If you ever stopped to look at the ingredients list of your lipstick you might be surprised (and a little bit disgusted) to learn that many traditional cosmetic companies use a whole range of pretty questionable ingredients including petroleum and mineral oil by-products, which are not only detrimental to the environment but fatal to wildlife and are also potentially hazardous to humans. Lead and cadmium, for example, have been linked to cancer, infertility, hormonal disruptions, and skin sensitivities. Luckily for us (and the planet), there’s a cleaner and more eco-conscious solution from Lük Beautifood. Established in 2012 by Cindy Luken, who also happens to be a food scientist, the entire brand is centred around the premise that the products we slather on our skin, which is our body’s largest organ, should be as nutritious and as safe as the foods we eat. Would you feel comfortable taking a bite out of your favourite lippie?

Cindy has gone to extraordinary lengths to replace the harmful ingredients in traditional beauty products with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and good fats that are essential for healthy, glowy skin. The latest product in Lük’s cruelty-free and vegan-friendly range is a nifty two-in-one Lipstick Crayon, which also doubles as a lip liner. Formulated with organic coconut oil, plant waxes, vitamin E and natural silica for a soft-focus effect, the hydrating and creamy lipstick provides long-lasting demi-matte colour in a range of subtly delicious nude shades such as Caramel Kiss, Honey Peach, Fig Brulee and Lychee Sorbet. While matte lipsticks can traditionally leave your lips drier than the Sahara, Lük’s lip crayons actively moisturise for a smoother, plumper, and more youthful-looking lips. If you’re really keen to make your pout pop, slather on some of Lük’s tingly Pepperberry Lip Jam, which is a tinted gel that contains Szechuan pepper to invigorate blood circulation for that just-bitten glow. Peep Lük Beautifood‘s entire range online.