Back in the Middle Ages, the forehead was considered the most beautiful part of the face.
To draw attention to the forehead, women would remove their eyebrows and eyelashes; an action that would now be considered a beauty crime!
Then came the ‘60s, and the lashes revolution. Mascara became a staple product in a woman’s purse. The thicker, the better.
Since then, not much has changed in terms of the lust longer lashes with greater volume. And technology has enhanced this possibility to the point where every woman can have the perfect eyelashes to suit her face and outfit.
Whether you’re opting for full make-up or a more natural look, false eyelashes can accentuate your look and add character to your eyes – not that you need it, of course!
But hey, in the quest of a different look, I think we'd all agree that no human or animal should suffer, right?
Unfortunately, even when it comes to fake eyelashes, this isn't always the case.
Don't support this unnecessary cruelty.
The Truth About Mink Lashes
While mascara is still widely used, and other options such as a lash extension and lift offer a more permanent option, mink lashes are a modern trend and becoming increasingly popular.
And why not? Aside from making you look even more gorgeous, they make you feel like you’re not wearing false lashes at all!
But here's the problem: Mink comes from mink, the animal, that is.
The fur is collected by brushing the animals or gathering fallen hair.
On the face of it this doesn't sound too bad. You might picture a caring person gently brushing a mink while giving it a cuddle, and then collecting the excess hair to pass onto a company to make false eyelashes.
The reality is different. The idea that minks are “gently brushed” for their fur is a myth for creatures as solitary and territorial as minks.
And, while there may be some truth in saying the minks are not killed for lashes, they are still kept captive at fur farms in tiny cages until they are ultimately killed and skinned for other fur products.
Inevitably, when animals are used to create a product, the animals themselves end up being treated as a commodity, as a means to an end – a means to profit. They are mistreated.
Indeed, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) states that “minks are confined to small, depressing, cramped wire cages in highly unsanitary conditions.”
As for lash companies claiming that they source fur from free-range mink farms, there is no evidence of their existence.
This leaves the claim of cruelty-free mink lashes at best, a half-truth, or worse, deceptive marketing.
18 Cruelty-Free Mink-Look Lashes
We know, it's awful. But don't worry, you can still get the mink look without the mink, so to speak.
You can avoid contributing your hard-earned money towards the exploitation of these beautiful animals and choose a cruelty-free, synthetic brand from the list below.
We're 100% sure that you'll find the look you want in our list of 18 ethical eyelashes list below.
1. Aether’s Ultra-Soft, Natural Fake Eyelashes
Aether can’t emphasize it any further: their false eyelashes are ULTIMATELY, TRULY cruelty-free. They’ve created a whole page on their website just to tackle the dark truth about “cruelty-free” mink (real) lashes.
Their lashes come in four different styles and all of them are gorgeous! Use and store them with care and you can wear them for up to 15 times.
=> Click here to see Aether's lashes
2. Jolie Beauty Slayin' Lashes
Slayin' Lashes by Jolie Beauty are FAUX MINK, which is a synthetic fibre, similar to the texture of silk. These beautiful lashes are totally cruelty-free and vegan, very soft to touch, and offer a natural or dramatic finish, depending on the style you choose (there are over 10 styles).
Jolie Lashes can be worn for up to 25 times.
=> Click here to view Jolie Lashes
3. House of Lashes’ Au Naturale 3-Combo Pack False Eyelashes
Mink fur? Absolutely not! House of Lashes is proud that they’re a part of the revolution that throws cruelty of any form under the bus.
In fact, their stunning products are handcrafted using premium human and synthetic hair and are packed in pretty, recyclable packages!
Try their best selling Au Naturale 3-Combo Pack False Eyelashes to complete your everyday school, work, or just-roaming-around look. Each pair can be reused if worn and taken care of properly.
=> Click here to see House of Lashes
4. e.l.f.’s Natural Lash Kit
Want thicker lashes but still trying to preserve a more natural look? Check out e.l.f.’s top-rated Natural Lash Kit. Wherever the date or the party is, you’ll never go wrong with this lightweight, long-lasting set!
If you want extra glamour, check out their Maximum Drama Luxe Lash Kit. With proper care, they can be worn multiple times. They’re super affordable, too?
=> Click here to see e.l.f.'s Natural Lash Kit
5. The Vintage Cosmetic Company’s Betty Lashes
Want that almond-shaped eyes guarded by thick and luscious lashes look? Then look no more!
Made with synthetic hair, Betty strip lashes are easy to apply and can be worn multiple times. Giving a stunning, dramatic finish, they work well for evening occasions, but it doesn’t mean you can’t sport them during the day, though!
6. Make Up For Ever’s Lash Show N404
If instant drama is what you want, Make Up For Ever got you covered. Their Lash Show False Eyelashes give a sensational effect, thanks to the length and volume.
These lashes are handmade from delicate synthetic fibres, providing extra softness and comfort upon use. To add to that, you’ve got a slim, flexible base ready for reshaping or trimming. Give your eyes the daily real drama they need with Lash Show false lashes.
=> Click to see Make Up For Ever lashes
7. Lilly Lashes’ Milan in Faux Mink
Established by Instagram celebrity Lilly Ghalichi herself, Lilly Lashes has marked its name in the beauty industry. These lashes are enjoyed by some global stars like Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and the Kardashians.
Vegan and cruelty-free, the favorite ‘Milan’ is ideal for adding length and volume and creating a seductive effect with every flutter. This lightweight pair is uber-comfortable to wear and can be used for up to 20 times.
8. Eylure’s The Luxe Collection Solitaire Lashes
Have you ever thought of creating a natural yet spectacular look but can’t seem to find the perfect balance between the two? Check The Luxe Collection Solitaire Lashes by Eylure and you might well meet your new lash buddy!
Made from synthetic fibre that’s as soft as silk, this pair’s luxurious effect makes it ideal for both daytime events and evening occasions.
9. Georgie Beauty’s La Chérie' Faux Lashes
The stunning faux lashes of Georgie Beauty are cruelty-free and vegan. Designed and made for the new generation, their products are proof that style and beauty should not compromise the safety of animals and the environment.
The La Chérie' Faux Lashes give you both length and definition. Easy to apply, lightweight, and comfortable, you won’t have a problem wearing them all day.
=> Click to view Georgie Beauty's fake lashes
10. Huda Beauty’s Carmen Lashes in #9
You want drama, Huda Beauty will give you drama! If you’re sporting a sensual makeup finish, check out the Carmen Lashes #9 to dramatically highlight your eyes and complete your look.
These lightweight lashes give you ultra-high volume without having to worry about extra weight. Huda Beauty’s lash products are totally cruelty-free.
Did I also mention that some of the biggest celebrities such as the Kardashians, the Jenners, Beyonce, and J.Lo also love them?
=> Check out the Carmen lashes here
11. Morphe’s Smoochy Premium Lashes
We know Morphe is well-known for their makeup brushes, but no one said they suck at other things! This beauty brand has expanded their roster and added Premium Lashes available in 19 different but equally gorgeous variants.
One crowd-favourite is ‘Smoochy’, which boasts of asymmetrical lashes for that attractive winged look. Each pair is made from soft synthetic fibres, making it lightweight you’ll need some time before you realise they’re false.
With extra care and storage, they can be re-worn 10 to 15 times.
=> View the Smoochy Premium here
12. Illamasqua’s Lashes in Elegant
Hypnotize with your eyes with Illamasqua lashes. These handmade products come in various styles and colors, from a fresh, romantic look to a more striking and dramatic one. We recommend the ‘Elegant’ style, which may seem plain and subtle, but it surprisingly lengthens your lashes. They’re perfect for your everyday look.
=> Go to the Illamasqua website
13. Kiss’ Blooming Lashes Collection
Kiss’ Blooming Lash Collection is a perfect way to level up your look for every occasion: from a brunch meet-up, an afternoon coffee date, a dinner date, or a late-night party.
Offering seven striking designs, each pair is created with multi-angle technology, adding not just length and volume but also depth to excellently accentuate your eyes. Try ‘Jasmine’ for your everyday look and ‘Daisy’ for certain events.
=> See the Kiss collection here
14. Nyx’s Wicked Lashes Collection
This collection offers not 10, not 20, but 24 different stunning pairs of false eyelashes. If that’s not heaven for you, lash lover, we don’t know what is. With such a wide range of faux mink eyelashes, you can surely find a pair to suit. From a no-makeup to an alluring to a definitely dramatic look, these light-weight lashes are awesome, and vegan.
=> Check out the Wicked lashes here
15. Social Eye’s Foxy Lash
Founded by Karissa Pukas, a popular YouTuber, Social Eye joins other beauty brands in advocating the non-use of lash products that harm animals in any way. Each product is totally vegan, completely cruelty-free, and always handcrafted using premium human and synthetic hair.
The Foxy Lash, in particular, is recommended for when you want to achieve a seductive look.
16. Tigress Beauty’s Temptress Silk 3D Luxury Lashes
Going for that bold, sophisticated look with a touch of sexy? The Temptress Silk 3D Luxury Lashes by Tigress Beauty is the answer.
Offering length, volume, and an iconic style of asymmetry but even distribution, you can find yourself carrying glamour with every flutter. There are 10 beautiful designs under the Silk 3D Luxury Lash collection, so all that you need to do is check what suits best for you.
=> Visit the Tigress website to see more
17. AZLO’s Classy
If you’re a fan of classic, natural makeup, you might want to add ‘Classy’ by AZLO to your list. Not only are AZLO lash products cruelty-free and vegan, which means you’re supporting an industry that fights animal cruelty, but they are also made from hypoallergenic materials for safety and using cotton band technology, offering not weight but comfort.
A bestseller, ‘Classy’ creates a fresh, natural look still enough to make a beautiful impact. No matter the shape of your eyes, ‘Classy’ is always right!
=> See the AZLO Classy lashes here
If you're on a budget, Amazon stock many of these brands too, plus a number of other fake eyelashes that don't use mink. However, be sure to read the description in full to be sure.
Aren’t MAC products tested on animals?
Sep 22, 2019 at 3:42 am
I just checked up on this and they say they aren’t but actually there’s a caveat because they are owned by Estée Lauder, whose animal testing policy is not to test on animals unless required by law. And because MAC is sold in China, where animal testing is required, MAC isn’t a cruelty-free company. Damn. We will take them off this list and replace with a creulty-free company. Thanks for spotting this.
Oct 03, 2019 at 5:59 pm