NARS Cosmetics has recently announced that they are no longer cruelty free since they are expanding their market to China. They say that they really want to expand their vision to the public in Asia. If you didn’t know, China mandates animal testing on imported cosmetics prior to them being sold to consumers in a retail setting.

I love NARS. Their audacious lipsticks are easily the best lipsticks I have ever tried. The color ‘Anna’ is the most unique mauve shade I have ever come across. Everything about the brand is stellar, from quality to color selection. When you shop with NARS, you know that you are getting superior product at quite the steal. Until now, you also knew you were buying from an ethical company who valued the lives of our furry companions. Clearly, this has changed.

I’m extremely disappointed in NARS’ money-over-morals stance in this business move. While many cosmetic companies are making the move toward cruelty free and vegan products because of the various ethical benefits (and the wider consumer base you appeal to), NARS has regressed, choosing to make the wrong move in favor of lining their pockets with more money.

Nothing about testing on an animal is ethical. No matter how you spin the issue, using animals to test various side effects of cosmetics is cruel. The fact that the Chinese government mandates it does not make it okay, it only makes it more troubling to me. Instead of human beings getting these rashes, we are giving them to little dependent beings who cannot fend or care for themselves. China is known for their human rights violations, and this is characteristic of the behavior I expect from them. It does not make it okay, and it does not excuse the fact that a company that used to be cruelty free – and knows the consequences of these actions – is choosing to ignore them in the name of profit.

NARS has released a statement saying that they are teaming up with organizations who are fighting to eliminate animal testing around the world. They said that while this path doesn’t necessarily fit their vision, they want everyone to have access to their cosmetics. Isn’t that a clear indication that the executives of this company would rather shill to people than stick to their vision and what their consumers are actually asking for? If your customers are actually so upset about this, why are you just brushing us off?

NARS, I implore you to put your money where your mouth is, because we all know you’re one of the most successful high-end makeup brands on the market. Resorting to selling your product in a country that requires animal testing is regressive, cruel, and totally contradictive of everything you have preached since the beginning of your company. If you really hate animal testing this much, reverse your decision and do not sell your products in China – or anywhere that mandates cruelty for beauty.

And before NARS tries to tell me that they still carry vegan products; your products are no longer vegan if they have to be tested on a bunny to be put on a store shelf. I don’t care what ingredients are in it.