Back to Bobcat Basics: Being an anti-animal testing consumer

Recently, I was scrolling through my favorite makeup brand’s Instagram account and I read their post about animal testing on beauty products and the cruelty it entails. As an avid animal-lover and makeup addict, I decided to look into what exactly animal testing entails and where I could shop to avoid supporting it because after all, every purchase we make is a vote.

With much disgust, I researched animal cruelty during animal testing and found a lot of great resources on PETA’s website. Disgustingly enough, dogs and cats are among the animals used including mice, rabbits and primates that undergo tests such as forced inhalation of toxic fumes, forced intake of pesticides and dripping corrosive chemicals into eyes. 

Sadly, according to PETA’s website, a lot of the animals that live this traumatic lifestyle can suffer from neurotic behaviors like pulling their own fur and spinning in circles due to the amount of stress that they’re under. After opening my eyes to the cruel reality that some animals live, I decided to look into beauty brands that vow against animal testing on their products, and I was impressed by my options.

PETA goes on to state that NYX, Lush and Too Faced are brands that do not test on animals, which was refreshing to hear as I frequently buy their products. NYX is an awesome drugstore brand that offers great alternatives to expensive professional products that you might find at Sephora. My favorite NYX product is the eyebrow gel because it closely mimics Anastasia Dipbrow but cashes in at less than half the price. Lush is another one of my favorite beauty brands because the natural, earthy scents of their soaps and scrubs make me feel like I’m doing something good for the body. Although a lot of their products are pricier than the average store bought soap, they will last forever because they have self-preserving features. My favorite soap is the "Respect Your Elders" and my prized possession is their Dream Cream lotion which has nursed my hands back to health more times than I can count. Lastly, you can’t go wrong with Too Faced. The launch of their Sweet Peach eyeshadow palette was a huge hit and my personal favorite product is their Better Than Sex mascara which gives the glitz and glam effect of false lashes without the hassle.

Just remember, products from Lush and Too Faced might be a bit more expensive but there is no price on voting against animal testing. I know it seems cliche, but buying social and eco-friendly brands really pays off in the end and are typically better for your skin and health anyway. Another point to keep in mind is that even if a product tested on animals actually does harm the animal, it can still be marketed to customers according to PETA. Going forward, keep our furry friends in mind when you are shopping and if you don’t believe the harmful effects of animal testing, just do your research and I promise that you will change your mind.

Rylie Brown is a sophomore studying journalism with a focus in news and information. Please note that the views and opinions expressed by columnists do not reflect those of The Post. What other makeup brands are cruelty-free? Tweet her @RylieMarieBrown.