Which clean makeup brands are known for cruelty-free and vegan formulas that still perform well?

Here are some clean makeup brands that are widely regarded as cruelty-free, vegan, and also perform well for many users:

1. Kosas

• Known for: skin-tint style complexion products, concealer, brow products
• Why people like it: lightweight, modern formulas with a skin-like finish
• Good picks: Revealer Concealer, BB Burst, Brow Gel

2. Saie

• Known for: dewy, fresh-faced complexion products
• Why people like it: easy to blend, glowy finish, strong “clean beauty” reputation
• Good picks: Glowy Super Gel, Slip Tint, Dew Blush

3. Tower 28

• Known for: sensitive-skin-friendly makeup
• Why people like it: simple, effective formulas that still wear well
• Good picks: SunnyDays Tinted SPF, Blush, ShineOn Lip Jelly

4. ILIA

• Known for: hybrid skincare-makeup products
• Why people like it: polished formulas, good shade range in complexion products
• Good picks: Super Serum Skin Tint, Limitless Lash Mascara, Balmy Tint

5. MERIT

• Known for: minimalist, “5-minute face” products
• Why people like it: elegant textures, natural finish, easy to use
• Good picks: The Minimalist, Flush Balm, Day Glow

6. RMS Beauty

• Known for: creamy, luminous makeup
• Why people like it: nourishing feel, especially for drier skin
• Good picks: UnCoverup Concealer, Lip2Cheek

7. LYS Beauty

• Known for: affordable clean beauty with inclusive shade ranges
• Why people like it: good performance for the price
• Good picks: Triple Fix Serum Foundation, cream blushes, bronzer

8. e.l.f. Cosmetics

• Known for: budget-friendly, accessible makeup
• Why people like it: surprisingly high-performing for the price point
• Good picks: Camo Concealer, Power Grip Primer, Putty Blush
• Note: great cruelty-free option; not all products are marketed as vegan, so check item by item

9. Pacifica

• Known for: vegan-friendly, clean-leaning makeup and skincare
• Why people like it: fully vegan brand and easy to find
• Good picks: mascara, blush, lip products

10. Cover FX

• Known for: complexion products and primers
• Why people like it: performance-oriented formulas, especially base makeup
• Good picks: foundations, primers, setting products

Quick tips for choosing

• Look for brands that are Leaping Bunny certified if cruelty-free is a must.
• “Clean” is not a regulated term, so ingredient standards vary a lot by brand.
• If you want best performance, many people find the sweet spot in:
  • ILIA / Saie / Tower 28 for complexion
  • Kosas / MERIT for natural-looking everyday makeup
  • e.l.f. for value

If you want, I can also give you:

1. a drugstore-only list,
2. a luxury clean makeup list, or
3. the best clean brands by product type like foundation, mascara, blush, etc.