Cruelty-free makeup and vegan makeup are two related but distinct concepts in the cosmetics industry. Here’s an overview of each term:
- Cruelty-Free Makeup: Cruelty-free makeup refers to products that are not tested on animals during any stage of their development, including the ingredients used. These products ensure that no harm or suffering is inflicted on animals for the purpose of cosmetic testing. Companies that claim to be cruelty-free often undergo third-party certifications to verify their claims. Some of the better cruelty-Free makeup brands include Colourpop cosmetics; Fenty Beauty; Hourglass cosmetics; Charlotte Tilbury; Ilia cosmetics.
- Vegan Makeup: Vegan makeup goes a step further and not only avoids animal testing but also excludes any animal-derived ingredients in its formulation. Vegan makeup products are free from substances like beeswax, lanolin, carmine (a red pigment derived from insects), and other animal-derived ingredients. They are entirely plant-based or made with synthetic alternatives. Some of the vegan brand cosmetics include Thrive cosmetics; Makeup Revolution cosmetics; Tarte cosmetics; ELF cosmetics and KVD Beauty.
In summary, while cruelty-free makeup focuses on the testing aspect and ensures no animals are harmed during the process, vegan makeup extends this principle by excluding any animal-derived ingredients from the product formulation. It’s important to note that a product can be cruelty-free but not vegan if it contains animal-derived ingredients, and vice versa.
Consumers who are concerned about both animal testing and the use of animal-derived ingredients can look for products that are both cruelty-free and vegan, as these meet both criteria. Various organizations and certifications, such as Leaping Bunny and PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies, can help identify brands that adhere to these standards.
