Lily Scott |

Is Neutrogena a Cruelty-Free Brand

June 14, 2021March 17, 2021 by Lily Scott

Is Neutrogena cruelty-free?

Short and sweet answer: no, they’re not.

Want to find out why and learn more about their animal-testing policies?

Just keep reading and we’ll break it all down for you; then we’ll check out some cruelty-free beauty alternatives.

Neutrogena Animal Testing Policies

Let’s start with the most obvious question to answer: does Neutrogena test on animals? The short answer: yes, although not in the US.

According to their FAQs,

Neutrogena does not conduct animal testing on our cosmetic products anywhere in the world, except in the rare instance where governments require it. We actively partner with research and advocacy organizations to advance alternative testing methods to ensure a new global standard can be met.

Notice the exception? That’s pretty important. First, even using the word “except” is enough to immediately take a company off my cruelty-free list.

I mean, you either test on animals or you don’t. There’s no in-between, right?

Now let’s talk about the exception itself. The “rare instances where governments require it” refers to China and Brazil (there may be others, but those are the two big ones).

We’ve discussed the issues with beauty brands selling in China in “Is CeraVe cruelty free,” but let’s very quickly recap.

Adorable baby white rabbit sitting on white background

Beauty products sold in China are rarely (if ever) cruelty-free

Skincare and makeup products sold in mainland China’s stores MUST- by law- be tested on animals first.

There’s some confusion about this because the laws changed a bit. As of 2021, goods bought online and shipped to China don’t need to meet this requirement.

In other words, if you live in Beijing and order makeup online through Amazon, the new law allows you to choose 100% cruelty-free items.

However, if you’re buying it at an actual store in Beijing, by law it MUST be an animal-tested product.

This video below explains it pretty well:

Long story short, though, if a brand gives a vague answer like “except where required by law” and you know they ship to China, there’s your answer.

Pretty cut-and-dry, right? You could just jump right ahead to the last section to find some good animal-friendly alternatives if you want.

However, I always like to dig deeper and look at a brand’s parent company.

After all, if Neutrogena suddenly decides to stop selling in China (and other countries that require animal testing), their status would instantly change.

So, it’s good to know where their parent company stands, too.

Neutrogena’s Parent Company (Johnson & Johnson) is FAR from Cruelty-free

Parent company Johnson & Johnson gives the same exact statement regarding animal testing as their “child,” almost word-for-word.

According to their Humane Care and Use of Animals Policy,

The Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. does not test cosmetic or personal care products or ingredients on animals anywhere in the world, except in the rare situation where required by law or where alternative options don’t yet exist.

Again, the word “except” nullifies the entire preceding statement.

Since Johnson & Johnson continues to sell products in countries that require animal testing, they cannot be called cruelty-free. Period.

Also, while J&J may not test their makeup and skincare products on bunnies, the company also manufacturers healthcare items. In fact, they created one of the COVID vaccines.

In that document mentioned above, they’re pretty open about the fact that they do use animals in medical research.

So, even if Neutrogena itself took the necessary measures to achieve cruelty-free status, their parent company will always be an issue.

Before we jump to animal-friendly alternatives to Neutrogena, I very quickly want to touch on one final question.

Is Neutrogena Vegan-Friendly?

Neutrogena is NOT a vegan brand, nor do they claim to be one.

That said, they do use synthetic versions of popular animal ingredients (like lanolin and beeswax) as often as possible.

However, a few of their products- especially those sold overseas- contain dairy by-products.

3 100% Cruelty-free alternatives to Neutrogena

Neutrogena’s product catalog is HUGE, and includes everything from moisturizers to cosmetics.

We already looked at animal-friendly makeup alternatives last week when we discussed “Is Morphe cruelty free?”

So this time, let’s focus on good moisturizer alternatives. All are certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny. Don’t forget to check my comparison: Leaping Bunny Vs Peta.

FYI, this section contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

1. ACURE Radically Rejuvenating Whipped Night Cream

ACURE isn’t just cruelty-free and vegan, they also use organic fair-trade ingredients.

The ACURE Amazon store sells everything from skin and haircare products to hand sanitizers, but I particularly love their whipped night cream.

Aside from no animal ingredients, it’s also free of sulfates, parabens, petroleum, formaldehyde and mineral oil. All that AND it’s super affordable to boot!

2. Badger – Damascus Rose Beauty Balm

I’ve been obsessed with Badger Balm’s products ever since my son was little and their Baby Balm was literally the ONLY thing that worked on his diaper rash.

Since then, I’ve used pretty much every single one of their balms at one point or another.

Their Damascus Rose beauty balm is one of their pricier products, but it works wonders (and it’s the rose that drives the price up, that stuff is CRAZY expensive).

However, this particular product is not vegan, as it contains beeswax.

So, if your definition of cruelty-free includes “no beeswax,” it’s not a good fit. Everyone has different feelings on that particular ingredient (and honey, too), though.

3. Beauty Without Cruelty Fragrance-Free Hand & Body Lotion

Back in my early days of cruelty-free shopping BWC was one of a very small handful of brands available (and I could only get it at one little health food store).

Years later, they’re still one of the best. Not only are their products Leaping Bunny certified, but they’re absolutely affordable. Being kind to animals shouldn’t cost a fortune, after all.

I really like their fragrance-free lotion for two reasons. First, it’s gentle enough for my sensitive skin.

Second, I like to make my own scented lotion with essential oils, but I’m too lazy to make the base, so this is perfect.

Final Words on Neutrogena’s Cruelty-Free Status

If you’re looking for beauty brands that don’t test on animals (or allow others to do so on their behalf) under any circumstances, Neutrogena is NOT a good fit for you.

Not only do they sell in countries that mandate it by law, but their parent company is one of the biggest offenders of all, since they do medical research.

Fortunately, while Neutrogena products are great and all, there are plenty of alternatives that treat animals far better.

lipstick and makeup brushes with the word vegan in the middle and text

What do you think? Is Neutrogena cruelty-free since they don’t test on animals in the US? Share below.

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Is Morphe A Cruelty-Free Makeup Brand? [Definitive Answer]

June 14, 2021March 5, 2021 by Lily Scott

Is Morphe cruelty free?

Yes…but also no.

The answer really depends on whether you consider non-vegan products cruelty-free as well as how you feel about their parent company.

Let’s take a deep dive into the brand’s animal testing policies and find out what’s holding them back from a straight-up “yes.”

Morphe Animal Testing Policies

Let’s start with “Does Morphe test on animals?” The answer: no, they do not.

As of 2021, Morphe claims that their products are 100% cruelty-free. According to their website FAQs:

“Morphe does not condone animal testing in any way. We do not test any of our products on animals. We also do not test any of our ingredients on animals, nor do we allow our manufacturers to do so on our behalf. Instead, we choose to test drive our products on people (with their permission, of course).”

Also in their FAQs, you’ll learn that they don’t ship to China.

If you recall when we talked about “Is CeraVe cruelty-free?,” that’s a big deal, as China requires animal testing by law.

Anyway, sounds pretty cut-and-dry, right? It ticks off all of the boxes I look for when I’m verifying whether a brand meets my strict ethics regarding animal testing, including:

A very clear statement condemning animal testing;
Specific reference to ingredients vs. just overall products;
Reference to manufacturers (not passing the buck, so to speak).

Basically, I look for words that go deeper than “our products aren’t tested on animals,” which is super misleading.

Just because a brand doesn’t test, say, their latest eyeshadow palette on bunnies doesn’t mean the ingredients that make up said palette are cruelty-free.

Also, saying “we don’t test on animals” means nothing if a brand allows their manufactures to do so.

You really have to look at what a brand doesn’t say more than what they do.

I know it’s confusing at first, but shopping cruelty-free gets a lot easier when you understand these subtleties.

Okay, moving on. So, if Morphe ticks all the right boxes for a cruelty-free beauty brand, why am I hesitating to give them my own personal seal of approval?

Two words (or three, depending on how you count hyphenation): animal-derived ingredients. Let’s discuss.

Related: Is Kiehl’s Cruelty-Free and Vegan-Friendly?

Cruelty free text on notebook with lipstick and blush on pink background, flat lay

Is Morphe a Vegan Beauty Brand?

No, Morphe is NOT a 100% vegan beauty brand.

Now, they do have some totally vegan products in their lineup, including popular items like: Fluidity Foundation, Fluidity Concealer, Morphe Highlighters, & Mega Matte Lipsticks.

However, they also have a pretty wide selection of products that include animal- derived ingredients to varying degrees.

For example, some products contain beeswax, others use sheep wool fat, and so on.

Also, if you’re wondering, “are Morphe brushes vegan,” again, yes and no.

Some use synthetic materials, others use real animal hair. You have to read the labels and ingredients very carefully.

Are they certified by any cruelty free organization

No, they’re not, but that shouldn’t be a deal breaker. Let me explain.

Morphe doesn’t carry any of the common certifications. No Leaping Bunny. No Beauty Without Bunnies (PETA’s certification). No Choose Cruelty Free certification.

They also aren’t vegan-certified, obviously, since they have products with animal ingredients.

Here’s the thing, though: while those certifications are a HUGE help to people like us looking for cruelty-free cosmetics, not having one doesn’t mean…to be blunt…jack squat.

First, each one costs money to get. We’re talking anywhere from a one-time small fee to upwards of $15,000.

So, some brands just plain don’t want to pay for certification. Maybe they’re a small new company and can’t afford the expense, for example.

Then there’s the fact that not everyone uses the same cruelty-free shopping guide.

I’m not a fan of PETA because of their horrific stance on stray animals (look it up, you’ll see what I mean). So, I prefer either Leaping Bunny or Choose Cruelty Free.

So, if a brand wants to really maximize their cruelty-free status, they’d have to pay not one, not two, but 3-4 different application fees.

While some are fine with that, others just skip certification entirely and hope that you’ll take their word for it.

So, I don’t judge makeup based on whether or not they have a logo with some sort of bunny in it. I judge based on their statements, history and ingredients, period.

I also look at the brand’s parent company. Which brings us to…

Who is General Atlantic (Morphe owner) and are they cruelty free?

In August of 2019, General Atlantic announced that they were buying a major stake in Morphe. How major? 60%.

So basically, enough of a controlling interest for me to accurately say, “General Atlantic bought Morphe.”

Usually, when a larger company acquires a smaller beauty brand, it’s pretty easy to find out whether or not said parent company is cruelty-free.

For example, when Clorox bought Burt’s Bees, I knew right away to take them off my “animal-friendly list.” While Burt’s is cruelty-free, Clorox is not.

When an investment company acquires a brand, though, it’s harder to figure out.

Let me save you some time: you won’t find the answer by searching “Is General Atlantic cruelty-free.” Trust me, I tried. So, I looked at other brands that they own or have major stakes in.

According to their website, General Atlantic owns properties in healthcare and life science sectors, among others.

Those two concern me because they almost always involve animal testing. I found at least one in their healthcare holdings that does, then I stopped looking. One is enough.

For me, if even one of a brand’s parent company’s other “children” test on animals, it’s the same as the brand doing it.

If I pay Morphe $100 for makeup and General Atlantic gets $60 of that, then turns around and gives it to a holding that tests on animals, I’m still technically paying for that cruelty.

You may have different thoughts and ethics, and that’s fine. I’m not here to judge. I just want to make sure you have all the info you need to decide.

If you DO decide that Morphe is cruelty-free based on just what the brand itself does, you can stop here.

However, if your ethics line up with mine, keep reading for a few 100% cruelty-free makeup alternatives that I absolutely love.

3 100% Cruelty free alternatives to Morphe (makeup brands)

All of these products below are Leaping Bunny certified. I know I said certification isn’t everything, but it’s still a good way to quickly find some good products to start with.

FYI, this section contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

1. 100% Pure

If you read my Best Cruelty-Free Beauty Brands of 2021 list, you know that I’m pretty mad for 100% Pure. They’re cruelty-free, vegan, and Leaping Bunny certified.

It gets better! They take their brand name seriously and keep artificial junk away from their ingredient list (and off your face).

Their Fruit Pigmented Ultra Lengthening Mascara is a must-have for me, but I really like pretty much all of their products.

2. AETHER BEAUTY

If you’re looking for a good alterative to Morphe’s eyeshadows, Aether is amazing.

Not only are their products vegan and cruelty-free, but they only use organic fair-trade ingredients.

The packaging itself is also recyclable and refillable, making this practically a zero-waste beauty product, too.

3. Bossy Cosmetics

Bossy is a woman-owned (and Black-owned) beauty brand that mostly makes lipsticks (although they have some other products as well).

I love their super fun names, like BRAVERY and COURAGE, and the amazingly vibrant colors that go along with them.

If you prefer to shop products that give back (or pay it forward, rather), you’ll love Bossy. They partner with organizations that actively support women’s rights around the world.

Final Definitive Answer: Is Morphe a Cruelty-Free Makeup brand?

Ok, “definitive” may be pushing it. Like I said, it depends on how deep you want to look for your answer.

If you’re just looking for a brand that doesn’t test on animals itself, then yes, Morphe fits the bill.

In my opinion though, no, Morphe is NOT cruelty-free. While I can get past the non-vegan products, their parent company ruins it for me.

What do you think? Is Morphe cruelty-free in your eyes? Share below.

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10 Colorful & Stylish Summer Nail Designs

May 24, 2021March 1, 2021 by Lily Scott

Nail art manicure. Summer style red manicure with strawberries and polka dots

If you’re on the hunt for some fun & funky summer nail designs, I have you covered!

I found you cute ideas inspired by watermelons and strawberries, pastels, adorable anchors and more!

With a wide range of the designs below like indie nails, the hardest part will be choosing which one to try first!

Check them out; then keep reading for tips for success!

Our Top Picks

Check out the table for a quick overview of our favorite nail polishes to use for these designs, then read on for more details!

This post contains affiliate links. We earn a commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you.

10 COLORFUL & STYLISH SUMMER NAIL DESIGNS

Summer is all about fun, colors, flowers, and joy. It’s all about pretty nails too, and these amazing summer nail art designs totally prove it!

1: Strawberry Polka Nails

Strawberry nails anyone? Add a pop of summer vibes with the bright red nail color. The polka dots make it appear even cuter!

This strawberry nail art definitely screams summer. You can also add stones to make it stand out more.

If you can’t draw strawberries, use a sticker. It looks equally beautiful and does the job easier!

2: Multi-colored Manicure

Summer is all about vibrant colors. This flower-inspired nail art is not only easy to do but also quick. You can experiment with different shades!

One can never go wrong with pink and yellow. This multi-color nail is loosely based on the classic French manicure. You can use tape if you mess up creating clear bold lines.

3: Watermelon Nail Art

Don’t let the complicated-looking nail art deter you! I know it doesn’t look it, but it’s actually pretty simple to pull off.

All you need is watermelon color nail paints – green, red, and black.

Add some dots with black for the seeds. Play around with green and red. They both will add together to a fun watermelon nail art.

4: Anchor Nail Art

Anchor nail art is a popular summer design. It looks super cute and you can choose from various colors too.

The anchor is fairly easy to draw, making this a great option for beginners. In the end, it’s just a line and a curve. You can also add stripes or dots to jazz it up.

5: Pastel Nails

Soft pastel nails for summer are an amazing trend to rock!

You can go for one color across all your nails or switch it up and paint each one a different shade. I personally love this soft purple by Essie!

The choice is yours! Pastel nail art looks classy and delicate yet trendy. They’re surely the perfect summer nail design.

6: Color Stripes

Close-up. Women's hands with a beautiful color manicure and white ceramic cup

Super cute nail design that’s appealing and simple.

Just draw two stripes on the edges of your nail bed. You can also create this same nail art with a colored or white base coat.

For example, go bold with this red shade from OPI, then add green stripes for an “abstract watermelon” vibe.

Or switch the color combination of the stripes, or draw more than two stripes. Whatever you feel like!

7: Neon Bright Nails

Orange, green yellow neon paints. idea is good for disco

Neon colors look beautiful and popping. Gather all the neon-bright shades, like yellow, pink, and red. You get the picture, basically everything bright and dazzling!

You can also just grab a neon nail polish kit, like this one on Amazon.

Apply the different nail polish onto a sponge. There is no layout or any particular arrangement. Just go with the flow!

Once done, gently press the sponge onto your nail bed. Remove after a few seconds. You can add a white polish as a base coat. This will make the color pop off perfectly.

Clean the edges with a nail paint remover and top it off with a clear coat. You can even add flower stickers or leaves for more summer elements!

8: Flower Power

Beautiful nail design. Woman hands with chamomile flowers

The flower nail art looks pretty and is also easy. You need to create small lines or stripes and a dot at the center. Voila, you’re done!

This one is chamomile-inspired flower power nails. So you’ll need white and faint yellow-colored nail paints.

Hop on to this nail art trend with whichever your favorite flower is.

I personally love sunflowers. They’re so beautiful. So I’ll use bright yellow and black polish for the look. Get your creative juices flowing!

9: Classic Colored Summer Nails

a very colorful and bright summer nail design

Simple, easy, and gorgeous! Yes, please. Just paint your nails with the brightest pink, yellow, and oranges you can get your hands on– like this Sun Kissed shade!

I feel totally connected to my inner child while doing this nail design.

You can also add a dot at the center or some random polka dots here & there.

Whatever you decide to do, this nail design always draws attention and looks pretty elegant!

10: Ombre Sky Nails

These nails remind me of the clear blue summer sky. They look great and you can do them all by yourself. All you need is a sponge to create the ombre effect.

To create a contrast, use two similar yet different colored polish. Preferably one slightly lighter than the other.

This creates a wonderful ombre effect. If you’re feeling extra creative, add some clouds using white nail paint.

Tips for success:

Whether you go with a simple ombre effect or over-the-top watermelon design, these tips below will help you paint those nails like a pro.

Start with clean, dry hands. I use a sugar scrub first to really cleanse and soften then.
Make sure to apply a base coat as it helps to even the base and protects your nail bed.
Use a cello tape as a grid line for easy guidance.
You can use a pin end or an old ball pen to create polka dots
Finish off with a topcoat. They help in preventing chipping away of the nail paint.

Looking for some colorful summer nail designs? You came to the right place! We give you 10 unique and cute styles that will perfectly match your summer outfits!

What are your favorite summer nail designs? share with us below!

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Top 5 Best Natural Face Wash Products for Dry Skin

March 22, 2021February 9, 2021 by Lily Scott

best natural face wash for dry skin and oily skin too

Looking for the best natural face wash for dry skin?

We’ve got your back (or rather, your face!)

Below, we’ll check out 5 amazing natural products to banish that flaky skin in a flash.

Let’s dive right in!

Our Top Picks

FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

In a rush and need something right away? Check out our top picks on the table below!

All about Natural Face Wash for Dry Skin

Most people with dry skin reach for moisturizer first and don’t even think about face wash.

While a good lotion can really help, it is equally crucial to wash your face to keep your skin looking healthy.

In fact, I’d argue that a good cleanser is even more important than what you put on afterward.

The right one removes all that dead skin that leaves your face looking dull and flaky.

Below are some of my favorite natural face wash products for dry skin.

The Top 5 Natural Face Wash for Dry Skin

#1 Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser

Tata Harper dishes out some of the best natural beauty products and this regenerative face wash is no exception.

It’s a great multitasking product that acts as a cleanser and toner! After using it for about a week, my dry skin was left with flawless results.

This is because it is natural, organic, and is equipped with 16 high performing botanical ingredients to get rid of dirt and gently exfoliate.

The botanical ingredients include; olive oil, calendula extract, apricot microsphere, and much more.

Pros	Cons
Removes dead skin cell for a brighter complexion	It is expensive
Non-foaming cleanser
It is deeply hydrating
Promotes the regeneration of new skin cells
Clears pores

I would recommend all Tata Harper products as they are highly effective and help keep dirt off your skin.

#2 100% pure argan oil creamy cleanser

Are you looking for a rich, creamy, milk cleanser for your dry skin? Then this is your perfect match.

After reading the reviews, I decided to try out this oil cream cleanser.

The 100% Pure Argan Oil Creamy Cleanser contains moisturizing argan oil that fully hydrated my skin and gently removes excess sebum, dirt, and make-up.

Infused with natural oils like acai, argan, and coconut, this cleanser left my skin feeling nourished.

Pros	Cons
Perfect for dry skin as the rich Argan oil leaves the skin soft and supple	It makes the skin a bit oily
It gently yet effectively removes impurities from the skin	Tends to go out of stock often
It’s a non-foaming product
Moisturizes and nourishes your skin daily
Free from chemical preservatives and sulphates

I would definitely recommend this product to people who fear applying make-up due to their sensitive skin. The product will remove all impurities leaving your skin soft.

#3 one love organics vitamin b cleansing oil

I really like having this cleanser as part of my morning and evening skincare routine.

The One Love Organics cleansing oil is a non-stripping oil cleanser that lifts away make-up and other impurities while moisturizing the skin.

It is designed with dehydrated skin in mind, yet it is effective for all skin types.

It gently glides over my skin and this is a great way for giving my face a little massage while cleansing.

If you are looking for that product that works best for people with sensitive eyes like mine then One Love Organic is the wash for you!

Pros	Cons
Exfoliates, smooths, and tone the skin gently	Has a shorter shelf life span
It rinses clean with no washcloth required	Fairly pricey
Has a beautiful aroma of citrus and pineapple
Easy rinse meaning you will look forward to washing your face

#4 osea clean cleanser

Even though my skin is dry, I am highly prone to acne and this product came to work wonders for me.

Wake your skin up by applying OSEA Ocean Cleanser. A cleanser made with algae extract, Vitamin E, jojoba, and sesame seeds.

It has a PH balance formula to remove excess oils, surface impurities and gently exfoliates to minimize the appearance of the pores.

You are only required to apply the face wash to damp skin and rinse off with warm water.

Pros	Cons
Has a lovely smell and produces less foam	Not great as an anti-aging cleanser
It cleanses effectively and doesn’t leave the skin dry	Customer service complaints
Removes impurities while protecting the skin’s natural moisture barrier
Formulated with a plant-based probiotic
It is PH balanced

This is the perfect cleanser for people with normal to dry skin, but if your skin is oily then I’d recommend you try a different product.

It’s also not really an “anti-aging” product. Some customers felt it did nothing for their more mature skin.

Not sure what results they expected, but if you’re looking for a wrinkle-reducer, look elsewhere.

#5 pai middlemist seven

Pai Middlemist Seven was the 7th product to be born into the Pai Skincare range. It is a gentle cream cleanser that is perfect for people with sensitive skin.

With sensitive skin, I find it hard to apply make-up since other products are irritating thus clogging my pores.

After reading about this cleanser, I had to go and purchase it. This is because it has a trio of oils that with ease lift away dirt and make-up.

The cleanser ensures that my face is cleansed without stripping my face of its defensive humidity, oil, and PH balance.

The Pai Middlemist cleanser is rich in Omega 6, antioxidants and rose to help soothe and improve your dry skin.

Pros	Cons
Suitable for all sensitive skin types	It is expensive
Helps in decongestion	May contain preservatives for a prolonged shelf life
Replenishes the skin’s moisture barrier leaving it soft
Has an exfoliating muslin cloth that lifts away from the dead skin cells

I recommend that you try the Pai cleanser as it is suitable for all skin types including sensitive ones.

How to Select the Best Natural Face Wash for Dry Skin

The best face wash for dry skin is one that takes care of your skin hydration as much as it cleanses.

Unless a dermatologist tells you otherwise, natural products are best for your skincare routine- be it face masks or scrubs.

While even the most natural ingredient can still cause a reaction in some people, overall they’re far more hypoallergenic than chemical-laden products.

Here is how to choose the best face wash for dry skin;

Get to know your skin type

Confirm that you have a dry skin type.

To check whether your skin is dry, look out for signs like skin tightness and dryness, roughness, excess flaking, skin cracks, and much more.

learn what to avoid

Before using any face wash, ensure that you read the ingredients and see if they can good or will worsen your skin concerns.

Look out for chemicals that have a negative reputation for worsening dry skin by removing the necessary moisture content from the skin.

Sodium chloride, isopropyl alcohol, ammonium lauryl sulfate, salicylic acids, and several more are found in these chemicals.

The easiest way to quickly “vet” a product is to search for it on EWG’s Skin Deep Database.

what to look for

With a wide range of face products in the market, it can be hard to figure out which product is best for what exactly the skin requires.

Therefore, start by understanding your skin a little more, for example, its PH level.

conclusion

Other than moisturizing and cleansing, there are other important points to follow when dealing with dry skin.

I hope that you have received relevant information on the best natural face wash for dry skin. All the products named above have pros and cons to guide you before making a purchase.

Hunting for the best natural face wash for dry skin? Don’t worry anymore because we’ve got your back with our list that you can try! See for yourself!

what is your favorite best natural face wash for dry skin?

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Body Scrub Homemade Recipes: 3 Super Simple DIYs to Try

March 22, 2021February 5, 2021 by Lily Scott

Looking for an easy body scrub homemade recipe?

We’ve got you covered!

Below, we’ll check out three super simple ideas that you can add to your cheap skincare routine.

Let’s get started, shall we?

BODY SCRUBS AT HOME THAT YOU SHOULD TRY: 3 HOMEMADE RECIPES

Body scrubs help you exfoliate dead skin from your body, making it look fresher, smoother, and healthier.

Of course, there are various store-bought options to choose from, but why spend money on something if you can make it at home?

A body scrub is a mixture of liquid and exfoliating ingredients that gently remove the dead skin from your body and boosting your blood circulation.

The most popular components of a DIY body scrub are coconut oil, olive oil, Aloe Vera, honey, coffee granules, brown sugar, green tea, and many other beneficial ingredients.

All these ingredients have nutritional, moisturizing, and exfoliating features.

So mixing them in the proper amount and exfoliating your body once in a while will not only make your skin smooth but will also help you to relax and enjoy the process.

Here are our favorite homemade body scrubs that will give you the absolute feeling of soft, fresh, and vibrant skin.

While most of the ingredients can be found in your kitchen, we did include a few recommended products in case you need to shop for them.

FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

# 1 EXFOLIATING COFFEE AND COCONUT OIL BODY SCRUB

Coffee is a common component for a lot of homemade body scrubs.

Due to its tiny granules, coffee is not harsh on the skin but shows effective results for removing the dead cells from your skin, making it smooth and soft.

Ingredients

It is so easy to make this body scrub. All you will need is

1/2 cup coffee grounds,
2 tbsps. of hot water
1 tbsp. of melted coconut oil

How to make it

Mix all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and thoroughly blend them.

You don’t want the consistency to be runny, so you can add as many coffee granules as you get the damp-sand-like texture.

After getting the desired consistency, gently apply it to your body in circular motions for 3-5 minutes and wash it with lukewarm water.

You will instantly feel the softness of your skin after pat-drying the scrubbed area. It also helps to get rid of dark spots, cellulite, and sun-damage.

It is best to use this scrub two times a week.

#2 REFRESHING PEPPERMINT AND BROWN SUGAR BODY SCRUB

If you feel tired and want to feel that oomph of energy and freshness, this is the perfect body scrub for you.

You will be using peppermint essential oil for this one that will loosen your nerves and liven your energy after a stressful day.

The olive oil used in this scrub will keep your skin moisturized and glowy.

Ingredients

Make this body scrub by combining:

4 tbsps. of Olive Oil
1 cup Brown Sugar
10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil

How to make it

Mix the ingredients in a bowl or a jar as long as you reach a grainy paste consistency.

After washing your skin, apply the scrub and gently massage it with your fingers in circular motions for 5-10 minutes and wash the scrub off with warm water.

You will see that you are more relaxed and calm after the application.

#3 BRIGHTENING ALOE VERA AND SUGAR BODY SCRUB

The Aloe Vera, sugar, and olive oil scrub will bring your body brightness, exfoliate the dead cells from your body, and provide the needed hydration to your skin.

Ingredients

The mixing steps are pretty simple. You will need to mix:

1 tbsp. of Aloe Vera gel
1 tbsp. of olive oil
3 tbsps. of sugar

How to Make It

Note that you can always adjust the proportions to get the desired consistency. After making the scrub, you should gently massage it onto your body for 5-10 minutes.

Use circular motions to activate your blood circulation and get more effective results.

Wash the scrub remaining with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel to feel the silky soft, and hydrated skin.

To get better results for brightening, you should use the scrub 2-3 times a week.

final words

If you have dry or sensitive skin, you should apply the scrubs as gently as possible.

Do not rub the granules too aggressively, as it will not be effective and will cause worse results.

It is more than enough to exfoliate your skin two times a week, so do not overuse them.

Additionally, it is easier and more fun to make body scrubs at home than to buy one from the store.

You will get the same nourishing, hydrating, and exfoliating effect with DIY scrubs. So it is essential to include this treatment in your skincare routine as it is beneficial for having silky, fresh, and healthy skin.

Looking for an easy way to make body scrubs at home? We're sharing 3 super simple recipes for your pamper time that you will surely love!

What are your favorite recipes for making body scrubs at home? Share below!

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5 Super Easy DIY Toner Recipes for Every Skin Type

March 22, 2021January 11, 2021 by Lily Scott

Stop throwing away money on pricey skin-toning treatments when you can easily make your own! Check out these 5 toner recipes for all skin types to see how!

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I am a huge fan of using DIY toner recipes in my cheap skincare routine!

if there’s one thing you really never need to actually buy, it’s toner.

Seriously, once you find out how easy it is to mix up at home, you’ll never spend another scent on it again.

Keep reading to check out some of my personal favorite ideas for all skin types!

5 Super Easy DIY Toner Recipes for Every Skin Type

Most of these easy tone recipes require just two ingredients that you can usually find right in your grocery store!

Before we start, though, I just want to remind everyone that this is not medical advice.

If you have a skin condition, please talk to your dermatologist to find out which DIY skin toner is right for you.

FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

1. Green tea & apple cider vinegar toner (for oily skin)

If you have oily and/or acne-prone skin, here’s one you’ll love!

Steep a green tea bag in a cup of hot apple cider vinegar (ACV) for about 5-10 minutes.

Then, let it cool and apply it at night after you cleanse your face.

The green tea acts as an anti-inflammatory (acne is basically an inflammatory response), while the ACV helps balance our your skin’s pH.

You can also try this toner recipe tutorial below for a different twist on my version:

2. Lavender & Sweet Almond Oil skin toner recipe

Here’s one of my favorites for dry or sensitive skin!

Just add about about 5 drops of lavender oil to 1/4 cup of sweet almond oil.

Sweet Almond Oil is my all-time favorite carrier for essential oils. It’s inexpensive, gentle, diverse, and loaded with benefits.

Lavender is also one of the gentlest essential oils. In fact, it’s one of the few that you can apply “neat” (without diluting).

I still prefer to add it to a carrier, though, just to be safe.

Check out the benefits of Sweet Almond Oil in the video below:

3. Rosewater Toner for sensitive skin

Rosewater is one of the gentlest toners for sensitive skin, but it’s a bit harder to make than the other ideas on this list.

The quickest and easiest way is to just add rose essential oil to distilled water. However, that’s also the most expensive way.

Real rose oil (versus cheap knockoffs) will cost you a very pretty penny. The real stuff rarely goes for under $50 per 5mL.

So, you’re better off buying yourself a bouquet of roses and using the petals to make your rosewater.

Check out the video below for an easy tutorial, or this link for 4 different ways to make it.

4. Lemon juice + aloe or coconut water

Good for “brightening” dull skin or lightening red spots.

Lemon is a natural source of alpha hydroxy acids, which are great for exfoliating dead skin cells.

I like to add it to aloe because I find it very soothing.

However, coconut water makes a wonderful alternative to aloe.

Whichever you choose, I either squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon into about 1/2 cup of liquid or add 3-4 teaspoons of bottled lemon juice (like Real Lemon).

Check out the video below to learn more about using it in your skincare routine.

6. Tea Tree toner for acne-prone skin

Tea tree is an amazing toner for acne, and it’s another one that’s safe to apply “neat.”

However, I prefer using it that way to target blemishes directly, rather than as a whole-face toner.

For that, I mix it with witch hazel for oily skin days or sweet almond oil for dry skin days.

As with the lavender oil recipe above, I add about 5 drops of tea tree per 1/4 cup of carrier.

You can adjust it up or down depending on your needs, though.

Check out the tutorial below for more tips.

FAQs about Using Toner

Before I send you on your merry way to whip up a new toner, I thought we should go over a few frequently asked questions about this part of your skincare routine.

Just what, exactly, is toner?

Toner is sort of what it sounds like- a liquid that helps “tone” your skin.

Depending on which type you use, it’ll either add a boost of hydration or help unclog stuffed-up pores.

Doesn’t toner dry your skin out?

Well, yes and no. Astringent toners have a high alcohol content, which is very drying to your skin.

However, while astringents are considered toners, not all toners are astringents.

So, the answer really depends on which type you choose as well as your skin type.

If you opt for witch hazel or tea tree oil and you already have dry skin, then yes, it’ll leave your face feeling a bit parched.

However, if you have oily skin, those ingredients actually provide a bit more balance when used in moderation.

How do you apply toner?

Like all things, there are actually a few ways to apply toner.

I take the simplest approach. I place the toner on a cotton ball, then rub it on my face in a circular motion.

You can also just put some on your clean dry hands and rub it into your face.

Others, like in the video below, use cosmetic cloths instead of cotton balls or their fingers.

When do you put it on?

Toner goes on AFTER you wash your face, but BEFORE your moisturizer, serums, or other skincare treatments.

According to Allure, you really should put it on within 60 seconds after cleansing your face, as that’s when your pores are most “receptive” to it.

I hope you enjoy these amazingly easy and cheap DIY skin toner recipes! If you have any other questions or comments, feel free to let us know below.

What are your favorite skin toner recipes? Share below!

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What is the Best Type of Clay for Hair? (Complete Guide with Recommendations)

March 22, 2021January 8, 2021 by Lily Scott

What is the best type of clay for hair? Check out our guide to the top three types to find out! We'll even share our favorite clay haircare product for each.

Using clay for your hair care routine is an amazing way to get lush locks in no time.

But which clay is right for your hair type?

Do you need to buy a product or can you DIY one?

Let’s explore all of your options for using clay in your cheap beauty routine!

What are the best types of clay for hair?

To answer that question, we should probably start by exploring the different types of clay that you can use in your hair, period.

While the planet is filled with a good 30 different types of clay (and probably countless sub-types), when it comes to hair care we really only focus on three.

These include bentonite, kaolin, and rhassoul. Let’s take a peek at where each comes from and what it does in terms of hair care.

We’ll also look at my top recommended product to buy for each, as well as point you in the direction of some great DIY ideas.

FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

What is Bentonite clay for hair?

Bentonite- which derives from volcanic ash– is by far the most common, well-known, and readily available type of clay for your hair and skin.

The montmorillonite-based clay was named after where it was first discovered in the 1800s, in Fort Benton, Montana.

However, just because we only realized it existed less than 200 years ago doesn’t mean it hasn’t been used for generations by other cultures.

It’s actually a very ancient remedy, according to WebMD. People even eat it! (Don’t do this with clearance from a doctor, please).

In terms of hair care, bentonite is best for:

dry or flaky scalps
damaged hair (from heat, coloring, and so on)
dull hair
frizzy locks

While its affect on human hair hasn’t really been scientifically studied, generations of women have used it as both a shampoo and conditioner (it’s the ultimate 2-in-1 formula).

If you need scientific evidence, Healthline explains that “a review published in the Iranian Journal of Public Health found that bentonite clay can help make sheep wool grow quicker and softer.”

Yes, I know, we’re not sheep, but it’s still a good reason to give it a try!

If you want to learn more, check out our guide to using bentonite clay for hair growth, detox and styling.

You’ll find a few easy DIY ideas there, as well as some amazing bentonite clay products to buy.

Best Bentonite Clay Product for Hair to Buy: Barbershop Matte Hair Clay

The barbershop matte hair clay is available on Amazon. It’s great for all hair types, and has other vitamins and minerals included to give you gorgeous locks.

What is Kaolin clay?

According to Britannica, Kaolin clay- also called China clay- is a “soft white clay that is an essential ingredient in the manufacture of china and porcelain and is widely used in the making of paper, rubber, paint, and many other products.”

It’s named after a hill in China where it was mined for many, many moons.

However, the self-proclaimed kaolin capital of the world is actually on the other side of the globe, right here in the US.

Sandersville, Georgia mines and ships about 8 million metric tons of the white clay every year. That adds up to over $1 billion in revenue for the state.

While, as we just saw above, it’s commonly used for making those fine china dishes our grandmothers only broke out for the “good company,” it’s also quite amazing for your hair.

Some benefits include:

Absorbing oils from greasy hair (use it as a dry shampoo)
Nourishing your scalp, which can in turn promote hair growth
Controlling dandruff
Bringing life (and bounce) back to brittle, limp locks.

Check out all of the benefits along with some great products to buy or DIY in our guide to using kaolin clay for hair.

Top Pick: MB Herbs Light Kaolin Clay

This is one of the best kaolin clay products on the market, but it can take up to two weeks to really notice a difference in your scalp.

It works for all hair types, and you can get it on Amazon.

How about Rhassoul clay?

I saved my personal favorite for last! Rhassoul, also called ghassoul or Moroccan clay comes from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco.

Unlike the other types of clay for hair, Rhassoul is used almost exclusively by the cosmetics industry.

In other words, it’s not really something you’d find in a ceramics studio.

While Rhassoul is a relatively new trend in the US, it’s a very old remedy for North African women, where they’ve been using it since around the 700s CE.

So, what makes this Moroccan clay my favorite? Here are some of the benefits:

Lifts impurities and detoxifies your hair
Absorbs excess oil
Conditions dry hair
Adds volume to limp locks
Restores shine to dull hair
Gives hair a better overall texture

Basically, it combines all the best benefits of the first two clays into one handy hair treatment.

However, since it’s almost exclusively used by the cosmetic industry, it is a bit pricier ounce-for-ounce compared to the first two.

For example, you can get a 2-lb bag of kaolin for about $20 or a 2-lb bag of bentonite for $15-ish. However, a ONE-lb bag of rhassoul runs you about $17.

So, basically, it’s twice as costly. Then again, like I said, it combines many the benefits of both clays.

Check out all of the benefits and the best products to buy or DIY in our guide to rhassoul clay hair masks

Top Pick: ELBAHAYA ORGANIC RHASSOUL WITH ROSE WATER

This one is great for all hair types and it’s 100% organic.

I love this ne because you can also use it as a face mask. Find it on Amazon.

So, which clay is best for your hair?

Really, it all comes down to your hair’s needs.

In the past few weeks, we looked at rhassoul vs.bentonite clay for hair as well as kaolin Clay vs. bentonite.

I recommend reading those for an even more in-depth overview.

Like I said, rhassoul is my favorite mostly because it combines the best of both worlds.

It gives my dry ends a bit more life while absorbing oils from my scalp (I have weird combination hair).

However, when I’m short on cash, I really love bentonite. It’s a classic for a reason!

Your turn! What are your favorite types of clay for hair? Share below!

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30+ Amazing DIY Clay Face Masks for Positively Radiant Skin

March 22, 2021December 11, 2020 by Lily Scott

Love making your own skincare products? Then you have to try these amazing DIY clay face masks! Check them out!

I love making my own DIY clay face masks as part of my cheap skincare routine.

Honestly, they’re so easy to make, there’s really no reason to buy one!

If you’re looking for some inspo, I’ve rounded up all of our clay mask ideas into one handy guide.

Plus, I’m adding a few formulas for endless DIY possibilities!

DIY Clay Face Masks for Positively Radiant Skin

When I said that clay face masks were easy and cheap to make, I wasn’t lying.

I know a lot of people say, “oh, this is so easy,” then give you like 500+ steps and a list of rare earth mineral ingredients.

I have virtually nil crafting skills and an even smaller budget, but I’ve been making my own skincare products for years.

Not everything, mind you. I’ve never mastered soap making (my mom used to, though, and homemade soap is ah-mazing).

I also stink at making lotion (too many ingredients, too many steps).

Masks, however, are on my list of “things that are so crazy cheap to make, why bother buying them?”

That’s not to say I never buy masks (I like the K-beauty ones that make you look like a serial killer while you’re wearing them).

When it comes to clay masks, though, I ALWAYS DIY instead of buy.

Enough rambling, let’s get to the real reason you’re here: our list of recipes!

What is rhassoul clay and why should it be part of your skin care routine? Read on for 6 amazing rhassoul clay benefits to find out!

Clay Face Masks to Make at Home

One quick little note: when we talk about benefits, we’re not making medical claims.

Also, if you have certain skin conditions, talk to your dermatologist before trying any new product, even a DIY one.

Clay has a long history of use in skincare products and is considered very safe, but it’s still possible to have an allergic reaction to it.

So always do a small skin patch text on your forearm before slathering it on your face.

If you’re curious about the differences between clays, this video below explains kaolin vs. bentonite:

Related: Face Masks For Dry Skin

This one discusses all three in terms of hair care (but the same basic principles apply to skin care):

Let’s dive into those mask ideas now, shall we?

I’m going to break this down by the three main types of clay that we discussed.

Easy Bentonite Clay Face Masks

Want to try out some bentonite clay face masks but not sure where to start? Check out these 7 amazing options that you can either buy or DIY at home.

Up first, we have some great Bentonite clay face masks for you to make.

Did you know that bentonite has been used for thousands of years for skin care?

According to WebMD, it’s both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.

Since it draws out impurities in your pores, it’s a great choice for acne.

It’s also very soothing on itchy skin, such as a rash from poison ivy.

We shared 7 Effective Bentonite Clay Face Masks, including a few that you can buy.

I highly recommend starting there, because we covered some pretty diverse options.

The one in the video below is my personal favorite:

Related: Face Masks for Glowing Skin

You can also use bentonite clay in some of these 8 Luxurious At-Home Face Masks Without Honey.

Face Masks Using Kaolin Clay

Kaolin clay, also called white or China clay, is a very mild type that’s often used in masks for sensitive skin.

According to Pacific Aura Botanicals, while it’s usually white in color (hence the AKA above), it can be pink as well.

Unlike bentonite- which typically calls for a 1:1 ratio of clay & liquid- kaolin requires less water to achieve the perfect spreadable consistency.

This is the perfect clay to use if you’re trying to even out your skin tone and get rid of red or dark patches.

Check out some of the other benefits of Kaolin clay for skin and learn how to use it in your routine.

Then, try one of these amazing Kaolin clay face masks to buy or DIY.

Here’s my favorite:

You can also use kaolin in these at-home turmeric face masks.

I like it because it evens out the intensity of turmeric.

Perfect Rhassoul Clay Mask Ideas

If you're looking for the best rhassoul clay masks for your skin and hair, we've got you covered! Check out 6 fantastic options to buy or DIY!

I’ll admit, Rhassoul is fairly new to me and I haven’t really used it as much as the others.

According to Healthline, the brown clay comes from mountains in Morocco, and the word itself originates from the Arabic word for “to wash.”

It’s a thicker clay, so you’ll actually need two tablespoons of liquid for each tablespoon of rhassoul to reach the right texture.

If you’re curious about why you’d want to splurge on this type, check out these 6 benefits of rhassoul clay for hair and skin.

We also shared some DIY mask ideas in that post, but you’ll find even more on this list of rhassoul clay masks to make or buy.

Here is my favorite:

Throughout all of those posts mentioned above, you’ll find at least 30 different ideas to get you started.

However, if you need more ideas, here are a few “formulas” that will allow you to make endless possible masks

Clay Mask Formulas for Endless DIY Possibilities

From an easy 2-step mask to lush fruity ideas, these are the formulas and steps that I use to make my own clay masks.

One quick note- only make as much as you’ll use right away.

Clay masks don’t really hold up well in jars and whatnot.

Super cheap 2-ingredient clay & water formula

Literally all you need for this is clay and water! If possible, go with purified water.

If you don’t have any on hand, though, you can use tap water, as long as it’s safe (if you can drink it, you can use it on your skin).

The ratios of water to clay depend on the type, as we mentioned above.

Here’s a recap, though:

Bentonite – one part clay, one part water
Kaolin – two parts clay, one part water
Rhassoul – one part clay, two parts water

Honestly, though, it’s not always an exact science.

I usually start with my clay in a bowl and add a few drops of water, stir, add a few more, stir, etc. until I like the consistency.

Apple cider vinegar instead of water

You can also use apple cider vinegar in place of the water.

Many people swear by it, and it does create a thicker more “store-bought mask” consistency.

However, you’ll want to cut back a bit on it in the ratios, or increase the amount of clay that you use.

For the most part, you’ll need to increase the amount of clay by half. So if you use 1 tbsp. of ACV, use 1.5 tbsp. of clay.

Again, add a little at a time until it’s the right texture.

Check out the video below to see a side-by-side comparison.

Clay masks with essential oils

If you want to add essential oils to your clay mask, here’s how I do it:

Start with 1-2 tablespoons of your choice of clay
Add ONE drop of essential oil (a little goes a very long way, see notes below)
Stir it up a bit.
Slowly add a carrier oil (see below) a few drops at a time stirring as you go.
Continue adding carrier & stirring until you like the consistency.

For carrier oils, you can use sweet almond, jojoba, or even olive oil.

Please, be VERY careful about how you use essential oils in anything that goes on your face.

Some can be very hard on your skin.

I know a lot of face mask recipes that are popular on Pinterest call for peppermint, but I find it way too powerful for my sensitive face.

It’s fabulous in homemade foot masks and scrubs, though!

The best options for your face include:

Lavender
Tea tree oil
Chamomile
Rose*
Neroli
Patchouli
Ylang-ylang

*Real rose oil is SUPER expensive. If it’s cheap, it’s not real. It’s a great oil, but there are cheaper alternatives that work just as well.

I like the video tutorial below, but I don’t use their oils (or the ones from the other popular MLM brand) because their prices are absurdly inflated.

Masks with fruits and other fresh ingredients

You can also add clay to masks made with fresh fruits, like avocado, banana, and so on.

The overall experience is a bit different. Unlike other clay masks, this one doesn’t really dry on your skin.

You just slather it on and leave it for about 20 minutes, then wipe/rinse off.

There’s really no perfect formula for that, but here’s what I usually do:

Start by mashing up my fruit (bananas are great, and cheap)
Add clay (about 1 tablespoon)
Mush it together really well.
Slowly add liquid, mushing and stirring until I like the texture.

This video below shows another great method using clay, avocado, and banana.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s41VaXqJ2Kw

Between the ideas I shared way up above and these easy formulas, you can literally make thousands upon thousands of DIY clay face masks.

Since YOU control the ingredients, you’ll know exactly what you’re putting on your skin.

Plus, you’ll save a boatload of cash! That’s a win/win in my book.

What are your favorite DIY clay face masks? Share below!

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Top 10 Best Cruelty-Free Beauty Brands of 2021

June 17, 2021October 14, 2020 by Lily Scott

Looking for the top cruelty-free brands of 2020? You’ll love our list! We narrowed down all the animal-friendly brands t just the top 10! Take a look!

If you’re looking for the top cruelty-free beauty brands of 2021, stick around!

Below, we’ll go over some of the absolute best products from the most ethical companies.

First, though, let’s talk about how we decided which brands to include.

PS- You may also like: Everything You Need to Know About Vegan Collagen

Criteria for Top Cruelty-Free Beauty Brands of 2021

Let’s go over what I looked for when choosing my picks for the top cruelty-free beauty brands of 2021.

All brands must meet the following criteria:

NO animal testing at all
NO animal products at all
Sustainable ingredients and ethical practices
Products that are actually worth buying

No part of it is tested on animals

There are a lot of brands out there that claim to be “cruelty-free,” but a deep dive into their process often shows that, put bluntly, they’re full of it.

For example, a brand claims that they don’t test their product on animals may actually mean “we don’t test our final product on animals.”

However, many of the ingredients in said product are tested on lab bunnies.

No animal by-products

Animal by-products cannot be part of cruelty-free beauty products.

I’m sorry, but it does no good if a product that isn’t tested on animals actually INCLUDES animals in the ingredients.

Beauty brands are notoriously shifty about this, too. One Green Planet has a list of sneaky animal ingredients to watch out for.

The most common are gelatin and lanolin. Also, avoid anything including squalene, as it comes from shark liver.

Sustainable ingredients

While there are hundreds of cruelty-free beauty brands out there now, the best of the best use sustainable ingredients in crafting their products.

Being kind to animals isn’t just about not sacrificing them so that we can look pretty, it’s also about not ruining their habitats.

I look for brands that use sustainable ingredients and ethical practices that protect ALL animals, people included.

Products that are worth buying

Obviously, along with these three things, I also ask myself, “Would I actually use this product?”

If a brand meets all of my criteria but their collection of products leaves me feeling less than enthused, they don’t make my list.

While I don’t rule out pricey items, I do expect the value to match the price tag.

If I can find the same exact product with the same criteria for a lot less, I’ll always go with the cheaper option.

I think it’s ridiculous to pay extra just because the label has a prestigious name slapped on it.

Okay, now that you know what I look for, let’s check out my top picks for the best cruelty-free brands of 2021!

FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

Top Cruelty-Free Beauty Brands of 2021

Since it’s important to give credit where it’s due, I used Leaping Bunny to verify each brand’s cruelty-free status.

Check out the table for my top 5 picks, then read on for the full list.

1. 100% Pure

100% Pure makes quite a few fantastic products, but their Fruit Pigmented Ultra Lengthening Mascara is my favorite.

As the name implies, the color comes from fruit (and other food) pigments rather than artificial dyes.

The shades are very rich and stunning, and it’s totally smudge proof to boot!

Their products are vegan, sustainable, and ethical in all ways, according to their mission statement:

We strive to live with compassion, kindness and empathy; to be environmentally sustainable and to improve the lives of 6 billion people and animals while also being charitable and giving back to our global community.

Check out the brand’s Amazon storefront for more great products.

2. Aether Beauty

Aether Beauty primarily sells eye shadow palette inspired by gemstones, and they’re just gorgeous!

My favorite is their rose quartz palette, which actually uses rose quartz powder in the eye shadows. So neat!

All of their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and uses organic and fair-trade ingredients.

The packaging itself is fully recyclable, too, so it’s a zero waste product as well.

3. Beauty Without Cruelty

Beauty Without Cruelty is one of the most well-known cruelty-free beauty brands, as well as one of the oldest.

Their incredibly affordable products are Leaping Bunny approved and Vegan Society UK certified.

According to their “About Us” page,

In 1963, Natural Products Shopping was founded in England by the trustees of BWC Charitable Trust, an animal welfare organization. Its goal was to manufacture and distribute natural, color cosmetics that were NOT tested on animals (as was the norm) and did NOT contain any animal ingredients.

I’ve used so many of their products over the years, it’s hard to choose a favorite.

I really love their All Day Moisturizer, though!

Check out more BWC products on Amazon. They’re easy to spot amidst all the totally unrelated ads that Amazon tosses into search results.

Just look for products with BWC in big letters on the label.

4. Cake Beauty

Cake Beauty isn’t Leaping Bunny Certified, but they’re still a fantastic option.

According to their “Cross Our Hearts” promise, their products are:

NOT tested on animals
Use no ingredients tested on animals
100% vegan-safe

They also meet Amazon’s criteria for the Climate Pledge Friendly certification.

I love their Cake Beauty Walk Triplemint Foot Crème. It’s so soothing, and makes a great finishing touch to a foot mask gift set.

See more amazing cruelty-free products in their Amazon store..

5.Earth Harbor

Earth Harbor Naturals sells some of the neatest cruelty-free products ever, including their super trendy Mermaid Milk.

While their offerings are a bit pricier than I like to see, I still feel like they’re a good value overall.

The brand is Leaping Bunny certified and 100% Vegan. According to their mission statement,

We harness the natural power of Ocean & Earth to bring you safe, ethical, sustainable products.
We deliver personalized, synthetic-free skincare to help you achieve your skin goals.
We proudly partner with 1% For The Planet® to save marine life and solve the global water crisis.

Check out the brand’s Amazon storefront for more great products.

6. E.L.F

E.L.F- which stands for “Eyes, Lips, Face,” made waves years ago when they launched a cruelty-free line of products that averaged just $1 per item.

While they’ve raised their prices over the years, the vast majority still cost under $5, with a few higher-end items hitting closer to $10.

E.L.F products aren’t just animal-friendly, they’re people-friendly, too. T

They partner with multiple organizations, including the It Gets Better Project for LGBTQ+ Youth and Color of Change for Black Lives Matter.

I’ve used SO much of their makeup over the years that I couldn’t possibly choose a favorite!

I’m currently loving their multi-stick, though. I use it on my lips and cheeks for a very put-together look.

See more amazing cruelty-free products in their Amazon store.

7. US Organic

US Organic is a great source for oils and butters for homemade beauty products.

They have a wide range of 100% oils, like Argan, apricot, sweet almond, and more that are perfect carriers for essential oils.

While they’re not the best as far as money goes (you can find all of their oils for better prices, honestly), they are among the most ethical.

Their products are Leaping Bunny approved as well as USDA and FDA registered.

Check out the brand’s Amazon storefront for more great products.

8. THE SEAWEED BATH CO.

These days, it’s getting harder and harder to find decent body wash that’s cruelty-free but that also doesn’t cost a small fortune.

The Seaweed Bath Co is both of those things and more, thank goodness!

Their awesome body washes are Vegan, cruelty free (no animal testing) and Leaping Bunny certified.

Plus, the ingredients are harvested from Maine waters in a sustainable and ethical manner.

See more amazing cruelty-free products in their Amazon store.

9. Spinster Sisters Co.

The Spinster Sisters Co. makes cruelty-free lip balms, soaps, creams, and more.

According to their mission statement, they also use sustainable ingredients and their production facility is wind-powered.

All of their products are vegan, and they’re PETA certified as well as EWG VERIFIED™.

Plus, they’re a woman-owned business!

Check out the brand’s Amazon storefront for more great products.

10. Eco Tools

We can’t talk cruelty-free beauty without mentioning Eco Tools!

After all, we need a way to apply all those wonderful products above, right?

Eco Tools sells vegan and environmentally friendly makeup brushes.

Unlike many other brushes out there, they’re actually affordable, too!

On top of all that, the brand is dedicated to supporting women’s empowerment.

See more amazing cruelty-free products in their Amazon store.

With more and more people opting for cruelty-free makeup and skincare products, the list of animal-friendly brands is expected to grow exponentially over the next few years.

I remember what it was like to struggle to find even one brand that didn’t test on animals!

Today, I have a hard time choosing a favorite! Maybe you can help out with that.

What are your favorite cruelty-free beauty brands? Share below!…

Top 7 Best Foot Massagers That Will Make Your Feet Feel Totally Divine

March 18, 2021August 28, 2020 by Lily Scott

If you’re looking for the best foot massagers to help soothe those tired toes and send you off into a total state of bliss, stick around!

Below, we’ll check out some amazing options designed to fit every budget!

I can’t wait to tell you about my personal favorite (you’ll be surprised, I think)!

Let’s get started

Top Pick

FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

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If you want to skip ahead and see my top pick, go with the TheraFlow Dual Foot Massager Roller. It’s affordable and surprisingly effective!

Best Foot Massagers for Every Budget

From high-tech to cordless,from portable to luxurious, these amazing foot massagers fit into just about all budgets. Use the table for a quick peek at my top 5 favorites, then read on for the full list.

1. Miko Shiatsu foot massager

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With over 4,000 reviewers rating it a crazy 4.5-stars, the Miko Shaitsu is is definitely a great place to start.

Fair warning, though, it comes with a somewhat hefty price tag!

It makes sense, though, given how high-tech this one truly is.

Features and Pros

Deep kneading, shiatsu rolling, and heat functions.
2 independent foot chambers
5 air pressure settings
.Removable covers for easy washing.
1 year full warranty,

Cons

Expensive
Only fits feet up to size 12

Recommendation

My favorite feature has to be the fact that you can switch it from heat to no heat, and that it has two independent chambers.

Use the control panel on the top to operate it once you’ve dipped those aching toes into the two separate chambers, or one of the two included remotes.

Set it up for a deep-tissue kneading massage for those really rough days or just some soothing vibrations for a more mellow experience.

It’s pricey, yes, but totally worth it!

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2. TheraFlow Dual Foot Massager Roller

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This little baby doesn’t look like much, but it’s absolutely outstanding.

In fact, I’m using it right now as I write this. I keep it under my desk all day.

Features & Pros:

Features acupressure nubs, arch, and spacing defined to fit all feet.
Super affordable
Perfect for feet of all sizes
Lightweight and easy to take on the go
Guaranteed to make you happy.

Cons:

Some say it has a funny smell (didn’t notice this)
Squeaks (just a little, it’s not terribly loud)

Recommendation

Over 9,000 people gave this a combined total of 4.6 stars, so that should tell you something.

I absolutely LOVE mine, I couldn’t get by without it!

It has four rows of ridges on little rollers. Just run your feet over it and feel the “ahhhhh.”

Need a deeper massage? Just press down a bit harder.

Since there are no wires, you can take it anywhere. It really is quite amazing.

I haven’t noticed any of the issues that others mention.

3. Nekteck Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine

Heading back to the high-tech options, this one by Nekteck isn’t quite as fancy as the Miko, but still an excellent choice.

Features & Pros:

Built in Air compression technology
Multiple settings and preset massage modes- including heat functions and adjustable air compression
Targets your foot’s reflex zones.
Two levels of intensity.
Deep-kneading nodes
Detachable foot cover that are washable.

Cons:

Pricey
Doesn’t fit larger feet
Some say that it pinches

Recommendation

While there are a few really negative reviews, overall just under 500 people really seem to like this one.

I like the slipper-style feature, but also love that you can remove those covers when it’s too hot out.

I think this one would make a wonderful Christmas gift!

4. Foot Spa Massager

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When I was growing up, I got my mom one of these pretty much every single year. Then, I’d “borrow” it!

While they never seem to last more than a year, I do think spa-like foot massagers are absolutely awesome.

This one in particular has really good reviews. It’s a bit pricier than the ones I usually got my mom, so it’ll last longer.

Features & Pros:

Heats and maintains water at your chosen temperature (95-118°F).
Removable massage rollers, so it can be a massager or just a bath.
Rollers aren’t motorized, but have acupressure nodes.
Digital display makes it easy to control and adjust.
Includes both bubbles and vibration modes.
Powered with overheat protection to keep you safer.

Cons:

Somewhat pricey, but it comes with a warranty
No motorized massagers, it’s all manual.

Recommendation

While some customers complained that it didn’t last very long, like I said, that seems to be the case with pretty much all foot spas. I don’t know why that is.

The vast majority of people really love this, giving it a combined total of 4.3 stars out of over 2,400 ratings.

If you’re looking for a great gift to give mom, follow my lead. Mine always loved it! Or at least she said she did. 😀

5. FIT KING Leg Air Massager

So, this one is going to seem like a really weird recommendation, but bear with me.

When I had my son, I was in the hospital for about a week, and they put these amazing leg massagers on me to prevent blood clots.

While those were a lot more high-end than this set by Fit King, it’s the same basic concept.

Features & Pros:

Massages your feet and calves at the same time.
Helps improve your circulation.
Two different modes and three intensities.
Handheld controller.
Total of 10 massage techniques
Adjustable, and comes with size extensions.

Cons:

Somewhat pricey
Not medical-grade (so if you need it to avoid DVTs, you may want to look elsewhere)

Recommendation

Like I said, it seems like an odd recommendation, but massagers like these are totally amazing.

While this one isn’t the same quality as the type in hospitals, customers do say that it really helped with swelling.

I would absolutely buy them for myself!

6. REVITIVE Circulation Booster

This is another unique option that goes beyond your plain old Shiatsu foot massager.

I’m super intrigued by it, so let’s take a look at what it actually does and whether it’s worth its somewhat high price tag.

Features & Pros:

Uses Electrical Muscle Stimulation
FDA-cleared to relieve aches and pains.
15 patented Stimulation Waveforms designed to increase your circulation
99 intensity levels.
Comes with electrode body pads, so you can use the EMS to target other body parts.

Cons:

Can’t use if you have a pacemaker, are pregnant, or are at risk for DVT.
Some had issues returning it and the company not honoring their guarantee.
Overuse of the word “patented” in their description (sorry, that’s not an actual con, just a pet peeve of mine).

Recommendation

First, this is one foot massager that you really need to discuss with your doctor before using, even if you’re cleared to use a TENS unit (similar tech).

You cannot use it if you’re currently pregnant, being treated for a DVT (or at high risk for one), and have a pacemaker.

If you ARE cleared to try out this type of massager, though, it has a 4-star rating across 1,300+ reviews, so it’s a good pick.

7. RENPHO Rechargeable Hand Held Deep Massager

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No, really, this isn’t one of those “fun toys in disguise” things, I swear. I know what it looks like and no, that’s not what it is.

It’s actually a highly rated foot, leg, back, neck and etc massager (you can decide what the “etc” is).

Features & Pros:

Deep tissue massager.
Percussion technology works on feet, shoulders, neck, back, muscle, arms, and legs.
Powerful motor beats up to 3600 times per minute.
5 interchangeable head-attachments
Automatic shut-off after 20 minutes.
Easy to take anywhere.

Cons:

Can’t use while charging (for your own safety)
Only lasts a total of 140 minutes on a full charge.
Can’t change the battery, so when it’s dead, it’s dead.

Recommendation

While there were some complaints about damaged units, Renpho has excellent customer service and always made it right asap.

I do wish that it had a replaceable battery, but the price is fair enough that if it only lasts a year, it’s a good buy.

I also like that it’s not just a foot massager, and you can use it on your neck, back, and so on.

Although, I’d wash it off before switching from your feet to your neck!

Final Words

All of these are fantastic, so it’s hard to pick a top choice. It really just depends on what you’re looking for.

I love my cheap little wooden foot roller, though! I know, it’s the most basic of the batch, but it works wonderfully.

That said, I have a shaitsu deep tissue back massager that I love, so I’d definitely want one that works on my feet.

What about you? What are your picks for the best foot massagers? Share below.

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