Many companies, both new and old, are working to improve themselves for the sake of their customers, the environment, and the world as a whole. Particularly in the Malaysian beauty industry. From blue beauty to vegan cosmetics, manufacturers and shoppers are becoming more conscious of not just what they buy, but also how it is manufactured. As a result, it’s no wonder that Malaysian cosmetics firms are moving forward to embracing cruelty-free branding. 

Related article: Recycling Your Beauty Products Is A Lot Easier Than You Think, Here’s How

However, it is not always easy to determine which cosmetics are genuinely ‘’cruelty-free’’. Carefully written company statements, the methods by which components are procured, and other labelling standards can make shopping for cruelty-free beauty difficult. And just because a cosmetic product is vegan (i.e., created without animal by-products or animal-derived substances), it doesn’t always imply it wasn’t tested on animals at any step of its development. 

So what precisely does ‘’cruelty-free’’ imply? And which skincare brand is worth investing in right now? Beauty Insider digs in. 

What Is Cruelty-Free Makeup?

It is crucial to remember that the FDA does not regulate the word “cruelty-free.” That implies brands may put it on their products without following any specific standards or restrictions. The general assumption, however, is that when a firm uses the word “cruelty-free” on its packaging, it signifies that the materials or goods have not been tested on animals.

When seeking for cruelty-free items, check for the worldwide Leaping Bunny badge, which indicates that a company has gone above and beyond rigorous no animal testing policies and is making a true commitment to putting a stop to the practise on a large scale. The Leaping Bunny programme is regarded as the gold standard of cruelty-free claims because of its independent audits. 

If you’re wondering about a business’s stance on their cruelty-free methods, look for an official statement on its website, or search the brand name on PETA or the Leaping Bunny.

1. COMMONLABS

COMMONLABS believe that true beauty comes from ‘well-being’. They’re committed to provide the best skin kinetics trainers to stimulate healthy and balanced movement of the skin cells that make up each and every individual. Like their Vitamin C Brightening Gel Cream that contains moist gel type of cream consisting of pure Vitamin C and 30% Sea Buckthorn Water provides ample moisture and gloss to dull skin while Mandarin Orange Peel Extract smooths skin texture.

Why We Love It 

  • Moisturization of 6 fruits complex to energise the skin
  • Intense treatment of texture for bright skin with PHA and Mandarin Clear
  • Replenishes escaped moisture to create vigorous skin

Price: RM 69.00

Where To Buy: Shopee

2. Rovectin

As a cruelty-free brand that has been making waves across the world, Rovectin is known for its impeccable formulation and efficacy. At Rovectin, its foundation is based on love and resilience. The journey began when a brother wished to help his sister, who suffered from severely damaged skin due to chemotherapy. As a result, the Anti-irritant Barrier Repair Ultra Cream was formulated to overcome the side effects of cancer treatment including extreme dryness and skin barrier deterioration. 

Its name is derived from the Latin word which implies “to return to where it was” and it has been its primary commitment to creating products that restore the skin barrier to its original state. Aside from upholding the highest standards of clean beauty, Rovectin is known for its scientifically backed formulation. They are devoted to ensuring that their products contain essential ingredients that are needed for the skin, preventing the risk of any allergic reactions. So, if you’re looking for the best cruelty-free skincare brands in Malaysia, Rovectin should be on the top of your wishlist.

Why we love it:

  • Vegan 
  • Free from harmful and irritating ingredients
  • Formulated with effective ingredients 
  • Features pH value between 5.5 and 7.0

Price: RM80.00 – RM170.00

Where to buy: Shopee and Lazada

3. Root Remedies

Root Remedies, founded in 2015 by Chiew Yee Sian and Leland Lo. They stand by their philosophy that less is definitely, more. This Malaysian based brand believes that nature is our greatest resource. Thus, they do not believe in any sort of chemicals, alcohol nor alkaline should be mixed along your skincare products. Green, clean, sustainable and natural is the only way to go. Their must-have scalp treatment oil is filled with natural ingredients like pomegranate oil. It will help nourish and relieve itchy and dandruff-prone scalp while softening, repairing and encouraging hair growth.

Why we love it: 

  • Vegan, cruelty free
  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Lightweight, non greasy

Price: RM 149.00

Where to buy: Root Remedies

4. Kiehl’s 

If you’re a true beauty lover, you probably already heard, know and familiarize yourself with the superior-brand that is Kiehl’s. Though this brand is considered to be the life changer in the skincare industry, not everyone is aware of how much of a power each one of their little tools could contribute to your skin. This Blue Herbal Spot Treatment from Kiehl’s is a dermatologically tested treatment containing Salicylic Acid to treat acne. Extracts of Cinnamon Bark clean impurities and Ginger Root extract absorb excess oil. This product also helps to clear blackheads. 

Why we love it: 

  • Contains Cinnamon Bark Extract & Glycolic Acid
  • Helps slough off dry and rough uppermost layer
  • Contains essential oil with antibacterial properties.

Price: RM 160.00

Where to buy: Kiehl’s

5. Khlean Beauty 

You don’t need to stray far away from our local brand to find natural skincare that suits the needs of your skin. Just like Khléan Beauty, the newest member in town that goes beyond just recyclable and reusable packaging. As the name suggests, the brand covers each step in the product life cycle; from sourcing ingredients, to logistics, all set for more dynamic outcomes. Their lip balms are a great place to start, because it’s nothing too complex for your skin but it’s still an important element you need in your routine. 

Why we love it: 

  • Brimming with ultra-hydrating ingredients
  • Feels silky smooth on lips
  • Contain (Castor) Seed Oil

Price: RM 50.00

Where to buy: Khlean Beauty

6. The Body Shop

The Body Shop is all about being authentic. As a result, its cruelty-free cosmetics are made entirely of vegetarian materials. Rest assure that all of their products are free from parabens, petrolatum, mineral oil, gluten, and carmine. It contains Community Trade products such as honey and marula oil, and it is never, ever tested on animals. If you have never tried their Tea Tree Oil before, it is time to start. You can use this product for acne treatment, sunburns, and itchy bug bites. Plus, the smell is refreshing. 

Why we love them: 

  • Perfect for oily and blemish-prone skin
  • Perfect for a daily use or to target blemishes on your face
  • Vegan

Price: RM 47.50

Where to buy: The Body Shop

7. Pixi Beauty 

Pixi has certified that it is free of animal cruelty. They, as well as their suppliers and any third parties, do not test finished goods or ingredients on animals. They also do not sell their products in jurisdictions where animal testing is required by law. This PIXI Overnight Retinol Oil is the saviour to your skin problems, no matter your type—combo, ace prone, sensitive or dry. Their retinol will totally help to restore skin plumpness and improve the appearance of your complexion. Literally your skin will thank you for this.

Why we love it: 

  • Smoothing night oil.
  • Suitable for all skin types (work best for combination skin)
  • Paraben-free

Price: RM 120.00

Where To Buy: Sephora

8. The Mineraw

The Mineraw was inspired by a connection to the soil, a love of nature, and a fascination with the human body. They are dedicated to offering skin-safe beauty products that are simple, mild, and clean. All items are tested on friends and family members, never on animals. Their conscious products are vegan, cruelty-free, and are appropriate for all skin types, concerns, and gender. Synthetic scents, artificial colourants, parabens, phthalates, sulphates, alcohols, silicones, mineral oils, and talc are all absent from their product.

Why we love it: 

  • Free from synthetic fragrances, artificial colorants, parabens, phthalates
  • Gentle and safe for the skin
  • All products are safely tested on friends and family, never on animals

Price: N/A

Where To Buy: The Mineraw

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