Is NARS cruelty-free? NARS animal testing status and alternatives

Does NARS test on animals?

NARS does not test on animals itself, according to its own policy, but it is not cruelty-free. PETA lists NARS among the companies that test on animals, and NARS’s own policy makes an exception where testing is required by law.

NARS states: “NARS does not test on animals nor do we ask others to test on our behalf, except where required by law.”

Is NARS sold in mainland China?

Yes, NARS is sold in mainland China. NARS introduced animal testing in China in 2017 to start selling there, as BBC Newsbeat reported after the boycott that followed.

Is NARS a vegan brand?

No, NARS is not a vegan brand across its entire range, but some NARS products are vegan. NARS states that certain products may contain animal derivatives such as lanolin, and that many of its brushes are made from animal hair.

What is NARS’s parent company?

NARS’s parent company is Shiseido.

What are cruelty-free alternatives to NARS?

The cruelty-free alternatives to NARS are brands certified by Leaping Bunny, Cruelty Free International or PETA. At prestige prices, e.l.f., essence, CoverGirl and Milani are certified; at prestige prices, Tarte and Benefit are.

• Certified alternatives to NARS makeup are on our list of certified drugstore makeup products.

How do you check whether NARS is cruelty-free?

You check whether NARS is cruelty-free by searching the brand on the Leaping Bunny, Cruelty Free International and PETA lists, because a brand’s own policy is an unregulated claim in the US. Cruelty-Free Check last verified NARS on October 2, 2026.

• NARS has not signed PETA's statement of assurance, so PETA does not list it as cruelty-free.