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Best Cruelty-Free Skincare Swaps
There are loads of incredible skincare products that cater to our skin’s most tender needs. Oftentimes, dazzling 4 and 5 star reviews can make it so easy to tap add to cart at lightning speed. Before taking the leap on a new skincare product (or repurchasing a fav), consider the following: is it cruelty-free?
While I have no exact statistic to throw your way, but there’s probably at least a 50% chance it’s not. So instead of purchasing a product from a company that tests on animals, why not opt for a better, more humane, cruelty-free dupe? Today I have piled together an honest list of the best cruelty-free skincare swaps that you’re guaranteed to love, especially if you’ve been considering these non-cruelty-free products and brands. Keep scrolling for a Beauty Editor’s take on 7 overrated skincare products & the best cruelty-free swaps to add to cart instead.
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The Lancome Absolue Revitalizing Eye Cream has caused quite the stir, resulting in thousands of 5 star reviews online (haven’t tried it, can’t relate). While an effective product coupled with fancy packaging is great, it’s not worth the expense of animal welfare when there are awesome swaps like the Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream by Biossance. This cruelty-free & vegan anti-aging eye cream eliminates fine lines and wrinkles while firming the skin. After hours of research on dupe eye creams, I have concluded that this cruelty-free swap is just as good as the Lancome eye cream. Oh, and it’s a fraction of the cost too. Score!
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Serums are by far one of the best types of products that you can use for your skin. I’ve been religiously using the Chebula Active Immunity Serum by True Botanicals like there was no tomorrow. Therefore, with great confidence & tons of research, I can assure you that this product is the perfect swap for the non-cruelty-free La Mer Concentrate Serum. The Chebula Active Immunity Serum deeply penetrates the skin, filling out fine lines, creases, and stubborn wrinkles to reveal a youthful more radiant glow.Â
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We’ve all seen the ads. SK-II is basically trying to take over the world, or at least, our Facebook and Instagram feeds. Unfortunately, SK-II is not a cruelty-free company, one of many reasons why it’s ridiculous to purchase a $99 micellar water from them. Instead, I opt for the E-Rase Milki Micellar Water by Drunk Elephant. This product contains ceramides, an ingredient that improves elasticity by filling in microscopic spaces between skin cells. Furthermore, omega 6 and fatty acids help to deeply hydrate the skin. I use this product right after rinsing away one of my favorite cleansers.
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Elemis was once a 100% cruelty-free brand. In 2020, Elemis was ousted by the cruelty-free community due to their updated animal testing policy because they test on animals where required by law. Therefore, Elemis is no longer cruelty-free. The Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm was a go-to favorite of mine in the past. Now, I am opting for the Very Cherry Clean Cleansing Balm by Farmacy. This balm melts stubborn makeup just as the Pro-Collagen balm does, with a very cheerful aroma at that. This cleansing balm is the first step in my double cleansing routine.
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Another SK-II product here, partially because they keep obstructing my cruelty-free feed. Seriously though – none of their overrated skincare products are worth the hype. If you have dry, aging skin and you’re looking for a moisturizing and luxurious face cream, the Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream by Youth to the People should be your next purchase. This peptide-rich cream is the cruelty-free swap you need if you’ve been using the peptide SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream Supreme. Peptides are a powerful hydrating anti-aging ingredient that Dermatologists (and I) swear by.Â
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We all know at this point that using an SPF every day should be an essential part of our beauty routines. Options like the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion are quite tempting when you’re unaware of their animal testing policy. For an even better cruelty-free alternative, opt for the Refreshing Water Cream Sunscreen by COOLA. This lightweight sunscreen sinks in like a moisturizer with an SPF 50. Its fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula make it quick and easy for everyday use.
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The La Prairie Foam Cleanser is one of many overrated skincare products on the market, especially for the price point of $90 USD. If you’re seeking the best cruelty-free (& vegan!) swap, the Glacial Face Wash by Skyn Iceland should be in your shopping cart ASAP. This foaming cleanser is packed with loads of potent Icelandic antioxidants that purify the skin and reduces inflammation. This cleanser sits on the vanity next to my other favorite Skyn Iceland products.
Are Overrated Skincare Products Worth It?
Okay, so sometimes overrated skincare products are totally worth it, especially when they are 100% cruelty-free. However, overhyped skincare coming from a company that tests on animals is literally never worth it. It’s completely unnecessary for animals to suffer painful deaths as a result of human vanity. If you’re looking to make the switch and become 100% cruelty-free, I suggest stopping by our Cruelty-Free Company Directory. There, you will find tons of resources as to what companies are 100% cruelty-free and what companies test on animals. Mind Over Mango also has loads of other cruelty-free skincare guides that will help you avoid purchasing another cruel and overrated skincare product ever again.
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