Trying to buy cruelty free makeup and toiletries can be a bit of a minefield. Whilst testing has been completely banned in the EU, large brands, - including L'Oreal (who own The Body Shop), continue to use animal testing to support their activities in emerging markets.
"The testing of cosmetics and toiletry products on animals has long been banned in the UK, and as of March 2013, the sale of cosmetics whose ingredients have been tested on animals has also been banned across the European Union – a huge step forward. But unfortunately, that’s not the whole picture.
In some countries – China, for example – it is compulsory for any company that sells cosmetics to pay for the products to be tested on animals. This means that some companies that have been cruelty-free for years have turned their backs on their ethical policies and have started testing on animals in order to reach these lucrative developing markets" PETA
I recently commenced a purge of my cosmetics/toiletries collection, trying to weed out everything which had connections with animal testing.
This meant saying goodbye to my Clinique foundation (owned by Estee Lauder) and many other items from brands such as Unilever and P&G. All of whom have either not committed to a permanent ban on all tests on animals, or sell cosmetics products in China where tests on animals are required.
I thought I would share a list of some of the brands which I have started to use since the purge. All of these are reasonably priced and can generally be found on the high street!
Dr Bronner's
Soaps, Organic Bars, Lip Balm and Body Care Products (also uses Fairtrade ingredients)
Faith in Nature
Soap, shampoo, conditioner (Also Vegan)
Lilly Lilio
Mineral makeup & brushes
LUSH
Bath and hair, skin care, fragrances, soap, and gift boxes (Also Vegetarian)
Sainsbury’s own brand
In March 2011 Sainsbury’s became members of the Humane Cosmetics Standard. Sainsbury’s have not commissioned any animal testing for cosmetic products or their ingredients since before 1996 when the Humane Cosmetics Standard was first launched
Ecover
Household cleaners, detergent, hand soap
B. by Superdrug
A complete makeup and skincare range. (Also Vegan)
Co-Operative
The Co-op's own brand cosmetic, personal care and household product ranges are all approved cruelty free.
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