As many of you may know, I am a vegetarian and a passionate advocate for animals, after taking the leap to go 100 % ‘cruelty free’, by binning brands like Revlon and Rimmel that test on animals, as well as me no longer buying any leather or suede products too. Not only is my make-up , clothing and diet cruelty free, but I also use home products that do not test on animals either, as I believe it is important to support ethical ‘cruelty free’ products that aim to understand and implement animal rights. After all, animals do not have the power to protect themselves so in my eyes it is cruel for companies to use animals for fashion or skincare, for the sake of our own vanity. But there is more to being ‘cruelty free’, than just using products that ‘do not test on animals’. In a world where what we use has an impact on the environment around us, there has been a shift towards ‘non toxin green beauty’, which put simply means products that do not have synthetics or chemicals.
But why would I recommend a transition towards ‘cruelty free’ non toxin products and why does being ‘cruelty free rock’?
- You Help To Protect The Environment And The Animals Who Live In Them
In a survey conducted by award winning accredited cosmetic science school ‘Formula Botanica’, 71 % of their participants declared that their decision to not only seek ‘cruelty free’ but non toxin products, were due to wanting to avoid chemical and toxin products, while 56% cited their love of plants as the reason to explore non synthetic, non-toxin skincare. As someone who is already ‘cruelty free’, my reasons for exploring the ‘green beauty movement’ is partly due to my interest in preserving the environment but also because I am ‘allergic’ to many toxin products which irritates my sensitive, combination skin and can result in itchy or bumpy rashes. However, the more that I read into non-toxin skincare and how it would protect not just the animals, but the plants and trees that our world encompasses, the more that I was passionate about wanting to protect the ‘environment’.
Naturally ‘already being a vegetarian’ and refusing to use products that test on animals or wear clothing that had been made from animals, already gave me a reputation for being a ‘hippy’ around my family members, so you can imagine their reaction when I spoke about wanting to use products that were free from chemicals too. Of course, not all chemicals are bad; after all H20 is a chemical component and we all know how important H20 is in keeping us ‘alive’. But it is chemicals like parabens and nano particles (Which can be found in sunscreen) that has the biggest impact on the environment, contributing to high and excessive levels of pollution.
In fact when speaking to James and Sveta, founders of non toxin, cruelty free skincare brand ‘Fresh Lifestyle‘, I was told that when ‘consumers are seeking cruelty free, non toxin skincare’ they are often targeted by brands who ‘claim they are all natural’ and yet in many cases still use chemicals that contribute to environmental pollution and destruction. However, what we as consumers have to bear in mind is like I mentioned above, not all ‘chemicals have an impact on the environment or animals’. For example ‘much needed processes’ like emulsion are not harmful to the environment and thus proves that ‘not all chemicals are dangerous’ so be careful about what non-toxin products you choose. After all it is important to do your research!
2. You Can Feel Good Knowing That You Are Choosing To Spend Your Money On Products That Make A Difference!
Let’s face it; animal testing is cruel and unnecessary and it breaks my heart knowing what animals go through on a daily basis, for the sake of us looking and feeling good. It’s 2017, isn’t it about time that we stopped supporting companies who think that it is ok to subject animals- who according to ‘Cruelty Free Kitty‘ have 7,000 ingredients that are already known to be ‘safe’ and therefore do not need to test on lab animals, who are unfortunately caged, tortured and killed for non cruelty free brands? When I spend money on brands like NYX and Jeffree Star, I can feel good knowing that I am spending money on brands who choose to respect animals and the environment as much as I do. And let’s face it, Cruelty Free Kitty is right; the more that we do not buy from cruelty brands like Revlon or Rimmel, the more that they will be forced to address their consumers needs and stop ‘selling in China’, where brands are legally obliged to ‘test on animals’. And the more brands that go cruelty free, the more likely China will be to change their laws on animal testing in regards to make up brands and skincare.
Do the right thing. Make a difference.
3. Being Cruelty Free Helps You Adopt A Minimalist Approach To ‘Buying’
Sure being ‘cruelty free’ means that I have to stop and think about ‘all my purchases’ -clothing included-, to ensure no animals were harmed, but a positive is that you save more money, by spending money on fewer products, that you know you will use all the time. So if you think about it this way; creating a ‘cruelty free beauty haul’ would most likely be harder than creating your ‘average drugstore beauty haul’ but it helps you adopt a minimalist approach to buying, because you know these are the ‘few brands’ that you know do not test on animals and are great value products. And contrary to the ‘myth of green living’ many cruelty free products are super cheap, including NYX which has lipsticks for £6, eyeshadows for £6 and even foundation for £7, proving that you can still be on a budget and be cruelty free. You see you really can have the best of both worlds!
4. Cruelty Free and Non Toxin Products Are Better For Your Health
As you know, I do have friends that are not cruelty free and I completely respect their decisions on why they do not purchase cruelty free products, as we are entitled to our own opinions. I remember being struck by a readers question on one of my previous posts on cruelty free skincare who stated that she ‘did not purchase cruelty-free products, as she found they A. irritated her skin and B. was not as effective as ‘non- cruelty free brands, which she found had greater ‘pigmentation’ and was better value for money. Of course not ‘all cruelty free brands’ are going to be great for your skin’ as we are all made different and thus respond to ingredients or chemicals in different ways. But in terms of make-up brands, if you are looking for great pigmentation and ‘wearability’ I would recommend the following ‘Cruelty Free’ brands: Jeffree Star for lipsticks , Anastasia Beverly Hills for contour and highlighting, E.L.F for eyeshadows and Kat Von D for eyeliner.
Of course as my ‘cruelty free skincare quest’ is still quite new, I am still learning what are the best cruelty free skincare brands, so although I cannot make a bold statement like saying that non toxin products are better for your skin-as we all have different skin types- I can confirm that non-toxin, cruelty free brands are better for your health. Want to know why? Well lets take a chemical like ‘parabens’ which can be found in children’s bath products like Johnson’s. But what if I told you that studies have shown that some parabens can mimic the activity of the hormone estrogen in the body’s cells, and while estrogenic activity is associated with certain forms of breast cancer, parabens have been found present in breast tumors. Or that chemicals like Sulfates have been shown to leave residue in the heart, lungs and brain, because they cause a break down in proteins, which can lead to a degenerative effect on the cell membranes ? It sounds scary and it is; while the studies have not been backed by ‘scientific evidence’ and thus cannot be explicitly linked to cancer, it has been proven to have a degenerative effect on our cell membranes and can lead to symptoms like hair loss, premature aging and hair fading.
5. It Teaches You How To Be A Conscientious Shopper
I already mentioned that being ‘cruelty free’ makes you adopt a minimalist approach to ‘buying products’ but what if I were to tell you that it ‘teaches you how to be a conscientious shopper’ by showing you how to choose products that you will actually need and use. What I mean by this can be explained through a simple imaginary case study: imagine you have gone to your local Boots and have found that there are a tonne of ‘beauty products’ that are telling you that you have all these issues i.e. wrinkles, cellulite that you might not have thought of before. And yet what they are really doing here is pushing you into consumerism , by forcing you to buy products that ‘you think you will need’. It is a negative mindset that they are forcing upon us and lets face it, the average 20 year old does not need ‘wrinkle products’ so why is it that they are being conditioned into thinking they ‘need an eye wrinkle cream’ at such a young age?
In contrast, when I buy cruelty free products I often do not see ‘harmful negative language’ that makes me ashamed of my body or skin and instead, many cruelty free brands like Tropic Skincare use positive language like ‘self -love’ and teaches you to embrace and nourish your skin in a positive and nurturing way. So the next time that you find yourself wondering whether you should buy a product for an imaginary aliment that you never knew you had, STOP. Buy products that make you feel good internally as well as externally, because in a world conditioned by negativity, we could all use some light and love in our lives.
What Are Your Thoughts On Cruelty Free Non Toxin Skincare?
*Disclosure
Please note this is a paid collaborative post with ‘Fresh Lifestyle’ but all thoughts are my own and are not affected by monetary Compensation.
Shop The Look
*Affiliate Links
Shop Cruelty Free Goodies Below
Going cruelty free is so important in this day and age! I definitely buy cruelty free products, but there is still more I can for animals and the environment x
It would never occur to me to think that cruelty free was doable on a budget – I would have always expected it to be more expensive.
Great post obviously something everyone should strive to have a world with less suffering. While it is not for everyone it is nice to see someone who is living their ideals.
I really enjoyed this. I know little about researching cruelty-free brands and regretfully admit that I am usually in too big of a hurry when shopping to slow down and pay attention to such. This post definitely has me wanting to be more conscious of my purchases.
Ever since getting pregnant I became more conscious with a lot of things. I wanted to make sure everything is safe and healthier — and even cruelty free if possible. I love these 5 reasons and can totally relate to them. I used to just rush into everything not even think twice about my purchases. This is very informative loves! Thank you.
It’s so true that so many products labeled as natural contain lots of chemicals. Our skin is the largest organ and the chemicals it absorbs go directly into our bloodstream. Therefore, my rule of thumb for products is that if they don’t contain ingredients I can pronounce, I’ll pass. ps: I love that you’re raising awareness and aligning your purchasing choices with your beliefs. x
I went cruelty free at the start of the year and have saved so much money on cosmetics. I also switched to cruelty free house cleaning products but they’re not so purse friendly … worth it though!
C x
Cruelty free is an absolute must for me – for all the reasons you’ve listed here. It’s tough because some of the big names still aren’t 100% cruelty free, but it’s only by talking about it (and not buying their products) that hopefully we can encourage them to change.
I like cruelty free and i do like it when a brand is cruelty free. I’m not however limited to it because there are products from non cruelty free brands that i like using. Although I do prefer cruelty free
Really like your post and the fact that you are standing for a really good cause. Since this summer I threw out most of my makeup and now I am only only mineral cosmetics or cruelty free. They are more pricey and honestly I don’t have as many but I don’t know how to use much makeup anyway so.. The truth is that the best remedies for skin care I know are old masks and creams that my mom taught me from when I was small and they were from plants.
I’m not yet down that road but my wife is very much so. She is now a vegan and a strong advocate of organic and as you put it cruelty free products. I can see this trend catching up too!
Great post! Valid points 🙂
I do think it’s great if you can go cruelty free and minimize what you buy to be more mindful x
I know right, it’s important to go cruelty-free these days. It can also help you save more and as you’ve said be more mindful.
I’m cruelty-free too but I do find it difficult to decide where the buck stops. For example, I never used to buy The Body Shop because it was owned L’oreal but then I realised the shampoo I used was owned by a sister company of L’oreal. It’s such a minefield! I definitely sleep a little better knowing each small choice makes a difference though.
I find it important to choose cruelty free cosmetics when ever it is possible. There are so many good reasons for it like you listed. One of my main criteria is that the product I’m using is non toxic.
I totally assumed that cruelty free would be more expensive, in the same way that organic food is. This was really interesting! I also love that it makes you more minimalist!
I have loads of cruelty-free items and I’m slowly but surely changing over so all are. I love organic products as well 🙂 x
I’ve been wanting to go fully cruelty free for a while so this was a really fab post to read! 🙂
I need to research more on what brands are cruelty free. I know I own a few brands products that don’t test on animals but unsure about some of the brands I use. It’s hard though isn’t it as there are some great well known brands that aren’t cruelty free.
That’s amazing that you can go cruelty free on a budget, I would have thought it would be more expensive. I always look out for brands that are cruelty free!
Cruelty free definitely is a big thing, it makes me feel better knowing that my products haven’t been tested on animals in labs, just the idea of that happening makes me feel awful.
I really like the idea of cruelty-free make up. I hate to think of any animal having to suffer 🙁
I wish cruelty-free products were just normal… It sounds horrible to think that if you’re not careful, you may participate in animals being abused. I recently changed my sunscreen and found one that is totally aligned with my beliefs (not bad for corals and marine life + not tested on animals for example, and they give 80% of their profit to a cause). It makes me so happy to use it, it’s awesome 😀
I’m feeling so proud that I got to read this post. I’ma firm believer of Cruelty free products and I’m Vegan so every such aspect makes me feel happy. Really it creates a sense that we are showing our love for every living being , be it animals.
I am starting to make a conscious effort to look at the ingredients when shopping for skincare products. I am beginning to prefer cruelty free products.
It really does make a difference looking at the background of products and what ingredients they use within them.
yes, yes, yes, yes and yes – your five reasons are spot on and to be honest this should be standard practice, but sadly it is not. Glad you are raising awareness though with yet another fab article 🙂 x
It’s crazy that some brands still test on animals in this day and age when so many brands have moved away from it. I personally only use Bare Minerals skincare, they are cruelty free and also mineral based so they are so much better for your skin. I swear by them!
I didn’t know that about Rimmel. I did think that in the last couple of decades we had made big progress in getting cruelty out of cosmetics, but it seems there is still a long way to go. Good for you on taking a stand and promoting it.
I am a firm believer in cruelty-free and I have recently found out that many companies such as AVON, although are cruelty-free in this country, pay for animal testing to distribute their products in China!!
I wont lie and say all products I use are cruelty free because the honest truth is I don’t know but thanks for sharing these reasons why its rocks being cruelty free.
I wouldn’t consider using a product that had been tested on animals. It is a minefield though!
I love this post! I’ve been vegetarian for years but am just now turning vegan and starting to think about the beauty brands that I buy as well. It’s a difficult transition but well worth it!
I’m vegetarian too and also really passionate about cruelty free products. Such a great post.
Oh my goodness – those boots are AMAZING. And you’re right, knowing they’re cruelty free just makes you feel good about wearing them too. Thanks for sharing!
I couldn’t agree more. I am trying hard to be more cruelty-free but I can’t seem to find a proper diaper brand for my daughter. It slays me to have to buy them from non cruelty-free brands.
I didn’t know Revlon tests on animals! I haven’t bought from them in a while but I’ll avoid them from now on. I love the red eyeshadow look btw, I would never be brave enough to try it in case it just makes my eyes look red and puffy lol.
It really feels good knowing that you’re using something that makes a difference and doesn’t harm animals.
I don’t understand why animal testing is still in practice? I think every manufacturer should make more of an effort to be cruelty free.
(hubby helping out)
I loved reading your passion for adapting a cruelty free lifestyle. I’m gradually done by best to choose when possible cruelty-free alternatives as they’re definitely better for the environment and animals. They’re also so much better for us. I love keeping skincare in particular as cruelty-free as possible and even opting for natural recipes for skincare.
Here here! I love being cruelty free. Great post, Ana x
First, I love your casual look here, but also how the embroidered flower theme carries from shoulder to toes! 🙂
Secondly, yeah – the pictures I’ve seen of animals suffering as “test subjects” for all kinds of things, from cosmetics to drugs to other kinds of testing – it’s horrific. I can’t imagine being one of those researchers or handlers of these animals – how do these people sleep at night? How do they live with themselves KNOWING they’re making innocent animals suffer? Makes me sick! I honestly hope they are haunted in their dreams.
I try to buy cruelty free products in regards to my makeup, but I haven’t gone further than that. It’s pretty awesome that you are able to live your whole life cruelty free. I haven’t heard of the brand Lime Crime , but would like to check it out! I am obsessed with different color lipsticks.
I think that the option to use cruelty free non toxic skinwear is a wonderful thing. I applaud you for your decision to become completely cruelty free from food, to clothing and even makeup. Hopefully this inspires more to follow along in your footsteps!
That’s really awesome of you! You’re seriously making me consider the products I have in my home. It’s an added bonus that it helps you with minimalism. What a great post, thank you for sharing!
I’ve never thought about how horrible animal testing can be until 3 years ago when I’ve come across a video of rabbits fur covered with 126546 layers of mascara, and others suffocating because of the smell of the hair dye they were covered by, and that’s only some of the many things they test on them, and this is really heartless. Hopefully more people will invest in cruelty free product and collaborate in making this world a better place for both humans and animals.
In the many of thousands of make-up blogs I have read,this is the FIRST entry that has addressed cruelty free and what it means. I know thousands of animal’s lives are sacrificed in the name of “beauty” and yet no blogger has ever stated that this company or that company doesn’t experiment on live dogs,cats,rabbits…..maybe they don’t have moral courage to ask.
Thank you for writing this,Ana.
Beautiful post. I am a vegetarian too and would like to completely switch to cruelty-free products. Thanks for sharing this post!
I try to always buy products that are cruelty-free! I don’t always have the time to research on what is and isn’t though. I hope Covergirl is, that’s my go to brand! I should look that up.
I do not like leather or fur though. Never my taste.
I think many people have become really unconscious shoppers and so this is a great reminder of the choices we need to make when buying and striving to be cruelty free.
love the post, I’ve been veggie all my life and try to buy cruelty free when I can. I love NYX too x
Loved this post. I always try to search out cruelty free products or products that have no parabans in especially for the kids. Sometimes more pricey but it is definitely worth it.
Great post. It’s really good to outline the options people can take if they’re looking to avoid animal cruelty. Thanks so much for sharing!
I’m also a vegetarian and this has made me even more aware of why cruelty-free is so important 🙂
It is getting easier to do this now more than ever. There is a growth in the number of companies offering cruelty free products which is great. Wow well done on making it a way of life. I am trying to do more research with products that I use.
time has came to raise awareness among people to buy cruelty free products. Innocent animals should be kept away from this,Thanks for raising it out.
I haven’t really thought about the importance of being cruelty free when purchasing my skincare products, but you have convinced me with this post!
Great points, I think number three is very true and often under looked. For me it cuts down on impulse purchases and means when I do buy something I know I’ll use it.
You’re right. I hadn’t thought of these topics. Why I am supporting brands that do testing on animals? You’ve converted me! Thanks Ana.
I love this so much! Buying cruelty-free is essential for me – and I love that more and more brands are stopping doing animal testing and using animal-derived ingredients in their products! 🙂 xx
I’m into sustainable, eco-friendly, cruelty free fashion and cosmetic I use. I consciously make an effort to check the label anreven do online search before I purchase them. I believe what we decide and use should not harm animal and environment. Great post! Remind me again about the importance of cruelty free conscious.
I am so into cruelty free. I always make sure what I purchase is. Especially cosmetics I hear so much goes on.
I am not a vegetarian but I could see myself a cruelty-free advocate as my love for animals is huge! I also make sure I am paying attention (the conscious shopper) to products or clothing, I don’t really use animal-made ones. I’m glad more and more brands are going cruelty-free!
I always look for 100 % ‘cruelty free products to buy. I think it is important to be aware of where our products come from.
I’ve been paying more attention in the products I use and have been transitioning into cruelty free. It’s not the easiest to make a designation for some things, but with so many products to choose from, you can find new brand easily enough!
Interesting read! I’ll have to look further in to the chemicals used in beauty products especially!
I think this is such an important topic now as there is so much corruption in the world and modern day slavery is on the rise. Anything that can help fight this such as not buying items from sweatshops is a must. I do think your right in that it makes you more minimalistic as you focus on what it need rather than comsumerism and impulse
Great post! It is so important to be cruelty free and help raise awareness of the horrible practices some brands undertake
I am slowly getting into the minimalist lifestyle. Also cruelty free is a conscious way of shopping to show you care!
Cruelty-free products are great. I would hate to think of any animal having to suffer 🙁
Great look Anna, love the roses prints 🙂
I like your reasoning behind being cruelty free. It would take a lot of research to be more aware but well worth it in the end.
I am loving those boots on you! I’ve been looking for a pair like that for fall. Obsessed!
I work in Superdrug and all of our own brand products are cruelty free. We also get asked a lot for cruelty free products as it is getting more and more popular.
I’ve just started opting for organic products recently and although the prices of the products are higher, I believe they would be better in the long run. I always support cruelty free products.
Being cruelty free is awesome and yes helps the environment. Are you also familiar with halal cosmetics? These types of cosmetics have passed the halal certification, thus cruelty free and permissible to the laws of their religion Islam.
I admire you for doing it. I’ll remember this when I buy a product. I am so happy to know that consumers have an option now.
It would be so hard to try and learn about everything to see if what you were buying is cruelty-free. I so admire that it’s a priority for you! I don’t understand why anyone would create things if it makes animals suffer, ESPECIALLY when there are, like you said, so many other viable opportunities not to do so.
I was always under the assumption that cruelty free would be more expensive. I have to admit I dont really check but do tend to plump for organic
I was always under the assumption that cruelty free would be more expensive. I have to admit I dont really check but do tend to plump for organic
Being cruelty free is a great goal! I love everything that has to do with being kind to the world that we live in.
I really enjoyed this post. You made some good points that I think can appeal to many.
Can I add another darling! You rock! Since knowing you and the awareness you raised in me, I was not that fussed before, but hearing and understanding the impact that some brands out there cause, I have certainly changed my mindset.
love the rose ensemble. so cute on you and yes I agree that cruelty free is the way to be…that rhymed! lol.
I really don’t think there is any need for animals to be exposed to all these toxins just to make sure it is safe for humans. It would be better if we just cut back on our every day products and replace the ones we keep with cruelty free alternatives.
I would always buy cruelty free products for my gf. I also love your shirt here. Those flowers definitely popped out!
I completely agree with you. Cruelty free is very important and I am also totally vegetarian. Thanks for raising awareness.
Cruelty free life is a good goal to have ! Lately I have been more careful with the origins of my purchases but unfortunately I still own not cruelty free items
I didn’t know that Revlon and Rimmel test on animals. This is very upsetting to learn. I need to pay more attention to this when I’m selecting products at the store. Thank you so much for bringing this subject to the forefront. I really appreciate it – and the animals do too!
I only use cruelty-free products. Period. I really enjoyed reading this post, babe! Thanks 🙂 xo, Suzanne
I love this post! I only buy cruelty free products know as they are just so much better for you, the environment and animals it just seems like a no-brainer! Such a great post
Laura x
There’s lots you’ve shared here that I hadn’t thought about. I think buying cruelty free is super important
Couldn’t agree with you more! I think if you can then definitely go for it!