Neutrogena is one of the oldest beauty brands. It was founded by Emanuel Stolaroff in 1930 under the name Natone and it remained independent until 1994. In 1954, Natone acquired the rights to distribute Edmond Fromont’s patented soap formula in the US and this became the company’s main product. In 1967, Natone changed names to Neutrogena Corporation and its new president (later CEO) became Lloyd Cotsen, Stolaroff’s son-in-law.
This soap company quickly expanded by selling to both dermatologists and luxury hotels and soon they were distributing their cosmetic products all around the world.
Today, Neutrogena is considered a premium brand that sells in over 70 countries. Their products can be found in well-known stores such as Target, Ulta, Walmart, and Walgreens.
Is Neutrogena Cruelty-Free?
| Not sold in China? | No |
| PETA Certified | No |
| Leaping Bunny Certified | No |
| Has vegan products | No |
| Not owned by a Parent Company that does Animal Testing? | No |
Neutrogena is not cruelty-free. In other words, this is one of the companies that either test on animals or pays others to test on their behalf.
According to Neutrogena itself, their final products are not being tested on animals. However, the company never disclosed whether or not they do animal tests with their ingredients, so this status is unclear. The same goes for third-party testing, or paying their companies and allowing their suppliers to conduct animal tests. In fact, the company states that they do test on animals in countries where they are required by law, but mentions that these are ‘rare occasions’.
Neutrogena is trying to minimize their part in approving animal testing by using such terminology, but the fact remains the same. By giving money to test on animals, they are doing nothing to prevent this inhumane practice.
If you love Neutrogena products but don’t condemn their business ethics, you can always try contacting them and politely asking them to change their views on animal cruelty. Keep in mind that, if you do that, you have to remain respectful. Don’t send hate to anyone and any brand just because of disagreements.
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Are Neutrogena products sold in China?
Yes, Neutrogena products are sold in China and thus they have to be tested on animals.
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What is the Deal with China?
Even though animal testing is proven to be an unnecessary and unethical practice, some countries still require it by law. This is the case with the second-biggest market in the world, China.
China requires any beauty product to be tested on animals before allowing importation and being sold in Chinese stores. Any company or brand that makes the decision to sell in China has also decided to test on animals – either by themselves or, usually, by paying a third-party company to test on their behalf. This is the main reason why a lot of brands can’t achieve a true cruelty-free status. After growing public outrage, China did lift some regulations in 2014, which allowed certain beauty products, such as shampoos and other skincare items, to be imported without testing, but this is still a small percentage.
A lot of brands that claim to be cruelty-free are being misleading thanks to these laws. Even if a brand doesn’t conduct animal testing on its own, by deciding to take the opportunity and sell in countries such as China, it is allowing a third-party to test the final product on animals. This is why PETA and the Leaping Bunny Program have forbidden brands that they certify to expand their market in this direction – and rightfully so.
A lot of companies are working with the Chinese government on lifting these regulations, and legislation was proposed in 2019 that should stop mandatory animal testing. However until today, no substantial progress has been made in this regard, we continue to wait patiently.
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Is Neutrogena Vegan?
No, Neutrogena is not vegan. It does mainly use natural ingredients that come from vegetables, but it also uses some animal by-products.
Who owns Neutrogena and does the parent company test on animals?
In 1994, US conglomerate Johnson and Johnson bought Neutrogena. They conduct animal testing, despite claiming to ensure the humane treatment of animals that live in labs. Also, they promote the use of alternative methods but claim that they can’t be used all the time. They require that all animal tests are being reviewed and approved by an Ethical Committee.
What products does Neutrogena sell?
Neutrogena specializes in producing skincare items. They are famous for their soaps and face washes, as well as various sunscreens. They also have anti-aging products. Neutrogena is being used by both professionals and regular customers, and their soaps can still be found in various hotels and motels.
Alternative Cruelty-Free Sunscreens
Alternative Cruelty-Free Face Washes
Amazon.com
Alternative Cruelty-Free Shower Gels
