America's consciousness about environmental issues has gained tremendous momentum over the past several years. Evidence of global warming and scientific discoveries about the impact of greenhouses gasses on everything from the melting of the polar icecaps to the extinction of animal and plant species has spurred the U.S. and countries around the world to take action. The importance of research into lessening our dependence on fossil fuels and moving to alternative energy sources has been front-page news and is the subject of contentious political debates. In the meantime, many consumers have taken matters into their own hands by taking steps to reduce their carbon footprints and generally increasing their awareness of the impact humans have on our environment.

Animal Rights

Long before environmental issues became popular with the mainstream, however, animal rights activists sounded the alarm about routine practices that harm wildlife and farmed animals. The rise in popularity of faux fur, for example, was a direct result of efforts to educate the public about the cruelty of harvesting animals for their pelts. Similarly, animal rights groups shone the light on the practices of many cosmetics companies that routinely tested makeup on animals and caused untold anguish and pain.

Cruelty Free Makeup Brushes

Although women are increasingly aware of animal testing methods and choose to support cosmetics companies that are committed to cruelty free and animal free testing, women are often less educated about makeup brushes. The animal hair that forms the bristles of many makeup brushes is often purchased from the same suppliers that engage in cruel fur harvesting practices. In fact, all but about a dozen companies in the U.S. have animal hair makeup brushes in their lines.

Technology and Taklon

This fact is perplexing not only because the support of cruelty free products continues to grow, but also because technology is now so advanced that synthetic and natural fiber makeup brushes are superior to animal hair brushes in both functionality and durability. For example, Taklon is a synthetic fiber that is far superior to animal hair in makeup brushes. With animal hair, makeup, dead skin cells, and other contaminants can easily get caught in the cuticles of the animal hair, allowing bacteria to grow and making the brushes unsanitary. Taklon, on the other hand, doesn't have a hair cuticle and has antibacterial properties, making it much better for the skin.

In addition to its antibacterial properties, Taklon is superior to animal hair makeup brushes because of its versatility. Again, the cuticles in animal hair cause streaking when makeup brushes are used for creams or liquids. In contrast, Taklon can be created in textures ranging from extremely soft to very coarse, making it perfect for the application of powders, creams, and liquids.

Synthetic Brushes for Everyone

You don't have to be a vegan to buy cruelty free cosmetics and makeup brushes. As awareness of all environmental issues - from global warming to animal cruelty - increases, conscious consumers will increasingly choose to purchase products that reflect a solid commitment to preserving our planet and its species.