CeraVe does not perform animal testing on its products or ingredients. However, because it sells in countries where animal testing is legally required, such as China, it cannot claim to be fully cruelty-free.
Why CeraVe isn’t considered cruelty-free
While CeraVe avoids animal testing in its own operations, it sells in markets where local regulations may require government-mandated animal testing. This is the main reason organizations like Leaping Bunny and PETA do not list CeraVe as cruelty-free. A brand must avoid all animal testing globally, including in markets with strict regulations, to earn official certification.
CeraVe’s parent company: L'Oréal
CeraVe is owned by L'Oréal, which has a long-standing policy against animal testing. L'Oréal states it does not test on animals and has invested heavily in alternative testing methods. However, like CeraVe, it sells in markets where authorities may require animal testing. This means the parent company’s policy allows exceptions when required by law, which affects all its brands.
The situation in China
China historically required animal testing for all imported cosmetics. Since 2021, some general skincare products can be sold without pre-market animal testing if certain conditions are met. However, products classified as 'special cosmetics'—like sunscreens and anti-aging formulas—may still be subject to mandatory testing. CeraVe sells such products, so some of its items may be tested under these rules.
Post-market testing is still a risk
Even if a product enters China without pre-market testing, authorities can conduct random post-market checks. If a consumer reports a reaction, the product may be pulled and tested on animals. Because this is outside the brand’s control, CeraVe cannot guarantee its products are never tested on animals once sold in China.
Ceramides and other ingredients
CeraVe’s key ingredients, ceramides, are synthetically or plant-derived, not taken from animals. However, some products contain cholesterol, which can come from lanolin (sheep’s wool), and hyaluronic acid, which is typically made through fermentation. These ingredients are not animal-tested by CeraVe, but their presence means the products are not vegan.
Certifications and labeling
CeraVe products do not carry the Leaping Bunny or PETA cruelty-free logo. These certifications require full supply chain transparency and a global no-testing policy, which CeraVe does not meet. The brand may label products as 'not tested on animals' in regions where that is true, but this claim does not apply worldwide due to regulatory exceptions.