41 Best Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands in 2023

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Is there a place for cruelty-free makeup in modern beauty and cosmetics? It seems so.

As more shoppers become aware of animal testing stories, the demand for cruelty-free makeup increases.

As a direct result, the number of cruelty-free beauty brands is on the rise, but unfortunately, not all brands out there play a fair game.

To see how I’ve curated the best 41 cruelty-free makeup brands in this article, see the end of the article.

This article is for you if you’re interested in natural, cruelty-free makeup.

TOP 41

Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands 2023

e.l.f. Cosmetics
Affordable Cruelty-free Makeup & Skincare
elf cosmetics cruelty free makeup
Herbivore Botanicals
Natural, Vegan, Cruelty-free Skincare
Herbivore Botanicals cosmetics cruelty free makeup
CODE Beautiful
Cruelty-free & Vegan Beauty
Code Beautiful cosmetics cruelty free makeup
FLOWER Beauty
Cruelty-free Makeup
Flower Beauty cosmetics cruelty free makeup
Rare Beauty
Vegan & Cruelty-free Makeup
Rare Beauty cosmetics cruelty free makeup
Illamasqua
Cruelty-free Professional-grade Makeup
Illamasqua cosmetics cruelty free makeup
Urban Decay
Cosmetics & Cruelty-free Makeup
Urban Decay cosmetics cruelty free makeup
BITE Beauty
Cruelty-free Custom-made Lipsticks
Bite Beauty cruelty free makeup
Burt’s Bees
Natural & Cruelty-free Beauty
Burt's Bees cruelty free makeup
Fenty Beauty
Beauty for All
Fenty Beauty cruelty free makeup
Biossance
Award Winning Clean Skincare
Biossance Cruelty-free makeup makeup
Ciate London
Cruelty Makeup & Nail Polish
Ciate London Cruelty-free makeup
Pacifica Beauty
Clean Skincare, Makeup, & Beauty
Pacifica Beauty Cruelty-free makeup
Summer Fridays
Vegan, Cruelty-free, & Good-For-You Skincare
Summer Fridays Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
NARS Cosmetics
Makeup & Skincare
NARS Cosmetics Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
ColourPop Cosmetics
Cruelty-free & Wallet-friendly Beauty
ColourPop Cosmetics Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Tower 28 Beauty
Clean Makeup for Sensitive Skin
Tower 28 Beauty Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Hourglass Cosmetics
Cruelty-free Luxury Beauty
Hourglass Cosmetics Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
ATHR Beauty
High-impact Clean Beauty
ATHR Beauty Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
FARSALI
Beauty with Benefits
FARSALI Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Barry M
On-trend, High-quality, Affordable Cosmetics
Barry M Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Milk Makeup
Clean Beauty & Vegan Makeup
Milk Makeup Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Cover FX
Vegan & Cruelty-free Makeup
Cover FX Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Jeffree Star Cosmetics
Bold Cruelty-free Makeup
Jeffree Star Cosmetics Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Marc Jacobs Beauty
Luxury Cruelty-free Beauty
Marc Jacobs Beauty Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Tarte Cosmetics
High-performance Naturals
Tarte Cosmetics Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Anastasia Beverly Hills
Cruelty-free Cosmetics & Beauty
Anastasia Beverly Hills Cruelty-free Makeup Brand
Dear Dahlia
Luxury Vegan Beauty
Dear Dahlia Cruelty-free Makeup
Haus Laboratories
Supercharged Clean Beauty
Haus Laboratories Cruelty-free Makeup
By Terry
Luxury Makeup & Skincare
 By Terry Cruelty-free Makeup
Charlotte Tilbury
Cruelty-free Makeup & Skincare
Charlotte Tilbury Cruelty Free Makeup
Cult Candy Cosmetics
Vegan & Cruelty-free Makeup
Cult Candy Cosmetics Cruelty-free Makeup
MUA Makeup Academy
Affordable Makeup, Cosmetics, & Beauty
MUA Makeup Academy Cruelty-free Makeup
Avril Makeup
Organic & Natural Makeup
Avril Makeup Cruelty-free Makeup
Florence by Mills
Natural & Clean Beauty
Florence by Mills Cruelty-free Makeup
NYX Cosmetics
Professional Cruelty-free Makeup
NYX Cosmetics Cruelty Free Makeup
Youth To The People
The Skincare of Now
Youth To The People Cruelty-free Makeup
K.V.D. Beauty
Cruelty-Free Beauty & Makeup
K.V.D. Beauty Cruelty-free Makeup
Lime Crime
Vegan & Cruelty-free Makeup
Lime Crime Cruelty Free Makeup
Soap & Glory
Affordable Luxury Skincare & Makeup
Soap & Glory Cruelty Free Makeup
AXIOLOGY
Vegan, cruelty-free, & Plastic-free Makeup
AXIOLOGY Cruelty Free Makeup





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e.l.f. Cosmetics

Elf Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Elf Cosmetics – The VOU

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This is the name for you if you’re looking for a cruelty-free makeup brand that can deliver a flawless finish.

E.L.F. Cosmetics’ stands for “Every eye, Lip, and Face.”

Of all the cruelty-free makeup brands in this article, E.L.F. Cosmetics has, in my opinion, the best eye shadow you can buy in 2023.

The best-selling products from the brand’s excellent range of animal-free cosmetics include the Liquid Matte Lipstick, Contour Palette, the Baked Highlighter, and pigmented lipsticks.

E.L.F. Cosmetics also stands out from the competition thanks to an elaborate line of skin care and moisturizers, makeup removers, and hydrating masks.

Above all, you can treat yourself to E.L.F. Cosmetics products without breaking the bank!


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Herbivore Botanicals

Herbivore Botanicals Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Herbivore Botanicals – The VOU

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Chances are you’ve seen Herbivore’s gorgeous packaging while scrolling Instagram, but the brand has more to offer than just instagramable makeup moments.

Herbivore Botanicals was founded by a couple – in their kitchen – who wanted to create cruelty-free beauty products without any filler.

Each ingredient the brand uses has a well-defined purpose in Herbivorer’s vision.

The result is super-potent skin care products from organic, food-grade ingredients.

Also, the brand’s top exfoliators and excellent face oils put Herbivore on the beauty map.

Speaking of exfoliators, try the ‘Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask’ for serious exfoliation.

Finish with skin-soothing ingredients such as the ‘Prism Exfoliating Glow Serum’ for a healthy glow.





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CODE Beautiful

CODE Beautiful Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – CODE Beautiful – The VOU

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Back in 2014, when Code Beautiful was launched, it was one of the few cruelty-free beauty brands that used 100 percent animal-free ingredients.

The beauty brand innovates by creating new cosmetics such as CODE FFL (Forget Fake Lashes).

CODE FFL is a pre-mascara plumper that will strengthen your lashes to the next level.

Granted, Code Beautiful doesn’t have an extensive range of beauty products.

However, fewer products mean more care to create the star products you’ll find in the brand’s online store.


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FLOWER Beauty

FLOWER Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – FLOWER Beauty – The VOU

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Started as a passion project by the American actress Drew Barrymore, Flower Beauty is a cruelty-free makeup brand of the highest quality.

Apart from having top quality, I’ve found all Flower Beauty products more affordable than similar products.

I also love that the label donates parts of the profits to female empowerment causes.

So if supporting other women and animal welfare resonate with you, make sure you choose Flower Beauty from now on.





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Rare Beauty (by Selena Gomez)

Rare Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Rare Beauty – The VOU

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With a stunning vegan makeup line, the Rare Beauty cruelty-free beauty brand by Selena Gomez has a great vision.

When interviewed, Selena said:

“The brand exists to break down unrealistic perfection standards.”

And it does just that, with great natural makeup colors, soft, delicate, and beautiful.

Rare Beauty comes in a wide range of products like liners, carmine powder, foundation, lip soufflés, etc.


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Illamasqua

Illamasqua Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Illamasqua – The VOU

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Illamasqua is a certified cruelty-free makeup label by the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

Beauty, not brutality,” shouts Illamasqua’s official website.

This cruelty-free makeup brand is recognized by PETA and is proud to have an extensive, ever-growing vegan range.

Illamasqua never tests on animals, ensuring all products are one hundred percent cruelty-free.

I’ve used Illamasqua for the last three months, and my skin has improved so much can’t recommend the brand enough.

If you’re new to Illamasqua, you’d want to start with their liquid lip polishes, available as a vegan option.

You can select your ideal hue from fourteen options, grouped into pink, crimson, or dark shade classes.

Also, consider giving their veil primer a try; it is a healthy mix of plant extracts and minerals designed to keep your skin hydrated, fresh, and ready for foundation treatment.





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Urban Decay (Owned by L’Oreal)

Urban Decay Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Urban Decay – The VOU

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Urban Decay markets itself as a bold and edgy cruelty-free makeup label.

However, the brand stocks tons of neutrals shade products as well.

Of all products, I find Urban Decay’s Eyeshadow Primer Potion suitable for oily lids.

I also think that the ‘All-Nighter Makeup Setting Spray’ is the best around, again, for oily skin.

Super-pigmented and buttery eyeshadows are available in bold and vibrant colors or neutral shades, as with the ‘Naked’ palettes.

NOTE While Urban Decay is cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny-certified, the parent company, L’Oreal, still tests on animals.


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BITE Beauty

Bite Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands -Bite Beauty – The VOU

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For all cruelty-free lipstick lovers, Bite Beauty is the perfect brand for you.

Bite’s primary focus is on lip products, although it also offers complexion products.

This cosmetics label has made some of the best vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free lipsticks.

As a side note, the brand’s lipsticks are intensely pigmented but comfortable to wear.

The ‘Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayon’ is a great starting point, as is the Agave+ Intensive Lip Mask.

Also, lip balms are excellent and can soothe even the most chapped lips.





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Burt’s Bees

Burt's Bees Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Burt’s Bees – The VOU

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Burt’s Bees is another cruelty-free makeup brand that has terrific beauty products.

Burt’s Bees makeup brand is certified by PETA for using only natural products, of course, with an accent on bee products.

Burt’s Bees is a non-toxic makeup brand that does not test on animals and strives to ensure that its cruelty-free makeups contain only sustainable ingredients, organically sourced.


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Fenty Beauty (by Rihanna)

Fenty Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Fenty Beauty – The VOU

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While Rihanna’s makeup collection can’t be considered entirely free of animal by-products, there are some pieces that the brand promotes as vegan-friendly.

Moreover, the brand’s chief chemist is against testing products on animals and obsesses over creating only natural makeup.

Some of the best cruelty-free products from Fenty in 2023 are: ‘Match Stix Matte Skinsticks,’ ‘Invisimatte Blotting Powder,’ and ‘Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer.’

Most of Fenty’s animal-friendly makeup bases, such as brow pomade, powder foundation, and matte bronzer, contain natural ingredients, minerals, argan, and organic coconut oil.

Also, the brand’s brushes are free from animal hair.





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Biossance

Biossance Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Biossance – The VOU

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At Biossance, science always comes first as all products are based on squalane.

The brand makes a synthetic product similar to squalene – a natural lipid identical to the one in human skin.

Because it’s so close to what human skin produces, the organic makeup locks in hydration fast without clogging pores.

Most brands extract squalene from shark liver or olives, but Biossance draws its formulation from sugarcane in a very sustainable way.

The skincare range is made of easy-to-use essentials that tackle dryness, acne, and dark spots while using clean ingredients.

The brand’s Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil is perfect for weightless moisture and glowing skin.

I highly recommend the Squalane + Tea Tree Detox mask for the power to decongest pores without stripping.


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Ciate London

Ciate London Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Ciate London – The VOU

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Ciate was launched in 2009 as a nail brand by the celebrity nail technician Charlotte Knight.

Since then, Ciate has expanded to become one of the world’s most renowned cruelty-free makeup brands.

PETA certifies Ciate’s vegan and cruelty-free makeup products, so try them.

I adore Ciate for its wide range of makeup, particularly the everlasting liquid lipstick and life-changing lip glosses.

Free from animal ingredients, Ciate sits are the top of the beauty industry.





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Pacifica Beauty

Pacifica Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Pacifica Beauty – The VOU

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Another affordable option, Pacifica, offers a massive range of vegan cosmetics, skincare, nail polish, hair products, and body care.

Pacifica is nature-inspired, from the ingredients to the shade names, and has a feminine, dreamy vibe.

The brand’s offering is costly, and you could safely purchase animal-free cosmetics.

Above all, I recommend starting with the super shimmery ‘Get Lit Multi-High Light’ or the ‘Lavender Moon’ body lotion.

The brand is also earth-conscious, thanks to an excellent recycling program.


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Summer Fridays

Summer Fridays Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Summer Fridays – The VOU

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Founded by two social media influencers, it’s no surprise that ‘Summer Fridays’ became an Instagram sensation overnight.

The brand is known for creating chic masks and face products that deliver glowing, radiant skin.

The brand is vegan, cruelty-free, and plastic-free.

Everyone agrees that the ‘Jet Lag Mask’ is the star of Summer Fridays: It gives you bouncy, dewy skin in minutes.

But you also can’t go wrong with the ‘CC Me Serum.’

While packed with vitamin C, this serum is gentle enough for even super-sensitive skin without sacrificing brightening power.





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NARS Cosmetics (Owned by Shiseido)

NARS Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – NARS Cosmetics – The VOU

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Known for pigmented products and rich colors (on the shimmery side), NARS is cruelty-free, although the brand’s parent company, Shiseido, is not.

NARS blushes are fantastic and very pigmented, and the ‘Orgasm Blush’ shade is a cult favorite that works with every skin tone.

Also, if you need high coverage, try the NARS ‘Radiant Creamy Concealer.’
Their newest lip products are also getting a lot of hype lately.


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ColourPop Cosmetics

ColourPop Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – ColourPop Cosmetics – The VOU

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ColourPop is a vegan makeup brand founded in 2014 by Seed Beauty.

The company is advertised as a ‘Proudly American cruelty-free and vegan makeup brand.’

It also insists on being “a wallet-friendly and bunny-approved beauty brand” to explain the many ethical charities it supports.

“We test our products in the nicest way possible, leaving fur babies to be fur babies and experimenting on people instead,”

reads the brand’s official website.





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Tower 28 Beauty

Tower 28 Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Tower 28 Beauty – The VOU

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Tower 28 is a relative newcomer to the clean-beauty makeup space.

The brand launched in 2019, but that hasn’t stopped it from becoming a customer’s favorite, thanks to the low-maintenance and affordable vegan cosmetics formulas.

Everything is made with sensitive skin in mind, given that the founder has had eczema her entire adult life.

I love Tower 28 for being up to the latest E.U. regulations and the National Eczema Association’s ingredient guidelines.

This is the only mass makeup brand on the market to do so.

Moreover, all products are hypo-allergenic, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist-tested.

My Tower 28’s hero product is the non-sticky ‘Shine On Lip Jelly’, and their latest launch, ‘Bronzino,’ is a bronzer you will love.


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Hourglass Cosmetics

Hourglass Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Hourglass Cosmetics – The VOU

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Revered as a high-end cruelty-free makeup brand, Hourglass is globally recognized as a leading cosmetics brand.

More than being a leading vegan makeup brand, the company has another reason to be in the spotlight by refusing to sell products to countries that continue animal testing.

The brand’s choice to sell to certain countries reminds me of the ever-so-unique UNCOMMON, a British athleisure label.

The London-based label only makes unique pieces, all by hand.

Once created and purchased, the products are shipped by bicycle or on foot, only in London, to reduce waste, pollution, and CO2 emissions.

Yet, UNCOMMON is a different story that deserves an entire article.





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ATHR Beauty

ATHR Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – ATHR Beauty – The VOU

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I bet you didn’t know this cruelty-free makeup brand infuses crystals into its products. Yes, genuine crystals.

The reason? To increase the shimmer and glow, of course!

Aether Beauty is a vegan and organic beauty company that uses only the cleanest ingredients you can find.

So much so that the brand had to ban over 2500 environmental offenders from their products.

Moreover, the brand uses recycled materials to make the packaging 100 percent recyclable.


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FARSALI

FARSALI Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – FARSALI – The VOU

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Farsali is beloved by beauty vloggers for creating innovative ‘skin-care-meets-makeup’ formulas.

The products are clean, vegan, and cruelty-free and flawlessly incorporate Instagram trends like unicorn beauty and glass skin into multi-use formulas.

While the line features a lip mask, eye cream, and gel cream, Farsali’s bread and butter are the face serums that combine skincare and makeup primers.

The ‘Rose Gold Elixir’ was an early hit on Instagram thanks to the antioxidant-heavy formula and the instant glow it provides (the real gold flakes are also a draw).

If you have oily skin, give the ‘Liquid Powder Oil Balancing Serum’ a try, it’ll mattify your skin without any cakey-ness.





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Barry M

Barry M Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Barry M – The VOU

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The multi-colored cruelty-free makeup brand Barry M is loved by expert makeup artists worldwide, and for a good reason.

Barry M creates some of the highest quality cruelty-free and vegan makeup products, each beloved for long-lasting properties.

Moreover, the company states clearly and loud on the official site that it does not test on animals:

“Here, at Barry M, we love cosmetics. But we love animals more.”


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Milk Makeup

Milk Makeup Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Milk Makeup – The VOU

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Milk Makeup is a new vegan and cruelty-free makeup brand available at Sephora.

Milk Makeup label is all about ‘quick makeup’ from natural ingredients.

While the company has many creams and stick products, like the ‘Lip + Cheek’ stick, they also have foundations, concealers, and blush products to complete your beauty kit.

Also, try their setting sprays designed to help your freshly crafted look last from dawn to dusk.





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Cover FX

Cover FX Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Cover FX – The VOU

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Are you looking for radiant cruelty-free, glowy makeup that’s vegan too?

Then you must try Cover F.X., whose dazzling ‘Custom Enhancer Drops’ are fabulous.

Created by Victor Casale – founding partner of M.A.C. cosmetics and one of the world’s biggest makeup brands – Cover F.X. was launched to help with skin conditions like eczema, burns, rosacea, and psoriasis.

Nowadays, the beauty name is a full-fledged vegan cosmetics brand that’s dermatologist-approved.

Cover FX uses clean ingredients such as green tea leaves and aloe vera instead of mineral oils and fragrances.

Must-haves include the ‘Pressed Mineral Foundation’ and ‘Illuminating Setting Powder.’

Use the integrated pipet to mix a few drops into your foundation, and we mean only a few because each pack has a blinding gleam of light.

With over 40 shades across all products to suit all skin tones, the label stocks beauty products for anything you need.

As well as being fully vegan and cruelty-free, the brand has a long-standing commitment to ‘clean,’ organic ingredients.

Thus, you won’t find talc, parabens, scent, mineral oil, gluten, sulfates, or phthalates in any product.


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Jeffree Star Cosmetics

Jeffree Star Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Jeffree Star Cosmetics – The VOU

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Jeffree Star is a famous YouTuber, with millions of fans tuning in to watch his tutorials and learn about the latest products.

And I wonder, which other makeup brands offer such an interactive experience?

The Jeffree Star’s makeup line is 100 percent cruelty-free and vegan.

The prices are mid-range, and bestsellers include vegan eyeshadow palettes and concealers from unique pigments, such as Diet Root Beer and Cry On My Couch.

But what makes this brand unique is the overall aesthetic and colorful packaging that features magic wands, rainbows, and even pigs.





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Marc Jacobs Beauty

Marc Jacobs Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Marc Jacobs Beauty – The VOU

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Marc Jacobs’s Beauty arm is named after the creator and visionary designer behind the label of the same name.

Even from the beginning, the brand wanted to inspire buyers to “push boundaries” and create their fashion style.

Similarly, Marc Jacobs’s cruelty-free makeup and beauty products are of the highest quality.

The brand states on the official website:

“Marc Jacobs Beauty is a cruelty-free makeup and cosmetics brand. We never test on animals or use ingredients tested on animals, nor do we ask vendors to test on our behalf.”


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Tarte Cosmetics (Owned by Kose)

Tarte Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Tarte Cosmetics – The VOU

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Tarte offers makeup free of parabens, synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, G.M.O.s, and gluten.

Their ‘Amazonian Clay 12-Hour’ blushes are super-pigmented, long-lasting, and non-chalky.

I especially love their shade ‘Exposed’ because it works with ANY eye and lip look!

You might want to check out their ‘In Bloom’ palette, which has been getting a lot of love more recently.





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Anastasia Beverly Hills

Anastasia Beverly Hills Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Anastasia Beverly Hills – The VOU

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Based on ethical considerations, Anastasia Beverly Hills refuses to sell its cruelty-free makeup products in China.

And yet, this is a brand loved by celebrity makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts worldwide.

If you’re unfamiliar with ABH’s ‘Golden Ratio Method,’ you’ll be impressed by the brand’s line of brow pigments, lipsticks, and highlighters.

ABH’s most substantial offerings are the ‘Norvina Pro Pigment Palette,’ a twenty-plus shade palette with cruelty-free and vegan credentials.

The abundance of powder shades on ABH’s tray makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to stretch the creative limits of makeup artistry.

To put all of this goodness to work on your skin, you’ll also need some equally excellent brushes from them.

Firm or flat, ABH’s vegan makeup brushes are to kill for.

So much so that Anastasia Beverly Hills products have become a staple to cruelty-free and vegan makeup experts.

I love their ‘Brow Wiz’ and find them the best of everything I’ve tried.


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Dear Dahlia

Dear Dahlia Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Dear Dahlia – The VOU

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Very often, the word vegan conjures a budget look or cut-rate alternatives.

But that’s not the case with Dear Dahlia, as everything here shouts luxe with confidence from the packaging and the richly-pigmented formulas.

While the packaging might look similar to a specific BadGal collection, all of Dear Dahlia’s cosmetics are vegan without compromise.

The brand’s dual palettes come with a mirror, two eyeshadows, and a multi-balm to swipe across cheeks, eyes, and lips as you wish.





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Haus Laboratories

Haus Laboratories Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Haus Laboratories – The VOU

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Recently launched by pop star Lady Gaga, Haus Laboratories has gained many fans with 100 percent vegan and cruelty-free beauty products.

Gaga’s inspiration for the line came from when she was young and discovered that makeup made her feel like a “superhero.”

With quirky names like ‘Chained Ballerina’ and ‘Rose B.tch,’ the brand includes eyeliners, lipsticks, and eyeshadows.

Prices are mid-range to expensive, but this brand gives you a unique occasion to taste Gaga’s imagination and creativity.


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By Terry

By Terry Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – By Terry – The VOU

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There’s so much to talk about By Terry, a unique, cruelty-free, vegan makeup brand.

First, the brand’s ‘Terrybly Densiliss’ collection is luxurious and equally expensive.

However, it is worth the treat as this makeup brand tops the ranks with all cruelty-free stylists I know.





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Charlotte Tilbury

Charlotte Tilbury Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Charlotte Tilbury – The VOU

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Founded by the makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury, this is a stunning high-end cruelty-free brand from the U.K.

Their products are high-quality, and the price point reflects that.

While Charlotte Tilbury is very popular in the U.K., U.S. customers can find their makeup at Nordstrom.

I love their Tinted Brow Gel Matte Revolution Lipstick, free from animal-derived ingredients.


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Cult Candy Cosmetics

Cult Candy Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Cult Candy Cosmetics – The VOU

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As well as making moves to become more ethical, beauty brands are becoming more inclusive too.

It acknowledges that men and women love to experiment with makeup.

A nominee in the ASOS Beauty Awards, Cult Candy Cosmetics is built around the core belief that makeup is for everyone, whether they identify as them or non-binary.

But be warned; this label is not for shy types.

Palettes feature the sort of Day-Glo hues D.C. Comics’ Harley Quinn would kill for, but don’t let that scare you off.

There are a few more sober options for those who want to dabble in color.

I’ve got my eye on the bubble-gum pink liquid lipstick that dries matte, the perfect color to cheer me up on a grey day.





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MUA Makeup Academy

MUA Makeup Academy Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – MUA Makeup Academy – The VOU

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MUA has always been committed to bringing the masses cruelty-free Beauty.

However, the label has recently updated the entire collection to 100 percent vegan.

M.U.A. is the place to go for quick thrills – I love the incredible 20-shade eyeshadow palettes.

Oh, yes; it doesn’t hurt that the products are tantalizingly cheap, as prices rarely nudge beyond a tenner.


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Avril Makeup

Avril Makeup Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Avril Makeup – The VOU

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Avril is a French bio cosmetics and make-up brand with high-quality products at affordable prices.

The label produces make-up, nail polish, hair care, baby products, accessories, and body products, all free from animal materials.

Plus, all Avril products have EcoCert organic certification.





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Florence by Mills

Florence by Mills Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Florence by Mills – The VOU

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Powered by a budget-friendly price, this label started as ‘Beauty for Gen Z-ers’, full of gentle and softly enhancing colors.

However, Florence appeals to customers across the board, thanks to the highly wearable palette of cheek and lip colors.

The brand was launched by Millie Bobby Brown, a Netflix Originals star whose ‘girl-next-door look’ has won fans worldwide.

Florence is not only a committed vegan brand but also suitable for all skin types.

All products are dermatologically tested, infused with vitamins and botanicals, and free from irritants like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances.

If you’re unsure what to try first, I recommend the Cheek Me Later Cream Blush, available in six colors.

You can use it sparingly on cheeks or dabbed onto the lips for a fresh, rosy glow.


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NYX Cosmetics

NYX Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – NYX Cosmetics – The VOU

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NYX is a 100 percent cruelty-free makeup line with many vegan products.

The company believes in providing affordable pro-level makeup, up to date with current beauty trends.

I love their Lip Lingerie liquid lipsticks, and the Can’t Stop Won’t Stop contour concealer.

Moreover, the brand offers how-to makeup tutorials for beginners and training cases for professional makeup artists.





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Youth To The People

Youth To The People Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Youth To The People – The VOU

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Even the most doubtful shoppers have something good to say about the Youth to the People brand.

The brand is 100 percent vegan and cruelty-free and follows E.U.’s strictest standards of ‘skincare safety.’

E.U. is much more stringent than the F.D.A.’s rules in the U.S.

The label is deeply committed to sustainability, including using glass for all packaging.

On top of all that, the products deliver.

The ‘Superfood Cleanser’ has a devout following for its gentle cleansing power that packs skin with antioxidants.

The ‘Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream’ mask is a newer launch but is equally beloved for calming and hydrating power.





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K.V.D. Beauty (by Kat Von D)

K.V.D. Beauty Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – K.V.D. Beauty – The VOU

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Creation of the tattoo artist with the same name, Kat Von D Beauty, this cruelty-free makeup brand stands out from all-vegan beauty companies.

That’s primarily thanks to the active pro-animal welfare activism that made her loved by all conscious makeup lovers.

Loved by animal organizations and consumers worldwide, the designer wants to make cruelty-free makeup a daily occurrence, like brushing teeth.

With a wide range of ethical and vegan beauty offerings, some of the most wanted products are the ‘Shade and Light Eye Colour Palette.’

I also love them for their neutral, warm, and cool tones based on four shades: base, contour, highlight, and define.

Another one that buyers want very much is the ‘Lolita Eyeshadow Palette,’ featuring matte shades you can mix and layer if that’s what works for you.

One more to Kat Von D Beauty: the ‘Lock-it Foundation,’ a glow product that keeps your makeup waterproof and transfer-resistant.


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Lime Crime

Lime Crime Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Lime Crime – The VOU

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Lime Crime is a 100 percent vegan and cruelty-free makeup brand that promises to transport you to a magical world.

Besides offering a full-range makeup line, they also provide vibrant full-color hair dyes.

The brand’s most-rated products include the Venus palettes and Diamond Crushers lip toppers – they look just like crushed diamonds on your lips!

With an overall brand aesthetic that evokes rainbows and sparkles, you’ll feel like a unicorn wearing this makeup.





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Soap & Glory

Soap & Glory Cruelty-Free Makeup
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – Soap & Glory – The VOU

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Of all the brands on this list, Soap and Glory covers the most ground on the spectrum of conscious Beauty and personal care products.

There’s always something for you to use, from shampoos and hair treatments to skin moisturizers, without fear of harming animals.

From the entire Soap and Glory cruelty-free makeup line, some products stand out with ease:

  • Soap and Glory’ Lip Plumping Gloss’ for plant oils infusion and fantastic shine.
  • The ‘Cream Colour blusher’ for the superb, rare shades.
  • The ‘All is Calm’ concealer containing anti-blemish agents keeps your skin tone even.
  • Also, a well-deserved mention is Soap and Glory’s ‘Flash Effect Extension Mascara.’

Super rich in vitamin E, this cruelty-free makeup strengthens eyelashes and gives them the right curl for an irresistible look.


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AXIOLOGY

AXIOLOGY Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand
Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands – AXIOLOGY – The VOU

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Are you looking for stop-traffic makeup brushes and vegan lipstick?

Look no further than Axiology, where luxe matte finish color is the order of the day.

All products are formulated with leaf-derived candelilla wax rather than beeswax, designed to keep your lips hydrated and plump.

Moreover, the collection is free of parabens, petrochemicals, and animal testing while being completely organic too.





Conclusion

The ethical living movement is changing how people choose the products they consume, in this case, cruelty-free makeup.

In the making, I’ve curated over 200 cruelty-free makeup labels, excluding greenwashing labels or brands that still use toxic chemicals.

To ensure these are the best 41 cruelty-free makeups of 2023, I’ve curated the final list with five leading beauticians.

No need to compromise again – look fabulous while upholding your moral stance – with the world’s best cruelty-free makeup.

With hope you’ve enjoyed my coverage of the best cruelty-free makeup brands of 2023, I invite you to share your fav labels as well.

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Now it’s your turn…

Which one of these cruelty-free makeup brands is your favorite and why?

Is there any other cruelty-free or vegan makeup brands you’ve tried and want to add to this list?

Comments below, please!


Driven by a deep passion for the environment and a desperate need to do something to save it, Rebecca's true love lies in environmental justice, currently studying for a Master's degree in 'Conservation and Biodiversity' at The University of Exeter. With years of expertise in the worlds of advertising, PR, events, and movie publicity, Rebecca's lifestyle, sustainability, and wildlife content intrigue, inspire, and mobilize.

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5 COMMENTS

  1. Another reminder to all makeup buyers out there, just because something is labeled “cruelty-free” does not mean it is vegan as well. I mean, if a product has animal-derived ingredients obtained via cruelty-free means, it is no longer good for vegans. *shrug*

    Anyway, thank you for this great article on clean makeup brands, if you complete your look with a stunning perfume, please try our brand, Dolma. Also, to the editorial team at The VOU, we’d love to send you some fragrances from Dolma to try, we are one of the oldest vegan and cruelty-free perfume companies in the UK.

  2. I like Mineral Fusion makeup and skincare, or anything without Carmine (Crushed Beetles) in it. To me it’s not cruelty free to kill a living creature for a lipstick or blush when other ingredients can be used. I am careful to use only vegan ingredients and have for years. I got rid of anything I used to own that was leather and opt for nylon handbags and vegan shoes as it’s really not hard to do. Burt’s Bees hasn’t stopped but I wish they would and most major companies still use Carmine so read labels if you don’t want to use these products.

  3. Hi, unfortunately, some of the brands are not correct. For example, NARS is not cruelty-free as the store locator shows some of their websites locate in China, and this country is against animals.

    • Thank you for that!

      If they manufacture in China they are far from cruelty free. Same if they sell in China as China REQUIRES animal testing. I won’t purchase makeup that sells in China.

  4. Does cruelty-free mean vegan? Or what’s the difference between cruelty-free and vegan cosmetics? Here in Nigeria, we use both terms to describe the same thing (kind of organic makeup), but I gather from this article that these two terms describe different things??

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