Cosmetic animal testing has been banned across the EU, UK, and many other markets. But global supply chains and regulatory requirements in some countries maintain significant ongoing welfare harms.
Animals used in cosmetics testing — typically mice, rats, rabbits, and guinea pigs — undergo skin sensitisation, eye irritation, and oral toxicity tests that cause significant pain and distress. While the EU/UK ban represents major welfare progress, the global supply chain reality is more complex. Companies that sell in markets requiring animal testing (historically including China for imported cosmetics) conduct or commission testing that is invisible to consumers in markets where testing is banned. Leaping Bunny certification provides more rigorous assurance than brand-level claims by verifying supply chains. Non-animal alternatives including in vitro and computer modelling approaches now cover most regulatory requirements for cosmetics.