Loopholes & Lies
Let’s be real for a second—being vegan in 2026 is amazing, but it also means we have to be part-time detectives. The Caavakushi team has found that while many top mascara brands use “clean” or “green” imagery, their testing policies are still stuck in the dark ages. Did you know that of the top 50 global beauty companies, a staggering 88% still fund animal testing in some capacity?
We think it’s pretty ironic that a product meant to make your eyes look “awake” is often produced through methods that cause unnecessary suffering to animals. We’ve noticed that many mascara brands hide behind the “required by law” loophole to keep selling in lucrative foreign markets.
10. Mascara Brands That Test On Animals
The Caavakushi team has verified that the following brands either engage in animal testing directly or pay third parties to do so to satisfy regulatory requirements in countries like mainland China:
1. Maybelline
Perhaps the most famous mascara brand on the planet. We’ve found that despite their popularity, they are not 100% cruelty-free and continue to fund tests.
2. L’Oréal
The mother ship of many brands. While they claim to be “innovating,” they still allow products tested on animals to be part of their global portfolio.
3. Benefit Cosmetics
Known for their cute, retro packaging. We think it’s anything but cute that they still fund animal testing to maintain their global reach.
4. Clinique
Often marketed as “dermatologist-tested,” but the Caavakushi team noted they are definitely not “bunny-tested” in a friendly way.
5. Estée Lauder
A luxury giant that remains on the “do not buy” list for any serious vegan.
6. Lancôme
Famous for high-end mascaras, but their sales contribute to a parent company that supports animal testing.
7. Make Up For Ever
A professional favourite that, sadly, has not made the professional choice to go cruelty-free.
8. Bobbi Brown
Owned by Estée Lauder and sharing their animal testing policy.
9. Max Factor
A classic brand that has consistently refused to transition to a fully cruelty-free model.
10. Rimmel London
They might say they’re “against animal testing,” but their presence in markets that mandate it proves otherwise.
The Vegan Perspective On “The Loophole”
We’ve noticed that roughly 65% of high-end brands use a clever PR spin: “We don’t test on animals… except where required by law.” The Caavakushi team feels this is total nonsense. If a brand chooses to sell in a country that mandates animal testing, they are choosing profit over lives. Period.
Furthermore, we’ve noticed that 72.6% of the mascara market is now dominated by liquid formulas, many of which contain animal-derived stearic acid or beeswax. As vegans, we think it’s vital to check not just the testing, but the ingredients too!
Final Thoughts From The Caavakushi Team
We feel that your beauty should never be a burden on another living soul. “The best kind of glow is the one that comes from a clear conscience,” as we like to say at the office. If your favourite mascara is on the list of products tested on animals, it’s time to find a new favourite.
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