A large number of cosmetic products do their product testing on animals. This, many times has affected the health and continuity of those species. However, in the near past, things have changed. Some companies know that animal testing isn’t the path to a sustainable future, and it damages them in the long run. They’ve joined in standing with the Humane Society’s Be Cruelty Free campaign by signing a pledge. That pledge states that they’ll never use their products to injure animals, and won’t support any brand that does.
Paul Mitchell
John Paul Mitchell has never once tested a product on an animal since the company began in 1980 – arguably the animal-testing boom during the age of Aqua Net. One of the first big names to declare it would abstain from animal testing, and the vanguard against competitors who still insist on the practice, Mitchell is to be celebrated for integrity from day one, and for blowing the whistle on an industry replete with corruption.
Tom’s of Maine
Devoted to naturalism and organic products wherever possible, Tom’s not only refuses to engage in animal testing, but in any practice that affects sustainability. Though beeswax features prominently in the materials, Tom’s selects ecologically conscious beekeepers who support the insects in their charge, rather than profit.
Beauty without Cruelty
1963, when BWC began, was a time of great social upheaval. The rigidity of the 50’s were colliding with the love generation as the Vietnam “conflict” dragged on and on. Peace, drugs, and greater social consciousness were the order of the day. It’s no surprise that some turned their eyes from humans who wanted to destroy or enslave one another to creatures who only wished to exist in harmony with nature. Moreover, the company supports the Humane Cosmetics Act. They want the United States to join with the EU in declaring cruel and needless testing to be stopped.
Aubrey Organics
Coming from 1967, Aubrey has a lot in common with BWC in the outlook that drives it. Forever staunchly opposed to animal testing, Aubrey goes further to also make items free of preservatives, petrochemicals, and synthetic additives. The result is less secondary pollution from manufacturing, and greater good for the land, as well as the things that live upon it.
Wet n Wild
It’s sometimes hard to defend a brand with an “‘n” sitting right in the middle of the label, since it looks like it was named by a middle schooler. Wet ‘n Wild is 100% cruelty free; and – here’s where other cosmetic companies should take note – since WnW is saving money by not hurting rabbits and monkeys, it can charge less to the buyer. Economically sound and ethically responsible.
Juice Beauty
Authentic, organic, and free of cruelty as much as toxins and preservatives, Juice Beauty isn’t yet a household name, but it’s climbing fast. The reason being, CEO Karen Behnke doesn’t want “natural” products, but those that are made with ingredients that are organically, sustainably farmed so there’s no hint of harm, even before the stuff becomes makeup.
Kat Von D
Kat earned notoriety for her tattoo work, which was eventually featured on her show “LA Ink.” These days, she makes the news for slamming makeup industry giants like Nars for doing animal testing. Vocal as always, Kat renounces anything that wounds, and ensures that her own brand never crosses over into the badlands.
The Body Shop
The Body Shop is a point of contention for many, as it’s been bloodied in the past with boycotts due to animal testing practices. Trying to put that ugly history behind it, if only so it doesn’t go under, The Body Shop has re-branded and re-dedicated itself to a wholly harmless approach. Perfect proof that redemption is possible!