For almost a century, cosmetic companies have tested their products on animals. But it’s an inhumane practice of questionable reliability, and countries around the world are beginning to recognize this. In 2023, Canada, Chile and Brazil all outlawed cosmetic testing on animals, as did the state of Oregon.

These developments notwithstanding, cosmetic testing on animals is still standard practice in the industry. This, even though there are more effective and humane alternatives to cosmetic animal testing out there. So why aren’t all brands using them?

Let’s take a look at what cosmetic animal testing is, why many cosmetic companies still use it — and the more humane paths forward for the industry.