Going Cruelty Free

When buying cosmetics, often the ingredients are the first thing people consider. We ponder over things like, “Will this face mask break me out?” or “How much talc is in this eyeshadow?” We need to know what is in the products that we are applying to our skin. This helps form our beliefs like, “I will never buy a product with X ingredient in it.” However, many people apply this same principle to the way cosmetics are produced and tested. 

The demand for vegan and cruelty free products is growing each year. To be vegan means that no animal products of any kind are used – this includes dairy, egg, even beeswax or honey. Cruelty free means that the products are not tested on animals. Many companies have shifted towards the erasure of animal testing. According to a study by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (n.d.) that polled 1009 people, “72 percent of respondents agreed that testing cosmetics on animals is unethical,” and 61% feel that companies should not be allowed to test on animals (para. 5). 

Have you ever considered switching to cruelty free brands? It may be great news to know that many of the most popular brands already sold are against animal testing. Some companies, such as Lush Cosmetics, make this platform the center of their products. 

Every product offered by Lush is cruelty free, and most of it is vegan or vegetarian. While they offer soaps and skincare, they also offer makeup. If you’re interested in trying them, here’s a list of some products to start with!

The great part about being cruelty free is that it is available at all price points! If you’re looking for drugstore brands, you have great options like NYX, Wet ‘n’ wild, and Elf! Personally, I always buy Elf makeup brushes because they are affordable and great quality! They are also made with synthetic bristles that still feel soft! You don’t have to sacrifice animal hair to get a great brush!

If you’re looking at high end brands offered at Sephora, some of my favorites are Anastasia Beverly Hills, Urban Decay, and Too Faced. However, there are many great brands that boast about their love for animals!

To see which of your favorite brands are cruelty free, Cruelty Free Kitty has an easy to view listing and offers tips and shopping guides:

The increasing number of companies and products against animal testing makes it easier than ever to support your beliefs while still getting makeup you love! Many people only buy from cruelty free brands, while some are on the fence. Personally, I always feel better knowing I am buying from a company that shares my ethical beliefs. While shopping around, it only takes a few minutes to check and see if your products are friendly to your furry friends.

So, what do you think? Are you inspired to try going cruelty free? There’s many options out there, and there are communities and groups that give tips and help each other. Although you may need to be logged in to view it, this Facebook group connects those who are interested in vegan and cruelty free products.

More than a makeup trend: New survey shows 72 percent of Americans oppose testing cosmetics products on animals. (n.d.). Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. Retrieved from https://www.pcrm.org/research/animaltestalt/cosmetics/americans-oppose-testing-cosmetics-on-animals