Aquaphor’s healing ointments have been trusted family favorites for generations. But it seems like this heritage brand has not moved with the times. While going vegan would mean changing its classic formula – why can’t it go cruelty-free?
Aquaphoris not cruelty-free. Itdistributes its self care products where animal testing is required by law.Aquaphordoes not have products free of animal-derived ingredients. For this reason, it is not considered a vegan brand.
While Aquaphor was first developed in 1925 by Beiersdorf Inc. (almost 100 years ago) – it only started selling directly to customers in the 1980s.
Aquaphor products are popular because of their healing properties.
Its classic formula creates a protective layer on the skin without stopping oxygen flow. This means the formula is safe to apply on nicks, cuts, scars, and cracked skin.
Among its main ingredients are petrolatum, mineral oil, glycerin, and one animal-derived component… but more on that later.
We just can’t understand why the brand isn’t cruelty-free.
Table Of Contents
1
Is Aquaphor Cruelty-Free and Vegan?
1.1
Aquaphor is NOT Cruelty-Free
1.2
Aquaphor is Not Vegan
1.3
Animal Testing Policy and History
1.4
Certification
1.5
Is Aquaphor Sold Where Animal Testing is Required By Law?
2
What Aquaphor Products Are Vegan?
3
Vegan Alternatives to Aquaphor
4
Is Aquaphor Natural and Organic?
4.1
Clean vs. Natural Ingredients
4.2
Does Aquaphor Use Safe Ingredients?
4.3
Are Cruelty-Free Ingredients Safe?
5
Is Aquaphor Sustainable and Ethical?
6
Final Thoughts
Is Aquaphor Cruelty-Free and Vegan?
Aquaphor is NOT Cruelty-Free
It does not:
- Test any of its products or ingredients on animals; or
- Purchase any ingredients tested on animals within its supply chain.
However, it does:
- Distributeits products to any countries that require animal testing by law.
Aquaphor states that they do not test ingredients or their final products on animals. But no genuinely cruelty-free company or brand would sell products in countries where animal testing is required by law.
Aquaphor does!
Aquaphor is also owned by Beiersdorf – a company that sells to countries where animal testing is mandatory.
This brings us to the next point:
Aquaphor is Not Vegan
This is a bit of an unfortunate issue.
Aquaphor does not claim to have any vegan ranges. And it would be hard to consider any products free of animal-derived ingredients as “vegan” because it’s not 100% cruelty-free.
The few animal-derived ingredients Aquaphor claims to use are:
- Honey & beeswax – these ingredients pose many health benefits to your skin and wellbeing. They have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and are loaded with essential vitamins.
Just because beeswax isn't vegan, it doesn't mean it can't be cruelty-free. Find out more here: Can Beeswax Be Cruelty-Free?
- Lanolin – this ingredient, like honey and beeswax, is used in skincare and cosmetics because it is incredibly hydrating. It is basically the waxy oil that comes from sheep wool. Lanolin can be cruelty-free – follow this link for more details.
If you're interested in which products are vegan or finding vegan brand alternatives – keep reading or click on this link: Aquaphor's vegan products.
Animal Testing Policy and History
Oh, you want an animal testing policy?
Unfortunately, you’re not going to get one from Aquaphor.
The brand is clear that it conducts animal testing when required by law and that it does ship to countries like China.
Further than that, they don’t publicly share their stance on cruelty-free personal care at all.
We reached out to them more than once so they could clarify but received no response.
Cruelty-Free Status in 2022
Aquaphor has no official statement regarding its cruelty-free policies and vegan products available on its website. The best we can share is this animal testing statement from Beiersdorf:
Unfortunately, animal testing on cosmetics is only required by law on products entering mainland China.
Stating that they do not conduct any animal testing where “legally possible” makes it seem like animal testing is necessary for some instances.
This is not true. Only products entering mainland China must be animal tested – the brand could choose not to sell in that region.
By choosing to sell cosmetics in mainland China, Aquaphor allows animal testing to take place solely for profit.
Certification
Aquaphor has no cruelty-free certification. As it would be nice to see cruelty-free certification – it cannot happen as long as the brand continues with its current animal-testing policies.
No cruelty-free organization would promote a product that distributes its products to any country that requires animal testing by law.
If a brand wants to receive the ultimate, globally recognized certification from Leaping Bunny, they need to adhere to the following strict criteria:
- No animal testing is conducted on the ingredients, formulas, or final products they sell.
- No animal testing is conducted by the brand suppliers or on their ingredients or formulas.
- No animal testing is done by someone else that the company itself paid for.
- Any other form of testing (beyond ingredient and consumer safety), such as worker safety and environmental health, are considered and evaluated.
If you see a bunny stamp on the back of your product bottle – that's an excellent sign. But don't let the image itself fool you. A lot of brands are using fake logos to deceive consumers.
Do your homework and see which products are genuinely cruelty-free first. This article will help you: Which Cruelty-Free Logos Can You Trust?
Is Aquaphor Sold Where Animal Testing is Required By Law?
Aquaphor distributes its products in China, where animal testing on cosmetics is required as products arrive at the border.
China has a shocking track record. It is the country with the most animal testing globally, with over 20 million animals used per year.
However, if you live in China or are concerned about its cruel beauty policies, there are a couple of loopholes.
Here's how to find cruelty-free cosmetics in China: Are Cosmetics Made in China Cruelty-Free?
What Aquaphor Products Are Vegan?
Aquaphor doesn’t market or clearly indicate any of its ranges or products as vegan.
Because the brand is not 100% cruelty-free, we wouldn’t consider any products accidentally free of animal-derived ingredients as vegan.
The biggest issue is that most of its products are formulated with beeswax and lanolin.
You can find a complete list of Aquaphor's products onits website. Otherwise, read on for vegan alternatives.
Vegan Alternatives to Aquaphor
If you are vegan or are a strong advocate of cruelty-free personal care – Aquaphor is not the right brand for you.
Luckily, there are many alternatives you can find that are certified cruelty-free and vegan to choose from.
Here are some time-honored body care brands within the same price range that are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
- Acure
- Derma E
- Simple Skincare
- Love Beauty and Planet
- Living Clean
- Nature’s Gate
Is Aquaphor Natural and Organic?
Aquaphor claims to use safe, simple, and clean ingredients. However, it is not considered natural or organic and does not m market itself as such.
Clean vs. Natural Ingredients
The term "natural" isnot regulated for cosmetics and skincare. In other words, it doesn't hold one specific meaning.
Usually, it means a product is free of certain more toxic synthetic ingredients, including parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and more. But people also interpret "natural" to mean ingredients of immediate plant origin.
Here's the thing: "natural" is not necessarily good. Just because an ingredient is natural (take olive oil, for example) doesn't mean you should rub it on your skin and sit in the sun to fry yourself like a chicken breast!
All products use a certain amount of synthetic ingredients in their formulas. Aquaphor is no exception – but it does choose to use better or clean synthetics.
If a synthetic ingredient is "clean," it means it is safe and non-toxic for us. Its purpose is to preserve the stability of a beauty formulation.
Does Aquaphor Use Safe Ingredients?
Skin Safe shows Aquaphor has a 91- 100% allergen-free ranking across 38 products.
Many of their products are free of allergens such as common preservatives, parabens, topical antibiotics, coconut, MCI/CI, nickel, gluten, dye, soy, Propylene Glycol, and irritants.
Reading the ingredient list is crucial because Aquaphor is not 100% hypoallergenic or non-comedogenic, and they do not claim to be.
However, certain products are specifically for these concerns, so make sure you buy what your skin needs.
It's also important to note that not all common allergens are harmful ingredients overall. A typical example is lanolin.
The EU/UK Have Stricter Ingredient Regulations
We don’t want to scare you, but you HAVE to read up on any product’s ingredient list before you make a purchase – especially if you live within the United States. The reason why will shock you.
The FDA has only banned or restricted 11 harmful chemicals from cosmetics within the country. Europe and the UK, on the other hand, have banned 1,328!
For good measure, here are some of the ingredients you really want to avoid with skincare:
- Ethoxylated ingredients (PPG, PEG, and polysorbate)
- Ethanolamine compounds (DEA, MEA, and TEA)
- Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, aka teflon®)
- Propylene glycol (pg) & butylene glycol
- Polyacrylamide
- DMDM Hydantoin
- Phthalates
- Triclosan
- Formaldehyde
Are Cruelty-Free Ingredients Safe?
If you’re worried about how safe it is to use cosmetics not tested on animals – please relax and take a sigh of relief.
There is no reason why cruelty-free products shouldn’t be as safe as anything tested on animals.
Not only is it easy to test ingredients without using animals altogether, but there are so many pre-approved ingredients you can use to make cosmetics that there is no need.
If you’re interested, here’s more on the subject: Are Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Safe?
Is Aquaphor Sustainable and Ethical?
Aquaphor does not show any sustainability and ethical initiatives on its brand website. However, it does follow its parent company Beiersdorph’s company values.
All of the houses’ brands need to adhere to the following strict criteria:
- Help create environmentally sustainable products.
- Focus on lessening the impact it has on the planet.
- Protect the human rights of people and limit corruption.
It's no secret that the world has a huge waste problem, and cosmetic brands only make it worse by using unsustainable packaging and harmful ingredients.
Currently, Beiersdorf is taking environmental action in these ways:
- Sourcing certain ingredients for its brands ethically.
- Being CPS certified “Climate A List Company.”
- Using some sustainable packaging.
- Using 100% green electricity in headquarters and at the manufacturing plants.
- Using renewable energy in its EU manufacturing plants.
- Being a founding member of “The Renewable Carbon Initiative.”
- Supporting causes that empower girls and women.
- Their help is projected to reach 300,000+ people by 2023.
Beiersdorf sustainable goals include:
- Being a climate-neutral operation by 2030.
- Producing 30% less greenhouse gas emission in some parts of its operation by 2025.
- Reducing 50% of its fossil-based virgin plastic by 2025.
- Reducing 30% of its recycled plastic in packaging by 2025.
- Ensuring all its packaging is refillable, recyclable, or recycled by 2025.
- Having a 30% waste reduction in production facilities by 2025.
- Ensuring all its key renewable ingredients are sustainably sourced by 2025.
- Ensuring its main ingredients are sourced without deforestation by 2025 (paper, soy, palm oil).
- Having biodegradable formulas in the EU by 2025.
- Reducing water use in manufacturing by 25% by 2025.
We love all these initiatives but think they’re optimistic. Don’t worry we want to keep an open mind and see what Beiersdorf achieves in the next three years!
Unfortunately, we don’t know how much of their current initiatives or goals apply to Aquaphor.
Final Thoughts
Aquaphor is a well-developed body care brand loved by people because of its safe formulas. Even the most sensitive skin issues can handle their healing ointment.
We appreciate that its parent company has a certain amount of sustainability goals – but the brand's openness about its ethics has a long way to go.
Firstly, the fact that Aquaphor is not cruelty-free means it takes a step in the wrong direction.
As much as it claims to be against animal testing – the brand chooses to distribute to China, which is a direct conflict of interest.
They also do not cater to people who want purely plant-based products, which isn’t ideal either.
Finally, Aquaphor doesn’t actively share or speak about any sustainable initiatives it's invested in.
Yes, there are certain things it is expected to follow as a part of Beiersdorf, but that doesn’t show an active effort on the brand’s behalf.
We hope to see a change in all the issues we’ve encountered, but it is unlikely right now.
As consumers, it is up to us to stand for what we will and won't accept from our cosmetics. This is something we cannot accept.
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FAQs
Is aquaphor vegan and cruelty-free? ›
Aquaphor is NOT Cruelty-Free. Aquaphor engages in animal testing by allowing its products to be animal-tested. Aquaphor is also owned by Beiersdorf, a parent corporation that does engage in animal testing.
Does aquaphor test on animals 2023? ›No, Eucerin Aquafor is not cruelty-free. This is because they either use third party testers, or they sell in countries where animal testing is required by law to test on animals if the company intends on selling its product there.
Why is aquaphor not vegan? ›Aquaphor isn't vegan for a simple reason— it contains animal-based ingredients. In fact, Aquaphor contains lanolin, which is a yellow greasy substance made from secretions (sebum) from the skin glands of sheep to condition their wool. Put simply, it is an animal-based ingredient harvested from shorn wool.
Is aquaphor lotion cruelty-free? ›Aquaphor is not cruelty-free. They may test on animals, either themselves, through their suppliers, or through a third party.
What is a cruelty-free vegan Vaseline alternative? ›Vegaline, a 100% natural as well as vegan alternative to "Pure" Petroleum Jelly, is made with simple, natural and certified organic ingredients - super nourishing and quick absorbing safflower oil and botanical soy and coconut wax.
What is the best vegan Aquaphor alternative? ›Pleni Barrier Balm | $15.99
The only vegan-friendly pick on our list, this balm is a fantastic Aquaphor alternative / Vaseline substitute for babies, cheeks, hands, lips and dry patches. This formula is THACK and gets the job done.
- Beeswax.
- Candelilla wax.
- Carnauba wax.
- Castor seed oil.
- Cocoa butter.
- Jojoba oil (which is technically a liquid wax)
- Lanolin (wool wax)
- Mango butter.
Sadly we found out the answer to the question “is CeraVe cruelty-free?” and the answer is no, CeraVe is not cruelty-free. CeraVe is sold in China and is not entirely vegan, but they're fragrance-free, almost completely non-comedogenic, and offer paraben-free products.
Is Aquaphor the same as Vaseline? ›Vaseline contains 100 percent petroleum jelly, while Aquaphor includes other ingredients like mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, glycerin, and bisabolol. Both can be used on lips and skin, as wound healers, and as makeup removers or cuticle softeners.
Why is Aquaphor not good? ›It's uncommon for people to experience negative reactions to Aquaphor and other petrolatum products. But in rare cases , Aquaphor is known to cause an allergic reaction that can cause a rash.
Why does everyone love Aquaphor? ›
Aquaphor Healing Ointment has quickly become one of the most popular and available skin products in today's market. With its thick ointment consistency it can help heal and protect dry or cracked skin, minor cuts and burns, skin irritations, and even chapped lips, just to name a few.
Is there a vegan Vaseline? ›There are a huge range of natural plant oils that can be used instead of Vaseline. Depending what you want it for, unrefined coconut oil, shea butter, jojoba oil, extra virgin olive oil, mustard oil and cocoa butter can all be used.
Why is Cetaphil not cruelty-free? ›Cetaphil is not cruelty-free.
Cetaphil states that they do not test their products or ingredients used on animals at any stage of their product innovation, development, or manufacturing processes. Nevertheless, they pay others to do these tests when required by law. This makes them not cruelty-free.
Aveeno is NOT Cruelty-Free. Aveeno engages in animal testing by allowing its products to be animal-tested. Aveeno is also owned by Johnson & Johnson, a parent corporation that does engage in animal testing.
Why isn t Vaseline cruelty-free? ›Vaseline is owned by Unilever, a company that tests on animals. Not only is Vaseline not cruelty-free but neither is their parent company.
What is the difference between vegan and cruelty-free skincare? ›Cruelty-free means that the product was developed without any tests on animals, while vegan means that the product does not include any animal-derived ingredients.
Which is better Eucerin or Aquaphor? ›Both can be beneficial for skin. If you're looking for a product best for damaged skin, that's Aquaphor. It's much more powerful than Eucerin at treating moderate to severe skin issues. You can always speak with a dermatologist to find what's right for you and your skin.
What is the difference between Aquaphor and Eucerin Aquaphor? ›In either form, Eucerin is less greasy than Aquaphor. This makes it more comfortable to put on in sensitive areas such as the hands, neck, and face. The creme version of Eucerin, while still a bit greasy, will generally have more “healing power” than the lotion form.
What is the main ingredient in Aquaphor? ›Active Ingredient - Purpose. Petrolatum (41%) - Skin Protectant (Ointment). Inactive Ingredients Mineral Oil, Ceresin, Lanolin Alcohol, Panthenol, Glycerin, Bisabolol.
Is Neosporin similar to Aquaphor? ›But, says Macrene, it's worth considering making the switch to Aquaphor: "A study showed that using bacitracin or neomycin [both present in Neosporin] as compared to Aquaphor caused resistant bacteria in wounds." Aquaphor. Both derms agree: This is your best bet for wound care treatment.
What is the generic for Aquaphor? ›
ZINC OXIDE (Generic for AQUAPHOR BABY DIAPER RASH)
Can I keep using Aquaphor instead of lotion? ›Okay, so Aquaphor definitely shouldn't replace your moisturizer (because, you know, it isn't a moisturizer), but it can help your skin better heal itself by locking in water and upping the effects of your usual skincare products, which, says Dr. Nazarian, “can make your skin softer and dewier over time.”
Is Cetaphil cruelty-free and vegan? ›Cetaphil contains no animal products so produces vegan formulas — however as it is not cruelty-free some may argue that the brand itself isn't vegan, but this is up to the individual.
Is Neutrogena cruelty-free and vegan? ›No, Neutrogena is not a vegan brand as it uses ingredients such as beeswax and lanolin in its products. Products that contain no animal-derived ingredients may not also be seen as vegan either since the brand is not cruelty-free. Check out our favourite cruelty-free skincare product recommendations next.
Is Olay vegan and cruelty-free? ›❌ Olay is NOT vegan.
In order for products to be considered vegan by ethical elephant's standards, the products and their ingredients must not be tested on animals anywhere in the world. Also, they must not contain any animal-derived ingredients or by-products.
Serious side effects of Aquaphor
Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Is Aquaphor the Same as Petroleum Jelly? Aquaphor is different from a 100% petroleum jelly product like Vaseline. Aquaphor only contains 41% petroleum jelly but does come with additional ingredients that moisturize the skin.
Why is Aquaphor so expensive? ›It seems that Aquaphor has added mineral oil with petrolatum to make it easier to apply (less greasy/thick than regular Vaseline/petrolatum). Although bisabolol is known to be an effective anti-irritant, it's also an expensive ingredient, which may explain Aquaphor's more expensive price point.
Does Aquaphor have harmful ingredients? ›Active Ingredient: Petrolatum 41% (Skin protectant) Inactive Ingredients: Mineral Oil, Ceresin, Lanolin Alcohol, Panthenol, Glycerin, Bisabolol. NOTE: The product contains no substances which at their concentrations are considered hazardous to health.
Can you sleep with Aquaphor on your face? ›Can I sleep with Aquaphor on my face? Yes, you can apply Aquaphor on your face before going to bed. Is Aquaphor good for under eyes? Yes, you can apply a little bit of Aquaphor under your eyes to keep the skin plump and hydrated.
Does Aquaphor hold bacteria? ›
Aquaphor bills itself as a product designed to protect skin, relieve dry or cracked skin, and soothe skin with minor cuts, scrapes, or wounds. If there's some kind of discomfort or damage to your skin, you slather Aquaphor on it. The Aquaphor traps moisture and keeps bacteria out, which helps the wound heal.
Is Aquaphor good for under eye wrinkles? ›"Tapping a little Aquaphor over your eye cream at night plumps up lines by sealing in moisture, and it's nonirritating," says Joshua Zeichner, a dermatologist in New York City. "It's one of the best products for the under-eyes."
Which celebrity uses Aquaphor? ›Beyoncé once revealed that one of her go-to nighttime skincare secrets is applying Aquaphor to her face – yes, THAT $12 healing skin cream – at bedtime.
Does Aquaphor help under eye circles? ›Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Sunscreen can help protect the skin from UV rays that cause sun damage, which can ultimately help diminish the appearance of dark circles in the process, says Dr.
Dove does not test on animals, and is PETA Approved. We have a long-standing commitment against animal testing, and since the mid-1980s we have used non-animal methods to ensure the safety of Dove products. Dove is committed to care – not just for you, but for animals too.
What is the best vegan alternative to petroleum jelly? ›Vegaline - a 100% Natural, Vegan & Hypoallergenic Alternative to Petroleum Jelly - 2 oz.
Are Burt's Bees products cruelty-free? ›Burt's Bees is cruelty-free. Burt's Bees has confirmed that it is truly cruelty-free. They don't test finished products or ingredients on animals, and neither do their suppliers or any third-parties. They also don't sell their products where animal testing is required by law.
Is Olay soap cruelty-free? ›Olay is not cruelty-free.
However – for what's worth, as the company still tests on animals – Olay supports the Humane Society International's #BeCrueltyFree campaign to ban animal testing for cosmetics in all major global beauty markets by 2023. You can read more about this important work here.
Neutrogena does not conduct animal testing on our cosmetic products anywhere in the world, except in the rare instance where governments require it. We actively partner with research and advocacy organizations to advance alternative testing methods to ensure a new global standard can be met.
Why is Neutrogena not cruelty-free? ›They sell their products in China, where animal testing is mandatory for foreign cosmetics. Because of this, Neutrogena isn't considered to be a cruelty-free brand.
Is Dr Teal's cruelty-free and vegan? ›
Dr Teal's is 100% vegan, which means none of their products contain any animal-derived ingredients.
Does Bath and Body Works cruelty-free? ›They state: “Bath & Body Works does not test any of our products, formulations, or ingredients on animals.
Is Dove soap vegan and cruelty-free? ›Dove is cruelty-free but not 100% vegan, meaning that some of their products contain animal-derived ingredients.
Which toothpaste is not tested on animals? ›What is this? *Hello and Tom's of Maine are both cruelty-free and do not test their products, ingredients, or formulations on animals, anywhere in the world. However, both cruelty-free toothpaste brands are owned by Colgate, a parent corporation that does tests on animals when required by law.
Is Target brand cruelty-free? ›Target uses PETA's Beauty Without Bunnies list to ensure that products are made without being tested on animals. In addition, the green “Clean” icon will help you spot items made without chemicals that you may not want in your beauty and personal-care products.
Why is Dove not cruelty-free? ›Dove is owned by a parent company that tests on animals.
Unilever states that they do tests on animals where required by law. What is this? This policy makes them a company that still tests their products on animals, which is why Unilever isn't considered cruelty-free.
Is Aveeno Vegan? Aveeno is not vegan. Most of their products contain animal-derived ingredients; however, they might offer some vegan products, but they're not 100% vegan.
Is Aveeno cruelty vegan? ›No, Aveeno is not vegan, as most of their products contain ingredients such as lanolin or beeswax. Check out our favourite cruelty-free skincare product recommendations next.
Does 100% vegan mean cruelty-free? ›The term "vegan" is not regulated by law and is more often used when products to do not contains any animal-derived substances. However, this does not mean that these have not been tested on animals. A vegan product is not always cruelty-free.
Has Dove gone cruelty-free? ›Yes, Dove products are cruelty-free. Starting in 2023, post-market animal testing is no longer a threat to beauty brands in China, so companies can now enter the Chinese market without funding animal cruelty.
Is CeraVe vegan free? ›
CeraVe cannot be considered a vegan brand as many of its products contain animal derivatives including glycerin and cholesterol. According to CeraVe representatives, the products do not contain any porcine, bovine, or ovine originating ingredients except for lanolin (derived from sheep).
Is Cetaphil or CeraVe vegan? ›Two of the most popular skincare brands that are often recommended for sensitive skin are CeraVe and Cetaphil. But neither of these brands are cruelty-free, and many of their products contain animal-derived ingredients.
Is Neutrogena vegan free? ›No, Neutrogena is not a vegan brand as it uses ingredients such as beeswax and lanolin in its products. Products that contain no animal-derived ingredients may not also be seen as vegan either since the brand is not cruelty-free. Check out our favourite cruelty-free skincare product recommendations next.
Is Clinique vegan and cruelty-free? ›Clinique still uses animal-derived ingredients like carmine, lanoline, and more. Plus, not being certified cruelty-free is another main reason the brand is not classified as vegan.
Is Dove caring bath vegan? ›This formulation is Dove's first PETA approved vegan body wash. It features a 98% biodegradable formula and uses 100% plant-based moisturizers.
Which brand is vegan and cruelty-free? ›Herbivore is 100% cruelty-free and does not conduct tests on animals. Herbivore Botanicals are also Leaping Bunny certified. Vegan: Yes. Herbivore is a 100% vegan brand and does not use animal-derived ingredients in any of their products.