How to Identify and Buy Cruelty Free Makeup

Ensure your makeup fits your lifestyle.

Choosing a makeup that is cruelty-free isn't easy. No one authority defines what cruelty-free means, and labeling isn't clear. In addition, cruelty-free has a variety of definitions in the cosmetic industry. Some companies don't use animal testing. Other companies don't use animal products. However, as an informed consumer, do some sleuthing to ensure that the makeup and cosmetic products you buy support your ethical standards.

Instructions

1. Look on the box or bottle. Labels that include a symbol from a recognized animal rights organization, or that use the term "not tested on animals" are cruelty-free.

2. Check the website for the product you are purchasing if the label isn't clear. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, for example, provides a symbol to companies to certify the product as cruelty-free. Companies list this on the website, even if the product labeling isn't yet caught up.

3. Check with an animal rights group. Recognized authorities such as Beauty Without Cruelty and PETA provide information about companies and products to educate you about whether the item you are considering is cruelty-free. PETA, for example, includes a search engine that allows you to search by product or company to see if the animal testing is used.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unsure, call the company and ask them personally.

• Check with BWC and Peta for a list of companies that DO animal testing and you can avoid those all together.

References

• PETA2: Cruelty-Free Companies and Products