In Paris, the clarion call for “vegetarianism” resounds.
In shopping centers, “non-animal fur” labels adorn storefront entrances; on the streets, a myriad of vegetarian restaurants have emerged (though the pandemic has forced many to temporarily close their doors); particularly among younger generations, embracing a “vegan” lifestyle has become highly fashionable.
These days, “vegetarianism” has transcended the realm of gastronomy, with an increasing number of industries adopting the “vegetarian” trend. In the recent “2021 Global Beauty Trend Analysis Report,” “vegetarian beauty” emerged as the most prominent new trend of 2021!
What exactly is “vegetarian beauty”?
Upon hearing the term “vegetarian beauty,” one might immediately associate it with wholesome, natural, and chemical-free descriptors. However, the reality is far more multifaceted.
“Vegetarian beauty” refers to cruelty-free beauty products that eschew animal testing, refrain from using animal-derived ingredients, and prioritize natural, safe constituents.
Traditional beauty products often contain animal-derived ingredients such as honey, beeswax, lanolin, squalene, carmine (crushed beetles), gelatin (collagen protein found in animal bones, tendons, or ligaments), allantoin (derived from cow urine), ambergris (whale vomit), and sheep placenta (an organ of the sheep). While these ingredients pose no harm to human skin and may even offer some benefits, their use can be detrimental and threatening to animals.
Presently, many “vegetarian beauty” products are opting for plant-based ingredients as alternatives to animal-derived components.
Nonetheless, some critics have questioned the viability of “vegetarian beauty,” particularly concerning the removal of preservatives and the maintenance of product freshness.
“If you only use natural ingredients, you will see, under the microscope, the bacteria proliferating rapidly in these products, which may lead to contamination and compromised functionality,” explains cosmetics expert Dr. Grosbo. “In ‘vegetarian beauty,’ manufacturers can primarily utilize pure natural ingredients, but they must also add necessary additives to prevent product deterioration. They cannot blindly pursue natural, harmless products.”
“Vegetarian Beauty” takes the world by storm
At present, the vegan cosmetics market comprises facial cosmetics, eye cosmetics, lip and nail cosmetics, as well as hair and dye products. The market spans North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, the Middle East, and Africa.
According to a report published by Grand View Research, the global vegetarian beauty market is projected to reach $20.8 billion by 2025. During the forecast period (2020-2025), the compound annual growth rate of the vegetarian cosmetics market is expected to attain 6.5%.
The report posits that such substantial market growth is primarily driven by heightened consumer awareness of animal-derived ingredients and the increasing demand for vegetarian-certified products among mainstream consumers worldwide.
Europe boasts the largest market share
The report reveals that while the “vegetarian beauty” market has expanded globally, the European market retains the largest market share. This can be attributed to the rising demand for natural and organic products among European consumers, who prioritize environmentally-friendly and non-toxic formulations when selecting personal care items.
Owing to the conspicuous market demand for natural ingredients, numerous personal care companies are inclined to introduce “vegetarian products” to European consumers, such as organic deodorants and plant-based hair creams.
A favored choice among young people
PETA Senior Vice President Kathy Guillermo, an advocate for the prohibition of animal testing in laboratories, believes that millennial consumers play a significant role in the “vegetarian beauty” market. “I think consumers, especially millennials and Generation Z, want to buy products that align with their personal values.”
The Economist has designated 2019 as the “Year of the Vegan,” stating in its report that a quarter of millennials identify as vegans or vegetarians.
In addition, the “celebrity effect” has had an immeasurable influence on younger demographics. Mega-stars with millions of followers, such as Beyoncé and Jay-Z, have promoted their own “vegetarian brands” on their personal accounts and encouraged fans to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle.
This growing trend towards “vegetarian beauty” and the increasing demand for ethical, cruelty-free products are shaping the future of the cosmetics industry. As awareness and concern for the environment and animal welfare continue to rise, it is anticipated that “vegetarian beauty” will become an even more prominent and influential movement in the global beauty market. The integration of natural, plant-based ingredients in personal care products, coupled with the push for greater transparency in manufacturing processes and ingredient sourcing, is set to redefine industry standards and consumer expectations in the years to come.
