Is MAC Cosmetics Vegan & Cruelty-Free In 2024?

By Anett Rannamets. Updated: January 2024.
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MAC, which stands for Makeup Art Cosmetics, was founded by Frank Toskan and Frank Angelo. The company was established in Toronto, Canada, in 1984. MAC Cosmetics’ website is https://www.maccosmetics.com/.

The founders, Toskan and Angelo, were both makeup artists and photographers. They created MAC intending to provide professional-quality makeup products that could meet the demanding needs of the fashion and beauty industry.

Recognizing the lack of suitable makeup products for professional use, they initially developed the brand to cater to makeup artists. However, MAC’s high-quality products and vibrant colors gained popularity not only among professionals but also with a broader consumer audience. 

Over the years, MAC Cosmetics has become a globally recognized brand known for its diverse range of makeup products and commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. But is MAC Cosmetics vegan?

Is MAC Cosmetics Vegan?

No, MAC Cosmetics is not vegan. MAC Cosmetics uses animal-derived ingredients in its products. In addition, MAC Cosmetics is not cruelty-free.

MAC Cosmetics Vegan Overview

Is a vegan brand: no
Uses non-vegan ingredients: yes
Has a vegan selection: no
Tests on animals: yes, where required by law
Sold where animal testing is mandatory: yes
Has a parent company that tests on animals: yes (Estée Lauder Companies)

Does MAC Cosmetics Have Official Vegan Certifications?

No. MAC Cosmetics does not have any vegan certifications. MAC Cosmetics is not a vegan brand as it uses animal-based ingredients.

Has MAC Cosmetics Indicated Going Vegan?

No. MAC Cosmetics has not indicated going fully vegan.

Does MAC Cosmetics Test on Animals?

Yes. Although MAC Cosmetics does not test on animals themselves, MAC Cosmetics allows tests on animals, where required by law.

We quote Mac: MAC does not test on animals. We do not own any animal testing facilities and we never ask others to test on animals for us. While some governments conduct animal testing to prove safety before they will allow us to sell our products, M·A·C has never tested on animals and we continue to be a leader in the movement to end animal testing globally.”

Is MAC Cosmetics Certified Cruelty-Free?

No. MAC Cosmetics is not certified cruelty-free by organizations such as Leaping Bunny or PETA. 

Who Owns MAC Cosmetics?

MAC Cosmetics is owned by Estée Lauder Companies, a multinational cosmetics and skincare company. Estée Lauder Companies acquired a controlling interest in MAC in 1994 and eventually became the sole owner of the brand. The Estée Lauder Companies is not a cruelty-free firm. 

Which MAC Cosmetics Products Are Vegan?

None of MAC Cosmetics’ products are considered to be vegan as MAC Cosmetics allows animal tests where required by law. 

Summary

MAC Cosmetics, founded by Frank Toskan and Frank Angelo in 1984 in Toronto, Canada, initially aimed to provide professional-quality makeup for the fashion and beauty industry. It has also gained popularity beyond professionals.

MAC is not vegan or certified cruelty-free. The brand allows animal testing where required by law and uses non-vegan ingredients. It is also owned by Estée Lauder Companies, a company that is not cruelty-free. 

We hope that MAC Cosmetics will take on the goal of going cruelty-free and fully vegan one day. Until then keep checking in on Vegan Avenue for an updated vegan product list.

See also: Best Vegan Skincare Brands, Best Vegan Makeup

Anett is a passionate journalist, writer, and magazine editor with almost 7 years of experience. Through engaging articles, she brings kinder and more environmentally-friendly choices closer to everybody.