Ethical shopping- why I choose what I choose

I choose to walk an animal friendly and now earth friendly path in a world where we could all be a little kinder to each other.  I am not a professional or an authority on anything but if I can provoke thought and start a conversation on ethical shopping amongst my nearest and dearest I'll be happy.

Updated Shopping Guide to Cruelty Free Brands and Products

 
Cntd: A work in progress guide for the cruelty free novice.. 

Updated shopping list as of November 30th, 2015
Makeup 

A Shopping Guide to cruelty free makeup and household products - what to buy and where

A work in progress guide for the cruelty free novice...

Updated on October 23rd 2015)

Cruelty Free e.l.f Makeup Review

elf cosmetics are a little god send. They have the PETA cruelty free seal of approval and as I am replenishing my beauty products one by one with alternatives that are not tested on animals, I need to have everyday items to reach for when beauty sleep escapes me.  E.l.f stands for eyes, lips and face and can be purchased online, at Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, CVS and other retailers.  They are exceptionally cheap and affordable.  All 5 products listed cost me less than $20. My cheap side was dancing. 

Cruelty Free Face and Hair Products for Men

The origins of this post are a little disheartening to say the least.  I feel compelled to write a short note for men.  

To give a little background..   When briefly, via approximately 2 texts of 140 characters each brief I said to my brother the product junkie, that all the products he uses are tested on animals and for every product he has there is an equivalent available made by another company that is cruelty free, that does not test on animals.  To put this into context he is an animal lover, a horse rider and a dog owner.  His response was, "really, how do I find out though?".  Meaning where can I find said products and where do I find the information?   I thought to myself, well wait a minute what have I been writing about for the last 2 - 3 months.  It's a pretty dismal sign if even your family aren't reading your blog.  My text back was something mature to the affect of "MY BLOG!!!" hashtag sarcastic smiley face, or it should have been.   

Paul Mitchell- Cruelty Free Shampoo. A Review

I bought the color care shampoo and the strengthening conditioner. Paul Mitchell is an animal friendly brand and currently has the PETA and The Leaping Bunny cruelty free, does not test on our cuddly companions stamp of approval.

First the shampoo: I bought it on sale for $9 in Bed Bath & Beyond.   Participating in a normal shower routine, I reached for the Paul Mitchell Color Care Shampoo.  My first impression is that the smell isn't strong at all, it's pleasant but faint.  I pour a decent to average amount in my hand and go to work only to find my tools appear to be broken and my tools are not my hands.