Ingredients
There are many different animal ingredients used in a wide variety of products. Here are just a few of the things you may be using inadvertently: Lipsticks may contain lanolin (a grease derived from wool) or beeswax. Shellac (crushed insects) may be used in nail varnish. Civet (from anal pouch of civet cat), musk (from male musk deer), castoreum (anal sex gland of the beaver) and ambergris (whale excretion) may be used in perfumes. Chitin (from insects and crustacea) and keratin (protein from hair, horn, hoof and feathers) may be used in shampoos, conditioners and skin care products. Tallow (hard animal fat) is commonly used in soaps. Gelatine (from animal bones, skin and hide), elastin (from meat), squalene (from liver of shark), urea (waste nitrogen), honey (bee food) or propolis (bee glue) may be used in the general production of toiletries and cosmetics.
For information on animal-free alternatives, visit our trademark section, where you'll find a wide range of products, or have a look in the Animal Free Shopper, which has a 50 page section listing hundreds of vegan toiletries and cosmetics.