Best face forward

Beauty brands are increasingly conscious of the impact they have on our skin, and the planet.

Murad

RRP $139 | 30ml Dr Murad didn’t launch his company until he was 50, and from the get-go was adamant that the brand would be 100 per cent cruelty free. No products or ingredients are tested on animals, – and all of its suppliers are also designated cruelty free. The Retinol Youth Renewal Serum still packs a noticeable punch, smoothing skin tone and plumping skin.

La Mer

RRP $820 | 50ml

La Mer – which uses marine actives in its products – launched its Blue Heart Oceans Fund to help support ocean conservation efforts around the world, like mangrove planting and conservation projects. The Concentrate is a potent barrier serum that helps reduce the appearance of visible signs of inflammation and helps calm skin, so it can focus on natural renewal.

Lük Beautifood

RRP $24.95 | 3g This Australian brand is not only vegan, it’s also ethical. No animal testing here. Harmful ingredients used by some beauty brands are replaced with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, leading to delicious products like Lipstick Crayons, made from sustainably grown wood. It also has a 55 per cent compostable bio-based lid to help reduce carbon emissions.

ESK

RRP $86 | 50g

Australian made, evidence-based and cruelty free, ESK prides itself on being ethical, yet highly effective – the brand does this by using the latest technology to take your skincare routine to the next level. Try the Reverse C Serum, a powerful antioxidant serum that hydrates, repairs visible signs of ageing, and protects your skin against potential future damage.

Votary

RRP $270 | 50ml

All Votary products are vegan, cruelty-free and never tested on animals. They are made in the UK in small batches using only the highest quality ingredients. Our pick: the Intense Night Oil, which is infused with rosehip and retinol, with absolutely no nasties – just Mother Nature’s finest soothing and anti-ageing nutrients. All the bottles are recyclable to boot.