Believe it or not, when I went vegan 1.5 years ago, changing my diet was the easiest part.
The other part that I didn’t think about until a few months in, is how to avoid products you don’t expect to be associated with animal cruelty.
I believe in doing your best to cause no harm, so I’m not saying I’m perfect, but I’ve learned to choose products that I believe in and don’t have to stress about where they are coming from.
There’s a whole other argument about whether you should buy from companies OWNED by non-cruelty-free companies, but I usually buy with consideration of the first level of the company, although everyone has their own views.
# 1 Meow Meow Tweet Deodorant
This deodorant is awesome! I tried a couple others, but this is the only one that is lightly scented, contains no aluminum, and stays dry all day. I definitely recommend! I even wore this while we were traveling on our camper van trip, and was not smelly, as far as I know, although maybe my husband chose not to complain.
#2 Alba Hawaiian Shampoo – Colorific Plumeria
If you color your hair, it’s best to use a shampoo without sulfates and salts. I was a big fan of Lush’s Big Shampoo, but sea salt is not good for keeping color in and can strip it away. This one smells LOVELY (I love a light Hawaiian scent), and does the job of keeping my hair clean.
#3 Jason Calming Lavender Body Wash
I like lavender scented things. I’m not a big fan of strong scents; they kind of give me a headache, so I don’t want a scent lingering around all day. This one smells fresh and soapy, and it comes in a large bottle, so it will last in your shower forever, unless you’re like me and squirt a bunch of pumps out at once.
#4 NARS Sheer Glow Foundation
Finding a good foundation is also tricky, because I have sensitive skin and some foundations make me break out. This one goes on SO smooth and is matte. You can also build up more or less coverage; I like a medium amount.
It also doesn’t make me break out. I do not have naturally clear skin, so when the Sephora employee tried this out on my skin, she was surprised it went on so well. It is great at evening out skin tone.
#5 Pixi Lash Line Ink Eyeliner
I was always a big fan of Stila Stay All Day liquid eyeliner, and when I found out they test on animals, I was a little heartbroken. I finally found a replacement, and it’s also much cheaper, so I actually win! You can find Pixi brand at Target, and they have lots of adorable products. I also use their smudgy brown pencil for a softer eye.
#6 Better Than Sex Mascara
If I could wear just one makeup product, other than foundation, it would probably be mascara. I prefer my mascara dramatic, and for me this one adds tons of volume without clumping too much. I have repurchased it a few times now, and haven’t found anything else that I am as happy with.
Do you have any cruelty free suggestions? I would love to hear them.
I've really wanted to try that Better than Sex mascara.. thanks for the recommendation!! I have to wear mascara or I look dead! And ooo I definitely want to try that foundation, I am always on the hunt for a good one that won't irritate my skin!
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I've heard some great things about Better Than Sex… and I do love Pixi!
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This post is right up my ally….
& I'm heading over to check out the mascara right now. I mean with a name like that – its GOTTA be good 🙂
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i don't know how i feel about the better than sex mascara. i don't hate it, but i don't know if i love it more than my drugstore mascaras.
i am going to go to – hopefully – a completely cruelty free collection of makeup and such, but i am waiting till i am out of things before replacing them with cruelty free options. i think 90% of my things are fine, but they are owned by parent companies that do test on animals, which sucks.
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Thanks for your article, it's helpful to me, I will try this 🙂
Jessica
http://www.glassesshop.com/
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ooo, these are all good to know about! i'm not vegan, but i'm slowly trying to make my makeup natural and cruelty-free. baby steps.
Brainchild
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