January Vegan Cuts Beauty Box Review

Starting the new year off fresh with new products is always joyful! I enjoy receiving my monthly box subscriptions because I love variety that comes in each one. Plus, I get to experiment with new brands and new items that I may have never found in a local store. The January box has a great mash-up of products to kick-start the new year off in style! 

DermOrganic included a 2 oz shampoo sample and a 2 oz hair masque sample. I used the hair masque like a conditioner—leaving it to soak in while I washed my body, face, etc. Both items were thicker than average shampoo/conditioner duos. These felt more like lotions while I was applying them. Surprisingly, they both lathered very well. The shampoo had more of an organic, natural, grainy scent and the masque had a light floral aroma. Overall, I was extremely happy with the way these products worked with my hair. Once my hair air-dried it did not feel weighed down or oily like some fragrant, paraffin-filled products have left my hair in the past. Since my hair is so long, thick and curly, I used about half of each bottle for a single shower. They sell a 33.8 oz bottle of the shampoo and conditioner for $35 each and the same size of the hair masque for $40. I will definitely be ordering this set once my current duo is gone! 

Ingredients: (Shampoo) Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Aqua/Eau/Water, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Methyl Gluceth-20, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil*, Rice Amino Acids, PCA, Panthenol B5, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract*, Tocopheryl Acetate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract*, Propanediol (All Natural)/Phenethyl Alcohol/Benzoic Acid, Parfum/Fragrance (Hair Masque) Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Aqua/Eau/Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behenamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Stearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, PCA, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil*, Methyl Gluceth-20, Rice Amino Acids, Panthenol B5, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract*, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Propanediol (All Natural)/Phenethyl Alcohol/Benzoic Acid, Parfum/Fragrance 

Gourmet and Body Treats is brand I have used before. I've purchased their raw finishing powder from Vegan Cuts last year and I enjoyed it. This sugar & spice body scrub smells equivalent to what I would imagine an enchanted forest to smell like. I experienced a strong scent of coffee, cloves, and black pepper with an undertone of sweet sugar. This scrub gets clumped up and requires a good shake before using it. This 2 oz tub retails for $7 and could probably be used multiple times—if used sparingly. I used the entire amount in one shower (after I finished shaving), but I used it to exfoliate my whole body (arms, neck, shoulders, underarms, stomach, back, legs, and feet). I poured a small amount into my hands, added a little water, and rubbed them together. This scrub left my skin feeling incredibly soft and rejuvenated. 

Ingredients: Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Coffee, Organic Pumpkin Oil, Cucumber Hydrosol, Organic Coconut Oil, Calendula Extract, Green Tea leaf extract, Vanilla Eo, Organic Cinnamon Eo, Organic Lemon Eo, Organic Orange Eo, Organic Lime Hydrosol.

Modern Minerals is a new brand to me and I was excited to try this eyeshadow! I enjoy spending time doing my makeup for a night out and I usually focus on exaggerating my eyes. I love experimenting with new shades and pigments. The shade I received is called Sakura which is perfect for highlighting or to use as a base. This eyeshadow is a long-lasting, loose mineral consistency with a frosty shimmer and subtle pink undertone. A .17 oz jar retails for $12.50 and since a little goes a long way, this shade could last a long time.

Ingredients: Mica (CI77019), titanium dioxide (CI77891),Tin Oxide (CI778161), Iron Oxide (CI774991)

The surprise nail lacquer I received is from Color Club in the shade Snow Queen. This deep, rich shade of violet retails for $8.50 for a .5 oz bottle. Color Club offers more than 250 shades of polish ranging from the darkest blacks to the brightest neons. I look forward to trying out more of their shades in the future. All of their products are made in New York and are 5 free!

Crazy Rumors is a brand that I have been reading about for months, but have never had the opportunity to try. Included in my Vegan Cuts box was a full-size .09 oz HibisKiss tinted lip balm in the shade Tropical which retails for $4.99. This balm goes on smoothly, leaves my lips feeling soft, and leaves a light stain on my lip even after it has worn off. My favorite part has to be the scent/flavor because it is so powerful and fruity! This is a great product to toss in your purse and have on hand whenever you need a quick touch-up.

Ingredients: Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia) Oil, *Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil *Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Non GMO Glycine Soja (Soybean) Wax, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Natural Flavors, Tocopherol (Vit E), Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Eupatorium Rebaudianum Bertoni (Stevia) Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxide *Organic

October Petit Vour Beauty Box Review

I am LOVING everything I received in the October Petit Vour Beauty Box!!! The camera on my phone is terrible, but I tried to get the most detailed photos as possible. (And yes, they were taken on my leg... J) This box had five different items to try out and I enjoyed using each and every one!

 I'll start with my favorite item: Schmitdt's Natural Deodorant in the scent BERGAMOT & LIME. I have been using a crystal stick deodorant for about a year and half now (you can read my previous review: here). I have seen several different types of vegan cream deodorant on various websites, but it never appealed to me. I had some idea in my head that it would stay wet-feeling in my armpits... I have been using this sample for the past three days and I am impressed! The smell is a light citrus and is not overwhelming (which I appreciate). I don't sweat very much and I am not a stinky person, but I do notice this deodorant keeps my underarms smelling fresh and feeling soft. To use, you simply dip your fingertips in the product and rub in your armpit. This is the same consistency as the typical deodorant sticks by Arrid or Secret that you purchase at the store. This is a .5 oz travel size tub, but the 2 oz size retails for $9 on their website. My only wish is that it came in a stick form. I find myself having to dig my nail into the contents of the tub to use it. It isn't creamy enough to rub your fingers across the top and use it that way—which I prefer because if it were too creamy it would probably remain wet. I have already purchased a full size version of this product that I plan to use instead of my crystal for a while to see if I prefer it over a longer period.

Ingredients: Butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), Maranta arundinacea (arrowroot) powder, Theobroma cacao (cocoa) seed butter, Citrus bergamia (bergamot) essential oil, Citrus aurantifolia (lime) essential oil, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Humulus lupulus (hop) extract

This Eau de Parfum fragrance by Forager in the scent NECTAR is a breath of fresh air. This particular scent is floral, fruity, and smells of nature. It reminds me of a watercolor painting of a dewy field, full of beautiful fruit trees and flower bushes. The vial is a small sample size—which is only good for a single use—I wish there would have been a bit more so I could have used it, maybe twice, to determine more in depth feelings for the product. The scent is very light and because of that I did feel that it wore off in just a few short hours. For a full size 2 oz bottle of this perfume you'll pay $98. I do appreciate that the wooden caps are handmade by a local artisan in New York and they offer a discount on the perfume if you refill a previous bottle.

Ingredients: *no information provided on website*

This WILD MINT flavored body butter by Flo + Theo is bold, fresh, and stimulating. I recently used my sample on a healing tattoo and I was satisfied with the results. It is slightly more oily than lotion, but it is also more moisturizing for the skin. I believe the sample I received is 1 oz, but the 4 oz size retails for $28. It smells of fresh mint and herbs. It feels very clean and produces a sort of calming affect just from the smell alone. This particular product is more "powdery" than the body butter I am obsessed with by Ellovi, but I do enjoy it and would consider purchasing a full-sized tub. 

Ingredients: shea butter, cocoa butter, cocnut oil, essential oils, and vitamin A. 

I have been putting oil in my hair since I was about 13 years old. I started with a oil called BioSilk which would leave my hair feeling greesy if I applied too much. Recently I have been using Kitoko oil, but I don't think the brand I buy from is cruelty-free or vegan. I have been wondering what I was going to do once my supply diminished. I found my answer in this Petit Vour box! This cruelty-free and vegan Argan Oil by Lavina Skincare is 100% pure and organic pressed oil. I used a small amount of this oil in the ends the other night and my hair felt softer and did not feel greasy. I am not sure what size the small vial was that I received, but the 2 oz bottle retails for $35. I will most definitely be purchasing this once my supply is finished.

Ingredients: *no additional information provided on website*

Last, but certainly not least, is a lipstick by Pacifica in REBEL SOL. I love to do my makeup, but I typically focus on dramaticizing my eyes. I am not much of a lipstick girl, but I am a fan of this lip color. Rebel Sol is an intense coral shade that is both creamy and hydrating. I was astonished at how long-lasting this lipstick is. It was on my lips for a couple hours before fading and unlike most lipsticks that stay on for extended periods of time, it did not dry out my lips. This is a full size lipstick that retails for $14. I use other Pacifica products (face wash, make-up removal clothes, etc.) and I am a fan! They provide a line of gentle products that work great, smell great, are 100% vegan, and 100% cruelty-free—PLUS they are available at so many stores! What's not to like?!?!

Ingredients: oleic/linoleic/linolenic polyglycerides (from sunflower oil), butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, diiostearyl malate, caprylic/capric triglyceride (from coconut oil), simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) esters, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil, euphorbia chinensis (candelilla) wax, cetyl alcohol, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, flavor oil (all natural), tocopherol (vitamin E). May contain: melia azadirachta fruit extract, mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, tin oxide, vaccinium macrocarpon fruit (cranberry) extract, coccinia indica flower extract, daucus carota sativa root (carrot) extract, lycopersicum fruit (tomato) extract, and beta vulgaris (beetroot) extract.

October Vegan Cuts Beauty Box Review

The October Vegan Cuts Beauty Box has some intriguing new finds in it. Me and my vegan treats did a little pumpkin photo shoot to show off the goods! Here is a preview of the box before I dug in:

First up, we have a nail polish by Floss Gloss in the warm shade, Donatella. This polish is 4-free and retails for $8.00 for a 0.18 fl oz bottle. The color is rich and creamy with a hint of sparkle. I think I am going to use this as my Thanksgiving manicure color. It reminds me of pumpkin pie and Cinnamon. 

Next, we have this Coffee Bean-illa body scrub from Lovinah. I received a "deluxe sample" that is 1 oz. This product retails for $45 in a 8 oz container. Upon opening the small jar, I was greeted with the fragrant aroma of coffee. I was actually surprised coffee wasn't one of the first ingredients listed because of how strong the scent was. I personally did not pickup any undertones of vanilla. I am not a coffee drinker, but I do enjoy the smell. (In fact, my favorite shave oil is coffee scented and you can read my rave review about it here!) This particular scrub claims to detox and exfoliate skin, all while moisturizing with ingredients like Shea butter and sunflower seed oil. While using this scrub in the shower, I couldn't help but feel like I was rubbing myself down with actual coffee grinds. The contents looks like what is left in your coffee pot after a fresh cup is brewed. This scrub did gently exfoliate my skin; however, it isn't my favorite out of the many variations I have tried. I enjoyed the sample and will use all that I have left, but this won't be my "go-to" exfoliant. 

Third, we have Joy Juice serum by Lotus Wei. This product is designed to "dissolve negative feelings and inspire an overall sense of wellness". It is made up of mostly flowers and has a light rosey smell. I received a 10 ml vial worth about $10. The full size bottle, 50 ml, retails for $50.00. This serum came with an instruction pamphlet explaining its uses and benefits. I have used this oil-like substance twice now. As directed, I applied a small amount to my stomach and bottoms of my feet before bed. I did enjoy a restful night sleep both nights, but I am not entirely convinced that was not a coincidence. I am not typically drawn to "flower alchemy", but I know much of its power lies in ones mood and attitude, so I am going to continue using it with an open mind, until it is gone, and see if I notice any results. I am always on the look-out for anything to help me to sleep better and relax. 

Lastly, I received a deluxe travel set of Hylunia skin care products. Included was a facial day lotion, facial cleansing gel, night treatment, and healing & soothing cream. I have tried the night treatment and cleansing gel, so far and both were slightly watery... I will continue to use them and see I notice a difference in my skins appearance. I will say though, I woke up this morning and my skin did feel a bit softer. I am not table to find this exact set available for purchase on Hylunia's website, but supposedly it sells for $35.00. This line is paraben and phosphate free and claims to fight aging, acne, redness, and dryness without clogging pores. I will continue using this set until it's gone and then evaluate my skin!

September Petit Vour Box Product Review

This month I received my first EVER Petit Vour Beauty Box! Each month the cost is $15 and you'll receive 4-6 cruelty-free and vegan products.The items featured in the Petit Vour boxes are "higher end" and usually made with natural ingredients. In the October Petit Vour box I received lip gloss, nail polish, leave-in conditioner, and face scrub. 

Two of my favorite things: cruelty-free and vegan products & my fur-baby. 

 Here is the contents of my Petit Vour Beauty Box for September!

This is Yarok leave-in conditioner which is supposed to "protect ends with this nutritious, leave-in spray, packed with vitamins, minerals, and essential oils that nourish hair prior to blow drying and heat styling". This is a full-size, 2 oz. bottle which retails for $13.20. I do not typically use heat on my hair, but on the bottle there are instructions for using this product as a detangler. I have very long, fine, curly hair, so tangles and knots are something I am far too familiar with. I washed and towel dried my hair, then sprayed this throughout my hair from root to end. I let it sit for about 15 minutes and then separated and brushed through my hair. I did notice my hair begin to separate with an ease that most likely would have not been present had I not used this spray. I can see myself purchasing this product—in a much larger volume—because I used nearly 1/3 of this bottle in one application. For someone with shorter, thinner hair (than myself—which is probably most people) the smaller bottle should last a while. The scent is a very refreshing citrus. It smelled clean and didn't leave any residue in my hair once it dried. 

INGREDIENTS: vitamin aqua (water), Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil, Olea europaea (olive) oil, Vitis vinifera (grapeseed) oil, Prunus armeniaca (apricot) oil, Oenothera biennis (primrose) oil, plant sourced kosher vegan xanthan gum & potassium sorbate; essential oils of: Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) & Litsea cubeba (may chang)

I am a huge fan of nail polish, so when I saw this super cute, bubble gum pink color, I squeeled. It is described as a "creamy, dreamy, cotton candy pink". LVX products are formulated without using Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, DBT, Toluene, or Camphor. Their products are cruelty-free and vegan. It doesn't get much better than that! This is a full-sized bottle in the color Lolli, which retails for $16.

All I have to say is, YAY FOR ELLOVI!!! I have been a huge fan of theirs ever since I first used their body butter earlier this year. You can read my review right here. I do own several of my own Ellovi lip butter sticks and I have replaced my previous stock of EOS with them. However, I have never tried the tinted variations. And once again, they did not disappoint! This lip butter goes on smooth and creamy with a subtle hint of color. I was impressed by the soft pink hue it left behind. I might actually prefer this over the clear lip butter. I am not one who typically uses lipstick or wears color on my lips, but I do really enjoy the simplicity and hydration this tinted butter offers. One tube retails for $5 and the best part is: it is made with ONLY 6 ingredients!!! I adore products that are all-natural, especially when they actually work! 

INGREDIENTS: Macadamian Nut, Coconut, Marula, Hemp Seed, Shea, and Alkanet (a Medditeranian flower used for tint).

I have heard many great things about Root Science, but I have never used it myself. I received a half-sized RS Face Scrub. This full-sized item (3.8 oz) retails for $40. This gentile exfoliating powder claims to "renew, resurface, and brighten" skin. I was definitely intrigued when I took the cap off and revealed the grainy powder inside. I didn't notice much of a smell and I was curious how this powder would exfoliate my skin. My go-to face scrub contains salt crystals and feels more like it is buffing my skin, but after I rinse it off my face often feels stripped and raw. This Root Science scrub surprised me! I poured the powder in my hand and mixed it with some water to create somewhat of a paste. I rubbed it over my face as directed and once I rinsed it off I couldn't believe how soft my skin felt! My face was smooth without feeling dry. I can see myself purchasing this product and only using it about once a week to prolong the shelf life. 

INGREDIENTS: Sodium Bicarbonate**, Prunus Dulcis (Almond) Meal*, Mentha Spicata (Spearmint) leaf*, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) leaf*, Kaolin Clay**, Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) Root*, Bentonite Clay**, Citrus Sinensis (Orange) Peel*, Azadirachta Indica (Neem) Leaf*, Ulmus Rubra (Slipper Elm) Bark*, Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root*, Vanilla Planifolia (Vanilla) Bean*.

Acne Face Wash

I have always struggled with oily, sensitive, acne-prone skin. Throughout the years I have used any-and-everything to clean my face. In my younger years, I used Noxzema, Cetaphil, Clearasil, St. Ives (abrasive) apricot scrub, Clean & Clear—you get the picture. As I got older and became more aware of my skin and how to care for it, I tried to use products from companies like: Olay, Dove, Neutrogena, and Clinique. Nothing seemed to stop the oil or keep my face from breaking out. Over the years I have learned just how sensitive my skin is and that using harsh chemicals, like straight-up rubbing alcohol—yes, there was a time I would douse a cotton ball and but it directly on my skin—will not help the oil production. It will actually make it worse! Now that I use cruelty-free and vegan products, I have noticed a difference in my skins appearance. Most of the cruelty-free and vegan brands I purchase are made from natural ingredients and do not contain harmful fillers. However, I do still breakout occasionally. While doing some online browsing at Vegan Cuts, I saw this all-natural acne treatment system for sale by Relogy. I read some of the reviews and visited their website for additional information. I was excited to try it because I have noticed more blemishes than normal appearing on my face. I received the treatment system and began using it immediately. I used the three-step cleanser, lotion, and spot treatment as instructed for about three weeks without seeing any results. The cleanser is a foam that lathers and is meant to massage directly into skin. You also have the option of not rinsing it off and allowing it absorb completely into the skin. I have tried both methods and noticed it dries my skin out to not rinse it off. The lotion is nice and creamy. I put it on after I wash my face morning and night. The spot treatment has a roller ball for easy application. It has helped to reduce the size of a pimple, but the results were far from stellar. This system is designed to be used for two months, so I will continue to finish the product and see if there is any difference in my skin. I have used Proactive in the past and I did notice a slight difference, but it took a while for me to notice. Also, if you weren't consistent with the regimen, all of its benefits would be lost. I do not have what I would consider "bad" skin, but I do have larger pores which make me more prone to breakout. Most of my breakouts occur on my chin, which is typically hormonal, so that could be a large part of why I am not seeing results. Either way, I enjoyed the gentleness of this product. It did not make me breakout worse or give me a rash, but it also didn't do much for the few imperfections I have. This obviously isn't my favorite product, but I am glad I tried it out. 

Soap

Call me old fashion, but I prefer a bar of soap over body wash. For the past 5+ years I have used Dove Sensitive Skin Bar Soap to wash my face and body. I used it on my face because it is extremely gentile and never made me breakout. I used it on my body because I loved the way it lathered up in a washcloth and never made my skin feel "squeaky" after washing myself. However, since learning that Dove is not vegan or cruelty-free I had to change brands. Since the beginning of the year—after learning that I had to replace all of my favorite brands—I have tried so many different types of soap. I have tried soaps from Honest Amish, Sappo Hill, random samples from my Vegan Cuts box, and many more. I found this bar of soap at my local Sprouts store and said 'what the heck' and gave it a try. I purchased the scent Indonesian Patchouli and Sandalwood—mostly because they were sold out of most other flavors. It sat on my shelf for a couple of months, but when I opened the packaging I was immediately impressed by the smell. It was powerful, but not overpowering. When I began using it in the shower I was pleased with how well it lathered with a little water and a washcloth. Once I rinsed it off I didn't feel squeaky and I noticed the fragrance on my skin even the next day. The smell of this particular scent is almost nutty with a undertone of spicy black pepper. It is probably one of the more masculine scents, but I enjoy it for a change. The best part is, it is gentile on sensitive skin. I didn't breakout, become itchy, or notice any redness. I can't wait to try out different scents and see which become my favorite!

Razor x 2

With my overly sensitive skin—and aggressive shaving technique—I have been forced to be selective with my razors. As stated in my previous razor review (here), it has been difficult to transition from my Venus to cruelty-free/vegan brands—mostly because there aren't many to choose from! About a month ago I started using this razor by Personna. This particular razor is called the Halo and I chose it because it appeared to best suited for sensitive skin. There is a strip around the blade which offers protection while shaving. This razor is closest to the Venus model I have used for the past several years. Overall, I am happy with the results. I do feel that it isn't as gentile as the Venus razor I have become accustom to, but it is able to give me a close shave. The handle is thick and easy to grip, which helps me because I shave with oil so my hands are often slippery. The blades on my Venus razors appear to be slightly inverted, whereas the blades on the Personna seem to protrude out a bit more. For me, this is noticeable because my skin is extremely sensitive. I have to be slightly more conscious to not nick and cut myself, but that is okay with me. I take pride in knowing where my money is going and the assurance that it isn't going to a company that tests on animals is enough for me! 

Deodorant

Disclaimer: I am not much of a "sweat-er", so I understand this may not work for everybody.

Growing up I never really needed deodorant, but for the sake of hygiene I always used it. I didn't have a preference. I would use whatever brand my mom happen to have on the bathroom vanity (Secret, Arrid, etc.). Even during my most strenuous workout, I don't typically produce more than a moist, glisten on my face. Overly sweaty pits have never been a problem of mine!

During my years in community college I took several debate classes. In one of these classes, my assignment was to debate why people shouldn't use antiperspirant. After completing some mild research, I decided I would rather be safe than sorry. I began using deodorant by Tom's of Maine, but it was clear there was a difference between it and the other brands I had been using since grade school. Toms deodorant always reminded me of a glue stick—not because it was sticky, but because it would dry to the skin and create a glue-like barrier. The worst part about it was the smell. In the tube it didn't smell like anything, but once it was absorbed into my skin, it made my underarms smell weird. Not bad—like BO—just weird...

Once I learned Toms was owned by a parent company that DOES test on animals, I knew I had to pick another brand. A friend of mine got me hooked on crystal deodorant and I have used nothing else for over a year. Crystal deodorant is basically a stick made from salt and minerals that works with your body to naturally reduce perspiration. It doesn't have a smell, so it won't contribute in any way to your own scent (for better or worse J). To apply you simply wet the crystal and rub—just like you would with any other deodorant. Once it dries it feels like you have nothing on! There is no wet, sticky, clumpy aftermath to deal with. I have also noticed—on the rare occasion I do perspire—there is no yellow stain on my white shirts. I feel confident knowing (1) Crystal Body Deodorant is cruelty-free and vegan, (2) I am not using a product that includes any aluminum or any other chemical compounds, and (3) this one stick will last me nearly a year! I have tried a couple other brands, but no other brand has been able to offer the packaging that this once does. The bottom of this stick can be twisted to move the crystal up and down—which means you cna use this stick until the last drop!

Mouthwash

I have always been a stickler for dental hygiene, yet I've never been a fan of mouthwash. Growing up my family always had large bottles of Listerine on hand, but the strong mint flavor typically burned the inside of my mouth. As I grow older and try to take better care of myself (inside and out) I decided to try using mouthwash again recently. Obviously it had to be cruelty-free and vegan, so that limited my options. I found a bottle of mouthwash by Desert Essence at my local Sprouts store. Desert Essence is a cruelty-free brand and this particular product is vegan. It is alcohol free—which is the main cause for that burning sensation while swishing. I have been using it for about a week and I am impressed! It is gentile enough to keep my mouth from burning, yet strong enough to enjoy a minty aftertaste. It is very light, refreshing, and keeps my mouth feeling clean for hours. I will never go back to harsh mouthwash again after trying Desert Essence Tee Tree Oil Mouthwash.

Makeup Removing Wipes

I have used wipes that make my skin breakout, others that "exfoliated" my skin to the point it peeled, and some that did nothing at all... It took me a while to find a product that was gentile on my skin, but still removed my makeup. I was thrilled when I learned of Pacifica Purify Coconut Water Cleansing Wipes! Not only do these wipes smell beautifully tropical, but they gently remove makeup, sunscreen, sweat, etc. I use these towelettes before I hop in the shower to wipe off my my entire face and neck. They remove all of my makeup (even caked on eyeshadow, waterproof mascara, and heavy eyeliner), leaving my skin naked and ready to be cleaned. There is no sticky reside left behind, just bare skin—free of pumps and rashes. Pacifica makes several great products; however, these are my favorite because they are gentle, yet powerful without tormenting my skin. I would highly recommend these towelettes to anyone with sensitive skin looking to try a cruelty-free and vegan option for removing makeup and purifying their skin.

Toothbrush & Toothpaste

When converting to 100% cruelty-free and vegan products earlier this year, I was nervous about switching from my traditional toothpaste to something more natural. I was worried the new toothpaste would leave an unwelcome taste in my mouth and not give me that burst of minty freshness that I have become accustom to. I turned to the world wide web for suggestions on switching and after reading several different forums, I made my decision. I do prefer to keep my pearly whites, white, so I decided to try Natures Gate Whitening Gel Toothpaste. The flavor is mild in comparison to most sugary name-brand toothpastes, but it leaves my teeth feeling clean with no lingering aftertaste. As for my toothbrush, I have never been particularly finicky. My only specification is that it must have ultra soft bristles because I have gum degeneration caused by years of brushing too hard with a firm toothbrush. I found a company online called Preserve Products which uses 100% recycled #5 plastic. I can conveniently purchase these at my local Sprouts market for just a couple bucks. They have a curved handle which allow you to get behind and around the molars. Plus, the bristles are soft enough to cease damage to my gums, yet strong enough to keep my teeth feeling clean all day. I love my toothpaste and toothbrush combo! I love it even more knowing I am purchasing products from companies that have animal welfare in mind.

Body Butter

I had been searching for what seemed like years to find a product to put on my face that wouldn't contribute to my excessive oil production or make my skin breakout. Throughout my adolescent years I used Cetaphil lotion on my face because it was marketed for sensitive skin; however, looking back I don't think that lotion did anything at all (positive or negative) for my skin. I saw Ellovi Butter advertised by Vegan Cuts. I did a little investigation on the brand and the product itself and truthfully, I was impressed. There are only 6 simple ingredients in this powerful little jar: macadamia nut, coconut, marula, hemp seed, and Shea. I put it on at night, after I shower, before bed when my skin is clean and fresh. I dip two fingertips in the soft, creamy butter and slather it in my palms before applying it to my face. Since it is made with oil, it doesn't completely rub in immediately. I usually fall asleep with it on and when I wake up my face is as smooth as silk. It is filled with natural ingredients from the earth, so I can use this product confidently knowing I am not ingesting toxic chemicals in through my skin. Since I have been using Ellovi Butter I have noticed the natural oil and shine of my skin begin to balance itself for the first time. It is gentle enough to use everyday and won't cause rashes or breakouts. This versatile butter is also great for any areas of the body that are extra dry, such as: elbows, heels, hands, and TATTOOS. A jar lasts me about 3-4 months because it doesn't take much of this miracle butter to see instant results. I would recommend Ellovi Butter to anyone looking for an all-natural substitute for traditional moisturizer or night cream.

*Keep in a cool, dry place. If this butter becomes too hot the formula will break down and will not go back to its original buttery consistency. 

Razor

When it comes to razors, I don't think there is a brand out there that I haven't tried... I own everything from the girly Venus Embrace to the manly Gillette Fusion. However, when the time came for me to purchase new blades, I new I needed to do my research if I was going to stick to my cruelty-free & vegan requirements. I came across a company called Preserve several months ago and really appreciate what this company stands for. This razor handle is made from recycled yogurt cups and is compatible with other blades. It also comes in a variety of colors, so I was very excited to receive it in the mail and try it out. Unfortunately, I wasn't impressed with it's performance. The blades are small and the connection between the blade and handle is a bit flimsy. It also didn't seem to do much when I began to run it over my leg. My leg still felt patchy and stubbly once I was finished. Also, the razor kept coming off the handle, which made the already unpleasant task of shaving, even more undesirable. I will admit, I do shave rather vigorously, but most razors can keep up—this one, not so much. Although I do love some of their other products, I would pass on this one.

Shave Oil

Like most women, I have spent my life shaving with whatever shave gel/cream was available at my local Target. I have used everything from Barbasol purchased at the dollar store to the fancy Gillette gel that turns into foam. Although these products get the job done, I never felt like any of them nurtured or protected my skin. Often times my skin feels even more dry after shaving and I am forced to overcompensate with lotion.

I have exceptionally sensitive skin on my face and body—prone to breakout in a rash at the slightest hint of synthetic fragrance. I must always be careful what I put on my skin to avoid those patchy, red bumps.

One of the items featured in the July Vegan Cuts box was body oil by Savvy Boheme. I have tried shaving with baby oil before, but I found it very messy and unpleasant.
The label suggested the oil could be used:
*to add fragrance to bathwater
*as a skin moisturizer
*as a shave oil
*a facial cleanser
*and more

I couldn't wait to give it a try and once I did I was IN LOVE. First, the smell is invigorating with a strong scent of coffee and subtle undertones of vanilla and orange. It smells fresh and awakens your senses. Second, the consistency is slightly thicker than baby oil, so it lingers on the skin a bit longer which makes rubbing it in much easier. It doesn't leave a slick, greasy residue behind either. It actually absorbs into the skin rather nicely. Third, a little goes a long way! One small squirt is all it takes to cover my entire arm or half of my leg. It leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth, and moisturized even after I rinse it off in the shower. Finally, they have stellar customer service! They respond to questions and inquiries immediately and make it obvious that they put their customers first. I would recommend this product to anyone who wants to break free from the standard shaving creams/foams/gels. It's all about the oil, baby!