Neutrogena has been a top name in beauty and skincare for years. Their products are available at your local drugstore and other major outlets. It is a famous cosmetics brand that is said to be cruelty-free.
However, there is some debate over whether this is the case. Some people claim that Neutrogena tests on animals, while others say they do not. So, is Neutrogena cruelty free? in this article, resTORbio will show you the result.
At A Glance on Neutrogena Products
- Finished products tested on animals: No
- Ingredients tested on animals: No
- Third-party animal testing: No
- Tested on animals where required by law: Yes
- Sold in mainland China: Yes
- Certifications: None (On PETA's do test list)
- Parent company: Johnson & Johnson
- Parent company status: NOT cruelty-free
About Neutrogena
Neutrogena, an American brand that sells various skincare, makeup, and hair care products, is Neutrogena. It was established in 1930 by Emmanuel Stolaroff, who used to be known as Natone. It has grown to be a major corporation in beauty and skincare, also owned by Johnson & Johnson.
Neutrogena Official Statement
Here is the statement I received when I reached out to ask about their animal testing policy:
"Thank you for contacting Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc., makers of Neutrogena®. We appreciate your interest in our company.
The Johnson & Johnson Family of Consumer Companies does not conduct testing of our cosmetic or personal care products on animals and we do not ask others to test on our behalf, except when testing is required by law or specific government regulation.
When it comes to the development of medicines, medical devices, and other regulated health products, where animal use is often required, our policies reflect the highest animal welfare standards and meet or exceed all applicable local and national laws and regulations."
And here is the statement as listed on their animal testing policy which can be found here:
"We want you to feel good about how we make Neutrogena products. You can only do that if you have the facts. The fact is, Neutrogena doesn’t conduct animal testing of our cosmetic products anywhere in the world, except in the rare situation where governments or laws require it.
At Neutrogena, we won’t ever compromise on the quality or safety of our products or stop seeking alternatives to animal testing."
Is Neutrogena Cruelty Free?
Neutrogena does not practice cruelty-free. Neutrogena pays for animal testing and permits products to be tested on animals if required by law. Neutrogena sells its products in China, where animal testing for cosmetics is required.
Johnson & Johnson also owns Neutrogena, a parent company that is not cruelty-free.
Is Neutrogena Vegan?
Neutrogena does not claim to be 100% vegan. Some of their products contain ingredients derived from animals, while others are vegan.
They cannot be called vegan until Neutrogena changes the formulations of all their products so that they have no ingredients derived directly from animals.
Is Neutrogena sold in China?
Neutrogena products were being sold in China via neutrogena.com.cn, I discovered.
Watson also sells Neutrogena products in-store.
Neutrogena has decided to sell products in China's mainland stores. They must consent to and pay the Chinese government for testing their products on animals.
While Neutrogena might not be performing these animal tests, they are willing to allow Chinese authorities to test their products with animals to ensure they sell in China.
Because China has strict animal testing laws, many cruelty-free brands refuse to sell in China. Neutrogena, however, refuses to follow the example of other cruelty-free brands and instead puts profits above the welfare of animals.
Is Neutrogena Animal Cruelty Free: FAQs
Is Neutrogena Organic?
Some products of Neutrogena are organic, while others are not. They aren't all technically organic. The Neutrogena Naturals range comprises products that are almost entirely organic. This line is organic because 94% of its ingredients are naturally derived.
Where is Neutrogena made?
Neutrogena can be found in the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany. These products are exported to other countries.
Is Neutrogena Paraben-Free?
Some Neutrogena products are paraben-free, while others are not. Before you make any purchases, be sure to read the label and look at the ingredient list.
Is Neutrogena Gluten-Free?
Neutrogena products are not all gluten-free. This is something you should be aware of. This can be done by looking at the label and ingredients list or calling Neutrogena's support line.
Are Neutrogena Phthalates-Free
All products in the Neutrogena Naturals range are free of phthalates. However, many of Neutrogena's other products contain phthalates. The Neutrogena Naturals range is the best option if you are sensitive to these ingredients or have concerns about them.
Is Neutrogena Non-Comedogenic?
Neutrogena products appear non-comedogenic, making them less likely to clog your pores. This is ideal for sensitive skin. However, it is crucial always to verify the label before buying anything.
Alternatives to Neutrogena that are cruelty-free
Are you looking to switch to cruelty-free brands? These cruelty-free alternatives are very similar to Neutrogena.
Skincare:
- Derma E - 100% VEGAN
- Yes to - SOME VEGAN OPTIONS
- Pacifica - 100% VEGAN
- Andalou Naturals - Some vegan options are available; please check labels
Makeup:
- ELF Cosmetics – 100% Vegan
- Milani - SOME VEGAN OPTIONS
- essence - SOME VEGAN OPTIONS
- NYX Cosmetics *OWNED TO L'OREAL
Is Neutrogena Vegan and Cruelty Free: Conclusion
After researching, it seems that Neutrogena is not cruelty-free and they just do tests on animals where required by law. Their price tag is not cheap, but it does offer effective products that help your skin. So, if you don't mind spending a little extra money, then by all means go for it.