As the ethics around what we put into our bodies is now going mainstream, so should the ethics of what we put onto our skin

The reality is that animal ingredients and animal testing are no longer needed to produce the luxurious moisturisers and serums we use to slow down the clock and keep our skin healthy and fresh. So if you’re looking to transition to a cruelty-free skincare regimen, here are Koktail’s picks of products containing only plant-based ingredients that also weren’t tested on your pet’s next of kin. We’ve also chosen only local brands, from up-and- comers to powerhouses. Why? To help you earn some street cred with your knowledge of niche skincare brands.

1/5 SeaSun Society

The Cleanse Kit (Sun Burst Cleanser + Eco Cleanse Puff )

Start your vegan skincare routine at cleansing. Sea Sun Society, a wholly vegan and cruelty-free brand with some seriously cool beach-life vibes, has launched a new Cleanse Kit that’ll make the daily chore of removing grit from your face more pleasant and sustainable. Say goodbye to single-use makeup wipes or cotton pads; the Eco Cleanse Puff can be reused up to 500 times, is so easy to wash, and best of all is incredibly gentle yet effective on the skin. At times, you may not even need the Sun Burst Cleanser, though you’ll want it just as a luxury. The cleanser smells like fresh oranges while also containing aloe vera, witch hazel and glycerin for a super hydrating, soap-free formula.

Visit seasunsociety.com.

2/5 Sudtana

Sacha Inchi Ginger and Turmeric Facial Oil

A rising star in the Thai skincare industry, Sudtana is all about natural ingredients and natural beauty. With an all vegan and cruelty-free range of products, the Sacha Inchi Ginger and Turmeric Facial Oil is a great way to get acquainted with the brand. The title ingredients of this lightweight oil offer anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits to improve overall skin condition and appearance. While serving to moisturise the skin after rinsing, the oil does the double-duty of controlling excess sebum production, too.

Visit sudtana.com.

3/5 Miss Mellow

Blemish Absolute Clear Serum

A newcomer in the game, Miss Mellow may not have an extensive line of skincare products yet but it has a serum for pimple-prone skin that we’re obsessed with. Containing tea tree oil, green tea and red onion extracts, witch hazel and salicylic acid, the soothingly aromatic Blemish Absolute Clear Serum is a fabulous little potion you can use in sparing amounts for daily acne prevention and care.

Visit miss-mellow.com.

4/5 Panpuri

Nourish RiceMoss HyaQuench Moisture Supercharge Aqua Grenade Cream

While we have a bone to pick with whoever gave this product its audaciously long name, this plant-based nourishing cream from Panpuri is the bomb and as intuitive and hassle-free as skincare gets. We love the cream’s nondescript light, clean smell—probably the result of containing so many different plants in the ingredients, including rhubarb root, damask rose, witch hazel, oils from various seeds and more. Apply day and night for maintenance and relaxation.

Visit panpuri.com.

5/5 Bangkok Soap Opera

Botanical Moisturising Oil – Citrus

Bangkok Soap Opera’s Botanical Moisturising Oil series is a beauty cabinet must-have. Available in four scent personas—Citrus, Frangipani, Green Tea and Vanilla—the luxurious oil is a concentrated blend of just a few essential plant ingredients that make for one fabulous multipurpose moisturiser for skin or hair in need of a little TLC. Just a few drops daily on freshly cleansed, wet skin will do the trick.

Visit soapoperabkk.com.