Hi, I’m Kayla. I test makeup for a living, and for fun. My makeup bag is messy, honest, and full of e.l.f. So this question hits close: does e.l.f. test on animals?
Short answer: no. From what I’ve seen, used, and checked, e.l.f. stays cruelty-free. They’re also fully vegan. That means no beeswax, no carmine, no lanolin. Just makeup that skips animal stuff.
If you’re curious about how modern labs replace animal tests with in-vitro methods, check out this quick explainer from Invitroderm.
For an even deeper dive into e.l.f.’s cruelty-free policy, you can skim my full breakdown of e.l.f. and animal testing.
How I checked (and kept checking)
I don’t just trust the front of a box. I test. I read. I email people. You know what? I like proof.
- On my Power Grip Primer, there’s a tiny leaping bunny logo. Same with my Halo Glow Liquid Filter and Camo Concealer. The Wow Brow gel has it too. Some older stock at my local Target didn’t show it, but the new boxes do.
- I scan with the Leaping Bunny app in store. My scans for Big Mood Mascara and Putty Blush came back clear.
- I checked PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies list before holiday gift buying last year. e.l.f. was listed cruelty-free and vegan.
- I emailed e.l.f. support in 2023 and again in 2025. They said they don’t test finished products or ingredients on animals. They don’t ask others to do it either. They also said their suppliers have to follow the same rule. The replies felt plain and direct, not fluffy.
Small note: I once tried to buy e.l.f. while visiting family near Shanghai. Store staff told me to use their cross-border shop. Those orders ship from outside mainland China, which avoids animal tests. My cousin did it on her phone. The box that arrived looked the same as my U.S. one, bunny and all.
Real life use: how the products hold up
I don’t want “cruelty-free” to only live on a label. The stuff needs to work.
- Power Grip Primer: Grippy, clear, a little tacky. My base lasts through sweaty school pick-ups and long shoot days. No pilling with my sunscreen.
- Halo Glow Liquid Filter: Soft sheen, not glitter. I wear shade 3. I mix it with a drop of foundation when I’m dull from winter air.
- Hydrating Camo Concealer: Thick but bendy. I dab, wait five seconds, then blend. It covers late-night eye bags without cracking.
- Putty Blush in Bali: Creamy in the pan, powder-like on skin. I tap it on cheeks and lips. Quick “awake” face.
- Big Mood Mascara: Big brush, big lashes. Smudged once on a humid July day, but a dusting of powder under my eyes fixed it.
I’ve actually had a few readers tell me that once they perfected their quick five-minute face with these e.l.f. staples, they felt confident enough to dip back into the dating pool. If you’re feeling the same spark and want an easy, judgment-free way to meet new people for something light and spontaneous, you can explore this curated list of casual encounter personals—it’s a straightforward platform where you can connect with locals who appreciate honesty (and a flawless base) without the pressure of a long-term commitment.
But wait, any red flags?
I watch for them. Here’s what I’ve noticed:
- Old packaging: Some older boxes don’t show the bunny logo. The newer ones do. If you’re unsure, scan the barcode. Or check the brand page on your phone.
- Marketplace sellers: Third-party shops can be messy. I stick to big stores or the brand site. It keeps my nerves calm.
- Rule changes: Cosmetic laws shift. I set a calendar reminder to recheck their status each spring. It takes two minutes. Worth it.
Curious how other heritage brands compare? My hands-on report on Clinique’s approach to animal testing and deep look at Dior’s policies show how each stacks up next to e.l.f.
Why this matters to me
I grew up with a rescue cat named Milo. Sweet guy. I don’t want my lipstick tied to harm. I like when my good makeup also feels like a good choice. And if it’s under 15 bucks? Even better.
Also, vegan matters for me. My lips get weird with lanolin. e.l.f. skips it. My skin thanks me.
Quick guide if you’re shopping
- Look for the leaping bunny logo on the box.
- Scan with the Leaping Bunny app at the shelf.
- Check the PETA list if you’re planning a big haul.
- Email support if you want extra peace of mind. I do it more than I should, and they answer.
Makeup is only one slice of the self-care pie; I usually follow a marathon swatch session with a shoulder-saving massage. If you’re based in Bedford and want to check which local parlors offer the vibe (and cruelty-free oils) you prefer, Rubmaps Bedford is worth bookmarking—the site compiles honest user reviews, service menus, and operating hours so you can quickly choose a relaxing spot without any guesswork.
Final answer
No, e.l.f. doesn’t test on animals. I’ve checked logos, scanned products, read lists, and emailed the brand. I’ve used their stuff for years on my face, in real life, with real sweat and real errands. The makeup holds up. The message holds up.
If anything changes, I’ll update my notes and my stash. For now, my Power Grip stays in the front pocket of my bag. And I feel good wearing it.