The word cruelty-free is becoming more common globally. However, not many people know what this word means. Being cruelty-free has become an important ethos of society and brands. In this article, I will explain everything you need to know about cruelty-free products.
What does “Cruelty-Free” mean?
This means that during the production of cosmetics, the methods used did not include cruelty to animals. Cruelty-Free International is the leading organization that believes in creating a world where this type of testing will no longer be used. Since 1898, they have continued to challenge and campaign for this change.
Logical Harmony has a list of brands to avoid, as they could be engaging in animal testing. The PETA cruelty-free database is also a way to expand your knowledge of brands. Cruelty-Free International says animals used in laboratories are deliberately harmed and usually killed at the end of the experiments.
Animal Experiments Include:
- They are subjecting animals to frightening situations to create anxiety and depression.
- Injecting or force-feeding animals with potentially harmful substances
- Surgically removing animals’ organs or tissues to deliberately cause damage
- Forcing animals to inhale toxic gases.
By choosing brands that do not test on animals, you are helping to reduce the demand for animal testing, which often involves unnecessary pain and suffering for countless animals. Cruelty-free products are also frequently made with more natural and sustainable ingredients, which can be better for both your health and the environment.
Moreover, supporting cruelty-free companies encourages the beauty and personal care industry to adopt humane practices, fostering a market that values life and well-being over profit. Below is a list of signs to look out for if you are looking to shop for cruelty-free products.
- PETA Cruelty-Free
- The Leaping Bunny
- Choose Cruelty-Free
These are great signs to watch out for. Changing your products takes two seconds, so why not give it a try?
Vegan VS Cruelty-free
Now, there is a lot of confusion behind these two terms and many think they mean the same thing. Well, I’m afraid to tell you they don’t but don’t stress, I will tell you the difference. Vegan hair brands mean their products do not contain any animal-derived ingredients, which means they are plant-based brands, which is also great.
Cruelty-free means during the manufacturing of the product, any methods used did not include cruelty to animals. So, check the label before you buy if you want to purchase cruelty-free products and now you know what to look out for!
Now, I will discuss my top 5 favorite hair brands and why I love them!
5. Faith in Nature
If you are looking for a cheap option to start your cruelty-free journey, Faith in Nature is the one for you. It can be bought pretty much anywhere and has all-natural products.
They have a range for every hair type, and each one has a different scent without having that overbearing smell, which, let’s be honest, doesn’t seem very natural. Their coconut and shea hydrating hair mask is a winner in my eyes. For such a good price, it leaves hair feeling thicker and fuller—what’s not to love?
And what makes them even better is all of their products are 100% cruelty-free and UK-made! So you can pop into any shop local to you and grab this game-changer.
4. Aussie
Here is another one of my favorite drugstore sellers. The nostalgic smell of this hair brand just brings out the summer in me, even on the rainiest of days. Created in Australia, this brand stands by its story, representing its animals and keeping them safe.
Their award-winning 3-minute leave-in conditioner is what I love most about Aussie. I used this stuff on my hair after bleaching it for years, but I have no patience for long, intensive conditioners.
This completely changed the condition of my hair, leaving it with the most gorgeous smell. Even better, it’s affordable and cruelty-free.
3. Sukin
To start, this brand is free from nasty toxins that could be affecting your hair’s health and preventing growth. It is also accessible for most, and you can order a range of products online.
I spotted their stuff in TKmax (UK) and have loved every product they have, including their skin care. The product felt so creamy and smelt like natural essential oils, which felt so relaxing in the steam of a hot shower.
What’s more, their brand values remain strong, ensuring that they are 100% cruelty-free. With their home being Australia, just like Aussie, you can see there is a pattern here.
If you have hair that can’t handle too much product, their beautiful, sensitive range offers a luxurious feel without overloading your scalp with too much. They have been cruelty-free since day one and only source from suppliers that don’t test on animals. What a gem this find is!
2. Coco and Eve
Okay, so this is definitely a more expensive hair brand to go for, but I promise you it is one of the best shampoos and conditioners I have ever used and is totally worth the price.
Splashing the cash on something that just goes on your hair can seem silly, right? But opting for a higher quality brand that puts time into producing their products is so worth it in the long run for your hair care.
The repair and restore set is life-changing, and the smell is just so luxurious. I am so obsessed with this stuff. They are proud to be 100% cruelty-free, and this is what I love about these brands: they make it clear to consumers about their brand values.
So, if you have a few extra pounds lying around, this is definitely the one to purchase to help your hair and the animals.
1. Maria Nila
Finally, this brand is one I can go crazy for. I was gifted this for my 21st birthday, and I thought, no way can it be worth this much money.
Boy, was I wrong! The feel, smell, and overall care of this brand are exactly like walking out of the salon, but for half the price. It doesn’t smell overbearing, and the shampoo and conditioner are both so rich.
My favourite thing is the boost cream which you wash out after a few minutes, this makes my hair super silky and helps with any split ends I have. I am aware the prices are a bit higher and don’t get me wrong, I can’t go buying this constantly. But if you are looking to treat yourself to some hair care, this is my go-to!
The Aftermath
So, I have discussed the differences and my favorites, but there are many other types of hair products and brands that also promote cruelty-free products. According to V-Label, 85% of consumers regularly use cruelty-free and vegan products, and 86% would like to start.
A major problem in the consumption of brands is a lot do not label their values clearly enough on their bottles. 29% of consumers would feel less worried with a clear list of ingredients.
In their study, they found that 78.7% of respondents are “very concerned” about the use of animals in cosmetics for testing, while 15.4% are “quite concerned.” Brands fail to advertise cruelty-free manufacturing.
The Facts and Figures
According to Cruelty-Free International, they estimated that;
- At least 192.1 million animals were used for scientific purposes worldwide in 2015. This is the world’s most reliable figure to date.
- This includes nearly 80 million experiments on animals as well as millions of other animals who are killed for their tissues, used to breed genetically modified animal strains and bred but not used.
- In 2015, an estimated 207,724 tests using dogs and 158,780 tests using monkeys were conducted.
By supporting more cruelty-free brands, companies’ hard work may finally pay off. We can stop the testing of our products on harmless animals. The importance of just checking your products before you buy can help make the smallest change to help protect animals and with the efforts trying to stop these unethical acts.
