Why Your Bandages Aren't Vegan
- Sachin A. Shah, PharmD
- Apr 9, 2020
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 28
Most people probably don’t think twice about whether there are animal products in a band-aid when they go to put one on. But believe it or not, that's the exact question we should be asking.
Most bandages, including Band-Aid's most popular bandage, Band-Aid Flexible Fabric, contain animal ingredients! Bandages, unlike medications and supplements, don't list their ingredients, so it's difficult to determine which of the products are animal-free and which are not. Some of the ingredient lists we've found include beeswax and glycerin...who knew?
This problem is bigger than just animal-free concerns. There is a concern for people with allergies, too. While most bandage packaging will tell the consumer if the product is latex-free or not, they neglect to mention if the product is fragrance-free. Luckily, Pill Clarity is there doing the footwork for you! Our experts have been in contact with various companies to gain verification on animal-free bandages.
Band-Aid is one of the most popular bandage companies in the industry. Johnson and Johnson, Band-Aid's parent company, recently assured us their Band-Aid Skin Flex bandages are free of animal products. These bandages are known for their lightweight cross-fibers that stretch and flex with your skin. As a known and trusted brand, Skin Flex follows suit with Band-Aid's quality assurance.

PATCH is an Australian company that specializes in bamboo, bio-degradable bandages. These bandages use a combination of bamboo fibers, coconut oil, and aloe vera to create an eco-friendly, animal-free bandage. They are also fragrance-free, making them a versatile, reliable product for people with sensitive skin and allergy concerns. Check out our multiple PATCH products on our First-Aid shopping page!
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
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If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to reach out to the Pill Clarity team!