The global cruelty-free cosmetics market size is anticipated to reach USD 23.54 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2024 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The beauty industry's shift toward conscious consumerism is driving growth in the market. Despite nearly half of cosmetic consumers desiring cruelty-free products, a staggering 88% of current brands do not meet these standards, according to the ThinkNow Inclusive Beauty Report 2023. This discrepancy highlights the rising demand for ethical beauty products. Notably, fast-growing brands like e.l.f. Cosmetics and Rare Beauty, both of which are cruelty-free and vegan, are capitalizing on this trend, outpacing traditional giants like L’Oréal and Estée Lauder.
Preferences in the market are shaped by factors such as age and income. While Gen Z shows less interest in vegan brands (19%) compared to Millennials (33%) and Gen X (31%), income levels significantly influence cruelty-free choices, according to the ThinkNow Inclusive Beauty Report 2023. Consumers earning over USD 80,000 annually are more inclined to choose cruelty-free (53%) and vegan (42%) products, contrasting with those earning under USD 40,000; where preferences drop to 39% for cruelty-free and 21% for vegan options. This segmentation highlights a growing market opportunity for cruelty-free brands to tailor their strategies.
The rise of cruelty-free cosmetics has been driven by heightened consumer awareness and ethical considerations. Consumers are increasingly opposed to animal testing, seeking products that align with their values of minimizing harm and supporting ethical practices. Social media has amplified this shift, with influencers and advocacy groups promoting cruelty-free products. Certifications from organizations like Cruelty Free International and PETA are crucial, as they assure consumers that products are genuinely cruelty-free, further driving demand for such products.
Global regulatory changes have significantly influenced the growth of the market. Countries like the U.K., the European Union, India, Israel, and Norway have enacted laws banning animal testing for cosmetics, prompting brands to adopt cruelty-free practices to comply with these regulations. The ripple effect of these regulations is seen globally, as brands seek to meet the strictest standards to maintain market access.
The Middle East & African market is experiencing a notable CAGR of 7.7% from 2024 to 2030, driven by local brands like MZN Bodycare and Mama’s Alchemy. MZN Bodycare's success, rooted in natural and cruelty-free products made from local ingredients, reflects a growing consumer awareness and demand for ethical beauty solutions. This shift is further supported by the lack of legal requirements for animal testing in Saudi Arabia, contrasting with international markets where such regulations persist.
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In 2023, the cruelty-free skincare market accounted for 44.2% of the global market revenue. This significant share is attributed to high consumer demand for ethical skincare products, increased awareness of animal testing issues, and the growing popularity of natural and vegan ingredients in skincare formulations
In 2023, the demand for cruelty-free cosmetics among women accounted for over 70% of the global market revenue. Data from the virtual beauty app Perfect365 reveals that 36% of women strongly prefer cruelty-free brands, driven by ethical concerns about animal welfare. The desire to avoid supporting harmful practices and the transparency provided by certifications from organizations like PETA and Leaping Bunny foster trust and loyalty to ethical brands
Online sales of cruelty-free cosmetics are projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.3% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is driven by the convenience of online shopping, the wider range of available products, and the ease of accessing detailed product information and reviews
The Asia Pacific cruelty-free cosmetics market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.3% from 2024 to 2030; driven by regulatory changes and increased consumer awareness. Countries like India, Taiwan, and South Korea have implemented bans on animal testing, reflecting a regional shift towards ethical practices. Japan is also making strides by phasing out animal testing. This trend is further bolstered by Australia and New Zealand, which have joined the global movement by enacting bans on cosmetic animal testing, reinforcing the region's commitment to cruelty-free standards
The cruelty-free cosmetics market is fragmented with numerous companies offering diverse products. Key players include e.l.f. Cosmetics, The Body Shop, Too Faced, Tarte Cosmetics, Urban Decay, and Fenty Beauty. These companies differentiate themselves through ethical stances, transparency, and innovative formulations and packaging, while advocating for animal rights and maintaining ethical practices across their product ranges
Grand View Research has segmented the cruelty-free cosmetics market on the basis of product, end use, distribution channel, and region:
Cruelty-free Cosmetics Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Skincare
Facial Skincare
Lotions, Face Creams, & Moisturizers
Cleansers & Face Wash
Facial Serums
Face Masks
Sunscreen/Sun Care
Others
Body Skincare
Hair Removal Products
Lotions, Creams, & Moisturizers
Body Sunscreen/Sun Care
Body Scrub
Others
Haircare
Shampoo
Conditioner
Oils
Serums
Others
Makeup
Fragrance
Cruelty-free Cosmetics End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Women
Men
Unisex
Children
Cruelty-free Cosmetics Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Hypermarkets & Supermarkets
Specialty Stores
Pharmacies & Drugstores
Online
Others
Cruelty-free Cosmetics Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
UK
France
Italy
Spain
Asia Pacific
China
Japan
India
Australia
Central & South America
Brazil
Middle East & Africa
South Africa
Saudi Arabia
List of Key Players Operating in the Cruelty-free Cosmetics Market
e.l.f. Cosmetics, Inc.
The Body Shop International Limited
Urban Decay
Too Faced Cosmetics, LLC
Markwins Beauty Products, Inc. (wet n wild)
Burt's Bees
bareMinerals
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Inc.
Milani Cosmetics
Garnier LLC
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