In Australia as in Britain cosmetics are no longer tested on animals. However the same doesn't apply to products which come from overseas, and most of them do. There are a few signs to look for when looking to buy creulty free products...
From the Animal Aid website
I wrote to a company, and they said that none of their products are tested on animals? Is this a satisfactory response?
No! It is quite possible that their finished products have not been tested, but the ingredients that go into the products may well have been. When writing or phoning a company, always ask for a fixed cut-of date that applies to both the company itself and its suppliers, as this is the only way you can guarantee that its products are cruelty-free.
Other ambiguous labelling to watch out for:
We do not carry out animal tests (another company may have done it on its behalf!)
Contains only natural ingredients (still may have been tested on animals!)
Environmentally Friendly (doesn't necessarily mean animal friendly!)
Our policy has been not to test products or ingredients since year xxx (a dangerous statement as this implies a FCOD, but again they may have contracted the animal testing, or it may be done by their suppliers.)
If a company states a fixed cut-off date, then this date should apply to every single cosmetic product in its own brand range. However, it may have a different policy for its household product range (polish, cleaners, washing powder etc). It is always advisable to check with the company concerned.
Additionally, some people may be reluctant to purchase from large stores, such as Sainsbury's or Superdrug, because, despite the fact that their own brand products are cruelty-free, they sell other brands which aren't.
Do not be fooled by a company which states it is required to conduct animal tests by law. This simply means that it is using new ingredients (which by law do have to be tested - but not necessarily on animals), and not making use of the vast range already in existence, i.e. it is fuelling the animal testing industry through its drive for profit, and could easily stop if it wanted to.
Remember, manufacturers use cleverly worded statements to try and trick well-meaning people into buying animal tested products. Always read between the lines!


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