Nicky wants to know…I’ve read your earlier posts on testing cosmetics on animals but I’m still worried that cosmetic companies abuse too many bunnies and such.
The Right Brain replies:
The Scientific Advisory Committee of the European Center for the Validation of Alternative Methods (also known as ECVAM) have announced that there are 5 new methods of testing skin and eye irritation that previously had to be done on rabbits. That means that products like hand soaps, face creams, and make up (among many, many others) can now be safely formulated and tested with out harming a single hair on a hare.
But it gets better: one test mimics human skin so well that it will COMPLETELY replace testing on rabbits. Two of the other tests can identify severe eye irritants which will eliminate the need for live rabbit eye test. And, another new test for skin allergies will cut animal testing in half, saving up to 240,000 mice. All these test methods came about as a result of joint work between the US and the European Union. Thanks guys!!
The Beauty Brains bottom line
The Beauty Brains are thrilled to see that effective, scientifically valid alternatives to animal testing are becoming increasingly popular in the cosmetic industry. And that means that in the near future Nicky won’t have to wonder if any furry little creatures gave their lives to test her favorite eyeshadow, lipgloss or blush.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
RB, do you have a reference for the five new tests?
One way to be sure is to stick with products made with natural, edible ingredients. The only animals we test on are people
No fear putting it on if I know I could eat it (and some of it smells so good I’m tempted!)
Check out hydrOtion for safe, natural, never tested on animal products that work.
@Soapyguy: the original reference is from a 2007 press release from the Scientific Advisory Committee of the European Center for the Validation of Alternative Methods. I’m sorry but we don’t have an online link to the source material.
There is no need to perform cosmetic testing on animals when there are excellent companies testing solely on human volunteers.
Cutest Systems Ltd performs cosmetic tests purely on human volunteers after they ahve had a thorough check up with a registed Doctor and a consultation with a Consultant Dermatologist. The studies are performed by RGN qualified genereal nurses only after approval is received by an independent ethics committee. All studies are performed to the standards of Good Clinical Practice.