The Ordinary is a famous and innovative skincare brand that has taken the skincare industry by storm with its affordable and effective products. It is continuously growing and offering clinically-tested solutions to maintain the highest standard of skincare. The question is, are the products vegan, and is The Ordinary cruelty free?
In recent years, a critical trend in the beauty industry has been the move towards cruelty-free products. This means that the products have no animal-derived ingredients and have not been tested on animals. Consumers are increasingly mindful of these issues and are demanding more ethical and sustainable products from the beauty industry.
In this guide, I will answer is The Ordinary cruelty free, vegan, and sustainable by examining its ingredient sourcing, testing policies, third-party certifications, parent company, and global market presence.
Through comparisons to other cruelty-free brands, this article helps you determine if The Ordinary is genuinely committed to cruelty-free practices.
What does cruelty-free mean?
Even if a company states that its products are “cruelty-free,” that does not necessarily guarantee it. That is because there is no concrete meaning to the term “cruelty-free.” It can have various interpretations.
Generally speaking, it implies that no animals have been used to test the ingredients, formulation, or completed product at any point in production.
You can be sure that the company, its suppliers, and any third parties have not tested their goods on animals by utilizing the cruelty-free Checklist.
Is The Ordinary cruelty free?
The Ordinary is cruelty-free. They have verified that they do not conduct animal tests on finished products or ingredients, nor do their suppliers or third-party sources. Additionally, they do not sell their products where animal testing is mandated by law.
The Ordinary’s Animal Testing Policy
After learning is The Ordinary cruelty free, you should know the truth behind its animal testing policy.
The Ordinary is a cruelty-free brand. According to their website, they have no involvement in animal testing, and they have been certified by Leaping Bunny to prove that their products have never been tested on animals in any manufacturing stage.
Nonetheless, their animal testing policy states that the products are not available in countries like China, which has a law that requires animal testing.
Is The Ordinary owned by a cruelty-free parent company?
In short, no. Estée Lauder owns The Ordinary, and they are not a cruelty-free brand. If you’d like to avoid brands that are part of a business that tests on animals, we advise against using The Ordinary. Estee Lauder Companies Inc. doesn’t subject animals to tests or ask anyone else to do so.
However, since Estee Lauder Companies Inc. selects to offer some of their brands to countries such as mainland China, where animal testing is a legal requirement, it can’t be considered cruelty-free.
Is The Ordinary sold in China?
No, The Ordinary has verified that they do not offer their products in retail stores in mainland China, which means they are not obligated to test on animals.
With the changes to China’s animal testing regulations, some cosmetics sold there may be exempt from animal testing in some situations. Nevertheless, if the conditions are not met, animal testing for most cosmetics sold in China will remain mandatory in 2023.
The Ordinary’s choice to not make their items accessible in countries that require animal testing reflects their strong opposition to animal testing. They are a company that puts a great emphasis on humane and moral practices.
Is The Ordinary vegan?
Yes, The Ordinary products are vegan and have received the vegan certification from PETA. This includes both the skincare and makeup collection.
Mind you: If a product does not state it is cruelty-free, vegan, or environmentally friendly, then take it as a sign that it isn’t.
Non-Vegan Ingredients To Avoid
Looking to go vegan with your beauty routine or lifestyle? Here’s a list of the most commonly used animal-derived ingredients that you should avoid:
- Lanolin
- Beeswax
- Collagen
- Keratin
- Gelatin
- Carmine
- Guanine
- Honey
- Silk
- Squalene
- Animal fats/oils
However, remember that some of these ingredients have vegan versions available. For instance, squalane can also be plant-derived instead of shark-derived.
Does The Ordinary have any noteworthy certifications?
Yes, The Ordinary is certified by PETA and Leaping Bunny.
PETA has a solid process to determine which items can get their cruelty-free approval. If a business meets its criteria, it can get a logo to demonstrate to consumers that it does not test its creations on animals.
The Leaping Bunny certification is even more stringent in its standards, so any company that can pass the bar can make sure their products are undeniably free from animal cruelty.
Is The Ordinary considered clean?
The Ordinary is not a clean beauty brand as they use ingredients like silicones, Cyclopentasiloxane, and PEG. The term “clean beauty” lacks regulation, so brands can label their products as such without meeting specific standards.
Generally, clean beauty products avoid harmful ingredients to human health and the environment. For me, clean beauty means products made without toxic components and with consideration for our bodies, animals, and the environment.
To sum up, a clean beauty brand avoids harmful ingredients, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it is vegan or cruelty-free.
Is The Ordinary sustainable?
The Ordinary is dedicated to sustainability and actively implements various initiatives. While they acknowledge that achieving perfection in sustainability is challenging, they are making significant efforts in this direction.
Their parent company strives to contribute to the environment in five areas: responsible packaging, addressing climate change, improved waste management, responsible sourcing and product lifecycle, and water conservation.
The Ordinary vs. Other Cruelty-Free Brands
The Ordinary is a famous cruelty-free skincare brand that offers a wide range of affordable skincare products with high-quality ingredients. It is known for its transparency, simple packaging, and science-based formulations.
Here is a comparison of The Ordinary with other popular cruelty-free skincare brands.
The Body Shop
The Body Shop is a famous brand that offers cruelty-free skincare products. They have a long-standing commitment to cruelty-free practices and have been certified by various animal welfare organizations.
Their products are typically more expensive than The Ordinary, but they offer a more comprehensive range of skincare products that target particular skin concerns.
Drunk Elephant
Drunk Elephant is another famous cruelty-free skincare brand known for its high-quality formulations. They use various natural and synthetic ingredients and are committed to sustainability.
Drunk Elephant products are typically more expensive than The Ordinary but offer more high-quality products.
Herbivore Botanicals
Herbivore Botanicals is a cruelty-free skincare brand that uses all-natural ingredients. They are committed to sustainability and have various skincare products for sensitive skin.
Herbivore Botanicals products are typically more expensive than The Ordinary, but their packaging and scents offer a more luxurious experience.
Pacifica
Pacifica is a budget-friendly cruelty-free skincare brand that offers a range of vegan products. They are committed to sustainability and provide a wide range of skincare products that target specific skin concerns.
Pacifica products are typically less expensive than The Ordinary and are a good option for those on a budget.
Overall, while many cruelty-free skincare brands are available, The Ordinary stands out for its affordable prices and science-based formulations. Its simple packaging and transparency make it a popular choice among those who want effective skincare without breaking the bank.
However, those looking for more specialized or luxurious skincare products may prefer brands such as The Body Shop, Drunk Elephant, Herbivore Botanicals, or Pacifica.
Similar Articles To Check
After reading Is The Ordinary cruelty free, here are other tutorials to learn about affordable skincare brands.
- 8 Best The Ordinary Products For Oily Skin: This guide lists 8 best The Ordinary products that are perfect for oily skin types.
- The Ordinary Skincare Routine For All Skin Types: This guide provides all details related to The Ordinary skincare routine.
- Is Vanicream cruelty-free: Know the truth behind Vanicream’s animal testing policy in this guide.
- Is Nivea cruelty-free: This guide provides complete information about the cruelty-free policies of the famous skincare brand Nivea.
- Is Estee Lauder cruelty-free: This guide reveals all the secrets of the famous skincare and cosmetic company – Estee Lauder.
- Is Clinique cruelty-free & Vegan: Learn the truth behind Clinique’s cruelty-free and vegan policy in this guide.
- Is Olaplex cruelty-free & Vegan: Olaplex is a famous haircare brand. Discover all the secrets behind this brand in this cruelty-free guide.
Hopefully, now you know the answer to the question: Is The Ordinary cruelty free and vegan? Please read the above articles to learn about the products and ingredients of famous brands to make a good decision about your skincare routine.
Wrapping Up
So, is The Ordinary cruelty free? Yes, The Ordinary is cruelty-free and vegan, as it doesn’t test on animals or include animal-derived ingredients. It is not sold in China or countries where animal testing is compulsory. It’s essential to know that the parent company, Estee Lauder Companies Inc., does not adhere to cruelty-free practices.
PETA and Leaping Bunning have certified the cruelty-free status of this brand. While many cruelty-free skincare brands like The Body Shop and Pacifica are available, The Ordinary stands out for their affordable prices and science-based formulations.
The Ordinary is for you if you want to use an affordable cruelty-free brand. Use The Ordinary products and let me know your thoughts in the comment section. Happy Shopping!
FAQs
What is The Ordinary?
The Ordinary offers top-notch skin care products designed to meet various needs, all at an affordable price – a great deal compared to mid-level and high-end brands.
Is The Ordinary Fragrance-Free?
The Ordinary is not entirely fragrance-free.
Is The Ordinary Paraben-Free?
The Ordinary is paraben-free.
Are The Ordinary Products Gluten-Free?
The Ordinary offers gluten-free products but does not declare itself an entirely gluten-free company. To verify if a product is gluten-free, visit their website and check the specifications section for details like gluten-free, nut-free, oil-free, etc.