Advantages of Cosmetic Animal Testing

Cosmetic companies who use animals for cosmetic testing justify it by claiming that the tests are done to protect consumers. There are countries who have passed regulations which require the preservatives and lotions to be tested before usage, but there is no law that specifically demands the testing of cosmetics on animals.

Here are the benefits that cosmetic companies believe arise from cosmetic animal testing:

• Protecting the health of humans – Companies claim that protecting the health and safety of humans is the reason for cosmetic testing on animals. The tests performed will confirm the safety of the products.
• Companies who participate in cosmetic testing have a competitive edge over companies who do not test their cosmetics.
• Companies feel that they are safeguarding the environment through cosmetic testing on animals.
• Companies feel that consumers are pressuring for safe and improved products.

Disadvantages of Cosmetic Animal Testing

Cosmetic testing on animals is a very controversial topic. There are scientists who see the benefits of testing on animals, but there are also scientists who see that testing cosmetics on animals is not necessary when there are alternative methods.

Here are the disadvantages of cosmetic animal testing:

• Numerous animals are experimented on and then killed after their use, while others are injured and will spend the remainder of their lives held in captivity.
• The tests causes severe allergic reactions to the animals.
• Cosmetic testing can lead to liver problems, swollen eyelids, ulceration, and bleeding.
• The animals endure inhumane treatment. They are restrained and in the case of the Draize Test, the eyelids of the rabbits are held back for at least 72 hours during the test.
• Animals have different distribution of fine blood vessels, so their skin does not react in the same way humans do; therefore, the results are not entirely reliable.
• Many consumers are opposed to using animals in cosmetic testing.
• Cosmetic testing on animals is expensive since animals must be fed, housed, cared for, and treated with some chemical substance.