Over the last year or two, I’ve been more conscious about the products I buy and use. I’m really happy to say that my skincare routine is now completely cruelty free (to the best of my knowledge – correct me if I’m wrong). My skin is quite dry, especially in the colder months, so you’ll see a theme of hydrating products in this post.
Cleansers
I use coconut oil religiously to take my make up off. I don’t really stick to one particular brand, as long as it’s 100% pure coconut oil then it will do the job. It doesn’t strip your skin, and it’s definitely an added bonus that it’s so affordable! You can pick it up from your local supermarket, so definitely add it to your shopping list if you’ve not already tried it!
I also love using the Sukin Cleansing Lotion. You can buy Sukin products in Boots, and they’re another affordable option. All of their products are cruelty free, vegan and paraben free which is amazing! The cleanser is creamy and really gentle on the skin, so it’s perfect especially in the winter months. I find this works best when you remove it with a warm facecloth!
After receiving a small sample with another Glossier order, I started using the Milky Jelly Cleanser. I liked it so much that I bought a full size bottle. I prefer using it as a second cleanse though, because I don’t feel it removes make up that well.
Acid
Introducing acids into my skincare routine is something that is relatively new to me, but I do have a few favourites! The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid is great to help retain moisture in your skin. I’ve just finished my bottle of it, so I’ll definitely be picking up another. I’m desperate to try The Ordinary’s 5% Lactic Acid too, but it always seems to be out of stock!
I’ve also recently started using the Superdrug Glycolic Acid pads. They are so affordable, and I’ve genuinely noticed a difference in the texture of my skin since using them.
When using acids, it’s extra important to wear an SPF to protect your skin. I’ve recently started using The Body Shop’s Skin Defence SPF 50. It doesn’t leave my skin feeling sticky and it hasn’t caused me to breakout like other SPFs I’ve tried in the past.
Serum
I’ve actually not tried too many serums. However, I have stuck to the same one for over a year so I think that says something! It’s the nspa Radiant Flash Serum. You can pick it up in Asda for only a few pounds and I love using it underneath my moisturiser. I feel like it gives me that little extra bit of moisture and a little glow too.
Moisturiser
I’ve been loyal to the Sukin Facial Moisturiser for at least a year now and don’t plan on abandoning it anytime soon! It’s really hydrating but isn’t too heavy on the skin. A little definitely goes a long way.
More recently, I’ve been loving the Glossier Priming Moisturiser too. I use it every morning and it makes my make up go on really smoothly!
Oils
The Ordinary are definitely my go to brand for oils. They sell 100% cold-pressed oils for an amazing price. My favourites are the Argan Oil and the Rose Hip Oil, but I don’t think you can go wrong with any of them. They’re great for adding moisture back into your skin in winter!
Face Masks
One word – Lush. They’re the only ones I use! I’m currently using Oatifix and Cosmetic Warrior. Oatifix is an oat and banana face mask which is great if you want a gentle, moisturising mask. Cosmetic Warrior is perfect for breakouts – it’s full of garlic and tea tree! So you might not like the smell, but I can promise you’ll like what it does for your skin.
Lip Balm
I have two favourite lip balms at the minute. Glossier’s Birthday Balm Dotcom leaves my lips feeling really soft and it smells sooooo good! The reviews definitely aren’t lying, and I can’t wait to pick up another flavour.
I also recently picked up Lush’s Lip Rescue lip balm which is a bit more lightweight. It has a nice citrus scent and comes in a compact tin, so it’s perfect for carrying around with me!
Do you have any cruelty free recommendations? I’m always on the look out for more products!
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I’ll have to look into these. I’ve always liked Lush products. These others look awesome too.
It just shocks me that there are still companies that AREN’T cruelty free. How is this in this day and age? Thanks for your information. I’ll be looking into my skin care products for this.
What a great round up of cruelty free skincare items. I have to admit to being a big Lush fan, though I will have to check out the others.
I’ve never been successful at using oils, it always makes me break out and I’m not patient enough to wait it out until my skin gets used to it. I used a coconut oil I was sent as a product review, I tested it out on my clean clear skin, then next day I had a cluster of pimples. EEK! But if some use it and love, then keep doing that!
LOVE Lush! I have only tried a few of their products: soap jellies and bath bombs. Lush is my bath splurge! Definitely worth paying a little extra for quality and cruelty free. I’m not familiar with the other brands but I may have to check them out.
Everything I buy now is cruelty free. I have to get my hands on some of these!
I swear by the Superdrug glycolic pads too! I’ll definitely look into The Ordinary hyaluronic acid and LUSh’s cosmetic warrior. I’d never heard of garlic in a face mask before but it actually makes sense, I think it would be great for my angry breakouts.
Lyd- whatlyddid.com
They’re so good, aren’t they? I’ve almost ran out! Yeah the garlic definitely seems to help tame my hormonal breakouts.
I have never thought about using coconut oil to take my make up off, I am definitely going to start doing that! I am in the process of swapping out all my products to cruelty-free ones. This post was really helpful.
Rachael – geminiexplicit.blogspot.com
It takes it off so well, and it’s so handy that you can buy it in most supermarkets! I’m glad you found it helpful and good luck with the switch to cruelty free x
I definitely want to try the Lush face masks you mentioned here, particularly the Cosmetic Warrior one as my skin has so many breakouts. I love their products, my favourite has to be the Let the Good Times Roll scrub – it smells like cake!