Insects, animals and fish, all contribute to your make-up box. An entire animal is killed for a cetain ingredient found in a corner of its body.

Fish scales are used to add shimmer in lipstick and nail polish. They are sometimes subtituted with snails that are crushed to death.

Cholestrol present in animal fat is a common ingredient in lipsticks and creams.

A common assumtion is that synthetic colours are used to add colour to cosmetics such as blush and lipsticks. However, the colour actually comes from pigments found in various animals. Pigment is a substance that produces colour in animal tissue.

Similarly, fats, fatty acids, animal proteins and oil from shark liver are used in cosmetics.

Alternatives

Organic Cosmetics can also be made using natural ingredients in place of animal ones. Simple

ingredients such as beet juice, carrot, saffron, etc can replace pigments from animals, which are used for colour.

Sunflower oil, bitter almond oil and safflower (type of flower) oil can be used instead of fatty acids.

Materials such as mica, rayon and sythetic pearls can add shine to lipsticks and nail polish. So why kill fish for their scales?

Natural Options

Oriflame, Avon, Forever Living and Body Shop are cosmetic brands known for not using any dead animal content in their cosmetics. Their products are not tested on aninmals either. These brands have been recognised by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals(PETA).

These cosmetics include high levels of natural ingredients. Also plants like Aloe Vera with its medical properties are a vital ingredient in their products. Organic beeswax, which is obtained from bee hives, is included in lipstick and skin creams.

These cosmetics are made keeping in mind not only the beauty aspect but also the health factor. Herbal products are gentle on the skin and safe to be worn on a daily basis.

Many high-end cosmetic brands such as Revlon, Bobbi Brown and Clarins too have a range of products, which are free from dead animal ingredients. These too are certified by PETA.

Whether you are an animal lover or simply following the trend, herbal cosmetics are here to stay. So the next time you go shopping, think twice before picking up any cosmetic off the shelf. The price may include an animal’s life.