Cruelty-free products are products that haven’t been tested on animals. In addition to saving the lives and preserving the wellbeing of animals, buying cruelty-free products can benefit the planet. Here are some of the key ways that buying cruelty-free products supports animals and the planet all at once.

Charitable Organizations Are Supported

Many manufacturers of cruelty-free products donate portions of their proceeds to support animal and environmental charities. By purchasing these items, you can feel good in knowing that some of your money will go to support worthy causes that benefit the planet as a whole. The efforts of these charities could benefit generations to come in both the human and animal populations.

Less Chemicals Are Used

Generally speaking, cruelty-free products contain less chemicals than other products. The reason why tests are often done on animals is to determine if the chemicals will have adverse effects on their health, which could also be dangerous if humans are exposed to them. Some of these chemicals can also harm the planet by polluting soil and water. Since cruelty-free products usually contain natural ingredients that are already known to be safe, the lack of potentially harmful chemicals can be better for you and the environment. You’ll also be benefiting your own health since many of these products don’t contain sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens or fragrances that can have adverse effects on your skin and other parts of your body.

Safer Packaging

Makers of cruelty-free products are known to be environmentally responsible with their packaging. Some of the top private label cruelty-free hair products and cosmetics are packaged in containers and pouches that are made from materials that can be recycled. Many of these packaging materials also don’t contain any dyes or other harmful chemicals. Most warehouses that package these items are further committed to environmentally responsible practices.

Encourages Other Greener Decisions

Buying cruelty-free products will likely encourage you to adopt other eco-friendly practices in your life. You’ll be more aware of the planet and animal welfare and be more inclined to shop for other items that don’t harm the environment. You may even be encouraged to adopt better practices in how you eat and travel so that you can continue to do good for yourself and the planet.

You can take a proactive approach to helping animals and the environment by buying products with the “cruelty-free” label. These items will benefit animals and the planet in many ways while still enhancing your life.

Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn't on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber; https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009221637700