Where Can I Buy Vegan Moisturiser in the UK? Your Complete 2025 Guide

Finding vegan moisturiser in the UK has never been easier. Whether you’re shopping online or browsing in-store, you’ll discover an impressive range of plant-based moisturisers that are completely free from animal-derived ingredients and cruelty-free. From lightweight daily hydrators to rich night creams, vegan moisturisers are now widely available across supermarkets, health shops, beauty retailers, and specialist online stores throughout the UK.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you exactly where to find vegan moisturiser, what to look for when shopping, the different types available, and how to choose the right one for your skin type and needs.

Understanding Vegan Moisturiser: What Makes It Different?

Before we explore where to buy vegan moisturiser, it’s helpful to understand what makes a moisturiser truly vegan. A vegan moisturiser contains absolutely no animal-derived ingredients and hasn’t been tested on animals at any stage of production.

Common non-vegan ingredients found in traditional moisturisers include beeswax, lanolin (sheep’s wool grease), collagen (often from fish or cows), squalene (typically from shark liver), carmine (crushed insects), and various animal-derived glycerins. Vegan moisturisers replace these with plant-based alternatives that are just as effective—often more so.

Plant-based moisturisers typically feature ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, hyaluronic acid (vegan-sourced), plant-based glycerin, aloe vera, and various botanical extracts. These natural ingredients provide excellent hydration without compromising your values or the welfare of animals.

It’s also worth noting the difference between “vegan” and “cruelty-free.” While all vegan products should be cruelty-free, not all cruelty-free products are vegan—they might not test on animals but could still contain animal-derived ingredients. When shopping for vegan moisturiser, look for products that explicitly state they’re both vegan and cruelty-free.

Where to Buy Vegan Moisturiser in the UK: Your Options

Shopping for Vegan Moisturiser Online

Online shopping offers the widest selection of vegan moisturisers in the UK. You’ll find everything from affordable everyday options to premium specialist formulations, all delivered straight to your door.

The advantages of buying vegan moisturiser online are considerable. You can easily compare ingredients, read detailed product descriptions, check certifications, and browse customer reviews before making a decision. Many online retailers offer same-day or next-day delivery across most of the UK, and you can often find exclusive online deals or subscription options that save you money on regular purchases.

Online vegan beauty specialists stock extensive ranges of plant-based skincare from dozens of certified vegan brands. These retailers focus exclusively on vegan and cruelty-free products, so you can shop with complete confidence. Many also provide detailed filtering options, allowing you to search by skin type, concern (anti-ageing, acne-prone, sensitive), or specific ingredients you want to include or avoid.

General online retailers with large beauty sections also stock growing ranges of vegan moisturisers. Whilst you’ll need to check individual product certifications, these platforms often have competitive pricing and fast delivery options. The search functions typically allow you to filter by “vegan” or “cruelty-free,” making it easier to find suitable products.

Online health and wellness shops are another excellent source for vegan moisturiser. These retailers often stock natural and organic skincare ranges, many of which are vegan by default. They tend to focus on brands that use minimal, recognisable ingredients and sustainable packaging.

Finding Vegan Moisturiser In Physical Stores

If you prefer to shop in person, you’ll find vegan moisturisers increasingly available across the UK’s high streets and shopping centres.

Major supermarkets now stock vegan skincare in their beauty aisles. You’ll typically find a dedicated section for natural, organic, or free-from beauty products where vegan moisturisers are often located. The selection has expanded significantly in recent years, with most large supermarkets carrying at least 5-10 vegan moisturiser options ranging from basic to premium.

Health food shops and wholefood stores are reliable sources for vegan moisturiser. These shops have traditionally catered to plant-based lifestyles and usually stock several certified vegan skincare brands. Staff are often knowledgeable about which products are suitable for vegans and can offer recommendations.

High street chemists and beauty retailers have also embraced the vegan beauty movement. Many now have dedicated vegan or cruelty-free sections, clearly labelled to make shopping easier. You’ll find both mainstream brands with vegan ranges and specialist vegan skincare companies.

Department stores with beauty halls increasingly feature vegan and cruelty-free beauty brands. While these tend toward the premium end of the market, you can often test products before buying—something that’s particularly valuable when choosing moisturiser, as you can assess the texture and scent firsthand.

Independent vegan shops and zero-waste stores are popping up in cities across the UK. These specialised retailers stock carefully curated selections of vegan skincare, often focusing on brands that are not only vegan but also sustainable, plastic-free, and ethically produced.

Types of Vegan Moisturiser Available

Understanding the different types of vegan moisturiser helps you choose the right product for your needs and shopping situation.

Daily Face Moisturisers

Daily face moisturisers are designed for everyday use and typically have a light to medium texture that absorbs quickly. They provide essential hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. Many include added SPF protection for daytime use—crucial for protecting your skin from UV damage and premature ageing.

Vegan daily moisturisers suit most skin types and can be worn comfortably under makeup. They’re formulated to balance hydration throughout the day whilst allowing your skin to breathe.

Night Creams and Intensive Moisturisers

Night creams are richer and more intensive than daily moisturisers. They’re designed to work whilst you sleep, when your skin goes into repair and regeneration mode. Vegan night creams often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients like plant retinol alternatives, peptides from botanical sources, and nourishing oils.

These products typically have a thicker, more luxurious texture. Whilst they might feel too rich for daytime wear, they provide deep overnight hydration that leaves your skin feeling soft and replenished by morning.

Lightweight Gel Moisturisers

Gel moisturisers have a water-based formula that feels almost weightless on the skin. They’re perfect for oily or combination skin types, providing hydration without adding extra oil. Many vegan gel moisturisers use ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and plant-based glycerin to deliver moisture that absorbs instantly.

These are also excellent for hot weather or for anyone who dislikes the feeling of traditional cream moisturisers. Despite their light texture, quality gel moisturisers provide substantial hydration.

Body Moisturisers and Body Butters

Whilst face moisturisers get the most attention, don’t forget about vegan body moisturisers. These are formulated for the less delicate skin on your body and often come in larger, more economical sizes.

Vegan body butters are particularly luxurious—thick, rich formulations packed with plant-based butters and oils that provide intense hydration for dry skin. They’re perfect for after bathing or during winter when skin needs extra care.

Body lotions are lighter alternatives that still provide good hydration but absorb more quickly—ideal if you need to get dressed soon after application.

Specialised Treatments

Beyond basic moisturisers, you’ll find vegan options for specialised needs: eye creams for the delicate under-eye area, hand creams for hardworking hands, foot creams for dry heels and soles, and lip balms to prevent chapped lips.

Many vegan skincare brands also offer targeted treatments like anti-ageing moisturisers with plant-based alternatives to retinol, moisturisers for acne-prone skin with tea tree or salicylic acid, sensitive skin formulations without common irritants, and products for specific concerns like redness, hyperpigmentation, or scarring.

How to Identify Vegan Moisturiser When Shopping

Knowing what to look for makes shopping for vegan moisturiser much simpler, whether you’re browsing online or in-store.

Certification Logos and Labels

The most reliable way to identify vegan moisturiser is through recognised certification logos. The Vegan Society’s Vegan Trademark—a green sunflower symbol—is the gold standard in the UK. Products bearing this logo have been thoroughly vetted to ensure they contain no animal ingredients and haven’t been tested on animals.

The Leaping Bunny logo indicates a product is cruelty-free, meaning it hasn’t been tested on animals. Whilst this doesn’t automatically mean the product is vegan, many Leaping Bunny certified brands also offer vegan ranges.

PETA’s cruelty-free bunny logo is another indicator that a brand doesn’t test on animals. PETA maintains separate lists of cruelty-free and vegan companies, so check which list the brand appears on.

Many products also state “Suitable for Vegans” or simply “Vegan” on their packaging. Whilst these aren’t certified marks, reputable brands take such claims seriously as misrepresentation could damage their reputation and potentially breach trading standards.

Reading Ingredient Lists

If a product doesn’t carry clear vegan certification, you’ll need to check the ingredient list. Whilst this might seem daunting at first, you’ll quickly learn to spot common non-vegan ingredients.

Animal-derived ingredients to avoid include lanolin and lanolin derivatives, beeswax or cera alba, collagen and elastin (usually animal-derived), carmine or cochineal, squalene or squalane (check if it’s plant or shark-derived), glycerin (check the source), stearic acid (can be animal or plant-derived), and keratin (often from animal hair or hooves).

Fortunately, many ingredients have complicated chemical names but are actually plant-derived. When in doubt, a quick online search of an unfamiliar ingredient can clarify its source.

Brand Research

Some skincare brands are entirely vegan—every product they make is suitable for vegans. Shopping from these brands eliminates any guesswork. Other brands offer both vegan and non-vegan products, so you’ll need to check individual items.

Many brands now have dedicated sections on their websites listing their vegan products. Some also provide ingredient sourcing information, explaining whether commonly ambiguous ingredients (like glycerin) are plant or animal-derived in their formulations.

Choosing the Right Vegan Moisturiser for Your Skin Type

Selecting a vegan moisturiser isn’t just about ethics—it needs to work for your specific skin type and concerns.

For Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, look for vegan moisturisers with rich, nourishing ingredients. Plant butters like shea, cocoa, or mango butter provide deep hydration. Natural oils such as argan, rosehip, jojoba, and avocado oil are excellent for replenishing dry skin.

Ingredients like hyaluronic acid (vegan-sourced) attract and hold moisture in your skin, whilst ceramides (plant-derived versions) help repair your skin’s protective barrier. Thicker creams or balms work better for very dry skin than lightweight lotions.

Consider using a richer night cream and a medium-weight day moisturiser. During winter or in dry climates, you might need to moisturise twice daily or layer products for extra hydration.

For Oily or Combination Skin

Oily skin still needs moisturiser—skipping it can actually trigger your skin to produce more oil to compensate. The key is choosing the right formulation.

Look for oil-free or lightweight gel moisturisers that won’t clog pores. Ingredients like niacinamide help regulate oil production, whilst salicylic acid can prevent breakouts. Aloe vera provides hydration without greasiness.

Many vegan brands offer mattifying moisturisers specifically formulated for oily skin. These absorb excess oil whilst still providing necessary hydration.

If you have combination skin (oily T-zone, drier cheeks), consider using different moisturisers on different areas, or choose a balanced formula designed for combination skin.

For Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin requires gentle, minimal-ingredient formulations. Look for vegan moisturisers labelled “for sensitive skin” or “hypoallergenic.” These typically avoid common irritants like synthetic fragrances, artificial colours, and harsh preservatives.

Soothing ingredients like chamomile, calendula, oat extract, and aloe vera can calm reactive skin. Many people with sensitive skin find that natural, plant-based moisturisers cause fewer reactions than products with long lists of synthetic ingredients.

Patch test new moisturisers before full application—apply a small amount to your inner wrist or behind your ear and wait 24 hours to check for reactions.

For Mature or Ageing Skin

Mature skin benefits from moisturisers with active anti-ageing ingredients. Look for plant-based retinol alternatives like bakuchiol, which provides similar benefits without the potential irritation of traditional retinol.

Antioxidants from botanical sources (like vitamin C from kakadu plum, vitamin E from wheat germ, green tea extract, or resveratrol from grapes) help protect against environmental damage and support collagen production.

Peptides can now be synthesised from plant sources and help improve skin firmness and elasticity. Hyaluronic acid plumps fine lines by drawing moisture into the skin.

Richer textures generally work better for mature skin, which tends to be drier. Night creams with higher concentrations of active ingredients support overnight skin renewal.

Common Questions About Buying Vegan Moisturiser

Is vegan moisturiser as effective as traditional moisturiser?

Absolutely. Plant-based ingredients can be just as effective—often more so—than animal-derived alternatives. Many traditional “luxury” skincare ingredients like snail mucin or collagen have excellent plant-based equivalents. Modern vegan skincare formulations use advanced botanical science to deliver outstanding results.

The global beauty industry’s shift toward vegan products isn’t just about ethics—it’s driven by performance. Plant-based ingredients often contain higher levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and beneficial compounds than their animal-derived counterparts.

Does vegan automatically mean organic or natural?

Not necessarily. “Vegan” simply means the product contains no animal-derived ingredients and wasn’t tested on animals. A vegan moisturiser can still contain synthetic ingredients, preservatives, or chemical compounds.

If you want organic or natural products, look for those certifications separately. Many vegan moisturisers are also natural or organic, but it’s not automatic. Some synthetic ingredients are vegan, effective, and considered safe—the choice depends on your personal preferences.

Are vegan moisturisers suitable for all skin conditions?

Vegan moisturisers are suitable for all skin types and most skin conditions. Whether you have acne, eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis, you can find vegan moisturisers formulated for your needs.

In fact, many people with sensitive skin conditions find that plant-based, vegan moisturisers cause fewer reactions than conventional products. The absence of animal-derived ingredients—which can sometimes trigger sensitivities—makes vegan products a good choice for reactive skin.

However, if you have a diagnosed skin condition, always check with your dermatologist before changing your skincare routine. They can recommend specific ingredients to look for or avoid.

Can I use vegan moisturiser if I’m not fully vegan?

Of course! Vegan moisturiser isn’t just for vegans. Many people choose vegan skincare for various reasons: animal welfare concerns, environmental sustainability, ingredients they trust, reduced risk of allergic reactions, or simply because they’ve found products that work brilliantly for their skin.

You don’t need to commit to a fully vegan lifestyle to make conscious choices about your skincare. Every vegan product you choose helps reduce demand for animal-derived ingredients and animal testing.

How do I know if a brand’s vegan claims are genuine?

Reputable brands back up their vegan claims with certifications from recognised organisations like The Vegan Society. These certifications require rigorous verification of ingredients and manufacturing processes.

If a brand claims to be vegan but lacks certification, check whether they provide detailed ingredient information and sourcing transparency. Look for customer reviews and the brand’s reputation within the vegan community. Established vegan beauty retailers only stock brands they’ve thoroughly vetted.

Be wary of “greenwashing”—brands making vague natural or ethical claims without specifics. Genuine vegan brands are usually transparent about their values, ingredients, and certifications.

Shopping Tips for Finding the Best Vegan Moisturiser

Start with Your Skin’s Needs

Rather than choosing a moisturiser based purely on brand or price, identify your skin type and primary concerns first. This helps narrow down your options significantly. Are you dealing with dryness, oiliness, sensitivity, ageing signs, or acne? Choose moisturisers formulated for those specific needs.

Read Reviews and Recommendations

Customer reviews provide valuable real-world insights into how products perform. Look for reviews from people with similar skin types or concerns to yours. Vegan beauty blogs and YouTube channels often provide detailed, honest reviews of vegan moisturisers.

However, remember that skincare is personal—what works beautifully for one person might not suit another. Reviews should inform your decision, not make it for you.

Consider Your Budget

Vegan moisturisers are available at every price point, from budget-friendly options under £10 to luxury formulations costing £50 or more. Higher prices don’t always mean better results—some affordable vegan moisturisers perform excellently.

That said, if you’re investing in targeted treatments (like anti-ageing or acne-fighting formulations), spending a bit more on products with higher concentrations of active ingredients can be worthwhile.

Think About Packaging and Sustainability

If environmental concerns are part of why you choose vegan products, consider packaging too. Many vegan skincare brands use recyclable, biodegradable, or refillable packaging. Some offer plastic-free alternatives or concentrate on reducing their environmental footprint.

Buying larger sizes when possible reduces packaging waste and often works out more economical. Some brands offer refill schemes where you can return empty containers.

Take Advantage of Sample Sizes

Many online retailers and physical stores offer sample or travel sizes of popular vegan moisturisers. These smaller sizes let you test a product thoroughly before committing to a full-size purchase—sensible given that everyone’s skin reacts differently.

Some brands also offer discovery sets with several products in smaller sizes, perfect for finding your ideal moisturiser whilst trying other products from their range.

Making the Switch to Vegan Moisturiser

If you’re transitioning from conventional to vegan moisturiser, here are some tips for a smooth switch:

Give your skin time to adjust. When changing skincare products, your skin may need a week or two to adapt. Don’t judge a new moisturiser after just one or two applications—unless you have an obvious negative reaction, use it consistently for at least a fortnight before deciding whether it works for you.

Introduce new products gradually. If you’re overhauling your entire skincare routine, don’t change everything at once. Switch one product at a time so you can identify which products work well and which don’t suit your skin.

Keep track of ingredients that work for you. Once you find vegan moisturisers you love, note the key ingredients. This helps you identify similar products in future and understand what your skin responds to positively.

Don’t be discouraged if your first choice isn’t perfect. Just like conventional moisturisers, not every vegan product will suit your skin. If something doesn’t work, try another formulation or brand. The vast range of vegan moisturisers available means there’s definitely something perfect for your skin—it might just take a bit of exploration to find it.

Start Your Vegan Skincare Journey Today

Finding and buying vegan moisturiser in the UK is straightforward, affordable, and offers you incredible choice. Whether you shop online for maximum variety and convenience or prefer browsing in physical stores where you can see and sometimes test products, you’ll discover an impressive range of plant-based moisturisers for every skin type, concern, and budget.

The growth in vegan skincare reflects both consumer demand and scientific advancement. Modern vegan moisturisers rival and often exceed the performance of traditional formulations whilst aligning with values of compassion, sustainability, and transparency.

By choosing vegan moisturiser, you’re making a positive choice for animals, often for the environment, and potentially for your skin’s health. You’re supporting brands that prioritise ethical practices and innovation in plant-based formulations.

→ Ready to find your perfect vegan moisturiser? Browse our complete range of vegan skincare products.

Start exploring the wonderful world of vegan moisturisers today—your skin and your conscience will thank you.