<p>Animal testing is a polarizing topic whenever it comes up, even in medical science and research. And when it comes to personal care products, <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/c/home-cleaning" target="_blank">cleaning items</a>, and cosmetics, many consumers today are choosing brands that avoid any and all animal testing. There are plenty of options—more and more businesses are taking a stand in favor of our furry friends, and the number of cruelty-free companies continues to grow. However, “cruelty-free” standards are still somewhat unregulated (with the exception of the Leaping Bunny Certification; more on that below). That’s why we’ve compiled this crash course on what the term really means and how you can ensure your buys are 100 percent free of animal testing. </p>

<h2>What Is Cruelty-Free?</h2>

<p>When a product is labeled as “cruelty-free,” it means the product is not tested on animals. However, it’s important to note that this claim sometimes only refers to the finished product. That is, a product with a cruelty-free label may include individual ingredients that have, in fact, been tested on animals. If it’s important to you that a product is completely cruelty-free, look for the <a href="https://www.leapingbunny.org/"target="_blank">Leaping Bunny Certification</a>, which means no animal testing was done in any phase of the product’s development.</p>

<h2>Benefits of Cruelty-Free Products</h2>

<p>The greatest benefit of shopping cruelty-free products is the knowledge that no animal was harmed in the making of the item. However, there are additional benefits to consider. For example, there are many budget-friendly cruelty-free brands, allowing you to save money on personal-care essentials. In addition, many cruelty-free brands are also eco-minded, and <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/social/recycled-packaging" target="_blank">packaged in recycled and recyclable materials</a>, and made with earth-friendly ingredients. </p>

<h2>Tips for Shopping Cruelty-Free</h2>

<p>You already know to look for the Leaping Bunny Certification on brand packaging. However, you can also shop cruelty-free online. Before making purchases, consult regularly <a href="https://www.globalanimal.org/2010/12/06/companies-that-dont-test-on-animals-resource/"target="_blank">updated websites</a> with lists of brands that don’t test on animals. If you’re still unsure if a company is cruelty-free, reach out! A customer service representative should be able to speak to the brand’s policies regarding animal testing. </p>

<h2>Top Cruelty-Free Brands</h2>

<p>These personal-care brands just say “no” when it comes to animal testing. </p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/search/results?filter%5Bsearch%5D=dr%20bronners"target="_blank">Dr. Bronner’s</a></h2>

<p>This cruelty-free brand dates all the way back to 1858. Ever since, Dr. Bronner’s has crafted exceptional products from premium, organic ingredients that are ethically and responsibly sourced.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/dr-bronners-liquid-castile-soap-organic-peppermint"target="_blank">Organic Peppermint Castile Liquid Soap</a></h3>

<p>Wash your body, clean your clothes, or mop the floor! This multitasking “18-in-one” soap can do it all. Plus, it’s a completely cruelty-free formula that’s also free of dyes, additives, and harsh chemicals.</p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/acure"target="_blank">Acure</a></h2>

<p>Give your medicine cabinet a makeover. Offering organic moisturizers, cleansers, and more, this family-owned company will upgrade your beauty routine without questionable ingredients or animal testing. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/acure-moroccan-argan-oil"target="_blank">Moroccan Argan Oil</a></h3>

<p>Sometimes referred to as “liquid gold,” this multipurpose argan oil is rich in essential fatty acids and can help treat everything from parched skin to ragged cuticles and split ends. </p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/seventh-generation"target="_blank">Seventh Generation</a></h2>

<p>With the desire to leave a positive impact for at least seven or more generations, this  Burlington, Vermont–based company got its start in 1988 and offers nontoxic, naturally derived household and personal care products. And yep, every item is made without animal testing.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/seventh-generation-baby-wipes"target="_blank">Baby Wipes</a></h3>

<p>Delicate skin requires gentle products like these chlorine- and alcohol-free wipes, which leave little bottoms feeling fresh and soothed thanks to a completely plant-derived formula of softening aloe and regular H2O. </p>

<h2>You Might Like</h2>

<p>Want more? Dig into the Thrive Market blog! </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/best-natural-organic-baby-products"target="_blank">Best Natural and Organic Baby Products</a></h3>

<p>Oh baby! With our guide to everything from formula and cereal to diapers, wipes, and bathtime essentials, we’re taking the guesswork out of shopping organic for little ones, so you can cross one more thing off your to-do list. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/best-non-toxic-cleaning-products-tips-and-diy-recipes"target="_blank">Best Non-Toxic Home Cleaning Products</a></h3>

<p>There’s no place like a chemical-free home. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top non-toxic household cleaning products, including kitchen cleaners, laundry detergents, bathroom disinfectants, and more. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/why-you-should-use-paraben-free-products"target="_blank">Why You Should Use Paraben-Free Products</a></h3>

<p>What’s so bad about parabens, anyway? If, like many people, you’re confused about this controversial family of chemical preservatives, you’re not alone. Here we take a closer look at why you might want to consider avoiding them.</p>

Enjoy your favorite health and beauty products without the guilt. Check out our many cruelty free brands offering all your household staples.

The product and its ingredients do not undergo animal testing, and the product can meet the criteria for Leaping Bunny certification.

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