Cruelty-free is a label used in the animal rights movement to designate goods or actions that do not inflict cruelty on or kill animals. Since these experiments are frequently painful and result in the pain and death of countless animals each year, neither goods tested on animals nor those derived from animals are seen as cruelty-free.
Skincare products are one of the main types of products tested on animals. It is cruel for companies to allow harmless animals to undergo painful testing to satisfy our consumers’ needs. However, some skincare companies are against animal testing and would instead test their products through other means. With that said, here are the top 10 cruelty-free skincare products you can find in Malaysia.
Is vegan and cruelty-free the same term?
No, these two words do not have the same meaning. The term vegan indicates that the product does not have any ingredients that are derived from animals. On the other hand, cruelty-free suggests that the item was not tested on animals before the company put it for sale.
How can you tell if an item is cruelty-free?
There are a few ways to know if an item is cruelty-free. Firstly, look for the cruelty-free bunny symbol or the leaping bunny symbol that will be located on the item. Secondly, check out the company profile, as companies must be transparent about their testing process. Lastly, you can follow websites that have tracked down cruelty-free products.
10 Best Cruelty-free Skincare Products in Malaysia 2025
1. Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Toner
The Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Toner is a toner suitable for those with a sensitive skin type as it does not contain any parabens, alcohol or fragrances. This toner includes Pro-Vitamin B5, which is beneficial in smoothening and softening the skin when applied. The Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Toner also contains chamomile and witch hazel that helps to tighten up any pores on the face while soothing the skin from any redness.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Hamamelis Virginiana Water, Allantoin, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Sodium PCA, Glycerin, Pantolactone, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Citric acid, Methylparaben, 2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol, Potassium sorbate.
- Country Of Origin: United Kingdom
- Size Available: 200ml
Pros:
✅ Soothes the skin
✅ Smoothens any rough areas
✅ Suitable for those with sensitive skin
Price: RM18.88
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
2. Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Cosrx’s Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is a lightweight and slimy essence that aids in repairing the skin from a broken skin barrier. The ingredients of this essence primarily contain snail mucin. Snail mucin is a powerful ingredient that aids in keeping moisture within the skin while improving the skin’s elasticity. The snail mucin also aids in soothing any redness and irritations that the skin might be experiencing. Dark spots, breakouts, blemishes and fine lines will fade away with every consistent use of this essence.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Snail Secretion Filtrate, Betaine, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Ethyl Hexanediol, Carbomer, Panthenol, Arginine
- Country Of Origin: South Korea
- Size Available: 100ml
Pros:
✅ Easily absorbs into the skin
✅ Slimy texture
✅ Gets rid of blemishes
Price: RM15.00 – RM42.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
3. Aiken Prebiotic Hydra Facial Cleanser
The Aiken Prebiotic Hydra Facial Cleanser profoundly cleans the skin without stripping away any moisture or drying out the face, making it suitable for all skin types. This cleanser includes rice water that is beneficial in healing the skin from any irritations while locking in hydration. This mild cleanser also contains prebiotics from France that are essential in promoting healthy skin bacteria and increasing radiance.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Glycerin, Water, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Butylene Glycol, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Polymnia Sonchifolia Root Juice, Aspergillus Ferment, Maltodextrin, Lactobacillus, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.
- Country Of Origin: Malaysia
- Size Available: 120ml
Pros:
✅ Soap-free
✅ pH balanced formula
✅ Free from parabens
Price: RM13.43
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
4. Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50
The Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50 is a chemical-based sunscreen with a broad spectrum of SPF50+ PA++++, which is the sufficient amount of SPF needed for the face. This sunscreen contains rice bran water, a powerful traditional ingredient used to brighten and calm skin from dark spots and redness. The sunscreen has a creamy yet lightweight formula that does not leave a greasy film on the skin, and the formulation enables the sunscreen to be absorbed without causing any white cast or piling.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract (30%), Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Niacinamide, Methylene Bis-benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Coco-caprylate/Caprate, Caprylyl Methicone, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Monascus/Rice Ferment, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol,Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment, Aspergillus Ferment, Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate
- Country Of Origin: South Korea
- Size Available: 50ml
Pros:
✅ Lightweight formula
✅ No whitecast
✅ Strengthen the skin’s barrier
Price: RM34.90
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
5. Bio-essence Bio-Treasure Jeju Marine Algae Facial Mask
The Bio-essence Bio-Treasure Jeju Marine Algae Facial Mask is a single-use face mask that is perfect to use after a long day of work or school. All you need to do is remove the sheet mask from the packaging and place it on top of your face, then sit back and relax for about 15 minutes. This face mask contains Jeju Marine Algae that will deliver essential nutrients to the skin for reparation and renewal. The face mask also has Aloe Vera extract that will lock in hydration to avoid a dry texture on the face.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Pearl Extract, Zingiber Officinale (ginger) Root Extract, Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract, Coptis Chinensis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Propolis Wax, Caprylyl Glycol, Ecklonia Cava Extract, Arginine, Carbomer, Chlorphenesin, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Beta-glucan, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Betaine, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Allantoin, Disodium Edta, Fragrance
- Country Of Origin: Singapore
- Size Available: 20ml
Pros:
✅ Provides the skin with nutrients
✅ Hydrates the skin
✅ Easy to apply
Price: RM7.90
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
6. IUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil
The IUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil is infused with 94% plant oils that effectively remove impurities such as grime, dirt, oil, sunscreen and makeup without leaving the skin dry or sticky. This cleansing oil’s main ingredient is the calendula flower extract that soothes the skin from any irritations while delivering a deep cleansing action that even helps remove the pores and blackheads on the face. The texture of this cleansing oil is lightweight and oily when it comes in contact with the face. Applying water to remove the cleansing oil dissolves it into a watery texture that can easily be washed away.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Canola Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Sorbitan Sesquioleate
- Country Of Origin: South Korea
- Size Available: 200ml
Pros:
✅ Suitable for all skin types
✅ Leaves the skin feeling moisturised
✅ Removes dirt, grime, oil and makeup effectively
Price: RMRM51.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
7. Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream
The Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream promises to lighten the appearance of dark circles beneath the eyes while minimising the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. 80% of the ingredients in this eye cream are snail mucus, which is suitable for moisturising, strengthening, and nourishing the skin around the eyes. With regular usage of this product, the under-eye area will look more bright and luminous.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Snail Secretion Filtrate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Glyceryl Stearate, Phytosqualene, Octyldodecyl Myristate, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Beeswax, Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polyacrylate-13, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate-20, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Extract, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice, Adenosine, 1,2 octanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tropolone, Disodium EDTA
- Country Of Origin: South Korea
- Size Available: 15ml, 25ml
Pros:
✅ Nourishes the under eyes
✅ Brightens dark circles
✅ Reduces eye puffiness
Price: RM33.00 – RM55.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
8. The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil is free from water, alcohol, silicone, nuts, parabens and gluten, making it a great face oil for sensitive skin types or allergies. This face oil contains rosehip seed oil which is organic and cold-pressed. The rose hip seed oil will be able to lighten any dark spots and blemishes while reducing fine lines and wrinkles. This face oil is rich in pro-vitamin A and linoleic acid, enhancing the skin’s protective barrier.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Rosa Canina Seed Oil (100%)
- Country Of Origin: Canada
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Anti-aging
✅ Gluten-free
✅ Nut-free
Price: RM49.50
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
9. The Inkey List Vitamin B, C & E Moisturiser
The Inkey List Vitamin B, C & E Moisturiser is a lightweight daily moisturiser suitable to be used daily during the morning and at night. This moisturiser can control the production of excess oils and reduce any redness that appears on the face, revealing a clear and radiant complexion. The moisturiser contains essential vitamins of E, C and B, which will deliver antioxidants to the skin and help improve the skin’s barrier.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua (Water/Eau), Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Stearic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dehydroacetic Acid, Lecithin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
- Country Of Origin: United Kingdom
- Size Available: 50ml
Pros:
✅ Lightweight formula
✅ Brightens appearance
✅ Controls excess oil
Price: RM33.00 – RM55.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
10. Sukin Sensitive Calming Night Cream
The Sukin Sensitive Calming Night Cream is infused with skin-loving, oil-based ingredients, which include Evening Primrose Oil, Borage and Rosehip. These ingredients, in combination, will help to enhance the skin’s uneven texture while increasing the face’s radiance. This soothing night cream also contains Chamomile and Cucumber that will relieve any skin irritations and redness found on the face due to allergies or dryness. The skin will feel calm, moisturised and luminous the following day when you wake up.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Ceteareth-20, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil (Rosehip), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Borago Officinalis (Borage) Seed Oil, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (Chamomile), Equisetum Arvense Extract (Horsetail), Arctium Lappa Root Extract (Burdock), Urtica Dioica Leaf Extract (Nettle), Vanillin, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol
- Country Of Origin: Australia
- Size Available: 120ml
Pros:
✅ Improves skin’s texture
✅ Reveals radiant complexion the next day
✅ Soothes redness
Price: RM49.52
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.com.my. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
