Snatch-It-Up Sunday :: Flower Beauty || Extreme Measures: Lengthening Mascara

Hey guys. I wanted to share one of the greatest purchases I've made this month : 

Flower Beauty's Extreme Measures|| Lengthening Mascara. 

I honestly haven't found the best inexpensive, cruelty-free mascaras. Not that I haven't used some great ones. (Mainly from NYX). I just find that among non-cruelty-free brands there is a bigger array of "good" mascara to choose from (mainly from my drug-store). I've tried many of Wet N'Wild's mascaras and did not like them. Also, Milani and Jordana they were too wet. 

(Who wants a cruelty-free mascara post/video?)

This is the first Flower Beauty product I've purchased. I spend at least 10 minutes every time I go to Wal-Mart gawking at their stuff. I always pass them up (a) I have enough lip-stick (b) I have too many shadow palettes (c) don't know what foundation shade suits me best. I caved and am so glad I did. (It was about time). 

I really like the formula. With the first application I was scared it was too wet. Though, it is a "wetter" formula mascara, I find if I leave enough time between applications I got a beautiful length and separation. I don't recommend more than three applications, at least that was the limit on me.  (Meanwhile, the key is leaving enough time between applications! So keep that in mind! ) 

If you will notice by the picture below (sorry for the terrible quality, yikes!) the brush is shaped like an hourglass figure. I truly believe the shape of the mascara helps get the perfect application. My thin (almost invisible) inner corner lashes get coated with the rest of them. 

Flower Beauty claims to have high-end products for affordable prices and I really felt this mascara was very luxurious-feeling, from the tube, the picture doesn't do it justice. It's a grey-metallic-y, almost reflective tube. Also, it simply says "FLOWER Extreme Measures: Lengthening Mascara" on it. I love the minimalist packaging. 

Be sure to give this mascara a chance next time you're at Wal-Mart. I found it's the perfect lengthening mascara and gives you good volume. 

**I bought this with my own money. 

Lots of Love,

Camila

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Snatch-It-Up Sunday || Facial Polishing Mask CHARCOAL and Black Sugar

Hey guys! Do you like my rosy-sheets? You can't be a beauty-blogger and not own rosy-sheets! I'm so excited to share this beautiful product with you all! 

I wanted to feature Freeman's Facial Polishing Mask CHARCOAL & Black Sugar. I bought mine at Rite-Aid for $1.99. Which is ridiculously cheap! I'm so excited to try more of their products. 

(Note: I checked on Leaping Bunny's list for Freeman's cruelty-free status. According to LB they are 100% CF. I did notice Logical Harmony had them as CF but owned by a non-cruelty-free parent. Meanwhile I noticed that after I purchased this product. I trust LB a lot and so felt comfortable sharing my review. Just be aware of that.) 

As I type this I have the mask on. I would only be appropriate. The first thing that caught my attention was the scent. It's sooo good! I'm trying to think of all the perfect adjectives to describe the scent and I can't seem to find ones that are good enough. It definitely does not have a sweet or berry scent. It's quite musky. Reminds me of a perfume you'd wear on a late-night date night. It's quite sexy! (Can a face mask be sexy? YES!) 

It claims to "detox [the] skin" and "absorb oil and impurties without over-drying". I have to agree. The sugar particles gently exfoliate your skin, but the mask itself is oily. Don't freak out! Not the type of oily, like an oily slice of cheese pizza. It's a good kind of oily. If you've never used oils on your face, you probably think I'm loosing my mind. I've used both coconut oil and avocado oil and I promise you (at least for my skin-type) they've never broken me out. I think the fact that the liquidly-part is oily allows the skin to remain lush even as you remove dead-skin cells with the sugar. 

It has not once broken me out! 

Also, the sugar is by no means harsh on my skin. Meanwhile, it's not too soft either. I feel some face exfoliators are too soft on the skin, they almost feel like I've put a creme on rather than an exfoliator. 

I love the combination of the sugar and the oily-moisturizing liquid of the mask. They are in harmony. 

Now, my favorite part of the mask is the warmth!!! WHAT? YES! 

I don't know how, but you can actually feel warmth on your face after you apply the mask. I don't know how they do it, but it's an awesome feeling. I notice I don't feel as much warmth now that I've used it for two weeks, compared to when I first bought it. My theory is that the first time I used it all the impurities were being detoxified (that that a word?) and so now I have less junk. 

I would really recommend you give this mask a try. Also, check out their other products. My sister got their avocado mask, I have tried it and might just review it for you guys. 

Hope you enjoyed reading this week's Snatch-it-Up Sunday. I love writing these. Even if they don't always get published on a Sunday (shhh!). 

Lots of Love,

Camila

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Disclaimer: I bought this with my own money. 

Getting to Know Me :: TAG

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I've been tagged guys! The beautiful and talented Aimee from Aimee Belle (be sure to check her out) has tagged me!

 

I don't usually do these kinds of blog-posts, but I had so much fun answering these questions I want to do more!!! Let me know if you like them! \

 

I apologize ahead of time for any spelling and or grammar errors. There's a reason I'm a biochemistry major! Yikes!!

 

Question 1: Flats or Heels?:

I really like heels. I like how they look (just the shoe) and how they make your legs look. For some reason (at least this is my experience) your posture improves and they almost give you a butt-lift. (Is that even a thing?) Meanwhile, I wear flats (sandals & boots) 99.95% of the time. I will RARELY wear heels. They are impractically for my lifestyle.


Question 2 : What's Your Fave Nail Polish Brand?:

I really like Zoya polishes. Meanwhile, I have more Wet N' Wild polishes. I think the Mega Last ones (the ones that are $1.99) are great.

Question 3: Top 5 Movies Of All Time?:

1. Pride and Prejudice

2. You've Got Mail

3. Tangled/Frozen (I cannot choose one!)

4. Despicable Me

5.Hungers Games Movies

Question 4 : Fave Male and Female Singer?:
Yikes! I haven't been into any particular band/musician as of late. In High School I loved Nirvana. I don't think I have a favorite female singer.

Question 5 : If You Could Take Only 3 Make Up Products To a Desert Island what would they be?:
1. Sunblock (100 SPF if possible),

2.Red Lipstick

3.Chocolate Bar Palette

4.Tweezers

5.Deoderant (I can imagine living on an island would make you very smelly.)

(Meanwhile, if I was alone would I really care about stinking? I could continue in this stream of consciousness).

( I just realized, editing this, that we could only choose 3 products. Woops!!!)

 

Question 6 : What's Your Fave Disney Movie?:

Tangled/Frozen

Question 7 : What's your Fave High End Make Up Brand?:

 

I will quote Aimee "I'm poor!" That's how I feel about this question. I do love Too-Faced. (Please, Too-Faced people, if you read this because why wouldn't you, don't sell out like tarte).

 

Question 8 : What's your Fave Drug Store Make Up Brand?:

 

Wet N' Wild. I have so many of they're products. I don't like they're foundation/powder selection, meanwhile they're shadows are the best in my opinion.

Question 9 : Describe yourself in 5 words?:

Easily Amused, Forgiven, Weird, Daydreamer, Extremely-Empathetic

Question 10 : Shower or Bubblebath?:

I LOVE taking bubble-baths. I usually go for a shower. Unless, I find time.

Question 11 : Which 3 Products are on your Wishlist that you would love to try?:
1. Flower Beauty's BB Crème

2.NYX HD Concealer

3. Too-Faced Brow Envy Kit

4. Lush  (any, I haven't had the joy of buying many Lush products). *first world problems*

5.Love and Toast's perfumes

( I just realized, editing this, that we could only choose 3 products. Woops!!!)

 

Question 12 : What's your Fave body cream?:

I like using coconut oil for my body.

Question 13 : Who Is your Fave Actress and Actor?:
I love Keira Knightly. Also, there is something about Paul Rudd. I don't love all his movies, but I think he's so cute.

Question 14 :Your no1 Female Role Model and Why?:
My mom. She is just such a special person. She has thought me about God, about overcoming tribulations, and about fighting for those you love. She works so hard to provide me and my sister with everything. I wish to one day 50% of the kind of mom she is.

Question 15 :Who Are Your Top 5 Fashion/Glamour Icons?:
I honestly don't look to one person for inspiration. If I did have to name one person, it'd be Zooey Deschanel. Meanwhile, I take inspiration from instagram OOTD and people on the streets. (By that I mean, my fellow classmates).

Question 16 :What's your Fave Chocolate?:

Milk. In terms of candy bar. I'd have to give the award to M&Ms. I love the Pretzel and have discovered the deliciousness of the peanut-butter ones.

Question 17 : Do you wear Fake Tan?, If So, what's your Fave Brand?:
No. I live in Sunny Southern California (as Shay Carl would say) and I have an olive complexion. I tan so fast it's ridiculous.

Question 18 : What's your Fave TV programme at the moment?:

Yikes! I don't really watch TV. I watch so many vlogs. (ShayTards, TheNiveNulls, AprilJustinTV, It'sJudysLife...CullenandKatie....I just discovered TribeTyler)

Question 19 : What's your Fave Shampoo & Conditioner range?:

I don't use a CF brand. So I don't want to "advertise" the brand I do use. If you have a cheap CF option, let me know.

Question 20 :What's your Fave Deodrant?:
All the CF ones I have tried are terrible. Please, leave me recommendations!

Now it's my turn!! I tag:

 

Sarah from BeautyBunnyLove

Also, anyone who wants to do this tag! I tag you!!! & if you do end up answering these questions, leave me a link so I can read them!!!

 

Lots of Love,

Camila

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Receiving Products for Free | Why I Appreciate it

Yes, I realize this picture has NOTHING to do with this post. Didn't know what picture to use, and decided I liked this one. :)

Hey guys!
 I asked your opinion on Facebook about bloggers that get products sent to them for reviews. I honestly want to know your opinions.

Do you care? If no, why? If yes, why?

 I have been a part of the YT Beauty community long before I started this blog. When well known gurus started getting 100,000s of views, sponsored videos became a big topic of discussion. To be honest it never bothered me. My opinion is that if someone is making videos solely for the money, it will be easy to spot and vice-versa for those who make videos (or write blog posts) because they have a passion for makeup.

I'm asking because I very much appreciate having products sent to me. Why? To be transparent & blunt because I can't afford to buy new products every other week. You guys know how crazy companies are about putting out new products, I cannot keep up with it, nor do I want to. I love makeup but I have other priorities. I am a full-time student and I work part time for minimum wage. Don't get me wrong, I'm not starving, I am blessed in so many ways! That's just the truth. I'm not trying to get you guys to feel bad for me, I'm just being real.

Anyways, that is why I appreciate having products sent to me, to either recommend or tell you to save your time and money. I'm very transparent & I'm sure it's evident. I understand the fear of dishonesty that comes with having products sent to bloggers, but dishonesty is also so easily detectable. I'm sure you guys know what I mean. When you feel like you're watching (or reading) a commercial rather than a review.

I am so strict about who I'm willing to work with. (I have two reviews of products I received for free). Both companies had to answer all the questions I use to ask every company about their CF status and of course their answers to those questions had to meet my criteria. Then I considered working with them.

I just wanted to let you know my reasons for accepting products (after I have determined their CF status). Also, I don't get products sent very often, as with my strict criteria. LOL.

Lots of Love,
Camila

ELF's Moisturizing Lipsticks Swatches and Review ||

Hey guys! I wanted to share some pics and my thoughts on ELF's Moisturizing Lipsticks. 

They retail for $3 on the ELF site! 

I've had them for about a month. 

I picked up: 'Red Carpet', 'Velvet Rope', 'Ravishing Rose', and 'Coral Cutie' ! 

On the packaging they originally come in, it says:

"The velvet, satin texture glides on lips with vibrant color and luminous shine." 

I would agree with this. They are creamy and really opaque, and leave your lips with a nice shine. However, I noticed that 'Ravishing Rose' is more matte and less shiny. Compared to the others, it does not leave my lips feeling as moisturized. I say 'as moistuized' because these lipsticks do leave your lips feeling nice and plump. They feel nice and comfortable! I was really surprised and pleased because my lips seem to always be dry, especially during these cooler days.  

They are so nice and creamy!  I can't stress that enough. They apply nicely and consistently, not patchy at all. 

They are also supposed to be 'long-lasting'. I agree completely. However, if you plan to spend 12-hours out (like me on the weekdays at school) you will need to reapply. If you don't, you'll have a nice stain! It's lovely! 

Going back to 'Ravishing Rose', I love this color. It's my favorite of the bunch and I find myself wearing it the most. It's such a beautiful color and if you like berry-rosey lipies you won't be disappointed. Having said that, this one is more like a regular lipstick. It's not as moisturizing. It's definitely not uncomfortable to wear but I just thought I'd mention it.

SCENT: They have a subtle vanilla aroma. I like it a lot! 

Overall I am very very please, and wish my Target sold more ELF products so I didn't have to order them online. Also, ELF when are you planning of setting up a store in California? Please make my wish come true! 

Definitely small enough to fit in your bag for travel. They come in a square tub, rather than your traditional round one. I think it's really different and nice. It also looks very chic and expensive! 

With FLASH 

Without FLASH in natural lighting. 

SURPRISE Product. 

ELF's $1 Lipstick in 'sociable'.

HAHA! *Insert evil genius laugh!*

I also picked this guy up along with the other lipies! I honestly haven't worn it yet, but I thought it'd be fun to share some swatches!

So far I can tell it's very opaque, but unlike the Moisturizing range this lipstick has tiny speaks of silver!

Usually I stay away from glittery or frosty lipsticks but I couldn't tell on the site. Also, it's really not as annoying as other lipsticks that have glitter. It's very minimal. (As far as I can tell). 

It's nice and sturdy packaging. Not as chic-looking but for a $1 lipstick, it's fine!

no flash

flash

Hope this was helpful or fun to read. I don't like making my reviews too long! I like to get right to the point, hope that's ok! Leave me feedback or just say Hi, if you'd like!

Lots of Love,

Camila

***Diclaimer: I bought these with my own money. However, if ELF sent me some stuff I wouldn't complain. 

L.A. Colors and Beauty 21 | Animal Testing Inquiry

Hey guys! Have you heard of L.A. colors? or I'm sure you've seen Beauty 21.  If you've never heard of them, they do a lot of things: eyeshadow, nail polish, face products, etc. I usually find them in Dollar Tree and drug stores. I own a few of their products & am impressed. (Especially with the lipies).

I emailed LA colors about their animal testing policy. I used the format I always use.
This was their reply:

Thank you for contacting L.A. Girl USA Cosmetics.
In regards to Animal Testing, please be certain that our products are NOT tested on animals. None of the raw materials or manufacturing process through finished goods are tested on animals. Our parent company, Beauty 21 Cosmetics Inc. is also part of the cruelty-free PETA program. 
L.A. Girl and our parent company, Beauty 21 Cosmetics, do not offer/sell our products in China. Some of our products do contain Carmine (which is derived from an insect) and Lanolin which is derived from sheep’s wool.  If you are interested in a specific product, please let us know and we can specify for you. Hope this helps! Thanks for writing to us. Sincerely,Customer Service Dept.of L.A. Girl Cosmetics

YAY! It's nice that they address the China question, but they can vouch for the policy of their parent company. Also, they are on PETA's list, which is always reassuring.
They did not address every single one of the questions I asked, but as far as my criteria for determining CF status, they meet all the points.

I feel safe buying from them & will do in the future <3

Lots of Love,

Camila

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Sigma Beauty | Animal Testing Correspondence

Hey guys! I got a reply from Sigma. I wanted to share it right away because the correspondence I had with them was smooth! I didn't have to email them more than once, which is nice. 

I emailed them using the format I always use.

This was their reply:

Hello Camila,

Thank you for your email. I am happy to help you with these questions. I have provided the questions and answers below.

1. Does your company test ingredients or/and finished products on animals? NO
2. Do you test ingredients or products on animals through a 3rd party? If your answer is no, how do you ensure that your manufacturers do not test? NO
3. Do your manufacturers test ingredients or products on animals? NO
4. Are you owned or affiliated with any companies that test products or ingredients on animals? NO
5. Do you have a parent company? If so who are they? NO, Sigma does not have a parent company.
6. Do you/your parent company currently or have plans to market and sell your products in the Chinese market, which requires animal testing by law to sell in that country? NO
7. Do you use palm oil/carnuaba wax in any of your products? If so, is it from an organic and sustainable source?

 Yes, extracted from the leaves of Carnauba palm. Yes the Carnauba wax is sustainable and organic.
8. Could you provide a list of all of your current vegan items available for purchase? All of our Synthetic brushes are Vegan and can be found here http://www.sigmabeauty.com/category_s/50.htm

Please let me know if you have any other questions I can help you with.

Best Regards,

I'm excited share this with you all. You can imagine I was quite happy when I received this reply. 

As for what I look for when determining cruelty-free status, Sigma Beauty meets my criteria. I look for three major factors when determining the animal testing status of a company: parent company , suppliers of raw ingredients, and if products are sold in China. To read more about why I look for these criteria, click here. 

Share your feedback! 

Lots of Love,

Camila 

emani vegan cosmetics | cruelty-free inquiry

http://www.emani.com/

Hey guys.
     About two months and a half or so ago. I was contacted by a PR from a company called emani vegan cosmetics. They wanted me to review their products. I emailed them back inquiring about their cruelty-free status.
      They send me three products to review. Yeah, that was almost three months ago. It's taken me a long time to get a comprehensive review for your guys (which I'm wrapping up) and also to present to you guys my research on their cruelty-free status. In all honesty, the reason it's taken me so long to talk about them is because I know a lot of people are weary of reviews where products are sent to bloggers. I have been a reader of blogs for a year now and a subscriber to beauty vlogger for YEARS and I understand the concern. If you notice I don't have a PR tab on my blog because for a long time I didn't want to deal with that. However, I have been blessed with a growing audience and as a result companies have contacted me. I decided that as long as I stay true to my passion for animals and to my blog, my integrity as a blogger won't be compromised. Yes, review meaning I will give you my honest opinion about any products; whether it is sent to me or I purchase it. :D

Now that I got that out of the way! This was emani's reply to me.

Hi Camila,
Thank you for contacting EMANI. The answer to all of your questions is no. We do not test ingredients and/or finished productson animals. We do not test our ingredients or products on animals via our manufacturers or through a 3rd party. Michelle the owner and founder of EMANI works very closely with our labs and has final approval on all of the products we sell. We are notowned or affiliated with any companies that test products or ingredients on animals. We do not sell any of our products in Chinaor have any plans to sell our products in China. We only use natural organic ingredients in our makeup. Our products do notcontain paraben, gluten's, gmo's, propylene glycols, petroleum or toxic chemicals. At Emani, we use naturally occurringminerals, organic extracts and pigments perfectly designed and painstakingly selected specifically for their regenerativeproperties. EMANI is owned and operated By Michelle Doan Who personally sees to it that her products are of the highestquality.  We are a cruelty free, vegan company and are certified by PETA. You can find a complete list of all of our ingredients on our website. www.emani.com.
I hope I have answered all of your questions and I look forward to reading your review on your blog site.

I just love when I receive an email that gets right to the point!!! As you can see they meet my three criteria for determining cruelty-free status. As long as a company answers those three questions, I'm satisfied. (click here to read by).You will notice, that I do inquiry about palm oil and vegan products in the format I use when first contacting companies. They forgot to answer # 7: "Do you use palm oil/carnuaba wax in any of your products? If so, is it from an organic and sustainable source?" The PR took the liberty of addressing that question in a separate email:

Hi Camila,
Just realized I missed answering the palm oil/carnuaba wax question. Yes, we put carnuaba wax in our concealer and hybridcreams, but it is from a natural source. As I mentioned in my earlier email, here at Emani we only put natural and organicingredients in our product.

I will be adding them to my cruelty-free list. I hope you enjoyed this post and check out their products! They have stuff I'm so excited to try!

Lots of Love,
Camila

essence beauty | Two types of animal testing & did the EU really ban animal testing?!

Hey guys!

I'm sure you've either heard of Essence makeup or seen their products in Ulta stores. They are a drug store priced cosmetics company. I've seen a couple of cruelty-free beauty blogger talk about them, as I'm sure you might have.

SIDENOTE: I encourage you to reach out and email companies for yourselves. I don’t want my blog to me some kind of authority or definite sawyer of which companies are cruelty-free. I put my list out there because that is the list I, personally, use when shopping. Even if I didn’t have this blog I would still use my list, LeapingBunny’s, PETA’s, VeggieBeauty’s as resources. Hopefully, you understand where I’m coming from.

I had emailed them previously, maybe three or four times. I didn’t receive a reply for months. Maybe a month ago I received a reply. I learned a lot about essence as a company that I didn’t know before. (Which really re-enforces the importance of researching the companies you choose to support).

I emailed them using the format I always use.

This is what I received from essence:

Dear Camila,
thank you for the interest in our products and sorry for the delay. We are pleased to answer your question. Yes, it is true that we do not test our products on animals.
Since the autumn of 1998, animal testing for decorative or pampering cosmetic end-products is no longer permitted. Germany is leading the way in Europe with this legislation. We can assure you that cosnova neither conducts testing on animals, nor commissions it to any third parties – not in Germany or anywhere else in the world. We also strongly disapprove of testing on animals with end-products. This is also one of the criteria for the selection of cosnova suppliers as we need to ensure that their products are also produced without testing on animals. Our suppliers need to sign contracts in which they ensure not to do animal test.

Furthermore we do only use substances that conform with the European and International (f.e. FDA) Cosmetic Law and therefore their riskiness has been estimated a long time ago and is considered as safe. According to the use of palm oil or carnauba wax:
Yes, we do use these ingredients within different essence products of our actual product range. Because of the broad spectrum of our product range it is not possible to verify every plant ingredient’s origin for criteria of sustainability.
According to vegan products:
When producing our decorative products we do not use any ingredients directly derived from animals, such as placenta extracts or animal fat. We do, however, use materials such as beeswax, silk, or lanolin (wool fat from sheep) and the natural dye cochenille (CI 75470) which are indeed animal components (animal by-products), strictly speaking. Ingredients or raw materials from animals like pig, cattle, sheep or goat are not used in any of the products, except ingredients as mentioned before like lanolin or beeswax. The goods have passed the quality control and comply with our high standards and the directives of the World Health Organization.
But due to the nature and origin of single product components we do not consider our products as „vegan”. We are sorry, but it is not possible to send a summary of listed “vegan” products. But if there are single products you are interested in, we can check for the use of ingredients called animal by-products.

We hope we have been able to clarify this issue for you and that you will continue to have lots of fun with our products.

Should you have any further questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us again at any time.

Kind regards,
Your essence Team

That’s a lot of information, which is great but it also requires further examination. I first have to email cosnova and ask about their companies and their cruelty-free status, standards, etc. You will notice, they did not address the China question. (China mandates animal testing for cosmetic products that are sold there). I emailed them again! Inquiring about it!

To Whomever it May Concern:
I am doing research on animal testing, and I need to verify a few key points about your company. Please be sure to answer each question.
1. How many companies does Cosnova own?
2. How does cosnova ensure their raw ingredients are not tested on animals?

3. Does cosnova sell in the Chinese market? Where animal testing is required by law.

Thank you so much! Any reply I receive will he shared on humanelychic.blogspot.com, which is my private blog. HumanelyChic currently has over 39,000 views!!
-Camila

This was their reply:

Dear Camila,


Thank you for your message. We would like to provide you with some general information regarding your enquiry about animal testing:
Since the autumn of 1998, animal testing for decorative or pampering cosmetic end-products is no longer permitted. Germany is leading the way in Europe with this legislation. We can assure you that cosnova neither conducts testing on animals, nor commissions it to any third parties – not in Germany or anywhere else in the world. We also strongly disapprove of testing on animals with end-products. This is also one of the criteria for the selection of cosnova suppliers as we need to ensure that their products are also produced without testing on animals.

To guarantee the safety of our products, we are only allowed to use completely harmless ingredients (just like other manufacturers).

One must therefore differentiate between two types of testing on animals. Animal testing to prove the effectiveness of cosmetics can be avoided as there are now sufficiently adequate alternative methods. However, animal testing to ascertain the so-called “toxicological profile” of ingredients are indispensible and mandatory until further notice.

This safety data is required by the German legislation for chemicals; it must be determined for all new raw materials – whether synthetic or natural. It must be established how dangerous a pure substance is in order to implement the necessary safety precautions during manufacture and processing of the materials.
There are no exceptions for this safety evaluation, all manufacturers and importers in the EU must conduct these tests. Unfortunately, this can mean, for example, that an animal test may have taken place to test a specific ingredient twenty or thirty years ago.
The term “not tested on animals” is only legally allowed if no testing has ever taken place on the finished products as well as all of the ingredients. This is never actually the case.

We are not on the so-called “positive list” of the German Animal Protection Association (Deutschen Tierschutzbund). The companies listed there have committed to only using ingredients for which no animal testing has been conducted in the past 25 years, which means that the raw materials are extremely old. In the field of decorative cosmetics this is very unrealistic because we aim to offer our consumers new, innovative and better products and some ingredients are therefore replaced with new and improved versions, which are, for example, kinder to your skin. This is the reason you will find practically no producers of decorative cosmetics on this list.

We hope we have been able to clarify this issue for you and that you will continue to have lots of fun with our products.

Should you have any further questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us again at any time.
Best regards,

cosnova GmbH

I'm really confused about the whole "two-types of animal testing" situation. I makes me weary about EU's ban on animal testing because if the ban only applies to "effectiveness of cosmetics" testing, that would imply that some type of animal testing is still legal. These are just my thoughts/conclusions based on the content of this email.I am just as confused about this email as you are/might be!

For now we know -though, they did not state it bluntly- that cosnova is associated and/or conducts animal testing for their "new ingredient" products. Seeing as cosnova is essence's parent company I cannot support them! (I will be adding them to my Non-cruelty-free list.)

This was a long and complicated process and I still have questions! I encourage you to help me research this and to leave me feedback!! Thanks so much for reading this and choosing cruelty-free companies. It DOES make a difference!


Lots of Love,

Camila

ion Brilliance / Professionals | Hair Company

Hey Guys,
ion Professionals is a hair dye company. If you've ever been in a Sally Beauty Supply, I'm sure you've either seen their products. Please read the ENTIRE article to get the whole story.

I emailed them asking, these questions. (I always email companies asking these questions).

This is what I received in response:

Camila,
Thank you for reaching out to the Ion team. We do not test our finished product on animals and do not use a 3rd party for testing either. The answer is also no to selling products to the Chinese market. I hope this answers all of your questions.
Sincerely,
Ion Professional Products

Reading this I felt pretty good about ion. They didn't answer my question about their parent company, so I emailed them again:

Hi,I was wondering about your parent company? Do you have one, if so who are they? Also, do you use Palm oil in your product, if so is it fair trade?-Camila

Ion replied a couple of days later, saying:

Camila, Ion is its own company.  We do not have a parent company.  If Palm Oil was used it would be listed on the ingredient decks. 
Sincerely,Ion Professional Products

Okay...Well, at least we know they don't have a parent company. I thought their explanation about 3rd party testing was vague. Also, I didn't understand why they didn't become certified by LeapingBunny or PETA? If a company isn't on one of those lists it does not necessarily mean they are not cruelty-free;being certified does take time and money. I expect this from indie/new companies. However, from a company I know to be popular, it always seems strange to me. I emailed them once more to urge them to do so.

Hi,I'm just curious as to how you guys make sure your raw ingredients are not tested on animals? Do you make the manufactures sign a form? Also, why don't you become accredited by LeapingBunny or PETA? If you did, it would be a BIG help for those who only shop cruelty-free! I know the people who read my blog would appreciate it, a lot!!! Please, get back to me! Thanks again!-Camila 

I received this reply from them:

Camila, As stated in the original email, Color Brilliance's company policy is not to include any non-animal testing claims on the label. The EU Cosmetic Directive bans this claim from cosmetic labels and Ion Color Brilliance is distributed Internationally.  Although the finished product may not be tested on animals, it is difficult to guarantee the raw materials were not tested on animals.  Sincerely,Ion Professional Products

WHAT?!!! I don't understand why they can't be sure where their raw ingredients have been; whether, they have been tested on animals, humans, etc. I personally, think it's irresponsible! I would demand my suppliers (if I had a cosmetic company) prove they don't test. I would make them sign forms, audit their factories, etc. Not being able to "guarantee" is lazy.

This experience was a good lesson for me. From the first emails, things were looking good. However, as you can see they didn't specify what they meant by "3rd party testing". I'm going to ask companies to please define what they mean by "3rd party, cruelty-free, etc"; from now on.

So, ion definitely DOES NOT meet my three criteria for determining cruelty-free status. Which are: (1) ethical, non-tested on animals raw ingredients (2) a compliant parent company, if any (3) Not retailing in China.

I hope this was helpful, if not at least informative. I'm still trying to perfect the process I use to contact and determine cruelty-free status. Please, leave me feedback in how I can improve. I am working out the kinks. :P

Until Next Time,
Camila

UPDATE: Flower Beauty Inquiry (Drew Barrymore's line @ Walmart)

UPDATE: (August 6, 2013)

*A representative from Maesa has emailed me back explaining the China issue:

Hi Camila,
We have an office in Hong Kong, but we do not sell product in Hong Kong. Simply, we do not test on animals as our products are sold in the US and Europe.
Maesa is the parent company for FLOWER.
You can visit our Web site for any additional information.
Thank you,
[I've omitted any names]

Also, they wanted to clarify for all of you:  

I already stated that Flower does not partake in animal testing nor done on any formula or ingredient.  This includes raw materials for our formulas.  We are not affiliated with any companies that tests product ingredients on animals. Our products do not contain any animal-derived ingredient.  Our cosmetics lab has signed a Statement of Assurance through PETA.  Our ingredients are non-toxic according to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.   

This is all good news guys! Flower Beauty has signed with PETA which in addition to not testing raw ingredients, having a cruelty-free parent (Maesa Engineering Beauty), and not selling in the Chinese market makes me feel 1000% more safe in purchasing from them! YAY!! &  I will be adding them to my Cruelty-Free list. 

  

(flowerbeauty.com)

UPDATE: FLower Beauty has clarified that they do have an office in Hong Kong but DO NOT sell in China. They only sell in the US and Europe. 

Hey guys. When Drew Barrymore came out with this line, I was excited but hesitant. I actually wrote an article on here about my concerns.

I did receive a reply from Masea Engineering Beauty which is Flower's parent company. Of course, I wanted to share it with you guys, but I held-off because I do have some concerns.(This have been cleared up with the new information).   Anyways, I used the format I always use. (I used the old format).

A representative got back to me, with:

Hi Camila,
Please see the answers below.
Thank you for your interest in FLOWER.

 [I've omitted names]

www.maesa.com

To Whom It May Concern:I am doing research on animal testing, and I need to verify a few key points about your company. 

1. Does your company test ingredients or finished products on animals? There is no animal testing done on any formula or any ingredient used by Flower factories in these formulations. 

2. Do you test ingredients or products on animals through a 3rd party? There is no animal testing done on any formula or any ingredient used by Flower factories in these formulations. 

3. Do your manufacturers test ingredients or products on animals? The raw material manufacturers do not test any ingredients on animals. 

4. Are you owned or affiliated with any companies that test products or ingredients on animals?  NO 

5. Do you/your parent company currently or have plans to market and sell your products in the Chinese market, which requires animal testing by law to sell in that country?  NO 

6. Do you use palm oil/carnuaba wax in any of your products? If so, is it from an organic and sustainable source?  NO 

7. Could you provide a list of all of your current vegan items available for purchase?  All products are vegan 

Thank you so much for the information.   Please note, that any correspondence I receive will be published on humanelychic.blogspot.com, which is my own privately owned blog. -Camila 

I was at first relieved to receive this reply. However, after looking at Maesa website I had some doubts. First I was confused at what exactly they do. Are they the manufactures of the raw ingredients for Flower or just provide the packaging design? 
Well according to the Maesa website(Under the "Our Business tab) :

"Maesa partners with over 100 leading retailers and beauty brands worldwide creating exclusive beauty and home fragrance programs.Maesa launches more than 3,000 proprietary products a year ranging from fragrance, color cosmetics, bath & body, skincare, haircare, and home." 

Also under "Expertise" you will see a list of what they do.

This is a screen-shot from their website. (http://www.maesa.com/) 

Feeling overhelmed and confused I emailed them back. 

[I've omitted any names],
Thank you for your reply. I have some questions I would appreciate you cleared up. I understand the manufacturers of Flower are Maesa Engineering Beauty. I was looking at Maesa's website and found that they also manufacture for Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani, etc. Those two companies are owned by Coty which does test on animals, at least for retail in the Chinese market; which as you might be aware of requires animal testing for cosmetic products.

• Is Maesa Engineering Beauty the parent company of Flower Beauty? 
• Does Maesa provide the raw ingredients or just package design? 
• Does Maesa test ingredients or finished products on animals?
• If you sell in the Chinese market?

Thank you for your time,
Camila

They replied with: 

Hi Camila,
Is Maesa Engineering Beauty the parent company of Flower Beauty? YES
Does Maesa provide the raw ingredients or just package design? Maesa provides the package design and we work with a factory who provides the raw ingredients. Neither Maesa or the factory tests on animals as stated in my previous answers to your questions.
Does Maesa test ingredients or finished products on animals? NO
If you sell in the Chinese market? WE DO NOT SELL FLOWER IN THE CHINA MARKET

UPDATE: FLower Beauty has clarified that they do have an office in Hong Kong but DO NOT sell in China. They only sell in the US and Europe. 

_________________________________________________________________

*****DISCLAIMER: Everything in grey is old information. I have updated this. Scroll up to see!

This sounds good and all, but I came upon Maesa's Organization Profile. Where it clearly states: 

"The Maesa Group is the fastest growing and most comprehensive resource for "Beauty on Demand" products and services. With branches in Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and Shanghai..." 

So far things are looking bad for Flower Beauty. You guys know that I do not support companies who have a parent company that test on animals**. How can I? I have no idea where my money would go, it might even go to fund animal testing. 

 I have emailed them back, asking about their selling in Hong Kong.
**(If a company sells in China, they are required to test their products on animals.) 

I am waiting for his reply and I will update you guys once I receive it. If I was you I would definitely HOLD OFF on buying from Flower Beauty. 

Please leave me your feelings about this mess! What you do you think? 

Until Next Time,

Camila