Vegan & Cruelty-Free Products I Use
Since starting my vegan journey, I have been slowly switching to products that are cruelty-free, vegan, and effective. Below are products I use today. Double-check that the product you are considering is vegan even if it’s on the list below because ingredients can change over time.
How to Identify Cruelty-Free Brands
For determining which brands are cruelty-free, I rely on Cruelty-Free Kitty. Their criteria appears to be more thorough and strict, so I prefer using their information over Peta or sites like Sephora and Ulta.
Consumer Behavior Influencing Change
Consumers have a lot of power, so I want consumer habits to influence brands to prioritize producing vegan-friendly products in a cruelty-free environment. With the strides made, I don’t understand the need for animal testing in this day and age.
While I try to support brands that are completely vegan, it’s not always the easiest. Some of the brands below are Cruelty-Free but have both vegan and non-vegan products.
Hair Care
The Giovanni products are great for curly hair – they are CGM friendly. You can find most of these at a great price at T.J. Maxx or Marshalls.
- Giovanni Smooth as Silk Shampoo
- Giovanni Smooth as Silk Conditioner
- Giovanni Leave-In Conditioner
- Giovanni L.A Hold Styling Gel
Makeup
- Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Hydrating Makeup Primer
- The name is deceiving, but Milk Makeup is 100% vegan!
- Cover FX Foundation
- Cover FX Setting Powder
- Tarte Shape Tape Concealer
- I used to use the NYX Matte Liquid Liner, but they have discontinued it. The vivid matte eyeliner that replaced it unfortunately is not vegan. I’m looking at Essence right now, but won’t update until I’m sure.
- e.l.f Makeup Brushes
- This brand is 100% vegan
- Urban Decay Eyeshadow Palette
- Not all of their products are vegan, so confirm first.
Skincare
- Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
- This doesn’t leave a white cast and is so moisturizing
- I’m using Glymed Plus products right now, but still testing them out.
- DERMA E Advanced Peptides & Flora-Collagen Eye Cream
- This brand is 100% vegan
- e.l.f Lip Exfoliator
- You probably don’t need this, but I really enjoy it. I love that it exfoliates and also moisturizes. It’s also so easy to apply.