Navigating the Drugstore Makeup Aisle—Without Harming Any Bunny

You've decided to go cruelty-free. You head to CVS for a new mascara. Now what?

If you’re anything like me, that aisle is about to get pretty depressing. It’s a major bummer to see other women standing in front of the L’Oreal and Maybelline sections, clueless, or worse, indifferent. And frankly, it sucks to have your options limited. But on the bright side, more and more brands are becoming certified cruelty-free, and while you may have less companies to choose from, you still have high quality, affordable options.

Even better? Bargain brands Jordana and Wet n Wild are both Leaping Bunny certified. Personal faves from Jordana include their Fabuliner Bold Felt-Tip Liquid Eyeliner (seriously, what could make a cat-eye easier than a marker?) and their Twist & Shine Moisturizing Balm Stain. And trust me when I say affordable: either one of those will only set you back $3.99.

As for Wet n Wild, I feel like their products keep getting better and better. They now offer a full line of vegan makeup brushes, and I love their 1 Step WonderGel Nail Color. I usually get a good two weeks out of just two coats and trust: I’m no manicurist. Bonus? It’s only $4.99 a bottle. Their MegaLast option is only $1.99, and Wild Shine is just 99 cents!

Another common cruelty-free drugstore brand is Milani, which is one I’ve been using since high school. Right now, I’m really digging their Lash Trifecta mascara, which definitely delivers on its triple-threat promise of lengthening, curling and definition. Milani comes in at a slightly higher price point than Jordana and Wet n Wild, but still very budget friendly (think $5.99 vs. $3.99 for a tube of lip gloss, for example). In the last year or so, I’ve noticed that they’ve been updating their brand and adding more to their collection, which is awesome. To see what they have that best fits your beauty needs, check out their cute Beauty Identities feature.

If you’re looking for natural ingredients, Physicians Formula has signed the PETA cruelty-free pledge, though they are not Leaping Bunny certified. I'm a fan of their Mineral Wear Loose Powder, which provides really good light-to-medium coverage (plus SPF protection), and doesn't clog your pores.

Pacifica, found at a variety of natural grocers, as well as Target, offers organic products, gluten free products, and they’re 100% vegan. Their offerings include makeup, body care and perfume. (When I’m looking to splurge a little, I love their Stellar Gaze mascara, $14.) Pacifica is also Leaping Bunny certified.

Both Pacifica and Physicians Formula come in at a higher price point than the other three, but they offer quality products that are definitely worth your money.

To assist your next cruelty-free purchase, download the free Leaping Bunny app for your phone, and just scan the barcode of whatever you’re looking to buy.

As for popular drugstore brands that DO test on animals, check out the graphic below:

Healthy Fats for Healthy Hair: Giovanni’s Ultra-Moist Shampoo & Conditioner

When it comes to cruelty-free hair care, Giovanni definitely tops my list.

As mentioned in my previous post, my husband and I moved from NYC to Colorado at the beginning of June. In addition to the totally new landscape and lifestyle, I’ve also had to learn how my hair and skin respond to the significantly drier climate. Having had dry hair to start, the endless 90+ degree heat, sun, and total lack of humidity has really taken its toll on my locks.

Enter Giovanni’s 2chic Ultra-Moist shampoo and conditioner with avocado and olive oil. Doesn’t it just sound good enough to eat?

Okay, so while I don’t recommend eating it, it smells great, and after a week’s use, my hair and scalp already feel improved. It’s also worth mentioning that I swim laps about three times a week, so my hair is marinating in public pool levels of chlorine, and is still getting hydrated from this stuff. All without making it greasy or heavy, to boot.

Giovanni has two different haircare product lines: Eco Chic and 2chic, with the Ultra-Moist product suite falling under the latter. 2chic now offers six different hair and body care profiles. I’ve used four of the six, and I bet you can find the right thing for your needs no problem. To explore the 2chic line, click here.

Thankfully, Giovanni is making its way into lots of popular stores. Most major grocers and pharmacies, as well as places like Target and Walmart, offer their products. To find Giovanni in a store near year, check out their retailer list.

An 8.5 oz. tube of either shampoo or conditioner retails for $8.99, though I was lucky to get both for under $10 at a local natural grocer in Longmont, CO, thanks to both an in-store sale, and $1 off coupons attached the bottles.

Giovanni is Leaping Bunny-certified, and nearly all of their products are vegan – including Ultra Moist.

Have you used any Giovanni products? Let me know what you love in the comments below!

Summertime...and the Cruelty-Free Living Is Easy

As we head into the end of June, one thing is certain: Summer is officially here!

My husband and I recently relocated from Brooklyn, New York, to Erie, Colorado, just outside of Boulder. While there’s a lot of things to explore and adjust to, one of the biggest things for me is being a heck of a lot closer to the sun! Having lived close to sea level my entire life, I was pretty stunned at how quickly I turned from white to red out here.

But whether you’re at a high altitude or splashing in the sea, you need protection from the elements. Read on for my top picks for staying cruelty-free while having fun in the sun!

Best Sunscreen: Alba Botanica Very Emollient Sunscreen

There are more and more cruelty-free sunscreens popping up on the market, but my favorite -- and the brand I see most often at different stores -- is Alba Botanica. Whether you want a spray or a tube, Alba Botanica has an option -- and a scent -- to match any need. They offer a range of SPFs and make a lotion gentle enough for baby’s skin. My go-to is the fragrance free spray (linked to above), which stands up to a sweaty all-day hike and never clogs my pores. Prices vary between sizes and types, but the aforementioned spray retails for about $16, though I’ve had no trouble finding it on sale for $10 and under.

Best Facial Sunscreen: Kiss My Face Face Factor SPF 50

Kiss My Face also makes a great body sunscreen, but I particularly love them for their face-specific lotion. As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, I have really sensitive skin. Growing up, I always had to be careful about putting any sunscreen on my face, lest it feel like it was on fire the entire day. This stuff is super lightweight and non-greasy, but surprisingly effective and sweat-resistant. A 2 oz. tube retails for around $14, but I’ve gotten it for as little as $9 or $10.

Best Swimmer’s Shampoo: Aubrey Organics Almond Apricot Swimmer’s Shampoo

Maybe you’re more of pool than an ocean person. As a blonde who swam competitively in high school, I know chlorine can wreck your hair (and turn it an interesting shade of green). When I looked at getting back into lap swimming, I knew I was going to need a swimmer’s shampoo, but I was worried there wasn’t a cruelty-free option on the market. Alas, there is. Not only is it gentle and effective, but it smells delicious. My only complaint is that the formula is a little runny, so you have to be careful when pouring into your hand. This is my first bottle, though, so fingers crossed it’s normally a little more viscous. Do a quick Google search to find your best price  -- a 16 oz. bottle will run you about $10 or $11.

Best Insect Repellent: All Terrain Herbal Armor

Forgot your Off! and all those other DEET-loaded brands: This is the best bug repellent I’ve ever used. We first picked this up for a trip to Costa Rica -- we knew we were going to be doing a lot of hiking in the rain forest and wanted to be prepared. I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical about the all-natural approach -- I grew up in a time when those chemical-saturated repellents were pretty much the only effective thing on the market, but trust. This stuff stands up to mosquito season in any tropical paradise -- including your backyard. A 4 oz. bottle retails for $9.99. Additional sizes and varieties available.

Best Bug Bite Relief: All Terrain Bite & Sting Soother Spray

Perhaps less surprising after you see how well the repellent works, is the sting soother. There’s always that one sucker that gets through, or, as is more likely with me, bug repellent isn’t all that effective unless you actually put it on. So, for those times when a bug has an unstoppable thirst for human flesh -- or you just got lazy -- this stuff will take the bite right out of that welt. A 2 oz. bottle retails for $7.99.

What's your favorite  cruelty-free summer product? Let me know in the comments!

Spring Cleaning: Small Ways to Go Cruelty-Free

As with any lifestyle change, going cruelty-free can seem overwhelming at first. A good way to tackle the problem is by starting small. So if you find yourself in spring cleaning mode over the next few weeks, why not use it as an opportunity to make your daily life more compassionate? Below, three easy starting points to begin a cruelty-free lifestyle.

#1 Your Handbag
You’ll need: Lip balm, hand cream, hand sanitizer

With springtime upon us, you may already be swapping out your winter bag for your spring one. Take this time to go through your “essentials” and swap out anything that isn’t cruelty free. Right now, I don’t go anywhere without my EO Products Peppermint & Citrus hand sanitizer, Shea Moisture Replenish & Rejuvenate hand cream and a Crazy Rumors lip balm.

Total cost of the above? $12.47

#2 Your Shower/Bathtub
You’ll need: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, facial cleanser, shave lotion

Have a mess of nearly-empty shampoo and bodywash bottles in your bathroom? Go ahead and recycle those suckers and swap in some great cruelty-free items. Easy drugstore/supermarket/Target finds include brands such as:

Shea Moisture
Yes To
Giovanni
Method
Paul Mitchell
Avalon Organics
JASÖN
Kiss My Face
Alba Botanica
Burt’s Bees

Want a spa-like experience? Try a Shea Moisture hand and body scrub ($9.99)

Like to multi-task? Leave a bottle of Method Daily Shower Cleaner in Ylang Ylang. It costs $3.99 a bottle and requires zero scrubbing.

#3 Your Laundry Room
You’ll need: Detergent, dryer sheets, fabric softener, bleach alternative, stain remover

A variety of companies are making cruelty-free laundry alternatives, many of which you can find in places like Target. Popular, Leaping Bunny-certified brands include:

Mrs. Meyers
Caldrea
Biokleen
Method
Seventh Generation

These Are a Few of My Favorite (Cruelty-Free) Things…

While I can’t deny that I love raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, I love cruelty-free beauty products even more. Below, four short write-ups of beauty essentials that I’ve recently discovered I can’t live without -- and once you try them, you won’t be able to either.

100 Percent Pure Black Tea Long Last Liquid Eyeliner,$28

A full sized bottle of this came in November’s Vegan Cuts Beauty Box and I’ve been loving it (and for $28 dollars, it was a real treat). It really is long lasting -- so long lasting, I really do have to scrub it off at night. It’s rich and thick so it takes a minute to dry, but the results are totally worth it. The price tag may not make it budget friendly for all, but trust me, this is indulgence is worth it.

Pacifica Stellar Gaze Length & Strength Mineral Mascara (in Supernova), $14

Have been loving all of Pacifica’s offerings, especially as I get familiar with their cosmetics. The brush is big and totally vegan, and easily coats lashes. However, I feel like too much mascara gets caught on the brush, so I’ve been wasting it a little -- have to learn to be less slapdash in the morning! Works like a dream, doesn’t flake or make my eyes itch, and washes off easily.

Shea Moisture Zanzibar Marine Complex Replenish & Rejuvenate Hand Cream,$5.99

Bought this at a Target in Colorado because the dry air completely dried out my hands. Man, this stuff is my new best friend. Not only does it smell awesome, but after just a couple applications that day, my hands felt markedly improved. Because it’s hand cream, it soaks in quickly. As an added bonus, it’s part of a Community Commerce initiative, meaning 10% of sales go to “women-led business, to support communities that supply ingredients for [their] products, or to support The Sofi Tucker Foundation.”

Dew Puff Konjac Sponge,$8

This came as part of my bonus gift for re-upping my Vegan Cuts subscription in December, and it rocks. Way more gentle on my skin than even my softest washcloth, and you can use it with or without cleanser. I find that that it gently exfoliates without being rough on my skin. I’ll definitely be buying more of these.

What’s Inside the December 2015 Vegan Cuts Beauty Box

My favorite beauty boxes are cosmetics-heavy, and the December Vegan Cuts Beauty Box didn’t disappoint. Curated specially by the Leaping Bunny, every product is vegan and guaranteed cruelty-free. Though I liked everything in this shipment, I especially fell for the eyeshadow, lip balm and blush. I also really loved the bonus gift that came as part of a “Cyber Monday” deal. Read on for an unpacking of the December box, and a review of the bonus products.

Concrete Minerals eyeshadow: “A silky soft and super pigmented eyeshadow made with purest mineral ingredients.” $8 value

Crazy Rumors lip balm in Hot Cocoa: “Cruelty-free lip balms in a variety seasonal scents and flavors.” $3.50 value

Demes Natural Products: “Makeup dissolving facial cleanser that lifts dirt and debris from skin naturally.” $6 value

Auromere: “Fresh mint toothpaste featuring 23 botanical extracts.” $1 value

Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques: “Soft and subtle pressed cheek color in shade ‘Sweet Sixteen’.” $14 value

Acure Organics: “Cell stimulating facial mask to remove toxins and regenerate, firm, and soften skin.” $7 value

Total $39.50 value

For signing up or renewing a subscription on “Cyber Monday,” Vegan Cuts offered a bonus gift which included three items that have become part of my daily rotation:

Pacifica Power of Love Natural Lipstick in Firebird, $10 value

I love this lipstick! I’m very pale, and this is such a flattering shade of red. It’s bright without being garish and it doesn’t crumble into the corners of your mouth or fade quickly into a garish line. It’s also “neutral” enough to be worn daily, so long as you keep your eye makeup tame.

Dew Puff Original Konjac Sponge, $8 value

Dew Puff, where have you been all my life? I’ve traded in my washcloth for the Konjac Sponge, and my skin couldn’t be happier. With just a drop of cleanser, this sponge transforms into a pore cleaning machine. I need to hoard these in bulk.

Vegan Cuts makeup bag

What woman couldn’t use another little cosmetic bag? Love this canvas beauty for toting around my daily essentials, and the “Vegan & Cruelty Free Beauty” tagline makes for a great conversation starter in the ladies room!

Take It All Off: Two Cruelty-Free Nail Polish Removers We <3

One thing that I promise will continually surprise you along your cruelty-free journey is the kinds of things still tested on animals. Topping that list for me? Nail polish remover. It breaks my heart to think that something (traditionally) so harsh and, in my mind, nonessential, can cause immense suffering for our animal friends.

Thankfully, we can say “no” to a cruel mani with these two great options from No Miss Cosmetics and Mineral Fusion. Rest-assured that both brands are 100% cruelty-free, safe for vegans and certified by the Leaping Bunny.

Almost Natural Nail Polish Remover by No Miss Cosmetics

This is the first nail polish remover I tried after going cruelty-free. It has a fruity, vanilla scent, and is the nicest smelling nail polish remover I’ve ever used. No more stinking up your bathroom with gross acetone! I found that while this formula did the job, I needed to soak the cotton ball more than I would have for a traditional remover, and had to scrub a little extra to completely remove the nail color -- likely because it’s ethyl acetate-free. But don’t worry -- I’ve found that it stands up to even the most stubborn of glitter polishes, so it’s a great option for someone looking for an all-natural option. 2 fl oz. bottle $4.99; 4 fl oz. bottle $7.99

Acetone-free Nail Polish Remover by Mineral Fusion

I’ve only just recently tried out Mineral Fusion’s nail polish remover, but it really works like a dream. It has a more chemical smell than No Miss (this formula DOES contain ethyl acetate), but is still far less offensive than any non-cruelty-free option out there. I find that this brand takes off polish faster and with less effort than anything I’ve tried. I can clean one hand easily with a single cotton ball no problem -- even the dark stuff! Also, given the bottle size, it offers a little more bang for your buck. 6 fl oz. bottle, $7.99

Never Leave Home Without It: 5 Cruelty-Free Purse Picks

I am one of those women who carries a gigantic purse almost everywhere I go. And while my bag’s contents are mostly ever-changing, there’s five cruelty-free, easy-to-find essentials I never leave home without.

Everyone® Peppermint & Citrus Natural Hand Sanitizer Spray

I live in New York City, meaning I touch really gross things on the regular. While I’m not a crazy germaphobe, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t desperately want to wash my hands after putting them on a greasy subway pole. Even if you don’t live in a germ-infested metropolis, this travel-friendly 2 oz. bottle of natural sanitizing spray can really save the day when you can’t get to soap and water as fast as you'd like. $2.99 a bottle; also available in Lemon & Coconut scent

J.R. Watkins Shea Butter Hand Cream in Aloe and Green Tea

Fast-absorbing hand cream is an absolute essential in my book. This J.R. Watkins formula smells nice and a little goes a long way – this is a thick and rich formula, so a 3.3 oz. tube lasts you a good long while. $9.99 per 3.3 oz. tube, available in 5 scents

Milani Brilliant Shine Lip Gloss in Coral Crush

With Brilliant Shine in Coral Crush, Milani has provided me with a super affordable version of my "splurge" lip gloss. While I love Urban Decay's Naked Lip Gloss in Streak, Brilliant Shine is a quarter of the price and works just as well. Added bonus? Milani is a common drugstore find. $4.99 per tube, available in 15 shades

Milani Even Touch Powder Foundation

While this compact stays in my purse for touch-ups, it really works great for everyday use. Even Touch is a pressed powder that offers foundation-level coverage without being too heavy or cake-y. I love the multi-layered compact design -- when you flip up the powder tray, you've got a dust free mirror for touch-ups on the go. $8.99 per compact, available in 9 shades

The Leaping Bunny Cruelty-Free App

Okay, so it's not a beauty product per se, but it helps you find cruelty-free products anywhere you go! Scan any product’s barcode with this FREE app and easily find out whether it’s cruelty-free or not. Click the link above to download, and never buy another questionable product again.

Real Men Love Bunnies: Top Cruelty-Free Grooming Picks for Guys

With makeup being a large focus of cruelty-free reporting, men's personal care needs are often overlooked--even though they're styling their hair and taking showers, too. My awesome husband joined me in going cruelty-free in 2012, and I recently asked him to review a few of his favorite products for Cruelty-Free Living. Check out his top four picks below:

Ocean Salt Face and Body Scrub by Lush Cosmetics

"I have combination skin and thick facial hair, so most natural/non-chemical cleansers haven't been tough enough on my skin. Lush's Ocean Salt cleanser feels gentle, but does a great job removing oil while exfoliating. It also doesn't dry out my skin."

$36.95 for an 8.8 oz tub; $21.95 for a 4.2 oz tub

Giovanni Magnetic Attraction Styling Gel

"I have curly hair that does what it wants -- 'stubborn' is an understatement. Somehow, this gel manages to keep it as tamed as it can get, and helps my hair maintain a nice, non-frizzy curl all day--even though I have a bad habit of touching my hair while I work." 

[Editor's note--I can attest to how good a job this gel does. Women of all ages come up to the man and compliment his "gorgeous" locks.]

$8.99 for a 6.8 oz tube

Every Man Jack Deodorant

"I'm not a particularly sweaty or stinky guy, so this deodorant works great for me. I have heard from other men more prone to B.O. that you may need to reapply during the day to maintain a stink-free state."  [Editor's note--If Every Man Jack doesn't work for you, try Schmidt's Deodorant, which now comes in stick form.]  

6 scents including a fragrance-free option; $6 each

Silky Underwear Dusting Powder by Lush Cosmetics

"This stuff smells nice and keeps the 'nether regions' dry all day. Especially great to use when traveling or on any hot summer day."  

$8.95 for a 2.1 oz bottle

Don’t Flake Out! Pacifica Body Butters for Winter’s Dry Skin

I know, I know, it’s only October -- let’s not start talking about winter yet! But with chillier temperatures fast approaching, we’re all about to spend a lot more time inside with the heat cranking -- and consequently drying out our skin.

[Source: PacificaBeauty.com]

Lucky for us, Leaping Bunny-certified Pacifica makes 14 scents of body butter, many of which sound like they can transport you to someplace tropical whenever the winter weather starts getting you down (Malibu Lemon Blossom, anyone?).

In a recent wandering through a Harmon’s in Chelsea, I picked up the Tahitian Gardenia scent. I’ve been using it for about a week, and almost instantly, my skin felt softer. I like that this particular body butter is rich and thick, but doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy. I’m almost always in a rush on a weekday morning, so I like my body lotions to soak in quick.

How does it smell? Delicious. As a former Bath and Body Works addict, I’m always on the lookout for fresh new scents. I’m not too crazy about perfume, but I feel a scented body lotion can go a long way in getting the job done. I’ve been receiving tons of compliments whenever I wear the Tahitian Gardenia, so I think it’s safe to say this one is a hit. Hoping to give French Lilac and Waikiki Pikake a whirl next.

Pacifica’s Body Butter comes in two sizes, 8 oz tubes for $15 (all scents), and mini 2.5 oz tubes for $6 (5 scents).

ALL Pacifica products -- including these Body Butters -- are free of gluten, parabens and are 100% vegan.

Pacifica is a common find at brick and mortar stores like Target and Whole Foods, but you can also order directly from their website. Be sure to poke around -- they offer everything from home goods (like soy candles) to 7-free nail polish.

Holy Schmidt, Dry Pits!

I don’t know about where you live, but it’s been HOT in New York City this summer. Multiple-official-heat-waves hot. So hot the breeze from an approaching subway train provides zero relief. So hot -- well, you get the idea.

With this in mind, I think it’s pretty fortuitous that I signed up for a three-month subscription of the Beauty Box from Vegan Cuts at the beginning of the summer. In my first box that arrived in June, I received a sample of Schmidt’s Deodorant in Ylang Ylang + Calendula. At first, I was a little leery of it. It came in a jar, not a nice, familiar stick, and forced me to apply it with my fingers. But if I’m going to do something, I’m going to go all in. I took the leap and test-drove it on the very first 90-degree day we had, and hot damn, was I impressed.

Before I went cruelty-free, I tried a lot of your average NOT cruelty-free drugstore deodorant -- Degree, Dove, etc. Most deodorants are actually antiperspirants which use aluminum that prevents you from sweating. As much as we might not like it, humans are supposed to sweat, because it helps us rid our bodies of toxins. I’ve tried a lot of deodorants with varying success throughout my cruelty-free journey, but now that I’ve had Schmidt’s, I’ll never go back.

Here’s why: Schmidt’s holds up on the hottest, sweatiest of days. I apply a tiny bit each morning and I’m dry all day long and even better, all pit-stank is neutralized. No fears of lifting my arm to hang onto a subway pole. Pretty impressive for “just” a deodorant.

According to their FAQ, Schmidt’s keeps you dry because it contains “natural plant powders to absorb wetness, so even though Schmidt’s doesn’t prevent you from sweating, it will still keep you dry.”

I was sold from day one, and went and ordered a full size jar of the Lavender + Sage scent as soon as I neared the end of my sample. Even though Schmidt’s is across the country, my order arrived in about three days. I’ve been using my jar for a month now, and it’s not even close to finished. I’ll probably have it until the end of the year, which I think is incredible for just $8.99.

Schmidt’s Deodorant (a homegrown operation based in Portland, OR) offers four scents plus a scent-free option. Your pits can smell like Cedarwood + Juniper, Lavender + Sage, Bergamot + Lime or Ylang Ylang and Calendula, or you can get real crazy and order a Deluxe 5-Pack to try them all.

You can order here on the Schmidt’s site. As of this post, they’re offering 10% off your order with the code “HEATINGUP.” Give them a try -- I bet you’ll never look back.

Throwin’ Some [Daily] Shade: Body Lotion with SPF from Alba Botanica

If you know me in real life, you know that I am very fair. Like, I buy the “translucent” foundation because “translucent” is my actual skin tone. Back in the day, I would have been a fair princess, but in modern times, I’m just the freakishly white lady who gets sunburn through a sweater.

As a result of being extremely fair, I had a small skin cancer scare a couple months ago -- even though I'm only 28. I went to a free screening offered at my office and wound up needing to have a few biopsies done. Ultimately, everything turned out fine, but the doctor did insist I wear SPF 30 every day from there on out. 

I've always been religious about sunscreen... outdoors in the summertime. But when it comes to the other three seasons on a daily basis? Not so much. Of course I don’t want to get skin cancer, but I don’t like the tacky feeling sunscreen leaves behind, and even the most pleasantly scented options aren't the the kind of smell I want to bring to the office.  So, I turned to the great people at Alba Botanica and bought the economy-sized bottle of Very Emollient Daily Shade SPF15 Body Lotion. And let me tell you, I love this stuff.  

This thick, scentless lotion soaks in quickly and leaves me feeling moisturized all day long, and seamlessly became part of my daily routine. While it’s only currently available with SPF 15, it’s the only certified cruelty-free option I’ve been able to find so far, and I think it's a fair compromise.

I bought my giant  32 oz bottle at Whole Foods, but you can order direct from Alba Botanica here. They offer two sizes -- 12 oz and 32 oz, which will run you $14.95 or $27.75 respectively. This lotion is 100% vegetarian and is from a Leaping Bunny-certified company.

Please, dear readers, make sure you’re always protecting your skin. And even if you’re a pro about sunscreen application, make sure you go in for an annual screening. You can find your nearest FREE screening here, at the American Academy of Dermatology's site.

Beauty On a Budget: Jordana Lip Stain & Liner

I've assured lots of people that cruelty-free isn't synonymous with overpriced, and I think Jordana Cosmetics is just one of many great examples. The California-based company has been around for over 25 years and manufactures its products right here in the USA. Even better, they're both Leaping Bunny and PETA-certified cruelty-free. I bet you've seen Jordana around -- usually next to Wet N Wild in the drugstore or even at dollar stores -- but have you given it a try?

For less than $6, I've found my daily lip wear in Twist & Shine Moisturizing Balm Stain (in Fresh Fig) and Easyliner for Lips (in Tawny).

The Twist & Shine Balm Stain is like a cross between a gloss and balm, and it's as long-lasting as your traditional lip stain. I find the color stays on my lips for hours without drying them out, fading to a ring, or going crusty in the corners (ladies, admit it, we've all been there). Something else I love? No sharpener required! Without a doubt, I'm one of those hopeless individuals who wastes half a pencil in the sharpener. Same goes for the Easyliner, which is also a twist-up that glides on effortlessly. 

I'm new to Jordana, but for the high quality at such a low price, I'll be a returning customer. If you can't wait for more product reviews, check out Jordana's complete offerings for eyes, face and nails (and more lip options, of course).

Twist & Shine Moisturizing Balm Stain is paraben-free, is available in 10 shades and retails for $2.99

Easyliner for Lips is available in 13 shades and retails for $2.49

Say "Yes" to YES TO

Hello cruelty-free compatriots! It’s been awhile since I’ve been able to make an update, but I’m back and ready with reviews for a whole slew of products.

 First up: YES TO, a great company that became Leaping Bunny certified in 2014, and which I’ve been using more or less since their inception.

 For the past month, I’ve been using the Yes to Carrots Nourishing shampoo and conditioner and it’s been lovely to my hair and scalp. Added bonus: It smells terrific. I was using Giovanni’s Tea Tree Triple Treat Invigorating shampoo and conditioner for a while, but found that it dried out my scalp and made it itchy. A no-go for my short, fine and non-oily hair, but it hasn’t gone to waste – my husband, who has extremely thick, curly hair, finds that the Triple Treat keeps his hair and scalp clean without over-drying.

But back to YES TO.

The Yes to Carrots collection is targeted for those with normal to dry hair (your “standard” hair care regimen), but if you’re looking for something a little more specific, the company offers a “color protection” regimen (Yes to Cucumbers), “healthy hair repair” (Yes to Blueberries) and “ultra moisture” (Yes to Coconut). If you’re dealing with an itchy, flaky scalp, there’s also a “scalp relief” Yes to Carrots collection. Personally, I’m hoping that they’ll add a volumizing line for my fine hair, but in the meantime, Yes to Carrots is doing its job.

The Daily Pampering set of Yes to Carrots 16.9 fl oz shampoo and conditioner retails on the YES TO website for 17.98 and is Petroleum, SLS & Paraben Free. If you’re looking for it on your local store’s shelves, I’ve spotted it in plenty of stores including Walgreen’s and Target. 

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YES TO isn’t just about hair care – they’ve got your whole body and face covered, too. One of my most favorite recent finds has been the Yes to Tomatoes Roller Ball Spot Stick, which works wonders on zits of all shapes, sizes and tenacities (gross, I know, but whatever). One of my longest struggles since going cruelty-free has been finding the a truly effective zit-buster, and until I found the Yes to Tomatoes Spot Stick, I’d been using Burt’s Bees Herbal Blemish Stick or Desert Essence’s Tea Tree Oil Blemish Stick with mixed results. The latter two are both blends of all-natural botanical extracts, and I found that they worked best on the occasional rager of a pimple, but not as well on the smaller zits. And boy, do they burn going on!

The Yes to Tomatoes Spot Stick, however, seems to work for me on all levels. I bought it because it claimed the following:

• Improves the severity of blemishes in 3 days!
• Reduces the size appearance of blemishes in 3 days!
• 98% of users love that this product is gentle and non-irritating but works!

And they weren't kidding. I’ve been using the Spot Stick for a couple months now and have been pretty pleased with the effect it’s had on my skin. Noticeable size reduction and redness, and I find that most blemishes clear up in just a few days – it works far better than the Clearasil or Neutrogena creams I’d been using throughout my youth. It is worth noting that the active ingredient in the Spot Stick is salicylic acid (along with that multi-faceted tea tree oil), so if you’re looking for something 100% natural, you’re better off with the Burt’s Bees or Desert Essence sticks mentioned above. 

The Yes to Tomatoes Spot Stick retails for $9.99 on the Yes to website and in addition to being 97% natural, is Petroleum, SLS & Paraben Free. The Yes to Tomatoes line isn’t just limited to the Spot Stick – they’ve got everything from cleansing wipes to a clearing mask in the collection, which is targeted for oily or troubled skin.

Cruelty-Free Bag of Tricks: Six Beauty Samples from Whole Foods

I was pretty stoked to find this bag of goodies while on a recent food shopping trip at Whole Foods. It’s rare that I can find a whole bag of samples that are cruelty-free, so it seemed a no-brainer to pick up this 7-piece “Hello Beauty” promotion for $18 (and retailing at $60).

First up, Giovanni 2chic Blackberry & Coconut Milk Ultra-Repair Shampoo. According to the product sheet that came with the bag, this shampoo’s “botanical compounds pamper damaged, overprocessed hair.” I’ve been using Giovanni products for a while now (a different formula of shampoo and conditioner, as well as a volumizing mousse) and was pretty pleased with this shampoo, although my hair is normal and healthy. I washed my hair with this a couple times in the past week, and each time it left my hair feeling clean but very moisturized – so much so that I decided to forgo conditioner. If you’re looking for a product that can treat damaged or dry hair, this could be the formula for you. I’ve been very pleased with the Giovanni brand in general, and happily, Giovanni is Leaping Bunny-certified.

Next, Derma E Microdermabrasion Scrub, which is described as “salon-quality skin treatment with Dead Sea salt and volcanic sand.” I’ve used this twice in the last week, and I really love it. A small dollop is more than enough for my face and neck, and it left my skin feeling remarkably smooth and even. I’d be willing to shell out the bucks to buy a regular size tub when the sample runs out. It reminds me a lot of a similar product Mary Kay made that I had tried out many years ago, except cruelty-free and with a lot less chemicals. Derma E does not appear to be certified by Leaping Bunny; however, according to their website, “Derma E does not test, and has never tested on animals, and Derma E skincare formulas do not contain animal by-products of any kind. As such, the entire Dderma E line of products is vegan and cruelty-free. You will find a cruelty-free symbol on all of our boxes and labels.”

A full-size tube of Trilogy Vital Moisturising Cream was also included, and is described as a “versatile moisturizer with rosehip seed oil, marula oil and orange flower.” The formula gives this lotion an herbaceous scent, which is light and not overwhelming. It’s also a richer, thicker cream than the Alba Botanica Sea Moss moisturizer I swear by, so you’ll use less lotion to get the job done. My biggest complaint is that it doesn’t have any kind of SPF – something that I desperately need, especially since I’ve switched my powder foundation to something without sun protection. While Trilogy is not Leaping Bunny-certified, they are a Choose Cruelty Free accredited company.

Also included were two makeup samples: A Pacifica Eye Shadow Duo (in Unicorn and Moonbeam) and a tube of Gabriel Mascara – the latter of which I’ve been meaning to try for some time. I thought the eyeshadow colors looked better on my skin than anticipated – the Moonbeam appearing more golden than white as I had expected. The Gabriel Mascara was the real treat for me, however, and has replaced the Milani Grandissimo Lashes that I’ve been using for the last month. Though I prefer a bushier brush for volume, the Gabriel brush seems designed more for length and I can see more eyelash than I thought I had. The formula also doesn’t appear to flake, which is awesome. Gabriel is a Leaping Bunny-certified company (and 100% vegan and gluten-free). Pacifica, while not a Leaping Bunny-certified company, does claim to be 100% vegan, cruelty-free and gluten-free as well, and I’ve found no evidence contradicting the claim.

The only product I’ve yet to try is the Acure Cell Stimulating Facial Mask, which claims to “purify, moisturize and renew with French green clay, sea buckthorn oil and Moroccan argan stem cells.” According to the Leaping Bunny-certified company’s website, Acure Orgnaics is “a family owned and operated company founded on sustainable principles to provide the highest quality fair trade, natural and certified organic personal care products. Our products are created with great care and are a reflection of our values. Each of our products is free from animal testing, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, harmful preservatives and artificial colors.” I’ve definitely got a date with this and some cucumber slices in the near future.

All in all, $18 was not a bad deal for 6 products plus an organic cotton makeup pouch made by RIJIGreen, “a company committed to ending human trafficking.” Below, I’ve linked out to each company’s website so you can explore their range of cruelty-free products, along with the retail price for the full size product reviewed above. As always, do a little searching to see if you can find a coupon or sale at your favorite retailer.

Giovanni 2chic Blackberry & Coconut Milk Ultra-Repair Shampoo ➤ 8.5 oz. tube, $8.99

derma e Microdermabrasion Scrub ➤ 2 oz container, $32.50

Trilogy Vital Moisturising Cream ➤ 1.69 oz. tube, $44.00

Pacifica Eye Shadow Duo ➤$20 for an eye makeup trio, including mascara, eye pencil, and eyeshadow duo

Gabriel Mascara ➤ $15.20

Acure Cell Stimulating Facial Mask ➤ 1.75 oz. tube, $15.99

RIJIGreen Beauty Bag ➤ $9.99-$11.99

Shave the Day with Kiss My Face 4-in-1 Moisture Shave

Maybe you’re down with body hair or maybe you’re not, but if you’re looking to do a little grooming, try Kiss My Face’s 4-in-1 Moisture Shave, which I liken to rubbing my body with soft, pillow-y clouds. And really, who doesn’t want to rub their body with soft, pillow-y clouds?

KMF Moisture Shave, unlike that gross canned foam stuff, is like a cross-between conditioner and lotion that offers a light lather and helps the razor glide easily over skin, whether you’re removing fine or coarse hair. I find it leaves my legs super smooth and hydrated -- the first shave product I’ve ever used where I don’t feel desperate to slather on lotion afterwards. Husband, who has a coarse beard, even uses it on his face (seriously guys, the man gets 2 o'clock shadow). Moisture Shave is his favorite so far in a range of products -- some cruelty-free, some not (before we made the switch, of course). For a number of years he used animal-friendly Lush’s “Dirty” Shaving Cream -- which is awesome, but is much more expensive than KMF, coming in at $13.95 for 3.5 oz. But if you’re looking to splurge, both ladies and gents are encouraged to give it a try.

We share an 11 oz. bottle and it lasts us about 3 to 4 months. I love that Kiss My Face is pretty easy to find in grocery stores and other retail chains, but you can also score yourself a deal by looking at online offers. Moisture Shave in the pump bottle retails for $7.95, but I swear I’ve bought it at the grocery store for about $4.99. Look at your usual online retailers to see if you can score yourself a package deal.

Moisture Shave comes in at least 7 scents, including a fragrance-free option, and is available in the 11 oz. pump bottle or a 3.4 oz. tube. Our favorite scent to share? Green Tea & Bamboo.

Less Breakouts, More Compassion: BWC Aromatherapy Skin Care AHA Facial Cleanser

Everyone wants glowing skin, right? The first component of good skin is a good facial cleanser, which, a lot like finding the right moisturizer, can be a bit of a challenge.

After trying out a few different cruelty-free options, I’ve landed on Beauty Without Cruelty’s Aromatherapy Skin Care AHA Facial Cleanser. I have sensitive skin, and needed something that would wash away makeup and dirt without drying me out. What I like about this face wash is that it’s so easy on my skin -- my face never feels tight or dry after cleansing, like it did when I used other non-cruelty free brands. I also don’t get zits very often and Husband, who has combination skin and is more prone to breakouts, has watched his skin clear up drastically as well. He hasn’t had any dry spots and it evened out redness.

My only complaint with BWC is that I have yet to find it in stores (at least here in New York City). I have been buying online, and go to the source that’s offering a package deal on multiples at the time, like Soap.com or Amazon. I’ve been buying in sets of two, and find that each 8.5 oz. bottle lasts us at least 3 months, if not longer.

Aromatherapy Skin Care AHA Facial Cleanser retails for $11.95 on BeautyWithoutCruelty.com and elsewhere. I encourage you to look at their full site as they offer a wide range of products, including several different facial cleanser options so you can find the formula that’s right for your skin type.

Soapy, Happy People: JASON Body Wash Review

I don’t know about you, but a good smell means a good start to my day -- meaning that the soap in my morning shower is some important aromatherapy. I’ve tried several brands of body wash in the last couple of years, and the JASON brand is by far my favorite. The 30 oz. bottle comes in 10 different scents – plus unscented and gluten free options. At home, we’ve tried out Purifying Tea Tree, Invigorating Rosewater and Moisturizing Herbs, which we agree is our favorite. It’s a little spicy and has a pretty gender-neutral smell -- I loved the Rosewater but Husband found it a little too perfume-y. If we had room for more than one scent in our little Brooklyn apartment shower, we’d definitely make use of it.

Because it doesn’t use any harsh chemicals or detergents, this body wash leaves skin feeling soft without drying it out -- or leaving a residue. One pump is more than enough to get a good lather -- for me at least. Husband is a taller, hairier man, so he needs a little extra. One bottle easily lasts us six months and retails for around $14 on the JASON website. Our current supply was bought in the fall for a buy one, get one deal at Whole Foods, but you can also buy it online at Soap.com and Amazon.

Added bonus: JASON body wash is completely biodegradable, so Mother Earth will thank you.

Alba Botanica Even Advanced Sea Moss Facial Moisturizer

Why I love it...

When I first went cruelty-free, one of the initial challenges was finding the right facial moisturizer. I have pretty even, normal skin, and finding something that moisturized without leaving my skin greasy and shiny wasn't the easiest (just like my pre-cruelty-free days -- I used a Neutrogena facial moisturizer for years, which is NOT cruelty-free). I've tried several facial moisturizers in the years since, but Alba Botanica Even Advanced is by far my favorite. Just a nickel sized dollop does the job and leaves my skin feeling nice and moisturized. The lotion soaks in quickly so I can apply it out of the shower and start doing my makeup almost immediately after. This moisturizer does have a scent, but it's very light. Each tube lasts me about 4 to 6 months.

Where to buy...

I purchased my most recent supply from Soap.com: Two 2 oz. tubes cost about $26.00, or $13.00 apiece (on sale). Online retail prices as of this post run from about $10 to $17 and this moisturizer can be purchased at most chain pharmacies, Amazon, Target or Soap.com among others. A quick search can usually net you an online retailer selling at a discount, or you can go to the product directly on AlbaBotanica.com and either buy directly ($16.99) or click 'Find Store' underneath the product and find it in a brick and mortar location near you.