What’s the Real Cost of Makeup?
By: Lizzy Creamer
For decades big brands like M.A.C., Pantene, Almay and many more have been continuing the cruel practice of animal testing. Although animal testing was at first necessary for safety, modern day technologies such as stem cell cultures and micro dosing have surpassed animal testing in humanity and accuracy.
New technologies that have been invented and put on the market easily replace any company’s testing labs. These new practices have actually proven to be more accurate and more than a few are less expensive than animal testing itself.
New laws were passed to ensure minimal suffering on the animal’s part during testing, including accommodations such as adequate food, water, living space, etc. are now required by law. In reality, animal testing is getting more expensive and less popular by the minutes, but some companies are getting left in the dust.
Animal testing is the moral issue of the century, gaining more traction everyday. More and more supporters are surfacing and taking a stand against big-brand names such as Maybelline and Covergirl. Websites such as PETA and Blue Bunny provide free information in regards to cruelty free and vegan brands and products.
DHS senior Brooke is an avid supporter of animal welfare and keeps a close eye on the brands she uses. Brooke was aware that companies that sold to China were required to test on animals by Chinese law. She described the process as “messed up,” and “unnecessary.”
Tyler, also a DHS senior, was surprised to find out his regularly used brands – Calvin Klein and Old Spice – tested on animals. Before he was unaware of this, “I think the majority of them [products] don’t test on animals. I shop at lush and I know they don’t test,” Tyler said. After this shocking discovery, Tyler said he will be looking for other cruelty-free options.
There are still those who haven’t made the leap. Consumers have the real power in this situation. If consumers call for a ban on animal testing, and spend their money on cruelty free brands, they are promoting cruelty free products and hurting big brands where it hurts; profits.
Most people are oblivious to the fact that their mascaras or deodorants have been tested on animals, a fact that may lead them to search out other cruelty-free brands to replace their current brands.. Consumers should look for the PETA bunny symbol indicating cruelty free practices and/or vegan ingredients. Apps have become available so consumers can scan a barcode or check a brand against cruelty free companies.
Visit Peta’s website for more information about which companies do and don’t test.
This is what you support when you go cruelty free.
