21 Cruelty-Free Black-Owned Beauty Brands We Love

Getty Images, Emma Innocenti
There’s been a lot of buzz around CoverGirl now being the largest beauty brand to go cruelty-free. While some beauty enthusiasts are thinking, “it’s about time,” others are saying, “been there, done that.” Before we dive into the black-owned beauty brands that have cruelty-free products, let’s dissect the actual term. Back in the day, beauty brands tested their items on various animals to see how they’d react to the products. Different formulas could cause allergic reactions or skin conditions that would be harmful to humans. Thus, brands would test the safety of their products on animals before marketing them to people.
Over the years, retailers became more conscious of animal cruelty and decided to find other means of testing their products. When a brand labels themselves cruelty-free, it means no animals were used while testing their products.
Eco-friendly, cruelty-free makeup is definitely the way to go. Beauty shouldn’t have a negative impact on the environment and animals. If you’re looking for black-owned brands that harbor the same values, we’ve got you covered. Check out 21 beauty brands that are cruelty-free.
Which brands are your favorite?! Tell us in the comment section.
Fenty Beauty
Although Fenty Beauty is just one year old, it has taken the beauty industry to another level with its diverse foundation collection. In addition to being inclusive, the brand prides itself on being cruelty-free.
Black Opal
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Around since 1994, Black Opal Cosmetics has created award-winning, cruelty-free products for women of color.
The Lip Bar
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The Lip Bar makes some of the most vibrant, bold lipsticks that are long-lasting, cruelty-free and chemical-free.
Colored Raine
Colored Raine is an eco-friendly brand that is proudly certified by PETA. Their website assures that the bold, highly-pigmented products are completely safe for your skin.
Shea Moisture
Shea Moisture is known for their extensive haircare products but did you know they carry cruelty-free makeup products as well? Find foundations, lipsticks and eyeshadows in addition to a long list of skincare products.
Lamik Beauty
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The self-proclaimed “eco-chic” company does not use or test their products on animals. They’re so eco-friendly that their packaging is recyclable and reusable.
Plain Jane Beauty
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Plain Jane Beauty is specifically for the woman who want “safe and non-toxic cosmetics that match their lifestyle.” If you’re a low maintenance woman who enjoys organic makeup, Plain Jane Beauty is for you!
Iman Cosmetics
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Iman Cosmetics launched in 1994 with the goal of introducing diverse shades in the beauty industry. Their products are completely cruelty-free.
Foxie Cosmetics
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Foxie Cosmetics has an extensive list of products that range from cruelty-free skincare to fragrances.
Blac Mineral Cosmetics
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Blac Minerals Cosmetics is an all-natural makeup brand for women of color. Their products are cruelty and chemical-free.
Ayele & Co
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Ayele & Co recognize the importance of good skincare products. With the knowledge from dermatologist and herbalist, the brand created a series of cruelty-free products that can be used on all skin types.
Beauty Bakerie
View this post on InstagramWhen you’re Cake Mix Foundation Shade #7 soooo beautiful @shantaniabeckford
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Beauty Bakerie’s CEO went paraben-free during her battle with breast cancer. She also made sure the brand was cruelty-free.
Luv and Company
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Luv and Company has a wide focus on producing natural products for women of color. Their eco-friendly, cruelty-free products are devoted to helping women find their foundation shade.
Danessa Myricks Beauty
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From lashes to highlighters, Danessa Myricks has an extensive cosmetics line of cruelty-free products.
Kami Cosmetics
Kami Cosmetics offers beautiful, cruelty-free lipsticks, lipglosses and eyeshadows for the “sophisticated, chic, and bold woman.”
Spectrum Collections
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Spectrum Collections offer both cruelty-free and vegan products.
Gold Label Cosmetics
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Gold Label Cosmetics is a cruelty-free, paraben-free color cosmetics company for women who love makeup.
Juvia’s Place
Juvia’s place features bold, highly-pigmented colors that are cruelty-free. If you love color, you won’t be disappointed with this eco-friendly brand.
Laws of Nature Cosmetics
Law of Nature Cosmetics launched in 2015 in efforts to provide women of color with cruelty-free, toxic-free foundation.
Baabs Beauty
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Baabs Beauty offers hypoallergenic, cruelty-free products that promise bold, high-pigmented colors with a long wear.
Bee-Q-Box
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Bee-Q-Box’s funky aesthetic is perfect for the girl who loves a little sparkle. The cruelty-free collection of setting spray, highlighter and glitter palette is bold and fun.