MAC Cosmetics has been a cult classic in the makeup industry for decades. The brand has been a staple for many, with a reputation for superior quality products. But when it comes to the brand's cruelty-free and vegan policies, we’re still waiting for some innovation.
MAC Cosmetics is not 100% cruelty-free or vegan, as its products are sold where animal testing is required by law. It also cannot be considered vegan as it is not cruelty-free.
The brand was founded in 1984, and thanks to Madonna wearing one of the signature lipsticks in the late 80s, MAC Cosmetics took off.
Today MAC Cosmetics is known for high-quality and innovative formulas that are rich in pigment and are long-wearing. And while they are mostly known for their makeup, the brand also sells skincare!
The brand has managed to stay relevant for so long because they have evolved with the times and have strong core values.
It’s unfortunate, however, that this does not apply to their cruelty-free and vegan policies. After almost 40 years, we still have not seen any real improvement.
However, if you are looking for alternatives to MAC Cosmetics in the same price range with the same quality, click here.
MAC Cosmetics Ethical Overview
MAC Cosmetics is Not Cruelty-Free
Test any of its products or ingredients on animals
NO
Purchase any ingredients tested on animals within its supply chain
NO
Distribute its products to any countries that require animal testing by law.
YES
MAC Cosmetics can’t be considered cruelty-free while the brand continues to sell products in mainland China.
Further, MAC Cosmetics is owned by Estée Lauder, which is also not cruelty-free for the same reason – allowing animal testing when required by law.
Does MAC Cosmetics Test on Animals?
MAC Cosmetics has always claimed to be against animal testing, partnering with IIVS (Institute For In Vitro Sciences) to find non-animal testing methods worldwide.
But this does not change the fact that MAC Cosmetics has been selling in traditional stores in China for over a decade, and they do not intend to pull out.
The brand has made a statement saying that because they love their fans, they do not want ever to exclude them anywhere.
Claiming to be against animal testing but continuing to allow it to happen makes any of their cruelty-free claims misleading.
What Is MAC Cosmetics Cruelty-Free Status in 2023?
Here is a screenshot of MAC Cosmetics’ official statement regarding its cruelty-free policies and vegan products, taken from its website:
MAC Cosmetics Has No Cruelty-Free Certification
Without a solid cruelty-free policy, MAC Cosmetics won’t get a certification from a reputable organization.
While the brand continues to sell in mainland China, it’s impossible to consider it cruelty-free.
If you’re looking for a real cruelty-free brand, you always want to look out for certification to prove it.
Leaping Bunny certification proves that:
MAC Cosmetics Is Sold Where Animal Testing is Required By Law
MAC Cosmetics distributes its products in China, where animal testing on cosmetics is required as products arrive at the border.
China has a shocking track record. It is the country with the most animal testing globally, with over 20 million animals used per year.
However, if you live in China or are concerned about its cruel beauty policies, there are a couple of loopholes.
Here's how to find cruelty-free cosmetics in China: Are Cosmetics Made in China Cruelty-Free?
MAC Cosmetics is Not Vegan
MAC Cosmetics doesn’t claim to have vegan products, but a few are free from animal-derived ingredients.
These products, however, cannot be considered vegan because the brand is not cruelty-free.
Does it have products that are free of animal-derived ingredients? Yes.
Are these products considered holistically vegan? Not in our opinion.
Some of the most common animal-derived ingredients that MAC Cosmetics uses are: beeswax, lanolin, squalane, carmine, and glucosamine
Vegan Alternatives to MAC Cosmetics
Brand | price range | 100% vegan | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
$2 - $25 | Yes | PETA | |
$14 - $45 | Yes | PETA | |
$14 - $17 | Yes | Leaping Bunny | |
$15 - $240 | Yes | PETA, Leaping Bunny | |
$15 - $40 | Yes | PETA |