21 May 2025

The power of sustainable K-beauty: vegan, cruelty-free and eco-glitter

Korean skincare has been popular worldwide for years for its innovative formulas, effective ingredients and sophisticated textures. But there is a new development going on within the world of K-beauty that is at least as interesting: sustainability. More and more brands are betting on vegan formulas, animal-test-free production and eco-friendly packaging - without compromising on the efficacy of their products.

In this article, you will discover what sustainable K-beauty means, which brands are leading the way and how you as a consumer can make conscious choices.

What does sustainable K-beauty mean?

Sustainability in the context of K-beauty revolves around three main pillars:

1. Vegan formulas

Vegan products contain no ingredients of animal origin, such as beeswax, collagen or snail mucus. This is not only kinder to animals, but also appealing to people with sensitive skin.

2. Cruelty-free

Brands that are cruelty-free do not test their products on animals - an essential step towards ethical care. In South Korea, animal testing for cosmetics is now banned, but international certification remains important.

3. Environmentally responsible production

From biodegradable packaging to eco-glitter, sustainable brands also consider their impact on the environment. Think plastic-free alternatives, refillable packaging and ingredients that do not affect aquatic life.

Brands that make a difference

More and more Korean brands are putting sustainability at the heart of their brand philosophy. Here are a few examples you can discover at BeautyKorea:

Whamisa

A pioneer in natural, fermented skincare. Whamisa uses only organic ingredients and has multiple vegan and cruelty-free certifications.

For example, try:
Whamisa Organic Flowers Toner Deep Rich - A nourishing toner based on fermented flower extracts.

iUNIK

Minimalist, affordable and conscious. iUNIK works with natural ingredients, avoids irritants and is completely cruelty-free. The brand is also mentioned on the Dutch vegan cosmetics list.

For example, try:
iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum - Calms the skin with tea tree and Centella Asiatica.

Aromatica

This brand combines aromatherapy with clean beauty. They use recyclable packaging, are vegan and certified cruelty-free. Ideal for those seeking sustainability and sensory experience.

For example, try:
Aromatica Rosemary Scalp Scaling Shampoo - a fresh, natural formula without harmful substances.

And what is eco-glitter?

In make-up and skincare, you increasingly see 'eco-glitter' popping up: glitter made from biodegradable material, usually cellulose-based instead of plastic. Perfect for festive looks, without harming the environment or aquatic life. This trend is slowly coming to K-beauty too, especially among brands that appeal to younger audiences (such as Peripera).

How to choose more consciously

Check labels: Look for 'Vegan', 'Cruelty-Free' or certifications from Leaping Bunny, EWG, etc.
Pay attention to packaging: Reusable, recyclable or refillable? Good signs.
Avoid microplastics: Opt for scrubs with natural granules or enzymatic exfoliants.

Conclusion: beautiful skin, responsible conscience

K-beauty is more than a trend - it is a philosophy in which care and attention are central. And that care increasingly goes beyond skin. By choosing sustainable, ethical brands, you can contribute to a better world every day, without compromising on quality or effectiveness.

At BeautyKorea, you will find an ever-increasing range of brands that produce consciously and set the bar high when it comes to sustainability. This makes skincare not only good for your skin, but also for everything outside it.