Vegan or Cruelty Free? What’s The Difference? 

"If you want to test cosmetics, why do it on some poor animal who hasn't done anything?” - Ellen DeGeneres

In a world filled with parabens, sulphates and preservatives, a few companies are really taking a stand to make natural, organic, cruelty free and vegan cosmetics. However, what does cruelty free and vegan mean? What is the major difference being cruelty free and vegan and why do these labels matter? 

Cruelty Free 

Ingredients, components and final products that have not been tested on animals are called cruelty free. How do you recognise if the product is cruelty free? Look for the mark. 

 We’re kidding. Check this mark 

Vegan

Simply put, vegan products do not contain any animal ingredients. No animal, animal-derived or animal by-products are used in the production of these cosmetics. 

Vegan cosmetics firms are certified by People for the Ethical Treatment Of Animals (PETA). Certified products showcase the PETA Leaping Bunny or Cruelty-Free Bunny logos that are issued to firms that comply with strict cruelty-free standards.

It is important to note, however, all cruelty free products may not be vegan. While the products are not tested on animals, the basic ingredients may contain non-vegan ingredients such as lanolin, glycerine, honey, beeswax, collagen, albumen, carmine, cholesterol, or gelatin and keratin. 

Though vegan cosmetics refer to the absence of animal ingredients, they may still be tested on animals for certification purposes. Check for the vegan certification logo on the products or check their website to understand if the ingredients have non-vegan, animal products in them. 

Should you go for cruelty free products or vegan products? 

The answer is both. Ask yourself a simple question - when animals have no use of cosmetics, why should they be harmed in the production of them? A brand which is vegan and cruelty free essentially means they do not believe is using animals or animal products for human purposes.

Now that you know, the next time you shop, look for products that do not depend on animals or cause them any harm. 

If you have any questions regarding veganism or cruelty free products, feel free to leave us a comment below and we will be happy to answer all your queries!