These are the brands blazing the trail of cruelty-free beauty
With all the various dietary requirements of a modern day beauty regime (vegan, clean, organic...), "cruelty-free" often gets lost in the mix or else confused to mean something it doesn't. So, what does it actually mean if a brand is cruelty-free? Are there any specific rules or regulation that it has to comply with in order to label itself a cruelty-free brand? Allow us to explain...
Essentially, cruelty-free means that no animals were hurt or killed in the creation of the products - for example, killing or harming animals to collect ingredients and, of course, testing products on them. Luckily, and especially in the past few years, many beauty brands have called for a complete stop to animal testing and many go even further by making their products vegetarian or vegan and supporting charities that protect animals and their environments. And with so many incredible plant-based ingredients and scientific innovations, there's really no need (or excuse!) to resort to harming our animal friends.
Unfortunately, however, this has not always been the case. In fact, it was only in 2013 when the use of animals to test cosmetics products or their ingredients was banned in the UK, making it illegal to sell cosmetics products or products containing ingredients that had been tested on animals. Globally, many countries still use animals for cosmetics testing, and some markets demand that all products are tested on animals, so it's always worth digging a little deeper into where your favourite brands are sold.
To help you on your cruelty-free mission, we've rounded up some of our favourite brands that are vehemently against cruelty to animals, but if you're curious whether another brand complies to cruelty-free standards, check out PETA's or Leaping Bunny's list of approved brands to be sure.
The OG of cruelty-free beauty, The Body Shop has always had the highest standards when it comes to respecting animals, having never, ever tested on animals - and fiercely campaigning against the practice since day one.
Known for their range of fully inclusive hair products using certified organic Shea Butter, Shea Moisture is also completely cruelty-free, Fairtrade and sustainably produced.
Breakthrough beauty brand Uoma not only impresses for its innovative formulas and inclusive range of shades, but also for its cruelty-free credentials.
Not only does Dr Hauschka provide luxurious, organic skincare and makeup, but the brand has also never, ever tested on animals since its launch back in 1967.
ESPA's range of pampering products hasn't been tested on animals, and the few products that contain animal derivatives, like honey or wool, have been harvested without harming any animal.
Cover FX not only has an impressive range of pigments and innovative products, the brand is totally vegan and cruelty-free as well.
Organic, ethically-sourced, sustainable, Fairtrade and cruelty-free, it doesn't get much better that Neal's Yard Remedies. Oh, and it helps that their products are totally heavenly.
British beauty brand Balance Me is free from every possible aggressor and unfriendly ingredient (parabens, mineral oils, sulphates, petroleum, silicones, microbeads, artificial fragrances and colours). Plus, they never test on animals.
Jen Atkin's OUAI haircare brand isn't just our hair's best mate, it's a friend to animals too; they don't animal test and they don't sell in any country that requires it.
Cruelty-free makeup and skincare brand Chantecaille is known for their philanthropic collections, the proceeds of which fund a foundation that is able to support the causes. Their latest lipstick collection focuses on protecting of African elephants from poaching.
This range of nourishing masks is totally cruelty-free, never animal tested and entirely vegan (some of them are even gluten free, too!).
It should come as no surprise that founders and animal lovers Jerrod Blandino and Jeremy Johnson would ensure their brand was cruelty-free. They are also totally transparent and provide an extensive list of vegan-friendly products on their website.
There's no disputing that Lush is a friend to the planet and every single one of the planet's inhabitants. They care about environmental issues and are blazing a trail to combat plastic pollution. Their products are 100% vegetarian and they have even set up an annual prize to support the fight against animal testing worldwide.
This cruelty-free and vegan makeup range is loved for its luxurious yet efficacious range of performance make up, including their indulgent Lip Whip waterproof lip colour.
