage and transfer-proof. 

Available at Tartecosmetics.com

For more advice on how to live a more sustainable and clean life, follow 8Shades’ sustainability tag, or follow us on Instagram (@8shadesofficial)!

See also: 8 Environmental Photographers To Follow on Instagram

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