Consumers are urging NARS to stick with its commitment to cruelty-free cosmetics by signing a petition.
The Care2 petition has currently racked up 65,577 online signatures, almost meeting its goal of 70,000.
Global support has been rallied, with signatories from Czech Republic, Switzerland, Mexico, Italy, Chile, France, US, UK, Russia and South Africa, among other countries.
“No-one needs to test on animals any more. This is pure greed and sheer cruelty. I will not buy products that have come about through the suffering of animals. And I will do all thst I can to persuade others to do the same. Shame on you,” wrote Lisa H. from the UK.
“Animals are important ... they breathe, smell, love ! They have feelings!!! They deserve to live a great life!! Not a life that inflicts pain and torture!!” commented Cheryl F. from New Jersey in the US.
Since NARS released a statement on Instagram on 27 June, the brand’s posts have continued to generate critical comments from social media users.
NARS did not respond to Cosmetics Business' enquiries.
Backlash continues
In its original post, NARS explained: “We want you to know that we hear you. The global elimination of animal testing needs to happen. We firmly believe that product and ingredient safety can be proven by non-animal methods, but we must comply with the local laws of the markets in which we operate, including in China. We have decided to make NARS available in China because we feel it is important to bring our vision of beauty and artistry to fans in the region.”
Its most recent post, published just 17 hours ago, was inundated with posts using the hashtag #boycottnars.
otterlypink posted: “Can't believe you guys have started testing on animals in China! Disgusting, outrage and anger come to mind right now. You guys should be ashamed and I am not touching your products again. #boycottnars”.
