Josie Maran Cruelty-Free Correspondence

Hey guys.
I wanted to share the emails a wonderful reader/friend of this blog sent me. Aurelie. She sent them to me a while back, but I honestly haven't had much time. I try to post at least once a week, and I usually post a Snatch-It-Up Sunday.

I am interested in buying from your company but would like to be assured that your products are cruelty-free. I have some questions I would appreciate you address.

1. Does your company test ingredients or/and finished products on animals?
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?
3. Do your manufacturers test ingredients or products on animals?
4. Are you owned or affiliated with any companies that test products or ingredients on animals?
5. Do you have a parent company? If so who are they?
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?
7. Do you use palm oil/carnuaba wax in any of your products? If so, is it from an organic and sustainable source?
8. Could you provide a list of all of your current vegan items available for purchase?

Thank you in advance for you cooperation!

They sent her this reply:

Thank you for taking the time to write in, my name is [name omitted]. We deeply apologize for the delayed response, as we're closed over the weekend and the past several days for a company-wide training. Josie Maran Cosmetics is a 100% cruelty-free brand and does not conduct animal testing—nor do we allow any other parties, including our suppliers, to conduct animal testing on our behalf. We're proud to be listed on PETA’s official website as a cruelty-free company.

http://www.peta.org/living/beauty-and-personal-care/companies/365.aspx?SearchUrl=%2Fliving%2Fbeauty-and-personal-care%2Fcompanies%2Fsearch.aspx%3FTesting%3D0%26Range%3D4%26PageIndex%3D2

Please write again if I can help in any way!
Best,

As you can tell, this reply is very vague. Cool, they are part of PETA's list, but that doesn't answer questions like their parent company, etc.

Aurelie, emailed them back:

Hi [name omitted],

You omitted to answer to those questions,

I will really appreciate if you answer to those questions below.

Thank you so much!

4. Are you owned or affiliated with any companies that test products or ingredients on animals?
5. Do you have a parent company? If so who are they?
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?
7. Do you use palm oil/carnuaba wax in any of your products? If so, is it from an organic and sustainable source?
8. Could you provide a list of all of your current vegan items available for purchase?

 This was their second respond:

Hi [name omitted],

Thank you for following up with us. Josie Maran Cosmetics is a 100% cruelty-free brand and does not conduct animal testing—nor do we allow any other parties, including our suppliers, to conduct animal testing on our behalf. We do partner with our suppliers and manufacturers to ensure our high standards, values, and visions are aligned with being a cruelty free brand. In regards to vegan products, each of our products has a list of icons on the product page. There will be a vegan free icon associated with products that are gluten free. I hope this helps and have a great day.

Please write again if I can help in any way.
Best,

Again, they did not address question #6. Which, in my opinion, needs to be answered!!

She emailed them for the third time.

Hi [name omitted],

Thank you so much for your patience.

You omitted to answer to one last question - the one about Chinese market.


I will really appreciate if you answer to this question below.


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?



Thank you,

 You go Aurelie! I love this correspondence! I'm such a nerd, I get so excited!

Hi Aurelie,

Thank you for your response. Our products are not sold in the Chinese market though Josie Maran Cosmetics to our knowledge and consent. Josie Maran Cosmetics is a 100% cruelty-free brand and does not conduct animal testing—nor do we allow any other parties, including our suppliers, to conduct animal testing on our behalf. We're proud to be listed on PETA’s official website as a cruelty-free company. We stand by our values and vision, especially when it comes to animal testing. I hope this helps and have a great day!

Best,

Aurelie and I agree that based on Josie Maran's answers to the questions, we would want to support them. They meet the three critieria I look for when determining a company's cruelty-free status.

 Aurelie emailed them back, thanking them for their time. I wanted to share their reply to her. It's not necessary for determining cruelty-free status, however I think companies that treat their costumers with respect deserve to be acknowledged. 

Absolutely-if you have any other questions, concerns, or feedback, please don't hesitate to share. We really value customer feedback her at Josie Maran!

Please write again if I can help in any way.
Best,

Isn't that a lovely email to read? I have received quite a number of emails that are not so friendly.

I hope you found this post helpful! I certainly did. Thank you Aurelie! You are awesome & you are going to help so many with this post!

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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Snatch-it-Up Sunday :: NYX Lip Smacking Fun Colors || Cocoa

Hey guys! A week or so ago, I noticed the lack of neutral lip sticks in my collection. I have more reds than I need, lots of plumy-vampy ones, and a few pinks. I really wanted something that would be a bit darker than the natural tint of my lips. Meanwhile, I didn't want something super basic, I still wanted something with an edge, keeping with the vampy theme.

I love NYX lip sticks. They are so smooth and they have lots of color selection. I'm sure you guys feel the same! If NYX does one thing the best, I'd definitely say it's their lippies. 

I instantly fell in love with the shade 'cocoa'. I was swooned!!! It's a very-dark muave brownish color with a tint of plum. I just think it's gorgeous!! It's not a matte, it's very much a creme formula. If you like glossy lips you'd like this. Meanwhile, if you're into mattes, you'll probably think it's too glossy. 

You can apply it opaque-ly or sheer it out. I love the look it gives (my lips in particular) when sheered out. It's very natural. I feel like a flower-child when I wear it. Yes!!! 

Also, it's not a Kardashian-nude kind of look. (Which I'm not a fan of). It's not bright, yet gives your complexion pick-me-up. 

I wanted to share how it looks on! However, Sundays are no-makeup Sundays for me. I'll be sharing some selfies later this week! So follow me on instagram if you're interested!!! 

Lots of Love,

Camila

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Snatch-It-Up Sunday || NYX's stay matte but not flat powder

Hey guys!

So I decided to feature NYX's stay matte but not flat powder foundation for this week.

I think this powder is awesome but sadly, it does not get mentioned much among the beauty community. If you are new to cruelty-free makeup, I know how hard it is to find inexpensive powders at the drug-store. Granted this powder does retail for $9.99 at Ulta, so it's definitely higher up there, but trust me it's worth it. Please, save yourself some grieve and give this powder a try!

It gives your skin a skin like look. Yes, your skin looks matte but not dry. (As the name suggests). I don't know how to explain it better than that. Also, it will maintain that freshly applied look for a good five hours. I run around a lot through the day, but I find that I only have to re-apply once a day; on particularly hot days maybe twice. You might be able to wear it longer! Consider your skin-type.

While mattefying your skin, it will give you extra coverage. Some might find you can get away with just this powder. Meanwhile, if you are like me and want those spots to be concealed, you will appreciate the extra coverage. Don't use a heavy hand if you have applied liquid foundation, as you might get a cake-y look. Definitely do not use the sponge it comes with! Use a powder brush. I think the Real Techniques Buffer Brush is best for foundation-powders. Use a brush with more compact bristles. It gives you the perfect look.

The reason I realized how much I loved this powder this week, was because I  ran out (I still have a bit to use up) and got a new one. When you re-purchase a beauty product you know you like it. I did get a lighter shade the one I had before worked for me, but was a tiny-bite too dark. Be sure to get your correction shade! That's the good thing about Ulta, they have testers.

I hope you found this post informative or at least fun to read! I wish you a wonderful week! I'm going back to the grind of life, my Spring Break week is over! Oh well!

Lots of Love, 

Camila

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*I bought this with my own money. But if NYX decided to send me stuff to try, I would not mind! ;) 

Tarte bought by Kose || Are they still Cruelty-Free?

Hey guys.

If you don't know by now, I'm sad to say, that tarte has been bought by Kose. Kose is a Japanese brand. I'd never heard of them before and what I do know is from Logical Harmony's post. Please read that blog post!

By the way, if you've never checked out Logical Harmony, which was started by Tashina, you MUST. (I'm sure you guys have).

tarte made it official on their facebook page.

To all of our tartelettes: As you may have heard, tarte has recently been acquired by Japanese company KOSÉ. It’s truly been an amazing ride, from the little venture Maureen Kelly started in her bedroom 15 years ago to the global powerhouse we’re privileged to join. Our vision has always been to create beauty products that are ‘healthy treats for your skin,’ foster the highest level of customer service and give back to the community and the environment. By joining the KOSÉ family and adding to that rich portfolio, we can build on what we’ve already accomplished with powerful products and explore expanding the tarte brand in new and exciting countries. And rest assured, we are committed to remaining a cruelty-free brand and will not test on animals. Maureen will stay on as the CEO and looks forward to continuing a lasting relationship with our tartelettes.
xo, the tarte team!

As for HumanelyChic, I will no longer consider tarte a CF company and will remove them from my CF list.

This is very disappointing news! :( I'm sorry for all of you that have loved tarte for years.

Lots of Love,
Camila

My Cruelty-Free Journey || Learn From My Mistakes

When I decided to go cruelty-free, almost two years ago, I went into it very independently. Meaning, I blew-off any online source for help (i.e. LeapingBunny, PETA) and blogs (i.e. Veggie Beauty, Logical Harmony...). Sounds crazy right? 

The reason for my madness was lack of knowledge. I'd only heard of VeggieBeauty's blog, LB, and PETA. I never thought of googling Is ____ a cruelty-free company?

Also, I didn't think many people were eager to go CF, and thought almost nobody had my same conviction. Though, I think this need for me to go at it alone, was good because I learned so much and it allowed me to shape my criteria for CF companies, it made life a whole-lot more difficult!

 There was no way I would be able to email every company and receive a reply within a year's time. I soon discovered that I needed help!!!

The moral of my telling you this (sorry for the tangent) is to let you know that it's OK to seek help! Meaning use your resources! However, don't rely on only one resource. Also, make up your mind about which brands you feel comfortable supporting. 

For example, from the beginning I decided I did not want to support CF companies that are owned by non-cruelty free parent companies. Though I do not regret this decision, seeing as I was just diving in to the CF world, it made it much more difficult! Which was discouraging! 

Today, I do not live in a 100% cruelty-free house hold. The biggest reason is that I cannot financially keep up that lifestyle. Also, because I live with my parents who do not have my same view points. I really, just try my best to support CF companies on terms that are reasonable to my lifestyle. 

I encourage you to do the same. Just supporting a few CF companies and educating your friends and family is already taking a giant step in the right direction. 

Lots of Love,

Camila

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Nature's Better Body || Animal Testing Inquiry

Hey guys! I received an email, a month or so ago from a representative of Nature's Better Body. They wanted to send me samples of one of their products to review.

However, I had never heard of their company before. Therefore, I inquired about their animal testing policy, using the format I use to contact all companies.

I would like to work with Nature's Better Body, but first I would need you to answer questions (provided below). Once, I determine if Nature's Better Body meets the criteria I look for determining a company's cruelty-free status, then we can discuss my reviewing your product. Thanks for thinking of me.

1. Does your company test ingredients or/and finished products on animals? 

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?  

3. Do your manufacturers test ingredients or products on animals? 

4. Are you owned or affiliated with any companies that test products or ingredients on animals? 

5. Do you have a parent company? If so who are they?  

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? 

7. Do you use palm oil/carnuaba wax in any of your products? If so, is it from an organic and sustainable source?  

8. Could you provide a list of all of your current vegan items available for purchase?

I received a reply, a couple of days later.

1. Does your company test ingredients or/and finished products on animals? We never test on animals 

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, all of our products are designed and made in Los Angeles in our own facility.  We test our products with our family and friends exclusively. 

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 

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? We do not use either of these ingredients in our products. 

8. Could you provide a list of all of your current vegan items available for purchase? Our eye cream is currently our only product, we will be releasing more soon. 

As you can tell, they meet the criteria I look for when determining a company's CF status.

I rarely get emails from companies seeking to send me products to review. Which doesn't bother me (sure it'd be nice) because I started this blog to share information and meet people who had similar interests, not to get 'stuff' out of it. I'm excited to be working with Nature's Better Body!

Leave me any feedback you'd like!

Lots of Love,

Camila

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Snatch-It-Up Sunday : Wet N' Wild's || Walking on Eggshells

Hey guys! I'm sure you've you been part of the beauty-community on YouTube you've heard the buzz about this trio. I'm of course talking about Wet N' Wild's Walking on Eggshells. It retails for $2.99.

I've had this one, as you can tell, for a while. I've always loved the shades, not only do they work great together but they are also super pigmented and smooth.

I love using the pinkie-shade all over the lid. I then use a bit of the bronzy-brown on my crease. Finally, I will use the lighter-pearly color in the inner lid. It's great for making you look wide awake! It's such a basic eyeshadow look, a classic. It won't go out of style and it complements whatever you might be wearing. This is the trio I would recommend to anyone who is just starting to wear makeup.

I've been loving it in particular this week, because I found myself waking up super late! I mean I barely had time brush my teeth let alone do my makeup! (Sorry if that's TMI). This made me look (at least on the outside) wide-awake and put together.

If you've passed this one up at the drug-store be sure to pick it up next time! I'm sure you won't regret it.

Lots of Love,

Camila

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Humane Cosmetics Act || USA to ban animal testing? MUST READ

Hey guys.

I got an email on March 6, from a PETA representative. I haven't been able to share it because I've been really busy with school. I'm sure you guys, by now, must of read or heard of the law that had been proposed to make animal testing required in the USA.

Well, this is what I received in the email:

March 6, 2014 Re: Congress Member Jim Moran's Humane Cosmetics Act PETA applauds Rep. Jim Moran (D-VA) for introducing the Humane Cosmetics Act, which would ban tests on animals for cosmetics and phase out the sales of animal-tested products. Poisoning an animal for a human product makes about as much sense as using a map of Paris to find your way around New York. Animal tests are scientifically baseless and ethically wrong, and consumers have made it clear that they should be illegal, too. Since September, more than 72,000 people have contacted their congressional representatives through PETA's online action alert and urged them to ban these cruel tests. We urge Congress to pay attention and pass this bill. For information on the more than 1,300 companies that have banned tests on animals, please see PETA's online Beauty Without Bunnies cruelty-free database.

 From what I have researched, this act hasn't passed, yet! Imagine if animal testing became illegal? WOW!!!!! This would make not only all those beautiful creatures free, help our planet, but make it so much more easy to shop. (Which, of course is the least of the advantages of this law. But still just picture it!)

I urge you to contact your the Congressman that represents you! The HumaneSociety, allows you to use a template to contact your representative to urge them to support this act. You can call, send emails, or even tweet them.

 If you are like me, and didn't know who represents you can find them -using your zip code- on House.gov (the site for the US House of Representatives).

I know that with all our voices this act won't be a dream for long but rather became a reality.

Lots of Love,

Camila

Snatch-It-Up Saturday || Tree Hut's Shea Sugar Body Scrub in 'Coconut Lime' YUMM!

I wanted to start a new weekly thing on my blog. I wasn't sure what, but I knew I wanted something fast and straight-forward.

I thought Id be an awesome idea (if I do say so myself) to let you know of something I've been really loving that you NEED to get a hold of. It doesn't have to be beauty-related at all. It could be anything. (I'm sure most of it will be beauty-related, though).

The Tree-Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub. Can we please have a minute of silence, for the amazing-ness of this product!

Scent: 
The scent was the first thing to "sucker" me into buying this guy. It is not overly coconut-y, the lime really balances the scent. It's yummy! It made me crave summer so bad! (Mind you I got this in the beginning of January -which was still chilly even in California. ) It lingers on your skin! It's not a scent that is overwhelming, it's more like your get whiffs of it throughout the day.

If you really can't get past anything remotely close to the smell of Coconut, they do have other "flavors". (It does smell delicious, but it's not edible so try not to snack on it). They have Brazilian Nut, Mango, etc (those are the ones I can remember off-the-top of my head.)

Application:
It is rather thick which makes it easy to apply, as it does not run between your fingers. The sugar is just rough enough to exfoliate the skin of your body. However, do not use it on your face! It would be too rough for that skin.

I used this especially for my legs, and they have NEVER felt smoother! It's been a month since I've run-out and I can definitely tell the difference. If you are someone, like moi, that gets in-grown hairs on your legs easily after shaving, please give this a go! I also used it on my arms (I used it everywhere) and ughhh it's just soooo good! I really think it's worth your time.

Price:
It retails at Ulta (I'm sure at other places) for $7.49. Which I think is a great bargain, it's a wonderful product and you get a 18 oz tub of it.

I hope you enjoyed this post. I'm excited to do another one next Sunday! Hopefully I'll get it up a little bit earlier!

Lots of Love, 

Camila

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NYX Above and Beyond Full Coverage Concealer | Review

Hey guys. So I picked this guy up sometime in January. Needless to say, I've had a good amount of time to play with it and decided I wanted to share my thoughts. It's the NYX Full Coverage Concealer in Beige. It retails for $4.99 at Ulta. (Which is where I bought mine.)

NYX has an awesome color selection. So I'm sure you'd be able to find a shade that will work with your complexion.

Packaging: 
I like the packaging, it's compact and slick. It's quite small and easy to fit into small corners. It's be great for traveling! No complaints there.

Texture:
Very creamy, easy to blend. Does not feel greasy on the skin. Once, it's blended it becomes significantly drier.

Coverage:
I think you can definitely get a good medium coverage with the concealer. It covers redness well, and the color is almost my same skin-tone. However, I noticed that when I tried to use it as a full-coverage concealer it became quite cake-y looking. If you notice in the packaging it claims to be 'crease -free'? Humm, not sure about that one....

Also, it magnified the pores around my cheeks and nose, which is not cute. Note: I did not use a primer with it. So I don't know how it would wear with a primer. I don't use face-primer.
I noticed it creasing, quite significantly, around my eyes. Even, after I set it with powder.

Did it break you out?: 
Yes! Unfortunately. I would usually just try to work with a product that I didn't love, but in this case I hardly see myself using this one. Maybe, on my legs (I do bruise like crazy). I don't feel too bad, it was $4.99. So yes, beware. Especially if you're one who has sensitive skin, when it comes acne.

Overall:
I will not be purchasing this one again. I will however, try more of NYX face stuff.

*I bought this product with my own money. I am not being paid to review it. However, if NYX wanted to send me a few of their stuff to review, I wouldn't mind. ;) 

I hope this was helpful. Do you own this product? Do you disagree with me, yes or no? I would love to read any feedback you have! What is your fav. CF concealer?

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

Bubble T Cosmetics | Animal Testing Inquiry

I've become paranoid about using companies logos. I don't want to get in trouble, so for now I'll either not post a picture to accompany an article or will s a pic of their site & link them. If you are a lawyer, let me know what the legal wrought to take. :) 

Hey guys! THis is going to be a fun & different post. I have wonderful readers that email with the information they have found about companies. Which I appreciate a lot, seeing as if more of us email a company the more that company is pressured into answering our questions.

Well, a beautiful reader named Adele (not sure if you want your last name displayed) sent me her correspondence with Bubble T Cosmetics. It is very thorough & awesome so I asked her if I could share it with you all. I had never heard of this company until she messaged me about it.

She used the template posed on this blog. (click here & feel free to use it)!

Here was their reply:

Dear Adele,
I hope you are well.
I am happy to answer your questions.
1. Does your company test ingredients or/and finished products on animals?Our company does not and will not test on animals in terms of ingredients or finished product 

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?We don't use a 3rd part at all - we use a small manufacturer in the south of England where all our products are hand made - we have quality control employees who will assess the production line once our products are being made in bulk.

3. Do your manufacturers test ingredients or products on animals?Our manufacturers don't test on animals for us or for any other brands that they provide for - we take pride in the fact that we are against animal testing and were BUAV approved until it was compulsory in the UK to not test on animals 

4. Are you owned or affiliated with any companies that test products or ingredients on animals?We are affiliated with our sister brand 'Nougat London' who also have the same morals and ethical view on animal testing - using the same manufacturer and supplier. 

5. Do you have a parent company? If so who are they? 'Nougat London' 

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? 
Bubble T and Nougat both do not sell products in China currently - prior to selling in the market each and every formulation needs to be registered with a fee which is why we are not considering this for the moment. 

7. Do you use palm oil/carnuaba wax in any of your products? If so, is it from an organic and sustainable source? 
We do not use either of those ingredients 

8. Could you provide a list of all of your current vegan items available for purchase? We cannot verify if any of our products are vegan -
I hope i have answered your questions and if any further questions come to mind please do not hesitate to ask.
If you planning on ordering from our site we would be happy to send you a free gift on top of your order to thank you for your interest in our beautiful range.

Kind Regards,

What awesome research! Adele sent me this a while back, but I haven't had time to post anything until today. So, sorry about that. 

I would definitely feel safe purchasing from them. I will email their company: Nougat London,;just to make sure there are no contractions with what is listed above. (I'm a perfectionist what can I say?) 

Other than not testing their raw ingredients on animals, having a compliant parent company with the same views on animal testing, and not selling in China; I think it's awesome that they are accreddited by BUAV. 

What do you think about their reply to these questions? Let me know your thoughts! & Thank you Adele if you are reading this :)

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. 

Lorac Cosmetics | Animal Testing Info

Hey guys! I received a reply from Lorac. I emailed them using the format I always use.

I'm not going to say much about this, I'm typing this in a hurry. (I've got class in a couple of minutes). I will say that I'm not 100% happy with it, but it does answer a vast of my questions. Be sure to leave your comments, tell me what you think.

Dear Camila,
Thank you for contacting LORAC Cosmetics. LORAC does not support the testing of products on animals and we ask all suppliers to support this point of view and all suppliers state that they do so. LORAC does not use a third party to test on animals. LORAC does not sell in countries requiring animal testing. Please note, LORAC cannot warrant or certify that all suppliers who say they do not test on animals in fact do not test on animals. Additionally, notwithstanding the statements of suppliers to LORAC, LORAC has no way of knowing what the “suppliers of the suppliers” are doing. In regards to the vegan ingredients there is no way to know for sure due to the lack of control over raw ingredients.

Please let us know if LORAC can further assist you!
Sincerely,
LORAC Customer Care

Lots of Love,
Camila

URGENT Animal Testing Law Info in USA | MUST READ

Hey guys!

Please, PLEASE read this article by Leaping Bunny I will link, here. I would publish it here, but I just heard about it and don't have permission to post it. It's about a new law (not yet passed, but under consideration) that would make animal testing required by law in the US. Costing millions of animals lives and millions of dollars. It's crucial we unite to make sure this does NOT pass! We have tremendous say and must ask quickly. I will try to find out how we can make this law disappear.

Lots of Love,

Camila