If you like to stick to your moral compass when buying your favourite skincare products, you’ll be happy to hear that Cornerstone products are cruelty-free and vegetarian-friendly. Given the recent rise of public concern and the relatively recent changes in legislation, we believe it’s prime time to tackle the issue. In this article, we will provide you with a brief overview of the current state of animal testing and the innovations for alternative methods.
Animal testing
Since 2013, not only is the sale of cosmetics tested on animals banned in the European Union, but also the use of ingredients that have been tested on animals themselves. This is in no doubt a step in the right direction but, unfortunately, these trends are not as widespread as we would like. PETA estimates that millions of animals die due to cosmetics testing every year. The fight continues as there are still countries where animal testing is compulsory for any cosmetic sales – yes, compulsory.
It’s important to understand where your products are coming from and, crucially, what else the company is doing. Even though some companies will sell vegan and cruelty-free products in the UK and Europe, they may not be doing the same in other countries. The same companies that boast on their ethical products in the UK are actually paying for animal testing to reach new, lucrative markets. This is why we must be vigilant of marketing campaigns and dig a bit deeper. What’s more, sadly, there are still no bans on the testing of household products on animals in the UK. We still have a long way to go.
New & alternative testing methods
Given today’s technological and scientific advances, there are many non-animal testing methods available. These produce results with the same level of accuracy as animal testing, if not better. The UK has campaigned for the investment in alternative methods to replace animal experimentation on medical research and cosmetics development. Some scientists have even criticised the ineffectiveness of extrapolating animal results directly to humans due to the major differences between the difference species. Some popular and validated alternative methods include in-vitro testing, human cell modelling, virtual drug trials and computer simulations. According to Neavs.org, these have proven to lead to safer, more reliable and more effective products than their animal-tested counterparts
How you can get involved
If you’d like to get involved, there are numerous of associations here in the Uk with the sole purpose of monitoring companies on their testing methods. Donations are usually more than welcome as the majority of these do not receive government or lottery funding.
However, there is an easier way to get involved – choose cruelty-free and vegetarian-friendly products. Consumers have a direct impact on how pharmaceuticals and big companies manufacture their products. Companies are now listening more than ever to consumers voices; it’s time to act.
Cornerstone’s products: cruelty-free and vegetarian-friendly
At Cornerstone, we are committed to helping the environment, including our amazing fauna. We only produce eco-friendly products that are not tested on animals. That’s what we have a team (of humans) for!
Do you have any questions? What are your views on the topic? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.