The quest to find Holy Grail beauty products is paved with trial and error, but sometimes it introduces you to amazing products! I’ve been feeling very comfortable with my makeup collection lately, and I figure that’s enough of an excuse to share a couple of my most used cruelty-free beauty products as of late.
5 Cruelty-Free Faves
Suspect No. 1: Flawless Foundation
First up is a tool that has changed the way I approach foundation. The Real Techniques Expert Face Brush features densely packed bristles that are ideal for creating a full coverage look. I first began using this brush back in the summer of 2013. At the time, my skin looked the worst I had ever seen it. Luckily, the Real Techniques Expert Face Brush made it easy for me to wear makeup again. The brush made it incredibly easy to build up coverage on the areas that I needed it most without looking unnatural or heavy.
I feel like this brush should be in everyone’s makeup collection, especially since it’s a phenomenal tool at an amazingly affordable price. Real Techniques Expert Face Brush | $8.99 at Ulta
Suspect No. 2: Nude ‘Tude
Next on my list absolutely has to go to the Urban Decay Naked Basics palette. When I first picked up this palette, I had no idea how much I would reach for it on a daily basis. With 5 matte eyeshadows and 1 demi-matte, this palette is surprisingly versatile! My most-used shade is Walk of Shame, which I often use to even out my eyelids. Naked 2 is another eyeshadow that I use on a daily basis, but I primarily run this color through my brows. Urban Decay is a cruelty-free company that makes really high quality products, so it’s kind of a win/win!
I really like how little space this palette takes up, and also that it offers a sizable mirror that is extremely helpful for on-the-go application. Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette | $28 at Ulta
Suspect No. 3: Cool as a Cucumber
In the number 3 spot is the Yes to Cucumbers Soothing Facial Towelettes. For years and years I had been using the Neutrogena facial wipes. While those wipes did a wonderful job at removing my makeup, they definitely weren’t very “good” for my skin. I decided to look for a more skin-friendly (and cruelty-free) option, and Yes to Cucumbers ticked all of the boxes! I really enjoy how hydrating these towelettes are because it means I can usually get all of my makeup off with one sheet. Scent-wise, these facial towelettes are super mild with a hint of cucumber and aloe vera.
If you’re in need of a gentle facial wipe that is hypoallergenic, you should definitely pick up a pack! Yes to Cucumbers 45 Ct. Towelettes | $8.49 at Ulta
Suspect No. 4: Brighten Up
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Urban Decay Brightening & Tightening Complexion Primer Potion. I’ve been using this primer for about a year and a half now, so it’s safe that it will always have a place in my makeup collection. The main thing I love about this primer is that it doesn’t feel slick or slippery on the skin. The formula is very lightweight, hydrating, and it makes my skin look more youthful.
Honestly, I swear by this primer and I would recommend it to any primer-skeptics out there. Urban Decay Brightening & Tightening Complexion Primer Potion | $31 at Ulta
Suspect No. 5: Dream Cream
Rounding out the first installment of The Usual Suspects has to be the budget-friendly Studio Cream Eyeliner from elf. This is another favorite that I’ve been using for years, and for good reason. This $3 cream eyeliner is so creamy and long lasting that I haven’t even bothered with liquid eyeliner in ages! Frankly, compared to other cream eyeliners in the drugstore, this one is the best I’ve used, AND it’s cruelty-free. For $3 you can’t really complain, can you?
This is such a vital part of my makeup collection, I would be totally lost without it. elf Studio Cream Eyeliner | $3 at elf
That’s it for me! Do you have any beauty products that you absolutely cannot live without? Let me know in the comments! I’ll see you next Monday with my review of the Tarte Airbrush Foundation, and until next time…