10 Best Cruelty-Free Drugstore Makeup (2024), As Per A MUA
Because your beauty should not come at the cost of the safety of other beings.
Savanah Norman is a full time professional makeup artist with six years of experience in the field. She originally started college studying fashion design but took a leap of faith to start accepting clients when she knew makeup was her passion. Since 2017, she has put her whole heart into becoming a better artist and business owner.
Read full bio of Savanah Norman
Experience: 3 yearsThe day Priyam learned that having strong opinions about everyday products can be a full-fledged writing career was the greatest day of her life. Partially driven by a passion for everything timeless, she likes to explore and recommend styles and makeup products that will endure the test of trends.
Read full bio of Priyam Gupta
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 3 yearsAsmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.
Read full bio of Asmita De
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Green and clean beauty is creating a lot of buzz these days. However, choosing cruelty-free makeup products is not just about supporting and protecting your furry friends but also about making a conscious and ethical choice. Nowadays, various brands have come up with the best cruelty-free makeup products. Whether it is skin care or makeup products that you choose to buy, it is about showing your gesture of support against animal testing.
You may have heard about ethical and clean beauty, but previously that was limited only to high-end luxury brands that would cost a bomb. The good news is, nowadays, many drugstore brands are making this conscious effort and making cruelty-free products accessible to people.
However, one thing that requires careful attention is that many brands throw the label of “cruelty-free” carefree. This means that they might not be very honest about the claims they make. Therefore, you should go ahead and do some research on your part to assess that the makeup product is authentically cruelty-free. For example, check whether the product is PETA-certified or has the Leaping Bunny seal on the label. Keep reading to learn about the 10 best cruelty-free makeup products from different cruelty-free brands!
In This Article
10 Best Cruelty-Free Drugstore Makeup For The Conscious Consumer
1. Best Cruelty-Free:essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
Makeup enthusiasts from all over the world have been raving about this affordable cruelty-free makeup product from essence cosmetics, and with good reason. Suppose you are looking for a mascara that separates your lashes while providing an extra definition. In that case, you add this to your beauty routine. All you need is one or two swipes, and you can glam up any look without any falsies! The mascara brush comes in a conic shape and has fiber bristles that help define and lengthen the lashes; the tapered cone shape ensures that you don’t get any annoying clumps or spider lashes. The cruelty-free formula is long-lasting, so you don’t have to worry about flakes or fade all through the day. This mascara provides tremendous volume to short and droopy lashes, which means you won’t stop looking at yourself in the mirror.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- No flakiness
- Doesn’t fade
- Defines and lengthens lashes
- Adds volumes
- Suitable for short and droopy eyelashes
Cons
- It may not be suitable for people with dry eye syndrome
Pro TipPrep your eyelashes with primer before applying the mascara to make it long-lasting and enhancing.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 260,547 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
2. Best Affordable:NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil – Taupe
NYX is a well-known brand because of its affordable, cruelty-free makeup, and it is approved by beauty influencers and makeup artists all over the world. This Micro Brow Pencil is another feather in the brand’s cap, as it shapes, defines, and flawlessly fills in sparse eyebrows. The makeup artist-approved pencil has a skinny tip that helps with precision and draws fine lines that mimic natural brow hair. It also comes with a spoolie end that enables you to blend the eyebrow for the perfect arc. The expertly crafted creamy formula glides beautifully on your skin. It is available in 8 colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your natural color. In addition, the formula is not drying, and it can be used to create natural or dramatic, statement-making looks.
Pros
- Smooth and creamy formula
- Doesn’t flake off
- Pigmented
- Blends easily
- Wide range of colors to choose from
Cons
- The tip may break if too much pressure is applied
"I love how defined my eyebrows look after I fill them with this brow pencil. The product blends nicely on my brows and gives them a fuller appearance. The pigment stays in place for hours without smudging. It also resists sweat. The pencil comes with a spoolie that helps shape my brows."
Pro TipAlways select the eyebrow pencil shade one shade lighter than your actual eyebrow color, as, after blending, the color gets mixed with the oils and becomes darker.
3. Best Volumizing Formula:Elizabeth Mott It’s So Big But Better Volumizing Mascara
Ditch the usual mascara for the Elizabeth Mott It’s So Big But Better Volumizing Mascara. This mascara comes in a pack of three mini black tubing mascaras that are perfect to carry in your purse while on the go. Formulated with innovative K-beauty fiber technology, this mascara adheres to every lash and instantly adds a lengthening and volumizing effect to your lashes.
The no smudge, no flake, and no clumping formula works all day long and is easy to apply. It lengthens your lashes and curls them without weighing them down. The formula is infused with carnauba, beeswax, candelilla, and tribehenin which makes this lightweight formula potent for an all-day hold. According to reviews online, its smudge-proof feature makes it a favorite among people.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Lash extending formula
- Offers volume
- Great staying power
- Long-lasting hold
- Smudge-proof
- Water-resistant
- Clump-free formula
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"My lashes look luscious and voluminous after I swipe this mascara on them. The pigment curls my lashes and lengthens them. The applicator helps me coat my lashes evenly. The formula never clumps my lashes or causes flakiness. It is also compatible with my lash extensions."
4. Best Oil-Free:Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-In-1 Foundation + Concealer
You don’t have to clutter your makeup bag with different base products when this one provides all the features of a foundation and concealer in one bottle. For the ones who don’t want to struggle with multiple products, this 2-in-1 concealer foundation can be your one-stop solution. This little multi-tasker is perfect for covering any under-eye circles, blemishes, and redness. The formula glides on your skin and offers buildable coverage, which results in a flawless skin tone, it gives full coverage, and you can do the base as per the occasion and mood. The shade range is super diverse because you can choose from 45 shades to see which suits you the best. The product is oil-free, water-resistant, and long-lasting; the cruelty-free drugstore concealer dries down to provide a satin (semi-matte) finish. Also, the formula settles nicely on the skin as the day goes on, so you don’t have to worry about any cakiness or creased lines, and you can enjoy a dewy glow.
Savanah Norman, a professional makeup artist, says, “Make sure to apply a moisturizer and primer to help this foundation look more skin like and last longer!”
Pros
- Non-oily
- Lightweight
- Medium to heavy coverage
- Available in 45 shades
- Satin finish
- Does not cake or crease
- Medium-to-full coverage
Cons
- May need a primer to prevent oxidation
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 3,197 great reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Hypoallergenic:Honest Beauty Extreme Length Mascara + Lash Primer
Say hello to your new go-to mascara from the cruelty-free beauty brand Honest Beauty! This product offers all the benefits of a great quality mascara while protecting your lashes with its fabulous priming formula. If you have tiny lashes that stick out or droop down, this will give you a much-needed boost and definition. The primer formula does a great job of volumizing your lashes to twice the standard length. The coal-black mascara formula contains beeswax and cornstarch that defines each lash strand without clumping them; it is also hypoallergenic, so you can use the product on sensitive eyes without risking any allergic reactions. In addition, the fine bristles on the mascara brush ensure that each lash is covered with primer and is defined as well. The product has received many awards and positive reviews for its quality and enhanced features.
Pros
- Defining
- Volumizing and lengthening
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Double-sided brush
- Hypoallergenic
- Travel-friendly
- Easy to take off
Cons
- It may not be waterproof
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 2,771 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
6. Best For Sensitive Skin:Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage Foundation
When searching for drugstore makeup brands that are cruelty-free, you may want to look at this foundation because it provides amazing coverage. What makes this foundation unique is the dropper applicator that controls how much product you need. The formula is paraben and alcohol-free, making it safe for almost all skin types. It provides medium to high coverage and blends into the skin to create an airbrushed finish that evens complexions while hiding blemishes. This foundation is a must-have for people who experience adult acne and sensitive skin. You can let the foundation snob in you rest easy because this product will cover any acne scars and result in a glowy smooth look.
Pros
- Offers medium to high coverage
- Hides blemishes and redness
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Suitable for sensitive acne-prone skin
- Evens complexion
- Airbrushed finish
Cons
- Some may find that the shade range is limited
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 10,197 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
7. Best Waterproof:Gaya Wonders Vegan Mascara
Suppose you experience sensitive eyes or suffer from dry eyes syndrome. In that case, this mascara from the vegan makeup brand Gaya Cosmetics is an excellent addition to your makeup arsenal. This ophthalmologically tested formula is great for people who wear contact lenses, as well. It is free from any harmful chemicals or parabens and is waterproof, making it suitable for humid weather as well. The ultra-black color conditioning component ensures that each lash strand is defined and long throughout the day. The mascara wand is also responsible for building voluminous and thick lashes that look natural while making your eyes pop. The curved wand ensures that each strand is separated without looking like spider lashes or clumpy. The mascara goes on well and lifts droopy lashes without smudging or resulting in raccoon eyes.
Pros
- Conditioning
- Lengthening
- Volumizing
- Separates and defines the lashes
- Professional curved wand
- Long-lasting
- Sweat-proof
- Smooth application
- Ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- May not come off easily
8. Best Long-Lasting:Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara
Covergirl is that brand that has slowly and surely converted all its products into cruelty-free ones. This mascara is great for women who want length and volume for their lashes. Beauty gurus rave about this product because of its volumizing formula and brilliantly designed brush that leaves the lashes looking fluttery and feminine. If you want influencer-ready lashes, this product is a fantastic choice. The clean and vegan formula does not used animal-derived ingredients and is safe to use on sensitive eyes and people who wear contacts. This mascara has the makings of being your new favorite product because of the dark and rich pigment and long-lasting texture.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Dark and rich pigment
- Provides volume and length
- Suitable for sensitive eyes
- Short bristles effectively coat the lashes
Cons
- May not be quick drying
"This mascara coats my lashes evenly and lifts their look. The precise applicator separates my lashes and volumizes them. The pigment does not smudge on my lids or give me panda eyes. It also never clumps my lashes or dries them."
9. Best For Dry Skin:wet n wild Photo Focus Face Primer Dewy
This primer comes from a brand that has cruelty-free certification. It is perfect for people with dry or normal skin types, as it lets your makeup stay in place without making it look dull or cakey. The formula is infused with natural ingredients like vitamin E, which keeps your skin soft and hydrated when applying the base makeup. It is also infused with pearl pigments that result in dimension and a glowy look. This primer works best when applied after moisturizer and sunscreen, as it will prep your face for foundation or concealer. A little goes a long way with this product, so you can take a pea-sized amount to achieve a fresh and dewy look without looking greasy. This is your primer if you want something that does not mattify your skin and provides a natural finish.
Pros
- Contains pearl pigments
- Has vitamin E
- Dewy finish
- Suitable for dry or normal skin
- Comfortable
- Hydrating
Cons
- May not reduce the appearance of large pores
10. Best Lightweight:Catrice Cosmetics Liquid Camouflage High Coverage Concealer
This drugstore concealer is a cruelty-free cosmetic that has earned many brownie points from customers over recent years because of the waterproof and long-lasting formula. It provides medium to high coverage without looking cakey or clumpy. The lightweight consistency blends like a dream and is quite pigmented, so you can use it to cover acne scars, blemishes, imperfections, and any redness. The applicator allows you to apply the product wherever you want precisely and without any hassle. You can choose the perfect shade for you by selecting from 15 hues. Also, since it is free from oil or parabens, the concealer is pretty gentle on the skin and won’t clog your pores or cause any nasty allergic reactions.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Available in 15 shades
- Waterproof
- Precise flock applicator
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for combination or oily skin types
- Slightly light coverage
Now that you are aware of the top 10 cruelty-free drugstore makeup products available in the market, you need to know about some crucial components that you have to look for when choosing said products. Have a look at our buying guide to know more.
How To Purchase The Best Cruelty-Free Drugstore Makeup
- Quality
When looking for affordable cruelty-free makeup, you must look at the quality. This is an important factor because you wouldn’t want to invest in a product that doesn’t deliver on its promise and feels uncomfortable. Look for well-established brands; they don’t have to be very expensive but affordable enough to justify the good quality. Look for products that have safe and premium quality ingredients and are dermatologist-tested or expert-recommended to ensure that they are free from any chemicals or parabens. They are suitable for your skin type.
- Finish
Everyone prefers a certain type and finish when it comes to a makeup product. This can be matte, glossy, or dewy. While some like a creamy matte finish, others gravitate towards a satin finish. Whether you like glossy or shimmer finish, you must be familiar with the type that will suit your taste and lifestyle so that you can choose the one that is the best for you. Look for a finish that will make you look fresh throughout the day and does not make you look dull.
- Leaping bunny seal
As mentioned before, all cruelty-free products, whether skincare or cosmetics, have to display the leaping bunny seal as it is a sign that the product has not been tested on any animal. You can also look up PETA guidelines to know more about how you can find brands that are cruelty-free and follow ethical manufacturing practices.
Infographic: Ingredients To Look For In Cruelty-Free Drugstore Makeup
Whether it is a casual day or a special occasion, cruelty-free drugstore makeup glams you up while contributing to a better environment without burning a hole in your pocket. They are made with high quality ingredients to give you a stunning appearance that makes heads turn. Check out the infographic below to know which ingredients to look for in cruelty-free drugstore makeup to enhance your makeup.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Everybody should opt for cruelty-free makeup products. That way, we can ensure that animals are not being harmed or taken for cruel tests while these products are being made for us. Many drugstores keep cruelty-free makeup products that give great results. From mascaras to foundations and primers, you can get a variety of products that are long-lasting and enriched with natural formulas. You can try the essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara for long-lasting lashes that do not clump, the Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-In-1 Foundation + Concealer for your everyday natural no-makeup look, and the Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage Foundation for sensitive skin as it is paraben- and alcohol-free . These drugstore makeup products blend well, provide a seamless finish, and benefit every skin type. However, no matter your skin type, you should definitely steer clear of makeup products that might feel cakey on the skin or form creases on your face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I choose cruelty-free beauty products?
Besides the fact that cruelty-free beauty products do not harm innocent animals, they also save you from skin irritation, rashes, and other reactions that may result from using animal byproducts.
Are cruelty-free products better for the environment?
Absolutely! This is because cruelty-free products tend to be made from natural ingredients or have fewer chemicals in them.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Priyam Gupta, is a makeup enthusiast and loves to try different makeup products. However, she relies on high-quality makeup products that are safe for the skin. She conducted thorough research on the best cruelty-free drugstore makeup products. The products listed above are carefully curated based on quality and finish. Also, these products offer long-lasting results and are convenient to use.
Read full bio of Savanah Norman
Read full bio of Priyam Gupta
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Asmita De
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