In the ever-evolving world of cosmetics, the term “cruelty-free” gets thrown around a lot. However, savvy shoppers know that not all claims are created equal. If you want the gold standard of reassurance, you look for the Leaping Bunny logo.
Administered by Cruelty Free International, this certification is more than just a cute sticker; it requires brands to implement a supplier monitoring system, adhere to a strict fixed cut-off date, and open their books to independent audits.
As we move through 2026, many of our favourite household names have stepped up to meet these rigorous standards. Here are six standout beauty brands that are officially Leaping Bunny approved.
Glossier
Since its inception, Glossier has been the poster child for “effortless” beauty. While they’ve always claimed to be cruelty-free, their official Leaping Bunny certification solidified their status as an ethical heavyweight. Whether you’re a fan of the cult-classic Boy Brow or the dewy Futuredew serum, you can rest easy knowing that every step of their supply chain, from raw ingredients to the final pink bubble wrap, is free from animal testing.
REFY Beauty
A Leaping Bunny-approved brand that is praised for starting their company and continuing with their morals and values throughout their emergence into the market. They have curated a makeup and skincare line that is made up of natural ingredients; therefore, not only are they are cruelty free, but they are paraben-free in their predicts from lip gloss to face primer. They have been a huge beacon to look up to for most brands, which has led a lot of them to follow in their footsteps.
Milk Makeup
Milk Makeup has always been a “cool kid” in the beauty space, but their commitment to the planet is serious. They are 100% vegan and Leaping Bunny certified. By removing animal-derived ingredients like honey and beeswax from their formulas, they’ve set a high bar for “Clean at Sephora” brands. Their Hydro Grip Primer remains a bestseller, showing that plant-based, cruelty-free formulas can hold their own against any traditional competitor.
Drunk Elephant
Drunk Elephant revolutionised the “biocompatible” skincare movement, focusing on ingredients that skin can actually use. Despite being acquired by Shiseido (a larger parent company), Drunk Elephant has maintained its independent Leaping Bunny certification. This is a crucial distinction for many ethical shoppers who want to ensure that the specific brand they support remains committed to non-animal testing regardless of corporate ownership.
Hourglass Cosmetics
Luxury and ethics often feel like they’re at odds, but Hourglass Cosmetics proves they can coexist beautifully. As a high-end brand, they made a bold pledge to become 100% vegan by 2020 and have maintained their Leaping Bunny status throughout that transition. Their Ambient Lighting Powders are legendary, offering a sophisticated glow that feels even better knowing the brand actively supports the Nonhuman Rights Project.
The Body Shop
We can’t talk about cruelty-free beauty without mentioning the pioneers. The Body Shop was the first international beauty brand to campaign against animal testing in 1989. Decades later, they remain a pillar of the Leaping Bunny program. While they have recently navigated some corporate restructuring, their core values remain anchored in ethical sourcing and the “Forever Against Animal Testing” campaign.
Why Leaping Bunny Matters
When you choose a brand with this certification, you are voting with your wallet for a more compassionate industry. It’s about transparency. Many brands claim to be “cruelty-free” but still sell in mainland China (where animal testing has historically been a legal requirement for certain goods) or use ingredients tested by third-party suppliers. Leaping Bunny closes those loopholes.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to a cruelty-free routine doesn’t mean sacrificing the luxury or efficacy of your products. With powerhouses like Glossier and Hourglass leading the way, the future of beauty is looking a lot kinder.