Tag Archives: apps

Review of Cruelty-Free Android App

13 March 2013

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As promised, I am following up on the smart phone app post. I downloaded the Android app (download here) created by the Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics’ (CCIC) Leaping Bunny Program (their site is listed in my blog roll). I have used it three times and therefore feel confident in providing a thorough review :).

My testing conditions were ideal. I was at the Walgreens (which, bless them, has a section devoted to natural products) armed with my smart phone and a handful of coupons for health and beauty aids. I had plenty of time because my husband was not with me heaving and sighing while I read the labels and checked my phone. Here’s how it went down:

  1. I had a coupon for Jergen’s body lotion with gradual self tanner (because, hey, I’m feeling pretty pasty). I read the label: no mention of animal testing. I checked the app: Jergen’s is not listed as a cruelty-free company, and it’s not listed by product under “self tanners.” So I did what I usually resort to, which is go to the company’s online FAQs. There, Jergen’s said that it does not test on animals. So I bought it.
  2. I needed to replace my shampoo and wanted to try a new cruelty-free one, so I looked in the natural section and saw the Yes To… line. I read the label which had the cruelty-free bunny logo. I double checked on my app and, sure enough, it was listed as a cruelty-free company. I bought Yes To… shampoo, conditioner, wrinkle cream, face lotion, and night cream (reviews to follow :)).
  3. I had a coupon for La Roche Posay Effaclar DUO Acne Treatment. I had never heard of the company, so first I read the label: no mention of animal testing. I checked that app, and it wasn’t listed. I went to the company’s site and, likewise, found no mention of animal testing. So I did not buy it.

All in all, the app did not save me a ton of time, but it was nice to be able to double check. Like some other reviewers on the app’s page, I wish there were a separate list for companies that DO test on animals. That way I could avoid going to each company’s site and searching. Also, it would be nice to have a search function so I could go straight to the company I’m looking for instead of scrolling the list.

I will definitely continue using the app and look forward to updates that are sure to make it better.