In recent years, the makeup industry has had significant success. Makeup artists like Jeffree Starr and James Charles have transformed YouTube and amassed millions of followers. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner have used their platforms to revolutionize the makeup industry with their own creations. With this, it is only fair to bring up the time old topic of cruelty-free makeup.

It is unbeknownst to makeup lovers that their favorite products are tested on animals. Long before I picked up my first mascara wand, companies used animals as test subjects for consumers. What many do not understand is that the skin of animals is completely different from humans. Therefore, they have different reactions than us.

Though many know that animal testing is bad, we do not know the extent of it. Said animals consist of guinea pigs, mice, and rats. Oftentimes, bunnies are the primary test subject. They are isolated, awaiting injections of the chemicals, synthetics, and toxins used in makeup. These bunnies suffer excruciating pain every day with these injections, not to mention the side effects. Based on their level of suffering, cosmetic companies gauge whether or not the products are safe for consumers.

Brands like LUSH, Too Faced, Anastasia BeverlyHills, and more are mindful of this. They produce animal-friendly products through alternative means that avoid animal cruelty. These manufacturers tend to use in vitro, which screens the potential risks to humans with a high sensitivity to ingredients. They follow a list of 5,000 ingredients that have already been deemed safe. Therefore, the purpose of animal testing is moot.

As of late January this year, the list of companies that test on animals is extensive. It ranges from drugstore brands like Maybelline and Covergirl to higher-end companies such as Benefit and Clinique.

Since last July, I have been a vegetarian. This choice has allowed me to be more conscious of the effects of my decisions. Makeup was one of those thoughts considering how much I enjoy using it.

Though you may think you may not make a difference, one less consumer purchasing animal-tested products is one step in lowering the demand for it, thus the production. You also show your support towards the cause. Raising awareness to friends and family will make a huge impact and potentially end the suffering of innocent animals. If you would like more information, PETA and The Humane Society are great sources.