The animal-testing issue has made a big impact on the cosmetics and toiletries market in recent years. Not only are there now a large number of small, cruelty-free companies but a number of the major brands are now also promoting themselves as cruelty-free. Avon was the first to do so in 1989. In fact, the best selling brands - Boots, Avon, Max Factor, Rimmel, Revlon, Yardley and Estee Lauder - all now claim to be 'not tested on animals'. However, it is unclear just what these claims mean, especially when in some cases, the parent company is still carrying out animal tests on ingredients and on its other brands.

Nowhere in the world is animal testing of cosmetics, toiletries or household cleaners actually required by law. In most countries the law simply states that cosmetics and toiletries must be safe for human use. Critic maintain that animal test data is only used to defend the company against consumer lawsuits.

As well as being wholly inappropriate, the continued testing of these products on animals is simply unnecessary. There are many products and ingredients already available whose safety has been demonstrated by years of use on humans.

Many of the companies producing cosmetics, toiletries, and household cleaners are also active in other industries, such as the pharmaceutical or petroleum industries. These industries are closely related due to the nature of the raw materials used in the products.

These companies are frequently criticised, not only for their use of animal is tests, but also for the polluting of rivers with hazardous waste and for the inappropriate marketing of harmful products.

Credits and References: Most of the information on this page was taken from the 'Ethical Consumer Guide to Everyday Shopping'.