Research Animals

Animal Testing in Cosmetics

While banned in the EU and many other regions, cosmetic animal testing continues in countries requiring safety testing for market access.

Key Facts

The EU banned cosmetic animal testing in 2013
China required animal testing for imported cosmetics until 2021
An estimated 40 countries still permit cosmetic animal testing
Common tests include skin and eye irritation and lethal dose testing
Validated non-animal alternatives exist for most cosmetic safety tests

Welfare Considerations

Animals used in cosmetic safety testing endure painful tests including the Draize eye test, where substances are applied to restrained rabbits' eyes, and lethal dose tests causing death from compound toxicity. These procedures cause significant acute pain, distress, and death for products that are not medically necessary. Non-animal alternatives including organoids and computer models offer equivalent or superior safety data.

What You Can Do

Choose cruelty-free certified cosmetics
Support international cosmetic testing bans
Donate to Humane Society International's Be Cruelty-Free campaign
Advocate for recognition of non-animal test methods by regulatory agencies