MAC Cosmetics Vegan

About Vegan Cosmetics

Vegan cosmetics are makeup and beauty products that contain absolutely no ingredient derived from any animal source, including animal byproducts. Unfortunately, sometimes lists of vegan cosmetics, especially on the Internet, are not really vegan at all - but are lists of beauty products that have not been tested on animals.

While obviously buying beauty products that have not been tested on animals is a big concern for many women, this alone doesn't meet the needs of women who are looking for vegan products. It's important to know what ingredients are not vegan, so check the ingredient lists to be sure the beauty product you are purchasing is safe.

Paula Beguon, the Cosmetic Cop, has an incredibly extensive list of cosmetic ingredients listed on her website, so you can check specific ingredients and find out exactly what they are consist or and are derived from. Other popular resources include Animal Ingredients A-Z and A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients.

Some common ingredients found in cosmetics that are not vegan include:

• Carmine or cochineal - Coloring made from ground insect.
• Lanolin - Moisturizing agent derived from sheep.
• Beeswax/pollen/bee products
• Lard
• Tallow
• Many waxes
• Lactose/ lactalbumin
• Milk/Whey products
• Silk derivative
• Propolis
• Elastin (from cows)
• Hyaluronic acid

Some ingredients, such as glycerin, can be derived from plant or animal sources, so many vegan women prefer to buy cosmetics from companies that specifically affirm their use of only vegan ingredients. Alternatively, you can often contact a specific company and request lists of vegan products or complete ingredient information.

Are MAC Cosmetics Vegan?

MAC is a very popular brand of cosmetics; their products offer high quality and an incredible range of colors. From their versatile pigment pots to their range of pressed powder shades, its easy to see why women have a weakness for MAC. Indeed, many women love the gorgeous shades and range of products, and this company is often listed as vegan. But is this true?

The short answer is no - MAC is not a vegan company - however, they do have a number of cosmetics that are vegan. MAC also supports the environment, offering a recycling program called Back 2 MAC, has a large humanitarian effort in the fight against HIV/AIDs, and does not test any of their products on animals.

Which MAC Makeup Items are Vegan

The most common ingredients that MAC uses that are non-vegan include lanolin, beeswax, and carmine. Unfortunately, the popular MAC eye kohl is made with beeswax, although some colors are carmine-free. However, many colors of their eye makeup and several other products do not contain carmine or other animal byproducts, including:

• Brow pencils, some colors
• Brow finisher, some colors
• Eye pencils, some colors, including glitter
• Eye shadows, some colors
• Cream colour base, some colors
• Some foundation products, including full coverage
• Some concealors
• Synthetic makeup brushes
• Powder blush and blushcreme, some colors
• Some matte lipstick colors
• MAC Pro Lash Mascara

To obtain a full list of the vegan safe products, including lists of products that do not contain carmine, lanolin, or beeswax, simply contact the MAC customer service department at 1-800-387-670, (and choose option #7) - LoveToKnow received the product list within approximately one hour of contacting the company, but since the lists are designed for individual use only we are unable to publish it here. The representative will send a list free of charge by email or snail mail. You can also request a list of Mac cosmetics vegan by filling out their contact form at MAC customer service. Or visit a MAC makeup store near you.

Other Vegan Cosmetic Options

For MAC makeup lovers, there are several other companies whose products may be comparable in quality and color selection (and vegan!). These include:

• Urban Decay: A cruelty free cosmetic company with a certified vegan product list.
• Vegan Essentials Cosmetics
• Origins: An organic company, they offer a variety of vegan makeup products. (Contact customer service for a full list).
• Ecco Bella Vegan Makeup
• Sevi Cosmetics: Earth and vegan-friendly beauty care.