The beauty industry is changing fast, and vegan makeup is leading the charge. More people are choosing cruelty-free and plant-based products, not just for ethical reasons but also for better skin health. Vegan makeup avoids animal-derived ingredients like beeswax, carmine, and lanolin, replacing them with natural and synthetic alternatives that are just as effective—if not better.
If you’re looking to switch to vegan beauty products, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up the best vegan makeup brands that deliver high performance without harming animals. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just starting your clean beauty journey, these brands will help you look flawless while staying true to your values.
What Makes a Makeup Brand Truly Vegan?
Before diving into the best brands, let’s clarify what vegan makeup really means:
- No Animal Ingredients: Avoids beeswax, collagen, gelatin, and carmine (a red pigment from beetles).
- Cruelty-Free: Not tested on animals at any production stage.
- Ethical Sourcing: Uses sustainable and eco-friendly ingredients.
Some brands are only vegan, while others offer vegan options within a larger product line. Always check labels for certifications like PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny.
Top Vegan Makeup Brands You Should Try
1. Pacifica Beauty
Pacifica is a 100% vegan and cruelty-free brand known for its affordable, high-quality makeup. From long-lasting lipsticks to nourishing foundations, Pacifica proves that vegan beauty doesn’t have to break the bank.
Must-Try Products:
- Pacifica Alight Clean Foundation – Lightweight, buildable coverage.
- Vegan Collagen Mascara – Lifts lashes without clumping.
2. e.l.f. Cosmetics
e.l.f. (which stands for “Eyes, Lips, Face”) is a budget-friendly brand that’s entirely vegan and cruelty-free. Their products are widely available, making vegan beauty accessible to everyone.
Must-Try Products:
- e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer – Full coverage without drying skin.
- Putty Blush – Creamy, blendable, and long-wearing.
3. Cover FX
For those who love high-performance makeup, Cover FX offers a fully vegan range with customizable shades. Their products are free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, making them great for sensitive skin.
Must-Try Products:
- Cover FX Power Play Foundation – Sweat-proof and shine-free.
- High Performance Setting Spray – Locks makeup in place for hours.
4. Axiology
If you’re into clean, sustainable beauty, Axiology is a must-try. Their lipsticks and balms are made with organic ingredients and come in plastic-free packaging.
Must-Try Products:
- Axiology Lip Crayons – Creamy, pigmented, and moisturizing.
5. Milk Makeup
Milk Makeup is a favorite among beauty lovers for its innovative, easy-to-use formulas. All their products are vegan and cruelty-free, focusing on skincare-infused makeup.
Must-Try Products:
- Kush Mascara – Volumizing and conditioning.
- Hydro Grip Primer – Keeps makeup fresh all day.
6. Inika Organic
Certified organic and vegan, Inika Organic is perfect for those who want luxury makeup with clean ingredients. Their foundations and highlighters give a radiant, natural finish.
Must-Try Products:
- Inika Long Lash Mascara – Lengthens without smudging.
- Liquid Mineral Foundation – Lightweight yet full coverage.
7. Hourglass Cosmetics
Hourglass is a high-end brand that has gone fully vegan, offering luxurious, high-pigment products. Their Ambient Lighting Powders are cult favorites.
Must-Try Products:
- Hourglass Veil Retouching Fluid – Blurs imperfections instantly.
- Unlocked Snapbait Mascara – Adds volume and curl.
8. Lime Crime
Known for bold colors and unique shades, Lime Crime is 100% vegan and cruelty-free. Their velvety lipsticks and vibrant eyeshadows are perfect for statement looks.
Must-Try Products:
- Velvetines Liquid Lipstick – Long-lasting, matte finish.
- Prelude Chroma Eyeshadow Palette – Highly pigmented shades.
9. BH Cosmetics
BH Cosmetics offers affordable, high-quality vegan makeup, especially loved for their eyeshadow palettes.
Must-Try Products:
- Trendy in Tokyo Eyeshadow Palette – Versatile, blendable shades.
10. KVD Vegan Beauty
Previously Kat Von D Beauty, this brand rebranded to be fully vegan, offering edgy, high-performance makeup.
Must-Try Products:
- Good Apple Foundation Balm – Full coverage, skin-like finish.
Why Switch to Vegan Makeup?
- Better for Animals – No animal testing or byproducts.
- Healthier for Skin – Free from harsh chemicals found in traditional makeup.
- Eco-Friendly – Many vegan brands use sustainable packaging.
- High Performance – Modern vegan formulas rival (and often outperform) conventional makeup.
Final Thoughts
Switching to vegan makeup doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. With so many incredible brands available, it’s easier than ever to build a cruelty-free beauty routine. Whether you prefer drugstore finds or luxury picks, there’s a vegan option for every budget and style.
Have you tried any of these brands? Let us know your favorites in the comments!
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