Words: Lauren Carbran
Vegan is a buzzword going nowhere, especially in the fragrance industry. And with ‘not tested on animals’ being the most important packaging claim for 57% of people, according to a Nielsen poll, it’s no wonder vegan beauty and lifestyle choices are everywhere.
On the beauty shelves, we’ve seen a surge of vegan skincare, cosmetics and hair, bath and body products launch at a quicker rate than ever. And this year has witnessed the start of the vegan fragrance phenomenon. Here’s a closer look at vegan scents and why they’re dominating the world right now…
What is veganism?
The Vegan Society defines veganism as ‘a way of living that seeks to exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.’
And this may surprise you, but researchers at the Oxford Martin Programme on the Future of Food found that if the world turned vegan, it would save 8 million human lives by 2050. While, The Vegan Society claims that if the population of the UK was killed at the same rate as farm animals around the world, it would end in just 11 hours. So adopting a vegan fragrance lifestyle might just be one for the to-do list.
A bit of history – animal products traditionally used in fragrances
Very rarely used in the industry nowadays, here are the ingredients that have derived from animals:
Civet: The civet is a small, nocturnal mammal with cat-like qualities, whose excretions have been used as a pungent addition to perfume since the 1910s and 1920s. The animal is usually captured in a cage for the process to work, so its wellbeing is thought to be unethical.
Ambergris: Popular in the 19th century and less so today, this is the secretion of a sperm whale, which gives fragrance a fresh, earthy aroma. The problem with ambergris is that it means sperm whales are caught for the purpose of perfume, but the good news is it can also be obtained in a sustainable way (once a whale washes up on shore).
Castoreum: A liquid substance produced from the castor sacs of beavers, which is used to mark their territory and waterproof their fur. Beavers are no longer hunted for this, but in the 19th century, the demand was so high that North American beavers nearly became extinct.
What are vegan perfumes?
Vegan perfumes contain no animal products at all. They’re cruelty-free and ethical. Most vegan fragrances are transparent and shout about being sustainable. We’re all for it.
Our top vegan scents right now
The Perfume Edit Citrus Fresco
The refreshing trio of lemon, lavender and rosemary will take you from morning workout to evening catch-up with the crew. It’s not only a top vegan pick, but it’s also 100% recyclable (as is the whole of The Perfume Edit range).
The Perfume Edit Peppered Earth
At first, you can expect a bolt of pink pepper. Then the heart notes of rose and jasmine dance beautifully on your skin, while the base bursts with cedarwood and patchouli, making it a cosy option for winter.
Kierin NYC Santal Sky
Kierin NYC is an American fragrance brand that prides itself on being vegan, paraben-free and 100% recyclable. Refresh your mind and soul with Santal Sky, which is more than just a perfume – it’s an emblem of calm. Spritz the creamy wafts of sandalwood, saffron and vetiver to feel Zen and at one.
Kierin NYC Nitro Noir
Unlock the aroma of New York City with Nitro Noir, thanks to the spicy, electric blend of pink berries, bergamot and patchouli. The smell summed up? Herby and clean. Get ready to be transported to a rooftop bar in NYC.
Kierin NYC Sunday Brunch
Smelling of this means you’ll be reminded of your favourite brunch spot all the time. Think trendy street cafe on West Broadway, mimosa, tea and a sea of brunching socialites capturing the perfect flat lay. The notes? Citrussy and cheerful, with a concoction of Earl Grey tea, jasmine and lemon.
Kierin NYC 10am Flirt
This is what mornings in the concrete jungle are made of – a harmonious blend of fig, gardenia and sandalwood. The best part is that they’re incredibly long-lasting, so you can rely on it while you’re mingling or networking from AM to PM.
The vegan scent trend for 2020: a look ahead
As we look to the new year, the vegan fragrance trend will be even bigger than ever. And this comes as no surprise, as there’s been a 175% increase in vegan cosmetic launches over the last five years (according to Mintel’s Global New Products Database). As people continue to adopt vegan lifestyles, more fragrance brands will produce cruelty-free perfumes to meet the increasing demand.
But what will set brands apart? When vegan fragrances become the new norm, what else will trend in 2020? Well, you’ll certainly start to see vegan brands opting for gender-fluid editions, fully recyclable bottles (climate change will be even more of a focal point for 2020) and, hold tight, because artificial and fragrance WILL be a thing.
FOLLOW A VEGAN LIFESTYLE?
Take a look at our incredible range of ethical and cruelty-free fragrances.