As veganism and animal rights continue to gain attention, one beauty trend everyone should pay attention to is cruelty-free products. More and more consumers are choosing products that aren’t tested on animals, and for good reason—knowing that innocent animals suffered for your beauty products can certainly diminish their appeal. If you’re like many others, this growing awareness might have made you hesitant to use even your old favorites.
However, transitioning to a cruelty-free beauty routine isn’t always straightforward. Despite increased awareness, there’s still a lot of confusion about what’s truly the “right” thing to do.
The good news is that there’s a simple and effective way to switch to a cruelty-free routine, and we’re here to guide you through it.
1. Use What You Have Before Replacing It
Many people make the mistake of throwing out their old, animal-tested products as soon as they decide to go cruelty-free. However, this approach can actually be wasteful and counterproductive. Instead, start by using up what you already have while gradually replacing them with cruelty-free alternatives. This way, you avoid unnecessary waste and have more time to research and find the best cruelty-free products. Plus, reducing waste is another way to help protect wildlife.
2. Consider Making Your Own Products
Navigating the world of cruelty-free products can be challenging, so why not try making your own? This approach ensures you know exactly what’s in your beauty products and where they come from—something you can’t always guarantee with store-bought items. While making certain products, like mascara, might be tricky, there are plenty of other items you can create at home. For example, soap and bath products are relatively easy to make, and with the right ingredients, you can even try your hand at homemade lipsticks and moisturizers.
Not only will you develop a new skill, but you’ll also avoid supporting companies that may be involved in animal cruelty. Plus, you’ll bypass the hassle of deciphering labels and worrying about whether a product is truly cruelty-free.
3. Look for the Leaping Bunny
Finding cruelty-free brands isn’t always as easy as it seems. Some brands that appear cruelty-free may be owned by parent companies that conduct animal testing. To avoid this confusion, look for the Leaping Bunny symbol when shopping. This is the only official certification for cruelty-free products, and it’s a reliable way to ensure your money is supporting ethical practices. If you see this bunny on one product, you can feel confident that the entire brand is cruelty-free.
4. Stay Updated with a Cruelty-Free App
To keep up with the fast-paced world of beauty, consider downloading an app dedicated to cruelty-free products. Even if you’ve done your research, these apps are updated regularly, helping you stay informed about any changes in a brand’s practices. With just a quick scan of a product’s barcode, you can verify whether it meets cruelty-free standards, ensuring you make ethical choices every time you shop.
Conclusion
Switching to a cruelty-free beauty routine can be incredibly rewarding. Not only will you feel better about the products you use, but you’ll also eliminate the guilt that may have been weighing on your morning routine. While the transition can seem daunting, following these tips will help you navigate the process with confidence and ease.
