Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UWM chapter.

Everything Must go! Or not…

Upon making the decision to go cruelty-free things can feel a little overwhelming. As people, we have a tendency to hoard beauty, skin care products, and makeup. Much of which, unfortunately, isn’t cruelty-free. So what’s one to do when beginning this transition? Trash everything and start fresh? If you’re able to great. However,  this would probably cause many of our bank accounts to scream and spiral into oblivion. To prevent this tragic scene, I recommend allowing products to complete their natural lifespan. Use something until it’s gone, then find a new, cruelty-free replacement.  

https://bit.ly/2tMFIxU

Sticker-Shock

When I first told people I was deciding to go cruelty-free many of them had the same response, “that’s so expensive though.” Sure, it can get a little more pricey. On the flip-side, it totally doesn’t have to be. Upon making this change you’ll probably have to do some searching to discover your new go-to brand. Or you may be pleasantly surprised to find makeup you’ve frequented since middle school is cruelty-free and 100% affordable (I’m looking at you e.l.f and NYX).

https://bit.ly/2ISLfe3

Going cruelty-free may also sound like a total pain in the a**. Sure, you can no longer cruise into any ole’ shop and throw whatever tickles your fancy into your basket. But, once you know where to look the options are plentiful. Between drug stores, online shops, Ulta and Sephora, we have so many choices fit for any price range. Here are a few of my favorite cruelty-free options so far: Pacifica NYX e.l.f Urban Decay Tarte Kat Von D Milani  Here’s a list of cruelty-free brands worth checking out: https://www.crueltyfreekitty.com/list-of-cruelty-free-brands/  

https://bit.ly/2ugkTze

Think Beyond Makeup This experience is totally customizable to each individual. When I decided to go cruelty-free I began with makeup and worked my way up to skin care and hair products. I’m still learning new things and I still own a few products that could be better. Despite this, each day I’m closer to owning a beauty collection I can stand behind and feel good using. Going cruelty-free has also opened my eyes to issues that matter to me. I’m glad to be taking a stand towards protecting animal lives and I’ve reevaluated other areas of my life too. My point is, start where you can and see where it takes you, perhaps going cruelty-free will inspire you to embark on other endeavors too.  

https://bit.ly/2Ge9nWG