Many people care about using products that don’t harm animals. When you’re looking for skin care products, it’s important to know which brands test on animals and which don’t.
This article will give you clear answers about Aquaphor’s animal testing policies, its parent company’s stance, and some great alternatives if you want cruelty-free options, unveiling the truth for consumers.
We researched Aquaphor’s official statements, industry practices, and verified information from reliable sources to give you the complete picture. By the end, you’ll know exactly where Aquaphor stands on animal testing and what your options are if you prefer cruelty-free skincare.
Is Aquaphor Cruelty-Free?
No, Aquaphor is not cruelty-free. The company allows its products to be tested on animals in certain situations. This can happen through the company itself, its suppliers, or third parties that conduct testing on their behalf.
Some consumers specifically ask, “Is Aquaphor certified cruelty-free?” and the answer, unfortunately, is no.
To be considered truly cruelty-free, a brand must not:
- Test finished products on animals
- Test ingredients or final products on animals
- Allow third parties to test on their behalf
- Sell in markets where animal testing is required by law
Aquaphor fails to meet these standards for truly cruelty-free practices. The brand is owned by a parent company, Beiersdorf, a company that follows animal testing practices when required by law.
This means that while they may limit testing in some cases, they still allow it in others. Many wonder about Aquaphor’s cruelty-free status, and this policy is the primary reason it cannot claim it.
Does Aquaphor Test on Animals?
Beiersdorf, Aquaphor’s parent company, has a specific policy regarding animal testing. According to their official statements, they claim:
“We do not conduct any animal testing for our cosmetic products and their ingredients, and do not have any animal testing done on our behalf – unless, in the very rare case, this is specifically required by law.”
This makes Beiersdorf a parent company that tests under these conditions.
This carefully worded statement reveals that they do, in fact, test on animals when they sell their products in markets where such testing is legally mandated for safety and health assurance.
While they have invested in research for alternatives to animal testing, they continue to allow animal testing when required by regulations in certain countries.
The timeline of Beiersdorf’s animal testing policies shows that they have been working on developing alternative methods while still selling in markets that require animal testing. This contradictory approach means they cannot claim to be fully cruelty-free, and confirms that the company engages in animal testing.
Why Aquaphor Cannot Be Considered Cruelty-Free
The main reason Aquaphor cannot be considered cruelty-free is that it chooses to sell in China, specifically mainland China, where animal testing has historically been required by law for imported cosmetics.
It’s worth noting that regulations shift, and what was true in 2024 might see further evolution, but the core issue for Aquaphor’s status remains its market presence.
Until recently, China required all imported cosmetics to undergo pre-market animal testing. While some of these regulations have changed since 2021, there are still situations where post-market testing might be conducted on animals, especially if safety concerns arise.
By choosing to sell in markets where animal testing may be required, Aquaphor has prioritized market expansion over a strict cruelty-free stance. This choice also impacts how consumers view the Aquaphor owned brand.
Certifications and Aquaphor
Aquaphor does not have any of the major cruelty-free certifications like:
- Leaping Bunny: The gold standard for cruelty-free certification
- PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies: A widely recognized certification program
- Choose Cruelty Free: An independent certification organization
These certifications require brands to commit to no animal testing at any stage of product development, by the company itself or by third parties, and to not sell in countries where animal testing is required by law. Even if it seems it’s still a good healing ointment, the lack of these certifications is telling.
The absence of these certifications confirms that Aquaphor does not meet the standards required to be considered cruelty-free. Independent third-party verification is important because it ensures that companies are held accountable for their claims about ethical practices.
Is Aquaphor’s Parent Company Cruelty-Free?
No, Beiersdorf, Aquaphor’s parent company, is not cruelty-free. While they state they don’t conduct animal testing except when required by law, this exception means they do allow testing in certain markets, making it a company that tests on animals.
Beiersdorf owns several other well-known brands, including:
- Nivea
- Eucerin
- La Prairie
- Labello
- Hansaplast/Elastoplast. These are all brands owned by Beiersdorf.
According to PETA, Beiersdorf is listed as a company that does test on animals, similar to other giants like L’Oréal or Estée Lauder, who also test when required by law. They specifically note on their website:
“At Beiersdorf, we do not make claims about our products being ‘cruelty-free’ for several reasons.”
While Beiersdorf has invested in alternative testing methods like the 3T3 Neutral Red Uptake Phototoxicity Test and multi-organ chips, they continue to sell products in markets that may require animal testing by law. This policy applies to their personal care products as well.
Is Aquaphor Vegan?
No, Aquaphor is not vegan. In addition to not being aquaphor cruelty free, Aquaphor products contain animal-derived ingredients.
The most notable non-vegan ingredient in Aquaphor products is lanolin, which comes from sheep’s wool. Lanolin is a waxy substance that sheep produce to keep their wool waterproof.
While collecting lanolin doesn’t directly harm sheep, it is still an animal by-product, making products containing it non-vegan. This is a key concern for consumers specifically looking for vegan options.
Other Aquaphor formulations products may contain:
- Glycerin (which can be derived from animal sources)
- Beeswax (produced by bees)
It’s important to understand that “cruelty-free” and “vegan” are different concepts:
- Cruelty-free means no animal testing
- Vegan means no animal-derived ingredients
Aquaphor is neither cruelty-free nor vegan, making it unsuitable for consumers who want to avoid both animal testing and animal ingredients.
Top Cruelty-Free Alternatives to Aquaphor
If you’re looking for cruelty-free alternatives to Aquaphor, there are several excellent options available. These cruelty-free companies have committed to no animal testing and offer products with similar benefits, often avoiding potentially harsh chemicals found in some conventional products:
Earth Mama Organic Nose & Cheek Balm
Price: $14-16 Key ingredients: Organic oils, organic beeswax Benefits: Moisturizes dry skin, safe for sensitive skin Certifications: USDA Organic, Leaping Bunny Certified
Earth Mama’s balm is formulated with calendula coconut balm specifically for safely moisturizing chapped, dry skin. It’s particularly good for the face and sensitive areas. The company has strong cruelty-free credentials and uses organic ingredients. Ethical Elephant
Doctor Rogers Restore Healing Balm
Price: $30-34 Key ingredients: Castor seed oil, glycerin, wax Benefits: Multipurpose balm for dry, damaged skin Certifications: Cruelty-free, vegan
This plant-based alternative is recognized by the National Eczema Foundation and is free from petroleum, lanolin, parabens, fragrance, and common allergens. Doctor Rogers products from brands like this are all vegan and cruelty-free, making this a good ethical choice for those with sensitive skin. Cruelty Free Kitty
Honest Beauty Healing Balm
Price: $12-15 Key ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, beeswax, tamanu oil Benefits: All-purpose balm for dry, rough skin Certifications: Cruelty-free
The Honest Company offers an organic all-purpose balm that works well for dry, rough, or sensitive skin. It’s certified cruelty-free and contains no petroleum, mineral oil, or synthetic fragrances. The balm is also pediatrician-approved, making it safe for the whole family, and a good choice for those seeking alternatives to products like Aquaphor. Ecowiser
Pipette Baby Balm
Price: $10-12 Key ingredients: Squalane, ceramides, vitamin E Benefits: Deep hydration, suitable for sensitive skin Certifications: Cruelty-free, EWG Verified
This multipurpose moisturizer is petrolatum-free and designed for sensitive skin. Pipette’s products are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and cruelty-free, making them ideal for those with skin sensitivities. Their plant-derived squalane helps lock in moisture without clogging pores. Conscious Bunny
Comparison Chart: Aquaphor vs. Alternatives
| Product | Price Range | Cruelty-Free | Vegan | Key Benefits |
| Aquaphor | $5-10 | No | No | Treats dry skin, protects minor cuts |
| Earth Mama | $14-16 | Yes | No (beeswax) | Organic, gentle, safe for faces |
| Doctor Rogers | $30-34 | Yes | Yes | Plant-based, eczema-friendly |
| Honest Beauty | $12-15 | Yes | No (beeswax) | Organic, family-friendly |
| Pipette | $10-12 | Yes | Yes | Fragrance-free, sensitive skin |
Consumer Advocacy and Industry Changes
Your buying choices have power. When consumers choose products from brands that test on animals less, companies notice. In recent years, many brands have changed their policies due to pressure from consumers who want ethical products.
Global animal testing regulations are also changing. The European Union banned animal testing for cosmetics in 2013. Many other countries have followed with similar bans or restrictions. Even China, which was known for strict animal testing requirements, has begun relaxing some of its rules since 2021.
Success stories of brands moving away from animal testing show that change is possible. Companies like Cover Girl and Herbal Essences have earned cruelty-free certification after changing their policies. These changes happened because customers demanded better.
By choosing cruelty-free products, you join a growing movement that’s already making a difference in the beauty industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Aquaphor ever been cruelty-free?
No, Aquaphor has never been certified as cruelty-free. Their parent company Beiersdorf has always maintained a policy of testing when required by law, which prevents them from achieving cruelty-free status.
Are any Aquaphor products vegan?
No, Aquaphor products contain animal-derived ingredients like lanolin from sheep’s wool, making them unsuitable for vegans. They also aren’t cruelty-free, which is another concern for many vegan consumers.
Is Aquaphor toxic to animals?
While Aquaphor isn’t directly toxic to animals, it contains ingredients like petroleum that aren’t considered particularly eco-friendly. The bigger concern is that Aquaphor allows testing on animals in certain markets.
Is Aquaphor safer than Vaseline?
Both products have similar safety profiles. Neither Aquaphor nor Vaseline is cruelty-free, as both allow animal testing when required by law. Both contain petroleum-based ingredients, though Aquaphor includes additional moisturizers.
Will Aquaphor ever become cruelty-free?
It’s possible but would require Beiersdorf to commit to no animal testing in any market worldwide, including withdrawing from countries that require such testing by law. As of 2025, they have not announced plans to make this change.
Conclusion
Aquaphor is not a cruelty-free brand. Despite claims of limiting animal testing, their parent company Beiersdorf allows testing when required by law, particularly in markets like China. Additionally, Aquaphor contains animal-derived ingredients like lanolin, making it non-vegan as well.
The good news is that you have plenty of cruelty-free alternatives that work just as well. Brands like Earth Mama, Doctor Rogers, Honest Beauty, and Pipette offer excellent options for those who want effective skincare without animal testing.
By choosing these cruelty-free alternatives, you support companies that have made ethical commitments to animals while still getting the skincare benefits you need. Your purchasing decisions matter and can help push the beauty industry toward more humane practices.