What is animal testing in cosmetic field?

Animal testing of cosmetics in USA is performed when new product is introduced in the market so as to ensure that product will not leave any side effects on humans. Basically, it is known as a specialized animal testing which is intended to make sure whether the product has hypoallergenic and safety features if used by humans. Although this act is not prevailed in all parts of the country, yet most of the cosmetic stores perform this testing before selling their products in the market. It helps them to ensure safety of their customers and their brand name.

Generally, animal testing is performed on finished product which is ready to be sold in cosmetic market or this test can also be performed on individual ingredients of finished product. Most commonly, rats, rabbits, mice and other animals are used for performing these tests and observing its results. To begin with the testing procedure, the testing professionals apply ingredients or product in the mucous membrane of their body, including nose, mouth and eyes, to find out whether these products turn into allergies and infections or not.

What are the legal requirements for performing these specialized animal tests?

In most of the parts of the world, cosmetic testing on animals is totally banned, however many cosmetic manufacturers test their products on animals. Increasing public protest against animal testing, some of the legal laws have structured that speaks about what cannot be done with animals. Although these laws are followed but trading standards require proof of authenticity of products send from one place to another for consumer consumption. In order to show the products carried are non-toxic in interest of consumers, such experiments are performed.