Cosmetics Animal Testing: Global Progress and Remaining Gaps

The campaign to end animal testing for cosmetics has achieved remarkable global progress, but significant gaps remain. Understanding where testing still occurs and what drives continued use is essential for informed advocacy.

Key Facts

The EU banned cosmetics animal testing for products sold within the EU in 2013 — one of the most significant victories for the anti-testing campaign globally
Over 40 countries have now adopted some form of cosmetics testing ban, covering the majority of the global cosmetics market by value
China historically required animal testing for imported cosmetics, but has progressively expanded acceptance of non-animal testing data, with significant reform in 2021
The Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny certification provides consumer assurance that no animal testing occurred at any stage of product development — not just the final product
Some ingredients used in cosmetics remain tested on animals for other regulatory purposes — complete elimination of animal-tested ingredients is more difficult than avoiding animal-tested products

Welfare Considerations

Cosmetics animal testing elimination is one of the animal advocacy campaigns with the clearest success story. Decades of campaigning, consumer pressure, corporate commitments and regulatory change have created a world where animal testing for cosmetics is banned in most major markets. But complacency is premature — market access requirements in some remaining markets still drive testing, and ingredient-level testing for regulatory purposes creates ongoing exposure. Continued consumer pressure, international harmonisation of non-animal testing acceptance, and support for alternative test development are all needed to complete the elimination of cosmetics animal testing globally.

What You Can Do

Look for Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny or PETA cruelty-free certification when purchasing cosmetics
Avoid cosmetics brands that still sell in markets requiring animal testing unless they have committed to and are implementing change
Support organisations campaigning for international harmonisation of non-animal testing acceptance
Engage with cosmetics brands directly about their testing policies and ingredient sourcing
Advocate for extension of cosmetics testing bans to all jurisdictions where they do not yet apply