Five vegan and cruelty-free cosmetic brands

For makeup users who value sustainability, it can be hard to find brands that support their values. Whether companies mislead customers with advertising or are owned by parent companies that practice unethically, it’s difficult to know who to trust. Below are five beauty brands, that are certified and verified regularly and are 100 percent vegan and animal cruelty free. All can be found at local drug stores. 

Pacifica- A pastel themed company, Pacifica is dedicated to reducing plastic waste and affordable products. They have regular discounts and sell sun care, makeup and nail products, hair care, bath and body products and fragrance products. The company also includes a recycling program in which customers send their plastic products to Pacifica and they are then turned into toothbrushes and razors. Recycling can even earn customers points for discounts. 

EcoTools- All of EcoTool’s products are made from recycled and renewable materials. The products are simple and clean, and the company is dedicated to the protection of animals and nature. A new biodegradable makeup blender, make up brushes, traditional blenders, spa products, bath and body products and skin care are available to buy. If you love the color green, this brand is for you. 

e.l.f. Cosmetics- Much like the other brands listed, e.l.f. products are very cheap. Everything sold by the company is free from extra chemicals like sulfates and parabens. Brushes and tools, skin care, eye, lip and face makeup are offered. On their website, tutorials and tips for using products are available, as well as information, donation links and readings to support the Black Lives Matter and Stop Asian Hate movements. 

MUA Makeup Academy- MUA is a brand based in the United Kingdom that is dedicated to diversity and enhancing natural beauty. Face, eye and lip makeup along with brushes and tools are sold. The products are cheap and deals are constantly available. The MUA website also offers a vegan report that is 13 pages long. The report explores why the company is vegan, the vegan industry, the dangers of greenwashing, what they’ve replaced animal products with and more. 

Emani Vegan Cosmetics- The founder of the company, Michelle Doan, suffered from severe cystic acne most of her life. As a result, she has dedicated her company to achieving healthy skin and helping people feel confident in their natural appearances. Makeup and skin care products are available to buy. The makeup is made to be healthy for skin, but the prices are expensive. With every product purchased, the company donates to female refugees.