As many countries begin to ban cosmetic testing on animals, new methods arise that promote the idea of cruelty-free cosmetics.
Cosmetics
The bottom line is that animal testing is unnecessary and can be completely avoided. In fact, many countries have instituted a ban on the practice, opening up opportunities to research alternative methods. Humane options extend from having volunteers to advanced tests using human cells and tissues (the in vitro method).
However, it should be noted that cruelty-free does not refer to individual ingredients in the formula. Products that have this label can still have elements derived from animals, meaning that it is not vegan. Many people can be unaware of the ingredients in their products or are unable to identify when there are components originating from animals. The more recognizable of the bunch including milk, eggs, honey, beeswax, and gelatin, but also harder to spot ones like collagen, estrogen, ambergris, cochineal dye, guanine, lanolin, tallow, etc. ‘Cruelty-free’ and ‘not tested on animals’ can indicate the end product, yet exempt the ingredients within it.
It’s crucial to pay attention to labels and have awareness of what their meanings are. When purchasing ethical body care or cosmetic products, it should not have cruelty-free statements that are vague and lack important details, it should have certified labels and not self-made ones.