My name is Desiree Barrett and I'm in cosmetology school in New York City. When I arrived to school, I was excited to start work because beauty is a passion of mine. However, when it came time for us to start practical work (work with hair, skin, and make up products), I did research on the brands the school uses and I discovered that they're not cruelty free.

The beauty industry isn't as shallow as it used to be and cruelty free and vegan products are becoming standard practice. Hair dye, make up, and skin care companies are going the route of vegan products and knowing this, I assumed cosmetology school would, too.

When I told my teacher that it was against my morals to use products that were tested on animals, and that I would prefer to bring in my own coloring products, I was told I can't use them because the SDS sheets need to account for every product used, in case of an adverse reaction.

I can understand that, but why can't the schools use products that don't harm animals? Testing on animals is akin to torture. They can go blind, their skin and fur gets damaged, they live in small cages, they are force fed medications to see what can and will cause death, and no one seems to care. If I have to, I will leave my school and perhaps the industry, altogether.

I don't expect anyone to drop out of school, but if animal welfare means something to you, please sign this petition. Laws need to be changed. Animal testing is archaic, barbaric, and cruel. Thank you for your consideration.