Support National Be Kind to Animals Week with Cruelty-Free Cosmetics

Photo by Michael Day

Can a zebra change its stripes?

Figuratively, it's now happening in the beauty industry. After more than 20 years of campaigning by ethical retailers and organizations, the European Union recently banned the sale of cosmetics and personal-care products that have been tested on animals. The union includes 27 member nations, which represent a major portion of the beauty market.

“This is a great opportunity for Europe to set an example of responsible innovation in cosmetics without any compromise on consumer safety,” said Tonio Borg, the European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Affairs, in a statement last March. 

Although opponents of animal testing hail the move as an historic event, no ban exists in the United States. Given the anti-regulation climate on this side of the pond, legislation seems highly unlikely. However, the European ban sends a strong message worldwide in support of cruelty-free initiatives, and many makeup manufacturers voluntarily institute no animal testing policies.

May 5-11 marks National Be Kind to Animals Week, which was started by the American Humane Association (AHA) in 1915. The annual event commemorates the role animals play in our lives and promotes ways to continue to treat them humanely. The AHA also encourages people to appreciate wildlife, report animal abuse, be a responsible pet owner, and adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue.

In honor of National Be Kind to Animals Week, we have assembled our favorite cruelty-free cosmetics. They not only enhance your look, but they also change your outlook about how you can make a difference as a compassionate consumer by purchasing products with no animal testing. 

These beauty items have definitely earned their stripes. Enjoy!

SHINE: Emani Crushed Minerals Color Dust (Goldfinger). BEAUTY: You're as good as gold since this pigment can go on sheer or be applied with a wet brush for a more intense finish. BEACON: Vegan and no animal testing. Contains no parabens, synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, FD&C dyes, glutens or talc.

SHINE: Éminence Organic Skin Care Kiss Lip Gloss (Plum Kiss). BEAUTY: Shimmer your smooch with a soft mauve shade. BEACON: No animal testing. The company plants one tree for each product sold.

SHINE: IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness. BEAUTY: This correcting cream camouflages redness from rosacea, broken capillaries and blemished/irritated skin to promote a flawless finish. BEACON: No animal testing. Paraben and fragrance free. Supports Look Good...Feel Better.

SHINE: Jesse's Girl Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner. BEAUTY: A Japanese calligraphy-style brush allows you to define your eyes with precision application. BEACON: No animal testing.

SHINE: (Clockwise from the top) Mineral Fusion Sheer Tint Foundation (Neutral), Pressed Powder Foundation (Olive 1), Loose Powder Foundation (Cool 2) and Concealer Duo (Warm). BEAUTY: Create a seamless smoothness and an even skin tone. BEACON: No animal testing. Free of gluten, parabens, SLS, phthalates, artificial colors and synthetic fragrances. Supports the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

SHINE: Purely Pro Cosmetics Blush (Orgasmic) and Gel Liner Pencil (Mallard Green). BEAUTY: Enhance your cheekbones and eyes with colors that transition well from day to evening. BEACON: No animal testing. Supports Dress for Success. 

SHINE: RevitaLash Volumizing Mascara (Raven) and Raven 12-hour Eyeliner (Raven). BEAUTY: Dramatic duo--A high-performance formula finish for your lashes and a retractable pencil with the precision of a liquid liner for the edges of your eyes. BEACON: No animal testing. Supports Susan G. Komen Walk for the Cure and Cancer and Careers.

SHINE: Sormé Treatment Cosmetics Mineral Botanicals Eye Color (Amethyst) and Extreme Volumizing Mascara (Black). BEAUTY: Glam up your glance with lush lashes and luscious lids. BEACON: No animal testing. Supports the Noreen Fraser Foundation and Look Good...Feel Better.

SHINE: VMV Hypoallergenics Two True Hues Skintelligent Eyeshadow Duo (Rule of Plum). BEAUTY: Enjoy a concentrated pop of pigment for your peepers. BEACON: No animal testing. Free of fragrances, phthalates, dyes and parabens. Supports The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

SHINE: Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Ultimate Concealer (Deep). BEAUTY: This creamy corrector banishes blemishes and diminishes dark circles. BEACON: No animal testing. Contains no alcohol, artificial fragrances and dyes, parabens, petroleum, mineral oil or talc.