Cosmetics that care

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A Few years ago, only the determined would go looking for lipsticks and mascara that did not use animal ingredients (say, honey) or test their finished products on animals. Now, plant-based, vegan beauty products have moved from niche to norm. Labels seen before only on food items, such as organic, natural, or eco-friendly have been appearing on lipsticks and lotions. We've rounded up coolest cosmetics with a conscience that complement Indian skin tones.

Makeup for all shades

Started by Kajol Bafna just before the pandemic, Boss Lady Cosmetics promotes inclusiveness, kindness, and gentleness with its cruelty-free, vegan, and sustainable make-up range that suits all skin types and colours. Their products range from lipsticks, eyeliners, highlighters to multi-sticks in a bold, fun colour palette. Even their packaging is recyclable, earning them extra points for sustainability.
We recommend: Play Stix is available in 20 shades and can be used as a lip colour, liner, blush or eyeshadow - perfect for the girl with a slim purse.
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Cost : Lipsticks start at Rs 675
Available on: bossladycosmetic.com, Tatacliq.com, PaavoIndia.com

Auroville's goodness

Nishantaini Keithan's BON Organics is a marketplace for all things organic and is based out of the Auroville commune in Tamil Nadu. It is helmed by Nishantaini Keithan, who took cues from her father's manufacturing business. It goes without saying that their toners, lip balms and also baby-care products are organic, cruelty-free and vegan.
We recommend: 100 per cent handmade, natural and organic eyeliner-cum-kajal made in the traditional over-the-oil-lamp method.
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Cost : Lip Stain for Rs 660
Available on: bonorganics.com

Himalayan skincare

Deepa and Rhythm Chahal's vegan-friendly cosmetics brand Amayra Naturals took lessons from the skincare routine followed in the Himalayan states. Their products are built on the principles of naturopathy and aromatherapy found in the ingredients that are local to Uttarakhand.
We recommend: The 3-in-1 Nyra face wash powder that can be used to exfoliate and wash your face, or as a facemask.
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Cost : Watermelon Mandarin Vegan Lip Butter for Rs 699
Available on: amayranatural.in

Green beauty

Nikita Deshpande and Amit Patil brand Ilana Organics prides itself on being safe for the skin, good for the planet, ethically produced as well as, easy on the pocket and unique among peers. They've got serums, exfoliators, and hair masks and beauty essentials.
We recommend: Roll on Beet tint for the lips or cheeks.
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Cost : Lip tints for Rs 859
Available on: ilana.shop