Using cruelty-free beauty products is crucial to living ethically. Most companies that strive to be cruelty-free also use more natural, eco-friendly products and packaging. Many beauty brands are adapting to this standard of compassion, and are shedding light on government-approved ingredients that harm animals and the human skin.
When purchasing a cruelty-free moisturizer, consider your skin type, the tint, and how high its sun protection factor is. The Mad Hippie Triple C Night Cream is a top choice because it supports skin health, prevents premature wrinkling from pollution and leaves the skin looking hydrated immediately after use.
When choosing a good facial moisturizer, consider the sun protection factor. A moisturizer with an SPF rating protects skin from the sun’s rays, which in turn keeps skin from drying out; reduces the creation of new wrinkles and fine lines; and reduces the possibility of skin discoloration and melanoma. Dermatologists recommend using products with 30 SPF or higher.
Your moisturizer should be for your specific skin type. If you have oily skin and buy a heavy cream moisturizer, no matter the ingredients it won't benefit your skin like it will someone with dry skin. People with oily skin should use a lightweight hydrating gel.
Not only are cruelty-free moisturizers made with ingredients sourced using ethical practices, but many use natural ingredients. Look for oils from plants, minerals, hyaluronic acid and special nature-based extracts as you shop for a cruelty-free moisturizer.
It's also important to consider what your moisturizer doesn't contain. A good cruelty-free moisturizer has no parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, chemical sunscreens, triclosan, triclocarban, propylene glycol, mineral oil and more. Products with these ingredients may aggravate sensitive skin and aren't likely to promote long-term skin health.
When purchasing a cruelty-free moisturizer, look for ingredients such as retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants. They smooth fine lines, even out tone and texture, and help prevent premature wrinkling. These ingredients are increasingly more common in plant-based formulas.
All-natural cruelty-free moisturizers do not use toxic chemicals to add scent to a product. If you have sensitive skin, consider a fragrance-free product. Even if a product's scent derives from all-natural essential oils, this could cause irritation to those with sensitive skin.
A tinted moisturizer doubles as a cosmetic, a combination of a creamy moisturizer and a foundation. Tints provide sheer to medium coverage depending on how much you put on. Many tinted moisturizers have an extensive shade range.
These products can contain more chemicals than typical moisturizers, so check the ingredient list before purchasing. Make sure that what you're going to put on your face provides hydration and long-term skin health.
Cheaply formulated cruelty-free moisturizers cost $6-$13. Midrange moisturizers usually cost $15-$25. Premium moisturizers that include all the best features and naturally sourced ingredients cost $30-$70.
A. If a moisturizer is cruelty-free, that does not mean it is vegan, but if something is vegan, it is cruelty-free by default. In general, brands that do not test on animals tend to use more natural ingredients, but that is not a guarantee.
A. Cruelty-free moisturizers feature a leaping bunny on the packaging. Some packaging does not include the symbol but does state it is cruelty-free. If you are unsure if your favorite products are cruelty-free, visit crueltyfreekitty.com for a verified list of items not tested on animals.
Mad Hippie Triple C Night Cream
What you need to know: This deeply hydrating treatment uses three forms of vitamin C, potent antioxidants and adaptogens. It lessens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves hydration.
What you’ll love: The turmeric in it lightens skin discoloration while the chaga works to rejuvenate and protect the skin from daily stressors and exposure to pollutants.
What you should consider: Some users disliked its smell, and it does not benefit those with oily skin as much as it does users with dry skin.
Where to buy: Amazon and Ulta Beauty
BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream with SPF 30
What you need to know: Your skin stays hydrated and the tint provides sheer to medium coverage while leaving a healthy glow.
What you’ll love: It hydrates the skin, restoring lipid barriers with its water-infused, oil-free formula. It's lightweight and has the needed amount of SPF.
What you should consider: Its fragrance is strong. Some users said it's too lightweight to make a noticeable difference.
Where to buy: Sold by Ulta Beauty, Sephora, Target and Amazon
Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream With Hyaluronic Acid
What you need to know: It's a lightweight, air-whipped cream that works to restore and balance all skin types.
What you’ll love: The vegan formula uses plant power to deliver needed antioxidants and nutrients to the skin. The packaging is recyclable.
What you should consider: Depending on your skin type, it could take a while for this product to absorb.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora and Amazon
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Logan DeLoye writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
