One of the biggest misconceptions about ethical skincare is it hasto cost a packet. Sure, that may have been the case 20 years ago but with the market having shifted towards gentler, animal-friendly formulations and eco-friendly packaging, more and more brand are now tailoring their products to an increasingly fussy customer. Because of this, it’s easier than ever to stock up on ‘better choice’ beauty essentials, even if you’re on a limited budget.

Having less dosh to spend can actually be a positive advantage for the ethically-minded. It makes you think harder about your choices, the amount of waste you produce and how much bang-per-buck your products deliver.

You no longer have to shop in a health food store to get decent products, either. Sainsbury’s own Source of Nature range provides some excellent natural skincare choices. Their vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, 95 per cent natural White Tea & Liquorice Day Cream is rich in skin-saving antioxidants and, at just £3.50 a pot, is a tenth of the price of many similar moisturisers.

A BRAND GESTURE

Also worth investigating is Waitrose’s Pure range, which starts at just two quid, features at least 98 per cent natural ingredients, is vegan friendly, comes in recyclable packaging and (catches breath) is proudly made in Great Britain to boot.

Grooming brand Bulldog, meanwhile, continues to lead from the front when it comes to affordable skincare-with-a-conscience, as evidenced by its new oversize shower gels. Available in 500ml and whopping 1L recycled plastic bottles designed to reduce the overall amount of packaging per wash, it’s vegan-friendly and, although aimed at men, anyone can enjoy the four fragrances on offer. The super-zesty Lemon & Bergamot is a personal favourite.

The recent resurgence of cheap-as-chips traditional favourites like soaps and reusable washcloths, meanwhile, proves that, when it comes to bathroom basics, cheap isn’t just cheerful; it can be ethical, too.