Neutrogena has built a reputation as a dermatologist-recommended brand trusted by millions worldwide. From its iconic Hydro Boost line to its anti-residue clarifying shampoo, the brand is a staple in many skincare and hair care routines. But is Neutrogena truly cruelty-free? Does it test on animals? And are its products vegan or sustainable?
We dive deep into these questions and explore ethical alternatives you can trust.
Is Neutrogena Cruelty-Free?
Short answer: No, Neutrogena is not a cruelty-free brand.
Although Neutrogena claims they do not conduct animal testing except where required by law, they still sell products in mainland China, where animal testing for certain cosmetics remains mandatory.
Neutrogena’s Official Statement on Animal Testing
“Neutrogena does not conduct animal testing on our cosmetic products anywhere in the world, except in the rare instance where governments require it. We actively partner with research and advocacy organizations to advance alternative testing methods.”
This practice of complying with regulatory animal testing disqualifies them from being recognized as cruelty-free by organizations like PETA and Leaping Bunny. And Neutrogena is on Peta’s do test list, making Neutrogena, not a cruelty-free brand.
Is Neutrogena Certified Cruelty-Free?
No. Neutrogena is not certified by PETA or Leaping Bunny, the two most widely recognized cruelty-free organizations.
Who Owns Neutrogena?
Neutrogena is owned by Johnson & Johnson, a multinational company that shares a similar stance on animal testing—avoiding it unless legally required.
Is Neutrogena Vegan?
No, not entirely. While Neutrogena does offer a few vegan-friendly formulas, most products contain animal-derived ingredients such as beeswax, lanolin, and collagen. However, the Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Concentrated Serum is one of their most popular products and contains 100% plant-based trehalose, making it a vegan-friendly option.
Is Neutrogena Sustainable and Eco-Conscious?
Neutrogena has made notable strides in sustainability:
- Discontinued microbeads in 2013.
- Uses 100% RSPO-certified palm oil derivatives.
- Packaging includes FSC-certified paperboard and some recycled materials.
That said, they are still evolving, and sustainability may vary across products.
Bestselling Neutrogena Products
Despite ethical concerns, Neutrogena remains popular for its performance:
- Hydro Boost Gel-Cream Moisturizer – Hyaluronic acid-rich and perfect for dry skin.
- Norwegian Formula Hand Cream – Intense relief for dry, chapped hands.
- Original Fragrance-Free Facial Cleansing Bar – A classic for sensitive skin.
- Anti-Residue Shampoo – Great for oily hair and hard water build-up.
- Neutrogena T-Gel & T-Sal Shampoos – Dermatologist-recommended for dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis.
- 8.5-fluid ounce bottle of Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic and Anti-Dandruff...
- Original therapeutic formula helps control scalp itching and flaking caused...
- Contains coal tar extract, which scientific tests have proved continues to...
Last update on 2025-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Pack containing six bottles of 4.5-fluid ounces each of Neutrogena T/Sal...
- This effective anti-dandruff shampoo contains 3% salicylic acid, a...
- This therapeutic scalp treatment continues to work for hours even after it...
Last update on 2025-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Final Verdict: Is Neutrogena Cruelty-Free and Vegan?
While Neutrogena continues to improve in sustainability and offers some vegan-friendly options, they are not 100% cruelty-free or vegan. Their presence in countries with mandatory animal testing laws and use of animal-derived ingredients disqualifies them from being truly ethical in 2025.
If cruelty-free and vegan beauty is important to you, you may want to consider switching to brands that are fully certified and transparent. Before you leave don’t forget to check out:
- Is Alberto Balsam Cruelty-Free And Vegan?
- Is AmLactin Cruelty-Free & Vegan?
- Is Dove Cruelty-Free And Vegan Brand? Still Testing On Animals?