Going on vacation these days not only requires leisurely clothes but also a whole set of cruelty-free makeup! For those vacationing with a conscious mindset, it can be difficult to find products that are both travel-safe and ethically made. To make your vacay prep a breeze, I’ve compiled a list of the top-rated cruelty-free makeup essentials that will make your holiday look as effortless as that beachy breeze!

1. Mineral Sunscreen 🌞

No beach vacation is complete without a good mineral sunscreen! But did you know that many sunscreens aren’t cruelty-free? This is why you need to find a mineral sunscreen that not only protects your delicate skin from harmful UV rays but also ticks the cruelty-free box. Mineral sunscreens are not only great for the environment, but they’re also better for your skin as they don’t contain questionable chemicals that other sunscreens have.

An excellent cruelty-free option that I’ve personally tried and loved is EltaMD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen. This product has a lightweight texture and is perfect for both face and body.

A bottle of EltaMD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

2. Tinted Moisturizer 💦

Vacations are meant for relaxing, and your makeup should feel the same way too! That’s why you need a light and dewy tinted moisturizer to give you a subtle glow and keep your skin hydrated all day long. Not only does it give you sheer coverage, but it is also the perfect match for your no-makeup look.

A top-rated cruelty-free tinted moisturizer is the Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint. It is made with 18 shades and is packed with nourishing ingredients to keep your skin looking healthy.

The Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint's box featuring its shade range

3. Waterproof Mascara 🌊

You can’t go on a beach excursion without checking off waterproof mascara on your makeup list; it’s the ultimate fix to make your eyes pop even while you’re swimming and diving. When choosing a cruelty-free option, look for formulas that aren’t just waterproof but will also help condition your lashes.

One of the best in the game is the Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes! 4-In-1 Waterproof Mascara. It’s water-resistant and won’t smudge, providing a solid hold for your lashes.

The Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes! 4-In-1 Waterproof Mascara's packaging with a model wearing it

4. Lip and Cheek Tint 🍓

When you’re on vacation, there’s nothing better than having a natural sun-kissed glow to counteract your vacation suntan. This is where lip and cheek tint comes into the picture! This multitasking product will give you the perfect pop of color on both lips and cheeks, and its creamy, long-lasting formula makes it perfect for your beach vacay.

One of my favorites is the Glossier Cloud Paint. It can be applied easily with just your fingertips, and its sheer pigment makes it great for layering. It comes in a range of shades that can be blended with each other to create a customized shade for you.

A model applying the Glossier Cloud Paint and its packaging in the background.

5. Setting Spray/ Powder 🌬️

Nothing ruins your vacation vibe than having your makeup melt away in hot, humid weather. To ensure your makeup stays put, you need a good setting spray or powder. The Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray is an excellent option as it will lock in your makeup for up to 16 hours without smudging. It is also vegan and cruelty-free.

An image of the Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray and its packaging.

So, that’s it – your top-rated cruelty-free makeup essentials for your next vacation! Whether you’re sunbathing or wandering through the local markets, these products will keep you looking your best throughout your trip. So, start packing and enjoy a hassle-free vacay with these ethical makeup products. 🌴👙🍹

Illustration of a woman relaxing on a beach with a hat and a cocktail glass surrounded by palm trees.