Research Animals

Welfare of Animals in Cosmetics Testing

Cosmetics animal testing has been banned in the EU, UK, and many other markets, but remains legal in key markets including China, affecting millions of animals globally.

Key Facts

The EU banned cosmetics animal testing in 2003 and the sale of tested products in 2013
China required animal testing for imported cosmetics until 2021 reforms began relaxing requirements
Approximately 40 countries now ban cosmetics animal testing
The Draize eye irritancy test and skin sensitization tests are the most common cosmetics procedures
The Leaping Bunny certification guarantees no animal testing at any point in production

Welfare Considerations

Cosmetics animal testing causes significant suffering — eye and skin irritancy tests cause pain and distress in rabbits and guinea pigs without anesthesia. The good news is that validated non-animal alternatives now exist for most cosmetics tests, and the number of cruelty-free brands has grown dramatically. Remaining challenges are in markets like China where testing regulations create compliance tensions for international brands.

What You Can Do

Choose only Leaping Bunny or PETA Beauty Without Bunnies certified cosmetics
Avoid brands that sell in markets requiring animal testing unless explicitly exempted
Support the China harmonization process by purchasing from brands committing to non-animal methods
Donate to CCIC campaigns accelerating validation of non-animal cosmetics safety tests