Policy

Animal Testing in Cosmetics and Welfare Alternatives

Cosmetic animal testing has been banned in the EU and UK but continues globally, causing significant unnecessary suffering.

Key Facts

The EU banned cosmetic animal testing in 1998 and all cosmetic sales tested elsewhere in 2013
The UK has similar bans but products tested in China for sale there may use animal tests
Around 40 countries still permit or require cosmetic animal testing
Non-animal alternatives including in vitro tests and computer models can replace most animal tests
Consumer demand for cruelty-free products has driven major brand commitments to end animal testing

Welfare Considerations

Cosmetic animal testing causes significant animal suffering for purposes that are entirely non-essential. Effective alternatives exist and are increasingly recognised as scientifically superior. Global harmonisation around cruelty-free standards is achievable and urgently needed to end this unnecessary practice.

What You Can Do

Choose cosmetics certified as cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny or equivalent schemes
Avoid brands that sell in markets requiring animal testing
Advocate for international agreements to ban cosmetic animal testing globally
Support development of non-animal testing alternatives through research funding