Last Updated on 01/09/2023
After learning the meaning of cruelty-free in simple words, being curious about transitioning to cruelty-free is ideal. In this article, you can find practical actionable tips on how to go cruelty free easily. We suggest to shift slowly because changing your entire stash to cruelty-free skincare and makeup may not go well with your skin. Give yourself some grace.
Let us admit, many of the beauty brands, thankfully not all, are not cruelty-free. As a beginner, it is important to take going cruelty-free as a transition rather than an overnight process. You really do not need to rush things.
Before you jump in, I would like to thank you for thinking about animals. Thanks for taking this crucial step & giving the ‘cruelty-free thing’ a go!
At Cruelty Free Guide, we don’t judge you. You do you. But we appreciate and cheer on every step – no matter big or small, you take towards ethical standards of living.
Here is the Guide on how to transition to cruelty-free cosmetics easily without any overwhelm.
How to go cruelty-free on a personal level?
Follow this simple step-by-step process.
Examine your Products
The first step is crucial. Start with your beauty stash. Check the products that you already own. Examine thoroughly whether any of those are vegan or cruelty-free. Yep, cruelty-free is different from vegan.
More than likely, you ought to have products from brands that test on animals. And that is absolutely fine. Even if all the brands you own do test on animals, do not panic.
You can check quickly by going through the products’ brands. Use our website as a resource to confirm brands’ cruelty-free status. Separate or mark the cruelty free brands for your convenience.
What should you do with your animal-tested products?
Glad you asked. You can do whatever you want to. But here is what we suggest.
- Use them up – Finish up your existing products before the transition. It gives you time to look for a great cruelty-free alternative and absorb the change as you progress gradually.
- Giveaway to friends and family – You can also gift them to your loved ones if that is a feasible option for you.
- Discard (Warning: Avoid) – Discarding is an option but we are against it. It is just wasting the product and your money. Also, it is not an eco-friendly choice. But then why mention it? Because as an awakened conscious consumer this thought may cross your mind. Don’t fall for it though.
Switch When Empty with One Product at a Time
When going cruelty-free, take baby steps. If you transition gradually and by being more aware of your choices, you are more likely to stick to cruelty-free and vegan brands.
You do not need to replace everything at once. When a product expires or is used up, switch to a cruelty-free alternative.
Read reviews about product performance, pros, cons, and user ratings, and then invest your money. You can also request samples online or start with the smallest pack available to be sure about a product, the shades which you like, and so on.
Replacing one product at a time is easy and stress-free. You might find replacements for certain products right away while some others might need you to experiment a bit more. It is perfectly okay.
Ask your Loved Ones for Cruelty-Free Gifts
Share your favorite products, or wishlist, or just mention the ‘new’ cruelty-free brands you’re more into these days. Talk about your transition if you’re comfortable and let them know.
Don’t get Overwhelmed (Important)
Don’t stress yourself out during the process. If you can’t find a cruelty-free alternative, it is okay. Only that particular non-cruelty-free product is working for you? It is fine. Don’t rush. You will figure things out. You got this.
How to contribute to the cruelty-free movement?
Curious as to how to contribute on a large scale, here you go.
Shop Cruelty-Free and Avoid Brands that Test on Animals
Support and shop cruelty-free brands. But it is equally important to avoid animal-tested brands.
Let me just give you a heads-up right here! This is a slightly difficult step, believe me, as I had some Holy Grail from the brands that unfortunately do test on animals.
But only if we all join hands and stop supporting these brands, they’ll take it as a wake-up call. As some brands are more focused on collecting their coins, it would be a major blow if we as cruelty-free users, end up boycotting those brands.
This might need some resistance on your part but it is the very essential step of going cruelty-free. These companies will be forced to change their methods only if their sales take a nose dive.
Being Aware – Learn Cruelty-Free
Gain some knowledge about animal testing and find a support system. The more knowledge you have about the topic, the better it is. Learn about the animal-testing process and what is being done to tackle the issue.
Read newsletters and check out video updates from support groups or organizations like Cruelty Free International, PETA, The Vegan Society, and websites such as the one you’re at right now.
You could also join groups on Facebook and use hashtags on Instagram to find like-minded people, get to know their thoughts, and find inspiration.
Find stores near you or online shopping sites that sell cruelty-free makeup and skincare. Take this as a fun journey to try out different brands, try out new makeup shades and even save money.
Spread the word
Many people are unaware of animal testing practices in cosmetics. Some have heard about it but are unaware of the pain, torture, and brutality it holds.
Spread the word. Our aim is to make more consumers aware of this bitter truth. You can do a lot at your level by actively spreading the word about going cruelty-free on social media. After all, creating awareness is creating change.
Sign Petition
Sign petitions that are forwarded to companies to request them to stop animal testing. The power lies in numbers. The more people sign up and share, the better.
That is a wrap. Keep in mind that it is not an overnight process but a whole new lifestyle. Don’t be harsh on yourself, just go with the flow. I urge you all to do your bit!
