tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63817687955453902802024-03-12T21:23:32.092-04:00A Cruelty Free MeA lifestyle blog focusing primarily on cruelty free beauty and skincare.Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.comBlogger164125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-10450370761732334032024-02-17T21:04:00.002-05:002024-02-17T21:07:11.704-05:00Simplifying my Routine<div>In one of my last posts, I mentioned how I've taken a bit of a step back from the beauty space in the last few years. I realized recently that there are aspects that I miss, but I don't miss the pressure I was putting on myself to keep up with trends and to curate myself, my blog posts, and my social media. In the last few months in terms of 'beauty,' I've been more focused on doing things to lighten the load while still making myself feel good. </div><div><br /></div><div>When I was in college, I would do my nails weekly (typically myself), self-tan twice a week, I had a long skincare regime, and I was crazy about skin and hair masks. These days I'm lucky if I can find the time to do one of those things, and honestly, even if I have the time I'd rather be reading a book, playing with my dog, or helping with a project on the house. That said, I do feel nostalgic for the acts of self-care. Here are a few things I have done recently as acts of self-care, that ultimately have given me the little confidence boost I was craving. </div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Weekly Baths w/ Epsom Salt </li><ul><li>Swapping my shower at the end of the week for an Epsom salt bubble bath has been a real treat. I find this ritual relaxing, and have been loving trying out different Dr. Teals combinations. Usually, I'll use a scented bubble bath, with a scoop of fragrance-free Epsom salts. In a warm bath, Epsom salts break down into magnesium and sulfate, since the skin is your largest organ, the theory is that your body will absorb the magnesium through the bath. According to <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/health/preventative-health/aches-pains/health-benefits-of-epsom-salts" target="_blank">this article on Real Simple</a>, magnesium could potentially help alleviate stress and anxiety.</li></ul><li>At home dermaplaning</li><ul><li>I had been using disposable dermaplane razors to touch up between eyebrow waxes and finally decided I wanted something of better quality. With recyclable blades, I have been loving the Leaf Shave dermaplaner (linked below). It's great at getting rid of any peach fuzz, and I do feel like my skin is smoother and makeup applies easier. In the future, I'd like to also swap my regular razor to a Leaf.</li></ul><li>Lash Lift</li><ul><li>I got a lash lift a few weeks ago. I had been wanting extensions for a bit but ultimately decided it was way too much maintenance and time for me. I went to a local salon for the lash lift, it took about an hour, not including the patch test I did beforehand. I really like the results, and I think it's something I'll want to continue. </li></ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5_bqmgcF8sy_RAFHzkVa3PdrNkS0szIpsX1L_CG8Z9eHuCgRQMzJBd6jrocFFltyXZKMaIL9M73g1H10xpQwZQVOnWdkdAOd16q0j42VHTage3zp3G0RPRM4s6lRC_iqbqxEujdKGZKUTPoj75MLrXyt5n-TLCxhLwd6VGPKTuz6ZQBedxVzQcsDTCD4/s4032/5FC9A4C8-2938-4979-849B-3FDD3BBAD83D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5_bqmgcF8sy_RAFHzkVa3PdrNkS0szIpsX1L_CG8Z9eHuCgRQMzJBd6jrocFFltyXZKMaIL9M73g1H10xpQwZQVOnWdkdAOd16q0j42VHTage3zp3G0RPRM4s6lRC_iqbqxEujdKGZKUTPoj75MLrXyt5n-TLCxhLwd6VGPKTuz6ZQBedxVzQcsDTCD4/w480-h640/5FC9A4C8-2938-4979-849B-3FDD3BBAD83D.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I'd love to hear if you have any similar 'low maintenance' self-care routines in your life. Leave me a comment below!
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</div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><i><div><i><br /></i></div> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-26401278315788539852023-12-28T14:33:00.004-05:002023-12-28T14:51:02.992-05:00My New Obsession | Press On Nails | Celebritips First Impressions & Application<div>Recently I started wearing faux nails again, after a ~4 year hiatus. I have been seeing so many fun colors and patterns on social media and it made me want to wear them again. I tend to have better luck with press-on nails than manicures as well since I am hard on my nails while typing, cleaning, etc. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was delighted when <a href="https://celebritips.com" target="_blank">Celebritips</a> reached out to ask if I would review their nails. They have some really unique designs that I hadn't seen before, as well as designs that are on trend, but in my opinion, they are trends that are here to stay. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNF4sB55jU3pB3JWZxUnIk1_jYAw9LL4xGDxSDeGclvROSgmBx-be3sJWHNosSktaT9F3K3D4eAaHq9hYn5twFe4xzDUHwKSbY5xiPgwILBYOPa25YeiDnnRLkMgBF9mgjFd5iviOXILXYOTuq81y1GrEX0YlbqjGlkGhPHAbCQ3wu3L4O3y4XBZ6LswV/s3024/E529A5DB-CCDA-40DD-8A5D-7A13E2F8EE97.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNF4sB55jU3pB3JWZxUnIk1_jYAw9LL4xGDxSDeGclvROSgmBx-be3sJWHNosSktaT9F3K3D4eAaHq9hYn5twFe4xzDUHwKSbY5xiPgwILBYOPa25YeiDnnRLkMgBF9mgjFd5iviOXILXYOTuq81y1GrEX0YlbqjGlkGhPHAbCQ3wu3L4O3y4XBZ6LswV/w640-h640/E529A5DB-CCDA-40DD-8A5D-7A13E2F8EE97.JPEG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>Their nails are salon-grade and easy to use. My first impression is that I love the packaging as it makes storing and re-using super easy. They would also be great to travel with, especially if you need to apply on the go. The nails came with both glue and instant stick tabs. I prefer glue so that is what I used today, but I'm excited to try the instant tabs in the future. </div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div>I decided to try the <a href="https://celebritips.com/products/mini-tangerine" target="_blank">Mini Tangerine</a> today. They are a super cute print, and I'll usually go for a fun color in mid-winter just to brighten things up. I love that these have a neutral base, with a pop of orange. I usually go for short almond nails, and end up trimming them down but I feel like these are still a great length that is functional for my life. </div><div><br /></div><div>Applying nails is super easy, there are instructions in the case as well as <a href="https://celebritips.com/pages/application" target="_blank">on the site</a>, but here is what I do: </div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><i>Wash your hands.</i></li><li><i>Trim your nails as short as possible.</i></li><li><i>Push back your cuticles.</i></li><li><i>Lightly buff the top of your nails.</i></li><li><i>Use an alcohol wipe to remove any dust.</i></li><li><i>Size your nails; there is a number on the back of each nail. I recommend writing this down for each finger so that in the future, you save time sizing. </i></li><li><i>One nail at a time: Apply glue to your nail and then to the nail you are applying.</i></li><li><i>Press the nail toward the cuticle at a 45-degree angle.</i></li><li><i>Hold for 15 seconds.</i></li><li><i>When you're done, lightly file the tips or trim if desired. </i></li></ol></div><div>I noticed that Celebritips nails are slightly textured on the back, which is something I haven't seen in other brands but it should help the nail stay on better (similar to buffing your natural nails). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRV5NQS2jGzTCI14oRzznphxzgbsXhr1JbOBa9KEQJcrdjDdLrFwRPmJOi5DSRuSqJCyvJphftCR0Zhir1YnKFf1FJ6OHXi90qF9kS9NA1njnWsSpSXvDy3m7pZtULV7gXNi3Vgj343vu58RCGKf0TaXrviO-wNK925NsjxE8FyDDp8RiebztgPniJY-MJ/s3024/CCC32137-40CD-43F6-849C-475CA47AF531.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRV5NQS2jGzTCI14oRzznphxzgbsXhr1JbOBa9KEQJcrdjDdLrFwRPmJOi5DSRuSqJCyvJphftCR0Zhir1YnKFf1FJ6OHXi90qF9kS9NA1njnWsSpSXvDy3m7pZtULV7gXNi3Vgj343vu58RCGKf0TaXrviO-wNK925NsjxE8FyDDp8RiebztgPniJY-MJ/w640-h640/CCC32137-40CD-43F6-849C-475CA47AF531.JPEG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>Celebritips is a small, female-founded business that I'm proud to share with you on my blog. The nails have been designed in LA, and are both vegan and cruelty-free. I can't wait to see what designs this brand produces next, and I'm excited to try a new design in a few weeks. Thank you Celebritips! </div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-66005284980701022442023-12-18T08:41:00.004-05:002024-02-17T20:20:18.415-05:00What's Next? <div>I've been thinking a lot about the future of 'A Cruelty Free Me' in the past few weeks. I took a break a few months after starting a new job. At the time blogging wasn't feeling as fun as it did back in college, I had started learning about 'clean beauty' and while skincare still excited me, I didn't feel like a subject matter expert when it came to clean formulations. I felt a bit bummed out by the space, with everything being monetized, and just wanted to get back to a place of enjoyment for my hobby. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wYw-UYdYq94vIWNwOTxgncKzsTwzI8zWjiR_Mv2vxd6_jbDawG5RL6FcieL9b-RQPcwaqjWOuoQ-mZp_lv73u5fCzT4m3iHd6v55t81zvwstiNmzKGSeVMFVAaIO04FT-QbJn0W9UnACS9e1D_qF6rP8vDLzElFjEpntFKbcY2qK3nrJVoIsebHAavbE/s3024/54C117A4-9F18-4214-91DA-7973CB034174.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wYw-UYdYq94vIWNwOTxgncKzsTwzI8zWjiR_Mv2vxd6_jbDawG5RL6FcieL9b-RQPcwaqjWOuoQ-mZp_lv73u5fCzT4m3iHd6v55t81zvwstiNmzKGSeVMFVAaIO04FT-QbJn0W9UnACS9e1D_qF6rP8vDLzElFjEpntFKbcY2qK3nrJVoIsebHAavbE/w640-h640/54C117A4-9F18-4214-91DA-7973CB034174.JPEG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Things feel very different at the present. My husband and I have now been married for two and a half years. We recently purchased a home, and adopted a puppy. Both working on the house, and training our pup has taken over a lot of our free time, but we couldn't be happier about it. I'm enjoying different things as of late... decorating, organizing, long walks with the pup. I am still interested in beauty & skincare, but it has taken a backseat to the other things I have been enjoying. </div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div>I am toying with the idea of rebranding to a more 'lifestyle-focused' blog. So I can talk more about challenges and projects as a first-time home buyer, and make pet gift guides, and photograph my DIY projects. I think I still may talk about beauty here and there but I want to relieve the pressure I feel to know everything there is to know about beauty, since I'm just not as attuned to that industry at the present.</div><div><br /></div><div>I feel really inspired by creators like <a href="https://www.laurenelizabeth.co" target="_blank">Lauren Elizabeth</a> & <a href="https://clare-sullivan.com" target="_blank">Clare Sullivan</a> as of late. So maybe I'll take a cue from them. :) </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm still thinking of a new name, and will need to purchase a new domain to redirect to, but until then, I wanted to share a quick update. </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Holidays! </div><div><br /></div><center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.0059728-3.8652696514565363 -144.3184728 85.290820251456523 -3.693472799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-85170548602363449122022-03-26T11:40:00.002-04:002022-03-26T11:40:27.664-04:00My Self Care Routine | Featuring Mantra Mask's Hemp CBD Eye Gels<div>My self-care routine has changed immensely over the years. While I used to dedicate a few nights a week back in college. I now use my self-care routine as a way to get ready for the weekend or the week ahead. This probably isnt a popular practice, but I like to mix my cleaning routine with my self-care routine. While I don't love cleaning by any means, I love the feeling of resetting my space. I'm a huge believer that my physical space being decluttered helps to keep my mental to-do list in order. </div><div><br /></div><div>I typically follow this routine just before the weekend, so that I don't have to worry about cleaning and can spend time with family and friends, or just relax if I had a hectic week. I'll spend time in between tasks unwinding, or some things I do simultaneously. For instance, I'll typically listen to a podcast throughout my routine. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-41aUWfw7c8Vo6i82G7B7XY1HivRGapVQ4OiaXMOTyxbiKemttBh0q_Yn4tvAIRPslFaro2t59vlXHsTftAxEspIFrLphWKfLuSx2zAI6jeea-FY3r8BLaLTZVvbhpFt11AeFfBbYIAxJYGYYWPlCPpPxxHXyxztX1Uh0CTQyDgpi-CsmhKCToWp93A/s3024/IMG_6129.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-41aUWfw7c8Vo6i82G7B7XY1HivRGapVQ4OiaXMOTyxbiKemttBh0q_Yn4tvAIRPslFaro2t59vlXHsTftAxEspIFrLphWKfLuSx2zAI6jeea-FY3r8BLaLTZVvbhpFt11AeFfBbYIAxJYGYYWPlCPpPxxHXyxztX1Uh0CTQyDgpi-CsmhKCToWp93A/w640-h640/IMG_6129.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Listen to a podcast</li><ul><li>I've been loving Manifest with Tori DeSimone, Tori runs her own spin studio business which now has 2 locations, she also has a YouTube channel. I started following her when I was younger and very into YouTube and it's been awesome to see her grow and evolve into a business owner. Her podcasts are super conversational, she typically chats about her spin studios, shows she's been loving, and her beauty routine. I find her podcasts super relatable and just love that many of the topics are light and feel like chatting with a friend. </li></ul><li>Do a Face and or Eye Mask</li><ul><li>With city polution and other stressors, I find that applying a mask gives my skin the reset it needs.</li><li>I've been really enjoying the <a href="https://mantramask.com/shop/hemp-cbd-coconut-eye-gels-with-lavender/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mantra Mask Hemp CBD Coconut Eye Gels with Lavender</a> (gifted). The Lavender scent is amazing and so relaxing. I love that using this mask doubles as aromatherapy. I think my dark circles are hereditary, but I have found that caffeine and hyaluronic acid are key ingredients and can be a huge help. These eye masks also include niacinamide, which can help with inflammation, and encapsulated CBD. </li></ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkGEZHzDISBDP59lCvIrG3U_kR0XcT37SleKnhtxv-tK7VZpqjzpS-w6wiLJ4IupuUb7V6JYahO07PjZyuVP8Sztbq3eikXY0GnUL1LjEtYwexoFjLJHCp4TPODixcX-fB4DZ_xgFrddMpifWSTRNAZ09m1RyrkoP3abnsthOHwfHHNYZX-4QN89lbQ/s1131/IMG_6130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1131" data-original-width="848" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkGEZHzDISBDP59lCvIrG3U_kR0XcT37SleKnhtxv-tK7VZpqjzpS-w6wiLJ4IupuUb7V6JYahO07PjZyuVP8Sztbq3eikXY0GnUL1LjEtYwexoFjLJHCp4TPODixcX-fB4DZ_xgFrddMpifWSTRNAZ09m1RyrkoP3abnsthOHwfHHNYZX-4QN89lbQ/w480-h640/IMG_6130.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Home Fragrance</li><ul><li>It depends on the day, but I'll typically light a candle, incense, or use my diffuser. I purchased an oil at the Club Med Spa while we were on our honeymoon, and love how diffusing it takes me back to getting a facial and massage in their spa. The scent just triggers relaxation and helps me unwind.</li></ul><li>Turn on 'Personal Focus' </li><ul><li>I use the personal focus setting in my iPhone to help cut down on unnecessary notifications. You can customize the settings to your liking, but outside of anyone that may contact me in an emergency I tend to mute my texts, emails, and social media so I can really unplug. </li></ul><li>Make a coffee or a fun drink</li><ul><li>Depending on the time of day I'll make myself a little treat like a lavender latte, or a brown sugar boba. I'll also fill up my hydro flask to ensure I'm sipping water throughout my routine. </li></ul><li>Chores</li><ul><li>I tend to space out my chores, and I'll read, listen to a podcast or play a game on my switch.</li><ul><li>Vaccum my Apartment</li><li>Start the Laundry</li><li>Make the Bed</li><li>Dust</li><li>Give the bathroom & kitchen a clean</li></ul></ul></ul><div>I'd love to hear in the comments how you spend your self-care days! Let's chat below. :)<center><div data-sc-widget-id="P-62387fed88f669191569bc75"></div><script async="" src="//widgets.shopstyle.com/shopstyle-widget-snippet.js"></script> </center> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-78838013948041844342022-03-01T08:00:00.001-05:002022-03-01T08:00:00.181-05:00A Winning Cruelty-Free Lash Combination<div>I've been wanting lash extensions for months now, but I know that constant upkeep is not something I'd enjoy. I had been looking into different lash products to see what I could do from home, and I think I finally cracked the code. The following products are what I use to achieve healthy, long, and voluminous lashes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLaSG3i0718j-dX03bmgosRPMCIMK1xM7Ryfe12ZB36JMm2TtrG1kPMb9qquCs5x3y5pQuOPxNiXEvhuTN0fsUKlKPDl08xrbHBVihLk8a4hlYabJMc0X5Pdk_YTGp0swIBBojo4fdYC7LDXcTngWGIpW-_VM91pJeroi-vaAliONUInUNT3ch29cHkw=s320" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLaSG3i0718j-dX03bmgosRPMCIMK1xM7Ryfe12ZB36JMm2TtrG1kPMb9qquCs5x3y5pQuOPxNiXEvhuTN0fsUKlKPDl08xrbHBVihLk8a4hlYabJMc0X5Pdk_YTGp0swIBBojo4fdYC7LDXcTngWGIpW-_VM91pJeroi-vaAliONUInUNT3ch29cHkw=s16000" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bEpUs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Grande Lash MD Lash Enhancing Serum </a></h4><div>I've been using the Grande Lash Serum for about a month now. I simply apply like I would eyeliner after my skincare routine. I had purchased this serum after seeing so many influencers, and happy customers rave about it on social media. I've only been using it for about a month, so I haven't seen any major changes. However, my lashes seem to be strong and healthy, and I haven't really seen any fallout over the last month. Results are expected after 3 months of continuous use. </div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bEpUv" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NYX On the Rise Lash Booster- Castor Oil Infused Mascara Primer</a></h4><div>I stumbled across this product by accident. It was included as a free gift with purchase with one of my Ulta online orders. It had been sitting in my 'products to try' basket for months before I picked it up and gave it a test. I am so pleased with this primer, it makes my eyelashes look incredibly long and defined. It can be worn alone since it is a gray-black pigment, but I like to layer this under my Grande Lash mascara. </div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bEpUy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Grande Drama Black Intense Thickening Mascara with Castor Oil</a></h4><div>I had been using the same mascara for years, and after using the Grande lash serum for a few weeks I decided to give their mascara a try. I love this formula! I haven't seen any flaking, and the hourglass wand really helps me get into the base of my lashes to separate and build up to my desired number of coats. </div><div><br /></div><div>I feel that the combination of these three products is unbeatable. I personally love a long lash with a decent amount of volume. Applying lashes is a bit out of the question for my typical daily routine, but I love that I can still achieve some volume and length with these products. </div><div><br /></div><div>Let me know in the comments if you've tried any of these products. </div><i><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-22737737351530730722022-02-20T19:17:00.002-05:002022-02-20T19:18:35.977-05:00Honeymooning in Turks & Caicos | Club Med Turkoise<div>My husband and I decided on the Turkoise Resort in Turks and Caicos for our honeymoon. The resort is run by Club Med, and is an adults-only, all-inclusive property. After spending a year and a half planning a wedding during the pandemic 'all-inclusive' was music to my ears. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJNvXtyDN1y1xXgJhXig8x9FtOlBQ4cNRTjQv4c52ZZH7UZAs4ovgG_QJvcO__iQQDGJZbKDtjVQdqdo-xjwpNVHi7TQy_YSjzVW9-pnC9HXkkWnBTiZR0vvl0N0Eu4V8vl7jvq1cfC2l09Icoipzxp1Kw53NXKI9DgT7mnIkawraprgUSCzCELfMG9Q=s6940" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3926" data-original-width="6940" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJNvXtyDN1y1xXgJhXig8x9FtOlBQ4cNRTjQv4c52ZZH7UZAs4ovgG_QJvcO__iQQDGJZbKDtjVQdqdo-xjwpNVHi7TQy_YSjzVW9-pnC9HXkkWnBTiZR0vvl0N0Eu4V8vl7jvq1cfC2l09Icoipzxp1Kw53NXKI9DgT7mnIkawraprgUSCzCELfMG9Q=w640-h362" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>We decided to schedule our trip for mid-September, mostly so we could space out our PTO between our wedding in June, a family vacation in August, and then our honeymoon. This ended up being a great time to travel to Club Med! The package was a wonderful value, and the weather was absolutely perfect. </div><div><br /></div><div>We stayed on the resort property for most of our trip, where we had the opportunity to take sailing lessons, paddleboard, and kayak. We chose a watersport each day for the first three days which was really fun. We also decided to go on two excursions. The first was a half-day snorkel cruise which was absolutely amazing. This was our first time snorkeling and we were able to see so many beautiful fish, and a nurse shark! Our second excursion was a jetski lesson/tour where we were able to see sea turtles, Iguana Island, and tour around the local area. Our guide showed us an area where there are often dolphins, but unfortunately, we didn't see any that day. </div><div><br /></div><div>The resort staff was amazing, they were incredibly kind and assisted with any questions we had throughout our stay. Most of the staff greeted us by name, and we'd often chat with them at different points in our day. Of course, this is part of their training, but it was so nice to learn about the staff, their interests, and travels. Each night there is entertainment in the theater, ranging from dance and talent acts, to comedic skits. Each member of the staff was included in these shows, and they were definitely memorable. After each act we had fun dancing in the main bar/pool area. </div><div><br /></div><div>Personally, I loved that I could split my day between being physically active, and indulging. I liked to be active for most of the day, swimming, going to the gym, taking part in 'aqua gym' (an aerobics class that took place in the pool with awesome music by TJ the DJ) and in the evening we would relax, try an array of dishes in the restaurant, and settle down with a drink. The food was incredible, and there were options for every type of diet. Since plates are made fresh you can also make modifications where appropriate. There wasn't a single dish we didn't love and we tried almost everything available. They even had pineapple sorbet which was a real treat on hot evenings. </div><div><br /></div><div>We decided to indulge in a couples massage, which took place in a beautiful cottage on the beach. It was so rejuvenating and I loved that I could listen to the waves as I relaxed. I also got a facial towards the end of my stay which was the perfect refresh, after a week of salt, chlorine, and sunscreen. The spa staff is incredibly skilled and ensured we had a wonderful experience. I opted to purchase their signature scent as an essential oil so I could bring the spa experience home with me. It's perfect to add to a body lotion, or diffuse. </div><div><br /></div><div>Circling back on sunscreen, make sure you pack a lot! You can always purchase more on the property, but it was considerably more expensive than at home. (We learned that this is partially due to import taxes.) For two people, we used a bottle of spray sunscreen per day at the resort. I also packed 2 lotion sunscreens, as I prefer to use this on my face. These lasted the week, and I had a bit leftover.</div><div><br /></div><div>Another fun aspect of the resort was Club Med's suggested themes. Each night there was a suggested dress code. It was entirely optional and we didn't follow it to a T each night, but my husband and I had fun dressing up for dinner each night as this wasn't something we did often over the last year. My favorite night was the white party. A white midi sundress paired with a deep tan and wedges is my favorite summer look. </div><div><br /></div><div>My husband had stayed at another Club Med property a few years ago, but this was my first Club Med experience. We had so much fun and have been raving about the experience to everyone who's asked about our trip for the last few months. We'll definitely be back to stay at another Club Med property in the future, and we may even return to Turkoise! </div><div><br /></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Products I Loved During My Trip:
</b><center style="font-style: italic;"><div data-sc-widget-id="P-61e997f788f6692232f7b6fe"></div><script async="" src="//widgets.shopstyle.com/shopstyle-widget-snippet.js"></script></center>
</div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-18603311624639084762022-02-16T09:51:00.007-05:002022-02-20T19:59:16.497-05:00Attending the ONE/SIZE Beauty Blur Balm Launch & Meeting Patrick Starrr<div>Valentine's Day was special for a lot of reasons this year. It was my first Valentine's Day married. Despite our crazy schedules my husband and I made a weekend of it. We spent Saturday afternoon in Brooklyn, we explored Greenpoint, visited a plant shop, and tried a delicious Mexican restaurant. </div><div><br /></div><div>A few days prior to Valentine's Day I received an invitation to the ONE/SIZE launch, which was their first in-person event. It was a surprise launch event and I was so excited in anticipation of what Patrick Starrr would release next. I had followed <a href="https://www.instagram.com/patrickstarrr/" target="_blank">Patrick Starrr on Instagram</a> for quite some time, and his looks are always amazing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVMMuyJPolK2Tnx8FLeeKK3eRx62o8GnwCGPRaVYfMooZsgvVPM5J40C06UZ0TAnQ8w2rFZH5CUonOzO8BN6yDMSlJIC4w-WWwoeEyuoQL7-_ZJF-7DtXnko3wc01wdP1bI_Al8v0Wy5BomFZ7bG_6qvLZQ4y1_Y8nHhGDtWoYBu3kMynVxE2wbEM3sQ=s2060" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2060" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVMMuyJPolK2Tnx8FLeeKK3eRx62o8GnwCGPRaVYfMooZsgvVPM5J40C06UZ0TAnQ8w2rFZH5CUonOzO8BN6yDMSlJIC4w-WWwoeEyuoQL7-_ZJF-7DtXnko3wc01wdP1bI_Al8v0Wy5BomFZ7bG_6qvLZQ4y1_Y8nHhGDtWoYBu3kMynVxE2wbEM3sQ=w622-h640" width="622" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>If you arent familiar with Patrick Starrr, he is a professional makeup artist that got his start on YouTube. His line ONE/SIZE beauty is an inclusive brand made for everyone. His line focuses on individuality, inclusiveness, and freedom of expression. The line is both vegan and cruelty-free. </div><div><br /></div><div>The event took place at the <a href="https://www.museumofsex.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Museum of Sex</a> which is located on 5th Avenue in Manhattan, NY. Both the PR/event staff and the museum staff were so kind and the event was incredibly fun. </div><div><br /></div><div>After my vaccine card was checked, I was directed up the stairs where I was greeted by the models and guided to sit in a press room. The press room was filled with other bloggers, influencers, and journalists. The walls surrounding the room had the campaign video projected on it, which feature's Patrick's brother Paul. Paul is showcasing his Colorguard skills and the video is also a bit of a nod to Patrick Starrr's own history. Patrick was in his high school's marching band. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTeaasfKwyqti9bBjqn5qRsKmCpUopgr42XTDbolwy1hvm8AXIz5_KSfiAejBArtPXtPgG136OY3x3iXmhl8Z2nLqgG9KcKUrADl-kMxRCwTvJYxt2_PK9GWtfySWYDx0l2nH4_tmhT5SZIYWOiBDMLJc_5QhnuBgCmGJ3V5UDqDkhrqLi1NVAIcq64A=s2856" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="2856" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTeaasfKwyqti9bBjqn5qRsKmCpUopgr42XTDbolwy1hvm8AXIz5_KSfiAejBArtPXtPgG136OY3x3iXmhl8Z2nLqgG9KcKUrADl-kMxRCwTvJYxt2_PK9GWtfySWYDx0l2nH4_tmhT5SZIYWOiBDMLJc_5QhnuBgCmGJ3V5UDqDkhrqLi1NVAIcq64A=w640-h448" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>When Patrick walked in the room you could feel the excitement in the air, not only was the press excited for his announcement but his parents and best friend (since high school) were there to support him. </div><div><br /></div><div>Below is a snippet of Patrick's introduction. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxJ7RslwYxLrM8A7-YUDuzzKit-k2oD4nHN7KIg9Jbkui0lJ_M4SRy4ULX2w5SmoaY8bvDCKMIJBRpzYpF_iA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>After Patrick spoke to us a bit about the brand it was time to unveil his newest product, the Turn Up the Base Beauty Blur Balm. The BBB is available on the <a href="https://www.onesizebeauty.com" target="_blank">ONE/SIZE site</a>, as well as <a href="https://www.sephora.com/product/turn-up-base-beauty-blur-balm-foundation-P478536?skuId=2548121&icid2=products%20grid:p478536:product" target="_blank">Sephora</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Product Specs:</div><div><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p></div><blockquote><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A TRIPLE THREAT AGAINST TEXTURE:</span></p>
<b style="font-family: inherit;">B</b><span style="font-family: inherit;">lurs Texture</span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit;">B</b><span style="font-family: inherit;">alances Oil</span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit;">B</b><span style="font-family: inherit;">oosts Hydration</span><br />
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BLUR:</span></p>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">White Rose Stem Cells: Derived from the Japanese white rose known for resiliency, they help instantly improve the appearance of skin tone and control oil over time </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Skin-Like Treated Pigments: Lightweight skin-mimicking technology helps instantly blur and feels like your skin </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Avocado & Mango Hydra-blend: Helps boost hydration for smooth skin texture</span><br />
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">BUILD YOUR BLUR</span></p>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Light-Medium Coverage/Texture </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">→</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Use Fingers </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Medium Coverage/Texture </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">→</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Use Brush </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Medium To Full Coverage/Texture </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">→</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Use Beauty Sponge</span></blockquote><div>After the unveiling, the press was directed down a mirrored hallway to meet Patrick himself, and play some games. It was unreal meeting Patrick in person and he was so so kind! After we snapped a pic I walked into the first game room and tried my luck at a few games. I wasn't successful but I still had so much fun chatting and competing with other guests.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgMdSQp4SHuLdZczkqM3XWQNK1rnS8oYXeGtErdFn8aldHcjuWzmre7FlWgOdUpkCnUgpySBerJO5udGNKRa5aLKWLT0FdYQzbtZgvBo4zKk6i1f8JOAKipJpQDsDmJ1IdQp0w9t-AyXrwY1KNEBikuX2o-9xAJWOY33B3fpU0Y4yms4DFRsLgZUO8Wpw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgMdSQp4SHuLdZczkqM3XWQNK1rnS8oYXeGtErdFn8aldHcjuWzmre7FlWgOdUpkCnUgpySBerJO5udGNKRa5aLKWLT0FdYQzbtZgvBo4zKk6i1f8JOAKipJpQDsDmJ1IdQp0w9t-AyXrwY1KNEBikuX2o-9xAJWOY33B3fpU0Y4yms4DFRsLgZUO8Wpw=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><p>Before I left the creative team got me color-matched and sent me home with a BBB of my own! </p><div>Once I got home I redid my makeup with the Beauty Blur Balm. It was much needed after masking up for a majority of the day. I'm planning to write a 'first impressions' post next, so stay tuned for my thoughts on the BBB. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once I was ready to go, my husband and I went out to dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants which is always the perfect date night treat. Their Valentines Day cocktails were incredible. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'd love to hear about your Valentine's Day in the comments, and which product reviews you would like to see from O/S! </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBur7l6jsSX_mzWeQ8pAVypfg-NbOtNdh9QIXxQKN1rLT23yf5VroWhWVZLNX_nbHkYNjNh3uS6OrOwsmccEiL25bEP9Muqu_nKSaRLWlV9nF0FOm36O0Kc7Sx0_mS77CB3xAwXAfsOvk0_AhIdYP7xdBh4n7HDQd6-sidps_o4rlmRXo9wCQgNuXbLA=s1260" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="986" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBur7l6jsSX_mzWeQ8pAVypfg-NbOtNdh9QIXxQKN1rLT23yf5VroWhWVZLNX_nbHkYNjNh3uS6OrOwsmccEiL25bEP9Muqu_nKSaRLWlV9nF0FOm36O0Kc7Sx0_mS77CB3xAwXAfsOvk0_AhIdYP7xdBh4n7HDQd6-sidps_o4rlmRXo9wCQgNuXbLA=w313-h400" width="313" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scan within TikTok to see a mini vlog of the day</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-54186774303618538002022-01-19T15:12:00.004-05:002022-02-16T11:58:26.730-05:00Combatting Dry Winter Skin with Ida Body Care<div>This winter I noticed a huge difference in my skin. I really struggled at the start of the season to find something that would soothe my dry and dehydrated skin. No matter what body lotion or oil I used post-shower I still felt like my skin was dry. I even tried upping my electrolyte intake, and nothing seemed to help. My skin looked healthy but was incredibly itchy and overall very uncomfortable. Gone are the days of using any body wash I come across. I now need to be more intentional about the products I am using on my body. </div><div><br /></div><div>When <a href="https://idabodycare.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ida Body Care</a>'s PR team reached out to me, I was inspired by not only their product but the story behind it. Vicki Weaver Payne founded Ida Body Care in honor of her mother, Ida. On top of being a heck of a woman, traveling the world, and working on airplanes during WWII; Ida formulated her own body lotion from natural ingredients and essential oils. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAMZlXVXp4v6prKymX3QQrALBEJcxI9Bo6FJ0fbDZngtBPJDercAYcBALm8nv9LuZyQB10ViDKCPS9coRscLlfMPVpF1QibuSM6AL7qupYtv8J0kL7NeFWYNY4qwxctHx5Yasl2Wb-sSt5nyC0rjUOqUtrGeWsrdDiLhQOXYqrQK2Xlg-WfbiuF3omOg=s3024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAMZlXVXp4v6prKymX3QQrALBEJcxI9Bo6FJ0fbDZngtBPJDercAYcBALm8nv9LuZyQB10ViDKCPS9coRscLlfMPVpF1QibuSM6AL7qupYtv8J0kL7NeFWYNY4qwxctHx5Yasl2Wb-sSt5nyC0rjUOqUtrGeWsrdDiLhQOXYqrQK2Xlg-WfbiuF3omOg=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>The Ida Body Care team kindly sent me <a href="https://idabodycare.com/collections/the-four-steps/products/the-four-steps-4oz" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The 4 Steps 4oz</a> kit, which I have been testing out over the last four weeks. The 4 step kit comes with a dry brush, body wash, body scrub, and body lotion. </div><div><br /></div><div>Below is the routine I've been following, as suggested on the Ida Body Care site. <span><a name='more'></a></span></div><div><h4><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Dry Brush </li></ul></h4><ol style="text-align: left;"><ul><li>I've been dry brushing for quite some time, but I really love the shape of this dry brush. It's easy to use, is made from plant material, and helps to exfoliate and aid in the circulation of the blood. </li><li>If you've never dry brushed before. I like to start at my feet and make long strokes towards the heart. Vicki also has a great tutorial which I've embedded below. (Sidenote: Her skin looks amazing, I need to know her full routine!) </li></ul></ol><h4><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Body Wash</li></ul></h4><ol style="text-align: left;"><ul><li>This body wash is filled with amazing oils, 13 to be exact. Its creamy formula is perfect post-dry brushing and the smell is divine. The citrus verbena scent is the perfect pick me up.</li></ul></ol><h4><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Sugar Scrub</li></ul></h4><ol style="text-align: left;"><ul><li>This is hands-down my favorite body scrub I've tried to date. The natural sugars are gentle, and the anti-aging oils feel incredibly luxurious on my skin. I love using this scrub prior to shaving to ensure a smooth and nick-free shave.</li></ul></ol><h4><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Body Lotion</li></ul></h4><ol style="text-align: left;"><ul><li>Admittedly, body lotion is something I tend to be a bit lazy with, but I didn't want the self-care to end when using this line. This is the perfect end to my routine. Once I've towel dried, I'll apply generously and then pop on my bathrobe. I always feel so relaxed after using these products.</li></ul></ol></div><div>Ida Body Care is made in the USA, cruelty free, and vegan. Thank you again to the Ida Body Care Team for letting me give this line a try and for soothing my skin this winter.</div><div><br />
<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gF7aR8dkZ80" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></center> </div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-13978189575596351882021-12-25T12:18:00.005-05:002022-02-16T11:59:16.097-05:00Clean Vitamin C- Serum | MyCHELLE Dermaceuticals Review <div>As I've been delving more into the clean beauty space, and learning what works for me, what actives I should be looking for, and what 'unclean' ingredients may be necessary... I realized I desperately needed a vitamin c serum in my routine. I had used one years ago and saw awesome changes in the overall tone of my skin, and at 26 I think it's about time I add this staple product to my routine once again. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQPBR9iRkRpw9riKCk3SugQsbFAxSrIyH7XmHAAL9aECuKyxfzXhYeOJzgbVnuo3_Wj7MtwrBIJJRFo_vQUDV5PJg6W4ExFJ7euhHa_aGliU8Ez6kd1UkPyaj_2AiAkNlYPc75n-rIiWJWjuBk3oiQOy1-36vMdUODhaS9W_rm7d-yk3qFQxPRRRyfSQ=s3024" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQPBR9iRkRpw9riKCk3SugQsbFAxSrIyH7XmHAAL9aECuKyxfzXhYeOJzgbVnuo3_Wj7MtwrBIJJRFo_vQUDV5PJg6W4ExFJ7euhHa_aGliU8Ez6kd1UkPyaj_2AiAkNlYPc75n-rIiWJWjuBk3oiQOy1-36vMdUODhaS9W_rm7d-yk3qFQxPRRRyfSQ=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>MyCHELLE Dermaceuticals kindly gifted me their <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://nyl.as/t1/245/dda6obl3x9n4up3jq6pssh85i/1/ed2330581c5168b1418a9a4c480e15a53fd09fb66050a0971b83b87f42f8e06a&source=gmail&ust=1640536780505000&usg=AOvVaw2SClfFP8jyf3_g0r7wTMvZ" href="https://nyl.as/t1/245/dda6obl3x9n4up3jq6pssh85i/1/ed2330581c5168b1418a9a4c480e15a53fd09fb66050a0971b83b87f42f8e06a" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Perfect C PRO Serum</a><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"> to test out, and spoiler--- I could not be more thrilled with this product. Historically I haven't always gotten along with Vitamin C products. I found that my skin was sensitive to many, or the formula just didn't work well for me. So my experience with the Perfect C Pro Serum was a welcome surprise.</span></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">The Perfect C Pro Serum is formulated with the highest, active level of stable 25% Vitamin C L-Ascorbic Acid to address the improvement of skin texture and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. The serum also contains powerful plant C-Stem and CoQ10 to help revive stressed skin while helping to create a luminous complexion. </span></div><div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I've been applying one pump to damp skin every morning after cleansing. If layering serums, you should plan to use Perfect Câ„¢ PRO Serum first and then follow with your moisturizer of choice.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">MyCHELLE products are made without parabens, petroleum, phthalates, silicones, sulfates, ureas, artificial fragrances, and artificial colors. They are Dermatologist and allergy tested, as well as certified cruelty-free. </span></div></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I've been using this product steadily for about a month, and have seen dark spots on my cheeks drastically lighten. The formula is gentle and hasn't irritated my skin like other vitamin c serums have in the past. A little serum goes a long way, and the serum has played nicely with other products in my routine. If you're in need of a serum to assist in brightening dark spots and improving the tone of your skin, I would highly reccomend MyCHELLE<div data-sc-widget-id="P-61c750e51cc9ed1df02d1829"></div><script async src="//widgets.shopstyle.com/shopstyle-widget-snippet.js"></script> </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><i><div><i>Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit.</i></div></i><center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-51062246051058035852021-08-12T10:14:00.007-04:002021-12-25T12:27:11.964-05:00Summer Favorites<div>With travel starting up again this summer I knew I wanted to write about some of my favorite fun cruelty-free summer beauty items while also keeping health and safety in mind where possible. I've been testing out a range of new products over the last few weeks. Here are my faves! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgids3MvdqTrHVPiu9EaUmNgEYfeAZshqJVtQoyBkhymQhcWIhXxth0IAKL0JV5dMsj_EfU_nrzfUOFSxPY8XcFRHoUqM81SL_N46OsO6wHcf-XBQNhDNaiYbJv24U82EHCEG9ckJc0hQBl/s4032/IMG_5278.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgids3MvdqTrHVPiu9EaUmNgEYfeAZshqJVtQoyBkhymQhcWIhXxth0IAKL0JV5dMsj_EfU_nrzfUOFSxPY8XcFRHoUqM81SL_N46OsO6wHcf-XBQNhDNaiYbJv24U82EHCEG9ckJc0hQBl/w480-h640/IMG_5278.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://chapter20care.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chapter 20 Anti Microbial Skin Cleanser</a></div><div><br /></div><div>This stuff without a doubt will be coming with me wherever I go this summer and fall. The antimicrobial skin cleanser is an alcohol-free sanitizer that instead uses hypochlorous acid which removes bacteria and creates a barrier that helps defend against regrowth. I love using this over SPF or makeup to ensure my skin stays fresh-feeling when I'm out and about in the city, or hiking in the park. Since it's alcohol-free, it's nondrying and helps my skin feel fresh without that stripped feeling. Chapter 20 is hypoallergenic and is FDA approved for use on minor skin cuts and burns. It's truly an awesome multi-use product. </div><div><br /></div><div>I do want to point out that C20's cruelty-free status has not been added to their website yet, their team confirmed the site is still being developed in some areas, so I'll update this once that has officially been added. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.luxiebeauty.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Luxie Makeup Brushes</a></div><div><br /></div><div>I am a huge proponent of having a separate set of makeup brushes for travel. It just makes life so much easier to always have a spare clean set that is ready to go. Luxie kindly sent me their pro complexion and flawless blending sets in rose gold. These are hands down the softest cruelty-free (synthetic) brushes I have ever owned. They apply flawlessly and will look gorgeous on your vanity table.</div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.mioskincare.com/mio-golden-hour-body-moisturiser-200ml/12093397.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mio Golden Hour Body Lotion </a></div><div><br /></div><div>Throw on your favorite black sundress, jute wedges, and golden hour body moisturizer and you'll be ready for date night, or happy hour with the girls. This stuff really makes my skin glow, and I love the way it looks over my tattoos. I'm a bit obsessed with the shimmery glow this amazing lotion leaves. It also smells heavenly! The orange blossom scent is 100% natural, vegan, and of course cruelty-free. This is a must-have for summer vacation or weekends away.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxYvrBz3pWxZPB40525imDg-Lj8I8Y7LNGCKwqwkqpmNxKiN0mc9sBTcbr68OCClMeenBhoXhiEQ4qvVEsPQQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div><a href="https://dossier.co" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dossier</a></div><div><br /></div><div>I fell in love with a few Replica (Maison Margiela) scents on my last trip to Sephora, but unfortunately, Replica is not a cruelty-free brand so I walked out empty-handed. I came across Dossier when I was looking for an alternative. I ended up going with the dupe of 'Beach Walk' which is an aquatic coconut scent. I absolutely love this fragrance, it's not overly sweet and has beautiful notes of coconut and a touch of lemon. I love that you can search for your fave brand, or the notes you prefer and find a vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free dupe. I didn't love the first scent I tried, and I was able to send it back no questions asked. They also donate all returned bottles to women's shelters through a program called Give Back Box.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'd love to hear about some of your summer faves! Leave me a comment below. :)
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</div><i><div><i><br /></i></div> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-91287949998363793772021-07-16T14:29:00.004-04:002021-12-25T12:27:21.285-05:00Looking Back at My Pre-Wedding Holy Grail Products<div>I had so many plans to share parts of my wedding planning journey (including skincare) along the way, but the last few months have flown by. It's been chaotic to say the least with covid restrictions changing, vaccines rolling out, celebrating my future sister-in-law and her marriage, as well as our car being stolen (NYC life, am I right? no? 😅). </div><div>Now that things have calmed down a little and we officially tied the knot I wanted to share some of my favorite products that I've tried over the last few months. I have been a sucker for IG ads, so I'm sure a few of these will be familiar!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RedJ7ARCNPGOUDp-IoadwJHZ9U6ERIlDkiSsRcsopFBS1_HVPlOXNOvtPOIB9Xj1mzXqMiZ3ROOqZFuVFApu3ocdr1BPQEQddK0Nqs1iJMAOjg6yil_MIfCIIeycn2vgKVsm_C1GJl9B/s4552/june-44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4552" data-original-width="3039" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RedJ7ARCNPGOUDp-IoadwJHZ9U6ERIlDkiSsRcsopFBS1_HVPlOXNOvtPOIB9Xj1mzXqMiZ3ROOqZFuVFApu3ocdr1BPQEQddK0Nqs1iJMAOjg6yil_MIfCIIeycn2vgKVsm_C1GJl9B/w428-h640/june-44.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.mylaughland.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Laugh Land / GlowUp Teeth Whitening Kit </a></div><div>I purchased my first kit Laughland when they were still under the name 'GlowUp' and at first I was a little apprehensive. I had seen this product all over instagram, and I wasn't totally sold that all of the great reviews could be true. Whitening strips don’t seem to work well for me, and I was concerned a gel would cause sensitivity. I loved that there was a quick quiz to gauge your own personal sensitivity level, and you aren't held to the same formula month over month. If the formula is too weak or strong for you, you can change it in the future. You can buy a single kit, but with the wedding I decided to go for a subscription package (which can be cancelled or paused as needed). This kit was so easy to use, simply squeeze half a vial of gel into the whitening tray, plug the tray into your phone to turn on the LED light and set a timer for 5-10 minutes. I did 10 my first treatment, and then 5 minutes there after. I was blown away by not only how easy this was to use, but how quickly I saw results. I would definitely recommend this product especially if you have a big event coming up! </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bwnnH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum </a>+ <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bwnoD" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Ordinary Peeling Solution </a></div><div>A friend of mine recommending trying the glass skin refining serum after I had mentioned wanting to reduce the appearance of my pores. Coupled with the peeling solution, this is a game changer. I've had large pores since middle school and these products have done wonders to make my pores appear clearer and tighter. I use the peeling solution 1-2x a week, and the glass skin serum daily. My makeup goes on so much smoother, and I'm no longer self conscious of my t-zone. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://glnk.io/yp21/acrueltyfreeme" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rose Skin Co IPL</a> (Get 15% off with this link)</div><div>I love my IPL! This handy little device has made shaving less of a hassle, I've seen a reduction in hair growth and density with the help of this product. If you missed my full review, check it out <a href="https://www.acrueltyfreeme.com/2021/04/getting-smooth-legs-for-summer-rose.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bwnpn" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cricut Explore Air 2</a></div><div>This little machine has been super handy with wedding planning and beyond. I've made banners for birthdays, greeting cards, table numbers and signage for my wedding, bridesmaids gifts... you name it, I can probably make it with my Cricut. I've had so much fun using this machine over quarantine, and creating new things. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://refer.minted.com/Patti497" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Minted</a></div><div>I ordered both my save the dates, and invitations through Minted. Like many online stationary stores they allow the option to import your guest list and addresses. It was a huge time saver to have all of my postcards and envelopes pre addressed. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.theknot.com" target="_blank">The Knot</a></div><div>I hosted my wedding site through The Knot, and found the site super helpful in finding vendors, providing accommodation information and covid updates to my guests. I also used the online RSVP tool, and it was a lifesaver. I can't imaging manually having to sort though paper RSVPs. I love that you can build your registry through any site with the toolbar widget, I was able to add items from sites that don't normally have a registry option. </div><i><div><i><br /></i></div><div><br /></div> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-18398052378244702092021-04-03T12:46:00.002-04:002022-02-20T20:00:10.385-05:00Getting Smooth Legs for Summer| Rose Skin Co IPL Review <div>While I love having smooth skin, the actual act of shaving can sometimes seem like a hassle. Shaving has become a chore I'd rather not complete nowadays, so when <a href="https://glnk.io/yp21/acrueltyfreeme" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rose Skin Co </a>sent me their <a href="https://glnk.io/yp21/acrueltyfreeme" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IPL laser hair removal handset</a> I was super interested in the prospect of having to shave less, or eventually not at all. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've never used a laser system before, and I was a little apprehensive. Would it hurt? Would it impact the texture of my skin? Is it safe? </div><div><br /></div><div>Laser hair removal helps to reduce hair growth by killing the hair follicle, it takes multiple treatments in active growth stages to see results. While at home devices are less intense than professional treatments they are also safe for home use. Of course you want to ensure you're following the instructions correctly. For more on the pros and cons of at home laser hair removal, check out <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/the-pros-and-cons-of-at-home-laser-hair-removal/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this article</a> from the Cleveland Health Clinic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoKGn25LoStzeuFSoa3hhd1ZPwknCsGpNU-MJX33XLQCod-YzEhpngXKwpRqt7Vxip1RTk4KEdM_K9Ieh7bf2OgMjVy2o0BryzQAIRH58wEGbvSKxNzf9kTTCTtvc73Qovyvdg0M0efef/s3024/IMG_4662.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoKGn25LoStzeuFSoa3hhd1ZPwknCsGpNU-MJX33XLQCod-YzEhpngXKwpRqt7Vxip1RTk4KEdM_K9Ieh7bf2OgMjVy2o0BryzQAIRH58wEGbvSKxNzf9kTTCTtvc73Qovyvdg0M0efef/w640-h640/IMG_4662.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>I've been using the <a href="https://glnk.io/yp21/acrueltyfreeme" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rose Skin Co. IPL device </a>on and off for the last few months, and have been testing out different routines to see how my results varied. The following is my current routine, and what I found worked best for me. </div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Dry Brushing </h3><div>The first step in my routine is to dry brush. Before showering, I brush my body from the tops of my feet to my shoulders in an upward motion towards my heart. This practice is said to be great for lymphatic drainage, but I've found it's one of the most effective ways to exfoliate. I particularly like this method of exfoliating as it doesn't leave any excess oils or serum on my skin. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Shower</h3><div>After dry brushing I hop in the shower for my normal routine. While showering, I shave my legs. When using an IPL you want to shave, not pluck or epilate, so that the root of your hair is still in the follicle. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">IPL</h3><div>After showering I make sure my skin is completely dry before using my IPL. When you start out, you want to use the lowest setting, and work your way up. I prefer to use my IPL on pulse mode, picking the device up in between flashes. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Moisturize</h3><div>I moisturize immediately after using my IPL, I prefer something lightweight and sprayable if possible. Lately I have been using <a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_7311552910.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Flamingo's Light Hydrating Spray</a>, which scored decently on <a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_7311552910.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CosDNAs ingredient analyzer</a>. Fragrance is the main reason why it's not 100% clean. This product absorbs quickly, and I feel the squalane makes a huge difference in keeping my skin moisturized. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm a few weeks into my IPL treatment, but I'm starting to see a difference in my legs. My hair growth is finer, and I can go a bit longer between shaving. Following the routine above my skin is super smooth and soft. I feel like I'm ready for the beach this summer. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you have tried or are interested in trying IPL, I'd love to chat in the comments and hear your thought! </div><i><div><i><br /></i></div> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-65378384007026715392021-02-28T20:56:00.001-05:002021-02-28T21:07:05.206-05:00City Girl Skincare| 4 | Mascne and Dry Skin<div>I think we're about due for a new 'City Girl Skincare' post. Today's holy grail product is coming from the beautiful city of Miami. </div><div><br /></div><div>As you know many of my CGS posts focus on congestion and environmental stressors such as pollution. Today's post isn't different in that sense, but I am so happy to have finally found an amazing moisturizer that fits into this routine. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUXlkEawWAZ_gA9EY-lZKShk9HTOdFCeVcX2dNb7BAJTO4KEXzy-1J5A59h5yV3OIwTb9TITFgDtNFbRMd57YjLAzo-VnCEg1UMSSB9ne8znqGCR8-S5HJfFA89uTY8EFcodCAioxGxFw/s4032/Image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUXlkEawWAZ_gA9EY-lZKShk9HTOdFCeVcX2dNb7BAJTO4KEXzy-1J5A59h5yV3OIwTb9TITFgDtNFbRMd57YjLAzo-VnCEg1UMSSB9ne8znqGCR8-S5HJfFA89uTY8EFcodCAioxGxFw/w480-h640/Image.png" title="<a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1722076&u=2261252&m=100259&urllink=&afftrack=769256">Get $10 off with code Patti10</a>" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Get $10 off with 'Patti10'</td></tr></tbody></table><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>I've struggled with congested pores in my t-zone since I was a teen, and while it's gotten a lot better I've always been a bit self conscious of my skin in that area. Moving to the city seemed to make it worse, It could be the pollution, or just general aging but my t-zone has been in need of some TLC for a bit, I just haven't found the right product. That is until I tried <a href="https://shrsl.com/2tjqa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Miami Beach Bum's Facial in a Jar</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Upon starting my trial of <a href="https://shrsl.com/2tjqa" target="_blank">Facial in a Jar</a>, I carefully extracted the areas that needed the most love, following with a scrub, <a href="https://www.acrueltyfreeme.com/2019/04/city-girl-skincare-series-2.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a clay mask</a>, and finally Facial in a Jar. I typically follow this process when testing new products, as I want to give the product the chance to thrive. (Note: I would recommend going to a professional for any extractions as it's very easy to damage your skin.) I feel the clay mask helps draw out blemishes that may be just under the surface and ready to make an appearance. </div><div><br /></div><div>Within the first week I was starting to see a glow that I hadn't seen in months, and the dry skin around my forehead and on my cheeks was pretty much gone. Two weeks in I could tell that the pores around my nose were appearing to be a bit smaller. </div><div><br /></div><div>On the third week I went to my local spa. This is something I had been planning for quite awhile. I wanted to treat myself after a really stressful few months, and also begin a routine before the wedding. I haven't gotten a facial in years, so this was a real treat. The esthetician asked me what my current routine is; a gentle cleanser, Isa Lazo Toner, Sunday Riley's UFO Serum, <a href="https://shrsl.com/2tjqa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facial in a Jar</a>, and SPF in the morning, with the addition of a chemical exfoliant and facial oil occasionally at night. She seemed impressed with my core routine and mentioned that the mascne I had was healing super nicely. Which I think is largely due to this product.</div><div><br /></div><div>Getting professionally extracted was something I was bit wary of. As a teen I went for facials every few months when I was going through my cystic acne phase, and those extractions were painful. Understandably so, cystic acne tends to be very deep, and in areas that are difficult to squeeze. Remembering that made me a bit nervous for my facial. This was the easiest facial I ever had, and I truly think it's thanks to Facial in a Jar. While I still had a bit of congestion and a few blackheads going into my treatment, this was the least amount of extractions I had ever endured. </div><div><br /></div><div>Following my facial, I'm continuing to use <a href="https://shrsl.com/2tjqa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facial in a Jar </a>and am seeing continued results. My pores are staying clear, and my skin feels balanced and nourished. The key ingredients are really amazing, and were actually recommended by my esthetician, particularly Vitamin A. This moisturizer is packed with Aloe and Squalane which help to plump your skin while also fortifying your skins natural moisture barrier. Facial in a Jar also contains Algae to help detoxify your skin, making it a key ingredient for those who struggle with congestion. And to help reverse the damage the city and sun have done to my skin, green tea and blueberry provide antioxidants to protect from aging, irritation, and UV damage. </div><div><br /></div><div>As you may know I am also transitioning to a more clean beauty routine. Clean beauty is new to me, and I am still learning about ingredients and what to stay away. I am using apps like Think Dirty, and sites like Cos DNA. When uploading these ingredients to Cos DNA, I found that <a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_85c7551329.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facial in a Jar scored very well</a>. Sites like these are helpful to determine clean ingredients, especially if you have conditions such as acne, eczema or rosacea-- to help determine what ingredients will work with or against your skin. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you're a city girl like myself, struggle with congested skin, or just need a great moisturizer to round out your routine I would highly recommend Miami Beach Bum's Facial in a Jar. <b>Use code <u>Patti10</u> for $10 off your Miami Beach Bum purchase.</b> </div><div><br /></div><div>Be on the lookout for an updated skincare routine post in the coming weeks, I would love to show you how I'm prepping to have 'wedding ready' skin, using a few of my holy grail 'City Girl Skincare' products, as well as a few new clean products! </div><div><br /></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972814.384961135082357 -109.1622228 67.040589464917645 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-51190513348052175912021-02-25T08:34:00.001-05:002021-05-14T07:20:17.421-04:00Bohemian Interiors & Wardrobe | Buddha Pants Review<div>It's 7am and there is a beautiful mourning dove cooing on my fire escape. Little things like these remind me of summer in my childhood backyard back on Long Island. Their calls remind me that spring is coming, along with change and warm weather. Mourning doves are symbolic of peace, love, and faith. There's something relaxing, familiar and safe about their calls.</div><div><br /></div><div>Quarantine has been a period of growth and self reflection, I'd imagine a lot of people are in the same boat as we've all had a bit more time with ourselves. </div><div><br /></div><div>Lately I've been thinking I want to reinvent myself a bit. Nothing drastic, but I've thought a lot about consumerism and generally the things that make me happy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KN31nq0R4t_cGTSldt1wpCHrtsFbGz65vWNWjeTNYZwfNp-cKKvsiBZSAWdc8_pNPRLhHfiaINOY08jakm3YctRfac7zW6xq12NE4FGSTaUY7Cbb5r_MIoz8GNEQCMFzaLLb1PpkAOnX/s4032/IMG_4557.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KN31nq0R4t_cGTSldt1wpCHrtsFbGz65vWNWjeTNYZwfNp-cKKvsiBZSAWdc8_pNPRLhHfiaINOY08jakm3YctRfac7zW6xq12NE4FGSTaUY7Cbb5r_MIoz8GNEQCMFzaLLb1PpkAOnX/w480-h640/IMG_4557.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><div>If you've been reading the last few months you'll know my focus hasn't been entirely on my blog. It's been on wedding planning, trying to be a more conscious consumer, and on transitioning my routine to something more environmentally and health conscious (re: eventually transitioning fully to clean beauty). It's been on myself and my immediate surroundings and finding what brings me joy in this time.</div><div><br /></div><div>Interior design has been one of my areas of focus. While my bedroom isn't quite where I want it to be yet, it's getting there and it makes me so happy to retire to this room at night, or curl up and read a book here in the afternoon. My style is leaning super boho lately, and I've opted to change my white duvet (the backdrop to a lot of my flat-lays) to something more earthy, a rust tone. I've incorporated more baskets, natural fibers, plants, and I've even purchased a few more crystals. Eventually I'll move this style into other rooms of my apartment, my bathroom is one I've been trying to incorporate more natural and relaxing elements into. </div><div><br /></div><div>My goal over the last year was to make my space a sanctuary. A place to relax when the city and current events felt overwhelming. My love for bohemian interiors has spilled over into my personal style. I've been opting for more flowy outfits, less constricting fits, and a lot less black. I've been going for small businesses when possible, and also trying to find ones that use sustainable packaging and fabrics. </div><div><br /></div><div>When <a href="https://www.buddhapants.com/?rfsn=5721126.696bbd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Buddha Pants</a> reached out to me about trying out one of their styles I was super excited to give them a try. They reminded me of pants that I wore in my late teens, and I missed that mix of eclectic style and comfort. Buddha Pants claim to be the most comfortable pants you'll ever own, and I wholeheartedly agree. I have been living in mine. They're amazing for work from home days and running errands around town. I feel like they can be dressed up or down, and are an amazing step up from my usual WFH uniform (sweatpants 😜). </div><div><br /></div><div>I opted for the <a href="https://www.buddhapants.com/products/miami-harem-pants-by-buddha-pants?variant=31801321816107" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Miami Harem Pant in Macchiato</a>. They're the perfect fit for a bohemian vibe in the concrete jungle. I'm not kidding when I say I may buy these in every color. Not only are they insanely comfy, but it also folds into it's own pocket which makes them super packable and travel friendly. I can see these being my go to this summer at the beach. I've been pairing them with doc martens, or slip on sneakers now, and think they will be super cute with Birkenstocks once the warmer weather hits. </div><div>I got my usual size, a medium, and they are a perfect fit. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipteONnTxqJ9w1gNwv-j-qXltzwUmK7Hy204XVk2_Cg5vnOOc0OslkXq25n96IR6WwklqK9cDgZWZcm_N94KaAeM8bZD8Ji6IXjzFiJWcN_W0OJ0LK-Sgxzb0S8bWXRjpQdHibrDTDpJcV/s4032/IMG_4556.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipteONnTxqJ9w1gNwv-j-qXltzwUmK7Hy204XVk2_Cg5vnOOc0OslkXq25n96IR6WwklqK9cDgZWZcm_N94KaAeM8bZD8Ji6IXjzFiJWcN_W0OJ0LK-Sgxzb0S8bWXRjpQdHibrDTDpJcV/w480-h640/IMG_4556.PNG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>The Buddha Pants Team also surprised me with a ton of <a href="https://www.buddhapants.com/collections/cloth-face-masks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cloth masks</a>. In an effort to be eco-conscious I have only been using re-usable masks this past year. With the exception of the start of the pandemic when they weren't widely stocked. I especially love these masks because they come with a cute little pouch to store them in when they're not in use. I think that's a great idea so you can stow extras in your bag, your coat pocket, and your car without risking your keys, phone or anything else that may be a bit germy touching your clean mask. You can also purchase the pouches separately, just look for the <a href="https://www.buddhapants.com/collections/satchels-by-buddha-pants" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kira Satchel </a>on their site. These masks come in some really cute patterns, and also include a pocket to add your own filter. I personally prefer the around the ear style, but they also come in a style that loops around your head. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you Buddha Pants for gifting me these joggers and masks! This small, eco-friendly business is one that I will definitely be keeping my eye on for future purchases as I build out my bohemian style wardrobe. The floral harem jumpsuit is calling my name. They also sell a sarong with pockets which will be a must for this summer. </div><div><br /></div><div>Keep an eye out for more boho related content in the coming months, and let me know if there is specific are you'd like me to focus on. I would love to hear about what you've been gravitating towards recently in the comments below. Let's chat! </div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Updated 5/14/21:</b></i> Use code ACRUELTYFREEME10 for 10% on the <a href="https://www.buddhapants.com/?rfsn=5721126.696bbd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Buddha Pants </a>site. </div><i><div><i><br /></i></div> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-71497671024264186542021-01-10T13:37:00.007-05:002021-01-10T13:43:41.418-05:00Must Haves for the New Year| Beauty & Wedding Planning Favorites<div>It's been a long while since I've posted a favorites. With the pandemic, my beauty buying and searching have slowed down quite a bit. I'm about 6 months out from my wedding at this stage, so of course I am going hard on my skincare routine. The following products are some of my favorites that I have been enjoying these past few months, and a few recent finds that I'll be using in the months to come. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePaMfoeQMOt1kCXpHLOTI4lufCFQaIMu3f1Aw47bbmEqDlD26yExQytk86g3393kBrc76ficPNY3c-cy4ElksJq3udazfVUwjgEGdLlYeglCaptHWSISPNnhSie_R-j_ljINXXXDtPRpa/s3024/IMG_4392.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePaMfoeQMOt1kCXpHLOTI4lufCFQaIMu3f1Aw47bbmEqDlD26yExQytk86g3393kBrc76ficPNY3c-cy4ElksJq3udazfVUwjgEGdLlYeglCaptHWSISPNnhSie_R-j_ljINXXXDtPRpa/w640-h640/IMG_4392.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><span><a name='more'></a></span><h2 style="text-align: left;">Skincare & Beauty</h2></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqmFQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sunday Riley UFO Ultra Clarifying Face Oil</a></h3><div>I have been a huge fan of this product every since I first tried it 2 years ago, I've always struggled with congestion in my t-zone, and it tends to make my pores look larger than they are. This product is amazing for combatting congestion and black heads. I find that it has really helped me keep mask-ne at bay as well. It's a dry oil so it quickly sinks into the skin and is perfect to layer under other products. The salicylic acid and tea tree oil are key ingredients that I've always seen great results from. I use this twice a day, once in the morning under my moisturizer, and at night under my facial oil.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqmFS" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Supergoop City Sunscreen Serum SPF 30</a></h3><div>This is my favorite moisturizer of the moment, its great for layering under makeup and feels lightweight on my skin. Last year I began incorporating an SPF into my skincare routine, as it's so important to prevent signs of early aging, and of course protect my skin from the sun's rays. This product is also listed as a 'clean at Sephora' item, which is awesome as I am trying to transition to more clean beauty products. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://lightslacquer.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">
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font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;"> View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0px;"></div> <div style="align-items: center; display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px;"><div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-bottom-left-radius: 50%; border-bottom-right-radius: 50%; border-radius: 50%; border-top-left-radius: 50%; border-top-right-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12.5px; margin-left: 2px; margin-right: 14px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-bottom-left-radius: 50%; border-bottom-right-radius: 50%; border-radius: 50%; border-top-left-radius: 50%; border-top-right-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px); width: 12.5px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-bottom-left-radius: 50%; border-bottom-right-radius: 50%; border-radius: 50%; border-top-left-radius: 50%; border-top-right-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style="border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 2px; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; border-left-color: rgb(244, 244, 244); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 6px; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 2px; border-top: 2px solid transparent; height: 0px; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg); width: 0px;"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 8px; border-right: 8px solid transparent; border-top-color: rgb(244, 244, 244); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 8px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; transform: translateY(16px); width: 0px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; transform: translateY(-4px); width: 16px;"></div> <div style="border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 8px; border-left: 8px solid transparent; border-top-color: rgb(244, 244, 244); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 8px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; height: 0px; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px); width: 0px;"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-bottom-left-radius: 4px; border-bottom-right-radius: 4px; border-radius: 4px; border-top-left-radius: 4px; border-top-right-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-bottom-left-radius: 4px; border-bottom-right-radius: 4px; border-radius: 4px; border-top-left-radius: 4px; border-top-right-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CJ371MOHmT9/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Patti | ACrueltyFreeMe (@acrueltyfreeme)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></center><a href="https://lightslacquer.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lights Lacquer Nail Polish</a></h3><div>This has been my holy grail nail polish for the last two years. They have an amazing range of shades, they're cruelty free, 7-free, vegan and of course the brand is owned by Kathleen Lights who's YouTube channel I adore. I'm currently eyeing their site, as I am super undecided on what color I want my nails to be for my wedding. A shimmery neutral? A light blue? So many possibilities! </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.lavanila.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lavanila</a></h3><div>Back in October I posted about <a href="https://www.acrueltyfreeme.com/2020/10/is-my-search-for-perfect-natural.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">my first time using Lavanila's deodorant and fragrance</a>. I am still using the exact same bottle of both, and have plenty to go. I love the scent of these products, their clean ingredients, and how long the scent lasts. This brand will continue to be a staple in my collection. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">Books & Stationary </h2><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href=" https://shopstyle.it/l/bqmHY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Martha Stewart Weddings</a></h3><div>I recently purchased this beautiful book on Amazon. It's filled with great ideas to really help you find your style for stationary, dresses, veils, decor, anything and everything you'll need to think about when it comes to planning a wedding is in here. Its a great investment that I plan to share amongst my other engaged friends. It will also make a gorgeous coffee table book when all is said and done. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=995504&u=2261252&m=71368&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Erin Condren Life Planner </a></h3><div>I've been using the EC Wedding Planner for the last few months, and I recommend it to every bride to be I meet. The checklists have really helped to keep me on track, and understand what needs to be taken care of and within what time frame. </div><div><br /></div><div>I recently was sent the 2021 horizontal layout planner, and I love it! It's been awhile since I've used a general life planner. I bought one every year when I was in school, but kind of fell out of the habit of using one once I entered the working world, as I am very much a list person and tend to make and remake/reprioritize them as the day goes on. I have been using the horizontal layout to layout my meal plan so far. I purchased the Perfect Bodies DNA meal/workout plan after seeing numerous ads on IG. The book is an e-book (I'm still waiting on my hard copy to arrive), so I refer to my iPad for the meals and layout my choices in my planner. It makes the experience a bit easier, and with my busy schedule it's nice to have one page to refer to for the day rather than having to flip though the e-book multiple times a day. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">Home & Lifestyle </h2><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://url866.onequince.com/ls/click?upn=0FibBr3YPKeYTjlxN8heGwfp3RFVqUsy4XItSIPGnhsU6IHBHquRPbCMd6TvekcQQCvZq97O8z9kaq9mYfvlSsVSyKliYa9nqoTIZgXi8m66vaNrbV2UMiUcIkb3HyDqRn3FHezT-2Fp-2B3sEdF0KVtdQ-3D-3D6z3N_wiT7QltLbjyoZyg6XUXBBg1pcRsLuHqQNvyZyQvbjf3e4jc4m0RHNxcoD-2B7bT1tVSefBtv8lq-2Fe0zV02AupHES-2Foxv0wlgSNN8xBkuvJF2n1wCjYC-2FzanJiVk6RnAuW0H3ybqudWTonfF-2FhXFW2NJ6US4fv2aGSVmPYcjEYsLeW7O8v8YRqaKozQDqR1K4zdVMSsT-2FxEbzL4GHTWZakfACAerc7ClmaTK-2BKs5u3IGNcXJrHgq08NedFlr780ikpu8m9U-2FCCJF0ynpx6vKHe9wB6Xra3GkJG7-2BsOlFAMHNTSxiWpP-2BO7ifzX1k6PODcovi3w7UD7aLcZMKBTnhVVa7JHMeoSSyYWW-2FFr9MOglxsCYe-2BgcOST1s-2BlRKr4hd2zbN8YZ02KoL3jvaFIfarT-2FhXpNyJd3ljL80oJuR4rVyQgSRnk24kApbpHzd26hfhrijPWTRRzoZHn7XLn0X2T19B44qJUZ-2BFdbYyb913W1YF0-3D" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Quince Bathrobe</a></h3><div>I <a href="https://www.acrueltyfreeme.com/2020/11/2020-holiday-gift-guide.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">posted about the brand Quince just before the holidays</a>, and how much I loved their cashmere loungewear. For Christmas my fiancé gifted me their bathrobe and it is now a staple in my routine. For my other NYC apartment dwellers out there, you need this! No more excuses about being cold after a shower due to the inconsistent heating in my pre-war building, I can bundle myself up in this soft, comfy robe and complete my skincare routine, dry my hair... I am now unstoppable.</div><div><br /></div><div>Leave me a comment below, I'd love to hear what your current must haves are and chat. Wishing you a happy and healthy 2021. </div><div><br /></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-81906308072817447142020-12-31T09:50:00.002-05:002021-01-04T13:10:37.904-05:00Saying Goodbye to 2020<div>2020 has posed hurdles and setbacks for everyone this year. The pandemic, wildfires, passing of influential people such as RBG, Chadwick Boseman, and Kobe Bryant, as well as Brianna Taylor, George Floyd and countless innocent Black lives-- this year has left all of us exhausted and ready for change. With a few days left in the year we're finally seeing a bit of hope, as the COVID-19 vaccine is being administered to healthcare workers and those who are considered high risk. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's been hard for me to post about more personal things this year, as I feel that I have been very blessed and privileged. So many people around the world have had it much worse. I'm happy to have my physical health, my body (while not in the shape it was pre-pandemic) has carried me through these hard times and that's something to be thankful for. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29mOso8GXQWtK-vpHXH4aEqZD2h1dHqNFGmzCbhg6pbikKEbKrDwCp5v3mSFjPHSjkpGjrAFbLvonGUvrtLW-qJj1qeCdsZlLY-aJeEKg8OjcWw4natCzdV6_eSoqXJb4MRK7rCwUfapp/s800/2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+20202020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29mOso8GXQWtK-vpHXH4aEqZD2h1dHqNFGmzCbhg6pbikKEbKrDwCp5v3mSFjPHSjkpGjrAFbLvonGUvrtLW-qJj1qeCdsZlLY-aJeEKg8OjcWw4natCzdV6_eSoqXJb4MRK7rCwUfapp/w640-h640/2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+20202020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020+2020.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span><div>If I'm honest, despite my life being relatively good my stress and anxiety have been pretty close to their all time highs. Planning a wedding admist the pandemic comes with it's own set of stresses, and I haven't been getting the rest or sleep I need due to the current state of my career. While I like what I do <i>hustle culture</i> has me burnt out. I'm recognizing that because of set backs earlier in my career I am pushing myself harder than ever and striving to be the very best I can. Thankfully that has set me up for success from a growth perspective, however the additional hours and effort I'm putting in to my job have been rough on my physical and mental health.<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’m so tired of hustle culture. I’m not on earth to work myself to death for money. And I won’t be shamed into feeling otherwise. There’s more to life than multiple streams of income</p>— stegan the mallion (@jojobaoilhoney) <a href="https://twitter.com/jojobaoilhoney/status/1343984093697089536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center></div><div><br /></div><div>In past years, especially during college, I posted a bit more about myself and my life. I felt that these posts were relatable to other young people reading my blog. It's gotten harder to share as I've gotten older, I'm still finding my 'adult' voice, while remaining authentic in what I write. I wasn't sure I wanted to post a 'wrap up' this year, but I watched <a href="https://youtu.be/EyByycJxNNg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Suzie Bonaldi</a> and <a href="https://youtu.be/tgCiZ8nhkgo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alexa Losey's</a> recent videos and felt that I owed that honesty to my readers. I want to post about things that are real. While I love beauty and skincare, not breaking those posts up feels fake in many ways. I feel as if I am not presenting my authentic self. </div><div><br /></div><div>I had huge plans for my blog this year, I wanted to keep to a more frequent schedule, post a pre-wedding skincare routine, break into other niches and begin posting more about wellness and my personal exercise routine. Unfortunately none of those things happened, I found myself being ashamed to post pictures of my body online, even though I got an awesome opportunity to work with a swimwear brand! I fell out of my wellness and physical fitness habits as access to my office (and office gym) were understandably restricted. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've also had a love hate relationship with blogging, and social media this year, as my work schedule has encroced onto my personal time. As a blogger, your Instagram ads are constantly flooded with masterclasses and workshops on how to monetize and grow, and while that's great, and I would love to do that, I also want to continue to enjoy writing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Instead of dwelling on the negative I've been working on expressing gratitude for the blessings I have in my life. I have been using a gratitude journal (<a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bqi5c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">52 Weeks of Gratitude by Ink & Willow</a>) to help me focus on the good in my life and I think it has really helped to refresh the lense through which I see the world. I encourage you to get a gratitude journal, or list 5 things you're thankful for at the end of each week. It's really helped me shift my mindset.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm hoping 2021 will be a fresh start in many ways. I'll be getting married in June, we're starting to plan for next steps like purchasing our first home, I'm hoping to set more boundaries with my career, and get back into health and wellness routines again. Thank you for sticking with me on my journey so far, and I hope you'll stay tuned for these next steps as we move into 2021. </div><div><blockquote>xx, Patti </blockquote></div><div><i>Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit.</i></div><center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-26115104357138858352020-12-21T09:01:00.003-05:002020-12-21T09:04:15.591-05:002020 Holiday Gift Guide Pt2 (+ a few last minute finds)<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I always struggle with gifts for Dad, my uncles, my (soon to be) father in law, and this year even my fiance. I typically go with something classic, but with a twist. For the last few years that has meant customized belts, watches in every color, gift cards to favorite restaurants, and of course the occasional tech gift. This year I found something that brings classic style and tech together. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN37DVN4L2fvpF0L3rCOiGXpAbyd-kZO-tnFg9c_rmS4TAihq2xoPPVHEh1uqtSaWmEHt68z6lymfkn9Lpy4j4A1KEEJaD6A2CM_k_v7q7uhhQTkSA_Mb1EG7fdCbJr67Ztex9DfoXsQX5/s800/2020+Holiday+Gift+Guide.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN37DVN4L2fvpF0L3rCOiGXpAbyd-kZO-tnFg9c_rmS4TAihq2xoPPVHEh1uqtSaWmEHt68z6lymfkn9Lpy4j4A1KEEJaD6A2CM_k_v7q7uhhQTkSA_Mb1EG7fdCbJr67Ztex9DfoXsQX5/w640-h640/2020+Holiday+Gift+Guide.gif" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://ekster.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ekster Wallet</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The Ekster Wallet is something that caught my fiance's eye over a year ago, with its signature pop up method of displaying your cards. I of course love it because it's one less item I'll need to help search for prior to Sunday brunch. The Ekster wallet has a solar-powered tracker, made by Chipolo, that makes tracking your wallet easy. You can even ping your phone using the tracker, in case you have one and not the other lol. It's so easy to set up it, took me about 4 minutes to get the app up and running on my fiance's phone. There are various styles to choose from, so you're sure to find a style that perfectly suits everyone on your list. The wallet is also RFID blocking which is a feature I always look for since living in the city. My fiance is going to be so excited that this is under the tree this year. </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7Jy2t8DvI3WGLT_nPXigz4EDYg0a_XtQpVVVDaJr-GKOmQaEIjobqxORSPzzwdImBotfvehWtK349YhYxGFWfkiL2cwXDh6V8Yg8dQ8RPiSydcXqzOvXt4brzAsgJm64zxJ-ksDM8wZ7/s1067/ezgif.com-video-to-gif.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7Jy2t8DvI3WGLT_nPXigz4EDYg0a_XtQpVVVDaJr-GKOmQaEIjobqxORSPzzwdImBotfvehWtK349YhYxGFWfkiL2cwXDh6V8Yg8dQ8RPiSydcXqzOvXt4brzAsgJm64zxJ-ksDM8wZ7/w360-h640/ezgif.com-video-to-gif.gif" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://ekster.com/products/parliament?variant=30112041402431" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Parliament Wallet</a> in Classic Brown</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>Lush Cosmetics Shampoo Bars </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I love Lush's shampoo bars, they're something I always come back to. They're eco-friendly, amazing for travel, have a variety of unisex scents, and last seemingly forever. I have been switching between <a href="https://www.lushusa.com/hair/shampoo-bars/jumping-juniper/9999900554.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jumping Juniper</a><a href="https://www.lushusa.com/hair/shampoo-bars/jumping-juniper/9999900554.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> </a> and <a href="https://www.lushusa.com/hair/shampoo-bars/seanik/9999902164.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Seanik</a>. Seanik is awesome for those seeking soft volume, and shine. Jumping Juniper is also great for those seeking shiny locks, but is especially effective on oily hair/scalps. These are a staple in my routine and something I'd definitely recommend for anyone who wants to take care of their hair, or is looking to be more sustainable. They're also super easy to travel with, you can just pop one in a travel <a href="https://www.lushusa.com/discover/naked/round-tin/9999922016.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tin</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPqR09X975sonJlU3_QEZXeLkaHYn6GJOsbZrk9ZHMMMsuQV5cT1l1KbI1RrapuHUv3Fk2sEvrRXO6rgozcnysfTQSdeGgJSKvMEJJvzsHQSRZhTrjHEN3sWm_Ymw4fqIe76_oZG0frhC/s3024/IMG_4330.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPqR09X975sonJlU3_QEZXeLkaHYn6GJOsbZrk9ZHMMMsuQV5cT1l1KbI1RrapuHUv3Fk2sEvrRXO6rgozcnysfTQSdeGgJSKvMEJJvzsHQSRZhTrjHEN3sWm_Ymw4fqIe76_oZG0frhC/w640-h640/IMG_4330.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><div>If you haven't read part one, <a href="https://www.acrueltyfreeme.com/2020/11/2020-holiday-gift-guide.html" target="_blank">give it a read</a>! Wishing you a happy holiday! </div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-50657843913401548452020-11-15T13:38:00.005-05:002021-08-05T19:52:29.443-04:002020 Holiday Gift Guide<div>This is by far my favorite post to write each year, I have so much fun testing out samples, and finding amazing products as I start my own holiday shopping. I just love sharing these great products with you and I'm hoping this list inspires you to treat yourself and the special people in your life. The following products are a compilation of both PR samples and a few bits that I've purchased on my own within the last few months. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxqdAFalvfnploBTjnKewsxAqYfcyOSWSgChdS6QyQh-0mjw5CjEKKXnKSiv_QT1ADyBVfAv1jpLKpqPsmFm9QLBcWzO3WzojJuY3ZKHGKxSz7oaLV6G7kYl2HHrweGJ2YHZmwcOBz6ao/s800/2020+Holiday+Gift+Guide.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxqdAFalvfnploBTjnKewsxAqYfcyOSWSgChdS6QyQh-0mjw5CjEKKXnKSiv_QT1ADyBVfAv1jpLKpqPsmFm9QLBcWzO3WzojJuY3ZKHGKxSz7oaLV6G7kYl2HHrweGJ2YHZmwcOBz6ao/w640-h640/2020+Holiday+Gift+Guide.gif" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.lushusa.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lush </a>Cookie Dough Lip Scrub </div><div>Starting off with an oldie but a goodie! Every fall as the weather starts to change in NY I purchase a new lip scrub from Lush Cosmetics. This year I treated my chapped lips to the <a href="https://www.lushusa.com/face/lip-scrubs-and-balms/cookie-dough/9999909716.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cookie dough</a> flavor. It has a lovely vanilla, almond, and cocoa scent that is sure to make you feel warm and cozy. With constant mask-wearing, I've been keeping my lip products to a minimum but this is an amazing treat just before bed. I like to follow with a lip mask so my lips feel soft and hydrated when I wake up the next morning. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHx50OJu85xpVFA4AzzgTThJnMB2vUpdY6-D4qeQNgUkBkY1EOD7P3oyidpNLFRlvK-BkIl-sf869kFacN8wIucQBLcfXPlXj7VoP2ILjMwrliK4XpjpoKEqUK_tTjdlVKLBN8KffU4nS/s3024/IMG_4194.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHx50OJu85xpVFA4AzzgTThJnMB2vUpdY6-D4qeQNgUkBkY1EOD7P3oyidpNLFRlvK-BkIl-sf869kFacN8wIucQBLcfXPlXj7VoP2ILjMwrliK4XpjpoKEqUK_tTjdlVKLBN8KffU4nS/w640-h640/IMG_4194.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://isalazo.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Isa Lazo Skincare</a></div><div>This is an amazing set to treat your mom or best friend to. Isa Lazo's line of products is not only cruelty-free but extremely gentle and kind to your skin. The toner and facial oil can be purchased as a <a href="https://isalazo.com/shop/face/gift-set" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">gift set with their body collection</a>, or separately. I received mine in separate packages, and they were beautifully boxed and placed in velvet pouches. A real treat to unwrap. Their <a href="https://isalazo.com/shop/face/facial-toner" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">toner</a> is a beautiful blend of witch hazel and rose water. Their <a href="https://isalazo.com/shop/face/facial-oil" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">facial oil</a> contains rosa damascena an ingredient that is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and aids tissue regeneration all while hydrating your skin. The ingredients in both of these wonderful products really speak for themselves, as someone who suffered from mascne earlier in the pandemic, I've found these products to be gentle yet effective, I tend to see a bit of rosacea pop up in the colder months and I have yet to see it appear this season. A little goes a long way with these products, and I love how light the oil feels on my face. I love to layer it under my SPF moisturizer during the day and use it as the last step in my routine at night. If you're looking to really treat someone you love this holiday season, Isa Lazo is a beautiful option. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTb7bFBZEMPwI03-0oOYZIuWlD_yG-YM1qVZiiHiT77QLLZWXctRSRQu-xjSm1q0M-7qLQQkSmiKZ-5G6A1Iyi0JOaXnGrVxn9O1i_f1UlPKoKExy0zvieNEsPRPKEtQrUYe94ygmXYmr/s3024/IMG_4192.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTb7bFBZEMPwI03-0oOYZIuWlD_yG-YM1qVZiiHiT77QLLZWXctRSRQu-xjSm1q0M-7qLQQkSmiKZ-5G6A1Iyi0JOaXnGrVxn9O1i_f1UlPKoKExy0zvieNEsPRPKEtQrUYe94ygmXYmr/w640-h640/IMG_4192.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://cbdliving.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CBD Living</a> Tincture & Massage Oil</div><div>With all that is going on in the world, and life I have been trying to find new, effective, and healthy ways to combat stress. While I've always loved CBD skincare products, I held off for quite a while when it came to supplements. I tried a tincture for the first time a few months back and found it incredibly beneficial in times of high stress. Tinctures have allowed me to relax, take a breath, and soften the amount of stress I'm feeling. I recently tried the <a href="https://cbdliving.com/collections/cbd-oil-tinctures/products/flavored-cbd-tincture?variant=32662586753121" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pumpkin Spice Latte Tincture</a> from CBD Living and loved it. The flavor is anything but boring it has a vanilla-like taste, with a hint of holiday spice. You can take it directly (placing a dropper full under the tongue), or you can add to a beverage. I occasionally add this to my coffee. The formula is GMO-free, THC-free (making it non-psychogenic), and the CBD is sourced from state-licensed farms within the US. </div><div>I also tried out the <a href="https://cbdliving.com/products/cbd-living-massage-oil?_pos=1&_sid=6c98503fd&_ss=r" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">massage oil,</a> this is wonderful post-hike or workout to help soothe tired muscles, or just to hydrate your skin. It's non-greasy, and unscented so great for layering under other products, or if you have sensitivities to fragrance. </div><div><span>These make the perfect stocking stuffer for a partner or anyone who you want to treat to some relaxation.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjcabHR1u0t8M4OEccAdugt07LmGRdQaVabQ-yaMTUT3IXMXxrMoudejWVUWMDzDkhtTaS56GJk_5kOi3ZlMHCvRJUsrprAfaLAiWalVuQCt5Dx3sg_eK2YVDB9GJV50QqNFi3S8vhSMU/s3024/IMG_4193.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjcabHR1u0t8M4OEccAdugt07LmGRdQaVabQ-yaMTUT3IXMXxrMoudejWVUWMDzDkhtTaS56GJk_5kOi3ZlMHCvRJUsrprAfaLAiWalVuQCt5Dx3sg_eK2YVDB9GJV50QqNFi3S8vhSMU/w640-h640/IMG_4193.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><div><a href="https://lydabeauty.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lyda Beauty</a> Cleopatra Cat Eye Stamp</div><div>I posted a quick story about these great little pens last week. I used to love doing cat eyes, it was my go-to look when I was 19. Once I graduated college and began working full time I started spending less time on makeup, and more time commuting, working out, working... just elsewhere. In the last few months, I've noticed when I try to do a winged look, it's not as easy to get them even. This eyeliner has been my saving grace. On one end of the pen, there is a triangle-shaped stamp to help you easily create your wing, and on the opposite end, there is a felt tip to create your line and connect your wing. It takes me about a minute and a half to do both eyes and then I am out the door. Such a fun product and great for beginners, or those of us that need a little help with our application. My favorite of the two is the <a href="https://lydabeauty.com/collections/shop-all/products/copy-of-the-sleek-h4-cleopatra-cat-eye-stamp-h4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'sleek'</a> style pen, but there is also a <a href="https://lydabeauty.com/collections/shop-all/products/copy-of-the-bold-h4-cleopatra-cat-eye-stamp-h4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'bold'</a> option for a more dramatic show-stopping look. Keep your eyes on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/acrueltyfreeme/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> in the next few weeks, as I'll be showing these pens off way more! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWnARNEPqdcAwOTpe7ncqcDQ7Q5odBtpO7GrldYNTCZQVcJ5Fz5irtgYJr5FQORKhnDEtsWIuUcYZnnrgMPBdlZZFlh_ATdrTynTvsAnYcR51tvHy2iKIQ9tW0Q5bvCseurG2IMhO5k5k/s3024/IMG_4195.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWnARNEPqdcAwOTpe7ncqcDQ7Q5odBtpO7GrldYNTCZQVcJ5Fz5irtgYJr5FQORKhnDEtsWIuUcYZnnrgMPBdlZZFlh_ATdrTynTvsAnYcR51tvHy2iKIQ9tW0Q5bvCseurG2IMhO5k5k/w640-h640/IMG_4195.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://us.espaskincare.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ESPA </a>Soy Candles</div><div>I'm still in the very early stages of learning about household toxins, but a major switch I've made lately is to soy candles. Not only are the slower to burn than typical paraffin wax candles, but they are cleaner burning and produce less soot. ESPA candles are made with a blend of soy, rapeseed, and beeswax. Their packaging is clean and minimal, it looks beautiful sitting on your nightstand or bathroom shelf. I have burned both the positivity (gardenia, jasmine, rose geranium, bergamot, and sweet orange) candle and the energizing (peppermint, eucalyptus, lime, and rosemary) candle, both are beautiful scents but I am drawn most to the energizing blend of scents. It has a beautiful spa-like quality and is just what I needed to create a cozy, relaxing, environment. </div><div><br /></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mDWpb0scq71VOZAUIqFka3rnovqDfZ08LtXifdsZf3WWojjdWNdVAx-QgrW_yhK18CD9Nlq0-ITurudN2IR_FW36nCofnTKXrJY0lPV3KMGSxfBxVuQREOMMi9rbSo9CetiJZO3hKDhy/s600/ezgif-3-6a44ca889068.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mDWpb0scq71VOZAUIqFka3rnovqDfZ08LtXifdsZf3WWojjdWNdVAx-QgrW_yhK18CD9Nlq0-ITurudN2IR_FW36nCofnTKXrJY0lPV3KMGSxfBxVuQREOMMi9rbSo9CetiJZO3hKDhy/w640-h640/ezgif-3-6a44ca889068.gif" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://url866.onequince.com/ls/click?upn=0FibBr3YPKeYTjlxN8heGwfp3RFVqUsy4XItSIPGnhsU6IHBHquRPbCMd6TvekcQQCvZq97O8z9kaq9mYfvlSsVSyKliYa9nqoTIZgXi8m66vaNrbV2UMiUcIkb3HyDqRn3FHezT-2Fp-2B3sEdF0KVtdQ-3D-3D6z3N_wiT7QltLbjyoZyg6XUXBBg1pcRsLuHqQNvyZyQvbjf3e4jc4m0RHNxcoD-2B7bT1tVSefBtv8lq-2Fe0zV02AupHES-2Foxv0wlgSNN8xBkuvJF2n1wCjYC-2FzanJiVk6RnAuW0H3ybqudWTonfF-2FhXFW2NJ6US4fv2aGSVmPYcjEYsLeW7O8v8YRqaKozQDqR1K4zdVMSsT-2FxEbzL4GHTWZakfACAerc7ClmaTK-2BKs5u3IGNcXJrHgq08NedFlr780ikpu8m9U-2FCCJF0ynpx6vKHe9wB6Xra3GkJG7-2BsOlFAMHNTSxiWpP-2BO7ifzX1k6PODcovi3w7UD7aLcZMKBTnhVVa7JHMeoSSyYWW-2FFr9MOglxsCYe-2BgcOST1s-2BlRKr4hd2zbN8YZ02KoL3jvaFIfarT-2FhXpNyJd3ljL80oJuR4rVyQgSRnk24kApbpHzd26hfhrijPWTRRzoZHn7XLn0X2T19B44qJUZ-2BFdbYyb913W1YF0-3D" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Quince Cashmere</a></span></div><div>Since I'm working from home this winter I really wanted a pair of cashmere sweatpants. Quince has really high-quality items without the premium price tag. I purchased the <a href="https://www.onequince.com/women/cashmere/mongolian-cashmere-sweatshirt?color=heather-grey&tracker=collection_cashmere__desktop__4_2&gender=women" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mongolian Shrunken Cashmere Sweatshirt</a>, along with the <a href="https://www.onequince.com/women/cashmere/mongolian-cashmere-sweatpants?color=black&tracker=collection_cashmere__desktop__4_7&gender=women" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">joggers</a>. I have been living in these, they are so comfortable and so far have washed super well. I will say the one negative to this outfit is that the jogger waistband tends to roll and it does take a bit of adjusting to get it to lay correctly again, but it's not a big enough issue for me especially when there are so many other things to love about the brand. </div><div>I love that they are transparent about their pricing, as well as their commitment to sustainability and responsible production. As I get older I am investing in brands that take interest in how their goods are produced, rather than just purchasing from fast fashion sites. If you're looking to do the same Quince is an amazing place to start. They also have smaller items like cashmere hats, leather goods, and even home products. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimsMO6WrZf_O5-HtIls7yQ4WcNux1uBKKkOml8E8IXSByaYmVmHjeRnHNv98U_KRsgf4obhtpD4VWyB0VFx9OKkxpL624GukWMykE8EFmfqiYM_X-yn8LBYzZYQ62rZrEv-cabN78I9BUX/s4032/Image+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimsMO6WrZf_O5-HtIls7yQ4WcNux1uBKKkOml8E8IXSByaYmVmHjeRnHNv98U_KRsgf4obhtpD4VWyB0VFx9OKkxpL624GukWMykE8EFmfqiYM_X-yn8LBYzZYQ62rZrEv-cabN78I9BUX/w480-h640/Image+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>I'd love to hear more about the items you're purchasing this holiday season, let me know in the comments what items are on your holiday shopping list! </div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.0059728-1.3523290907514323 -144.3184728 82.777879690751433 -3.693472799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-63281633220379018062020-11-05T08:30:00.273-05:002020-11-05T09:17:49.935-05:00The Erin Condren 2020 Holiday Collection<div>I think we can all agree that 2020 has been extremely challenging and we're all looking forward to a new year, a fresh start with unlimited opportunities. Through these challenges, we have become more resilient, and many of us have found new ways to create meaningful experiences with family and friends, even if it's mostly through our computer screens. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have acquired a heightened appreciation for organizing during this time, and have found myself clearing out, re-organizing, and planning for what lies ahead. While 2020 has had its hardships, we're looking forward to so much in 2021. </div><div><br /></div><div>As an Erin Condren affiliate, I was kindly gifted a few products from their new holiday collection. This collection is near and dear to my heart because there are so many new products/gift ideas that can help us unplug and create memories with our loved ones, and of course plan for where we want to go in 2021. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJh7tuoY0jMi4wgjjGoNuoDDIlh4ye-N6vVDxqQuAC7zctFXkZIt9dZaSBHu3LIAF4d71THjdfmMt5TWBlkhjIgsQvipZm8iNvrp6Euuy_syx3i6LI-xeJ6FxsxFeuS5aNhJtiZhnr0-6/s1080/Er.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJh7tuoY0jMi4wgjjGoNuoDDIlh4ye-N6vVDxqQuAC7zctFXkZIt9dZaSBHu3LIAF4d71THjdfmMt5TWBlkhjIgsQvipZm8iNvrp6Euuy_syx3i6LI-xeJ6FxsxFeuS5aNhJtiZhnr0-6/w640-h640/Er.gif" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Planning </b></h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=995504&u=2261252&m=71368&urllink=www%2Eerincondren%2Ecom%2Fmetallic%2Dparty%2Dlifeplanner&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'Metallic Party- Neutrals' LifePlanner</a></h4><div>EC planners have quickly become my favorite, not only are they cute, but they're incredibly sturdy. I love that the cover is heavy duty and if you want to switch up your look you aren't limited to the same cover year-round. My favorite part of the life planner layout is the monthly note/productivity page(January page pictured below). There are no titles on these pages aside from the month so you can use it however you wish! Personally, I think this will be super useful for blog post planning, and habit tracking. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFw_mi30W2j5wQJsA1XYmaqy0bzRuPIkVRA-qFTT9mEuYlp82mUEmjvtSBxCcEc20vIQ8N5ODvL-o9egjDT5kFbfFb_vgkDlfRKHF0iW_HHS_uuUsux_hhOboVmyQS_bgS8JKiArg9ggu-/s3024/IMG_4105.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFw_mi30W2j5wQJsA1XYmaqy0bzRuPIkVRA-qFTT9mEuYlp82mUEmjvtSBxCcEc20vIQ8N5ODvL-o9egjDT5kFbfFb_vgkDlfRKHF0iW_HHS_uuUsux_hhOboVmyQS_bgS8JKiArg9ggu-/w640-h640/IMG_4105.PNG" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://shrsl.com/2l90t" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'Layers' Interchangeable Covers </a></div><div>EC sent me the 'layers' design should I want to change the look of my planner after the holidays but I really love the 'New Year, Stronger You' message on the 'metallic party' cover. There is truly a cover to match every vibe, you can even personalize some designs with names, initials, or photographs. I added names and one of my favorite engagement photos to my <a href="https://www.acrueltyfreeme.com/2020/01/cruelty-free-wedding-content-and-where.html" target="_blank">wedding planner.</a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4wu8yZHF6F0PzWKN5Cpd_VNYzva2JtgwbP81dcAA6EVq3uI4XTO1R0xVd0ogbzbgIfZTwPyTzVQ16mjuwlVsLBf1SVvV4YLI8I2F_qsdEzbcT6niTHfF8EAYecKcgJF5zBpV7L-674vU/s3024/IMG_4108.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4wu8yZHF6F0PzWKN5Cpd_VNYzva2JtgwbP81dcAA6EVq3uI4XTO1R0xVd0ogbzbgIfZTwPyTzVQ16mjuwlVsLBf1SVvV4YLI8I2F_qsdEzbcT6niTHfF8EAYecKcgJF5zBpV7L-674vU/w640-h640/IMG_4108.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=995504&u=2261252&m=71368&urllink=www%2Eerincondren%2Ecom%2Fpage%2Dmarkers%2Dtabs&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'Create' Metal Bookmark </a></div><div>Every Erin Condren Planner comes with a pull-out ruler, that you can reposition along the coils to mark your place, but if you're looking to add some extra style to your planner EC has some really cute page markers! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-_y6LONPbJdHp-TOmvhAfYIDQejCPfMv18VysqeWy5x0Tdzs5vQJTO-htW6sVzkXWaFQsu_3IWZGQLhhe0El7BNWlNsoqrHVQXgIIGncZTXhw2ZcjhZ4Kw087h_2OeQRpM40EGtziq33/s3024/IMG_4109.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-_y6LONPbJdHp-TOmvhAfYIDQejCPfMv18VysqeWy5x0Tdzs5vQJTO-htW6sVzkXWaFQsu_3IWZGQLhhe0El7BNWlNsoqrHVQXgIIGncZTXhw2ZcjhZ4Kw087h_2OeQRpM40EGtziq33/w640-h640/IMG_4109.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=995504&u=2261252&m=71368&urllink=www%2Eerincondren%2Ecom%2Fhome%2Ddecor&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Honeycomb Decorations</a></h4><div>I love these! They're amazing for every occasion, and they're meant to be reused. They are packaged flat but have a hidden magnet to adhere to each side and fan the folds out. Since there isn't an adhesive inside, like I've seen on similar decor, you can unclasp the magnets and store for your next occasion. I'm hoping to get my hands on some neutral and red ones to have on hand for the holidays and Valentine's day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7tl4pFX7WrgTS9lJ_0KFL172GTLngJTef23TQOeKXhL62RYO7-pz1UFCM70mWpdT4k5i-uk0sZ3SuFU10Q-5bcuxtfLsN06lzlhVdZgw7xZE19BuUh9TxBlM_oIyDJcm5tgqF0czJ8R9/s3024/IMG_4104.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7tl4pFX7WrgTS9lJ_0KFL172GTLngJTef23TQOeKXhL62RYO7-pz1UFCM70mWpdT4k5i-uk0sZ3SuFU10Q-5bcuxtfLsN06lzlhVdZgw7xZE19BuUh9TxBlM_oIyDJcm5tgqF0czJ8R9/w640-h640/IMG_4104.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Tech</b> </h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://shrsl.com/2lled" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MidCentury Circles Airpod Case </a></h4><div>I love having a case on my AirPods, it makes them easy to spot in my bag or out in my apartment, plus I can easily hook them to my keys or bag as I'm running out the door. </div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=995504&u=2261252&m=71368&urllink=www%2Eerincondren%2Ecom%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dpop%2Bsocket&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dream, Plan, Do Enamel Pop Grip </a></h4><div>I adhered this to my work phone as soon as I opened the package. Having a pop socket on my phone makes it so easy to prop up on my desk, and I always have a good grip on my phone when I'm running off the train, or to a meeting. (Is it weird that I miss the office?) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6PL5SliPMyoa_4lnQxaIUcNgwkhGXEVQSGQXGG7zB5Qa3bedGSIWQNRjVoPq2NL3Emtf8maSJkP9cOEVd2YkYMzmZswI91CcH7XqLY0wvQEKm4rDImE58TJFrL9pmWangIjRPbdgaG6UX/s3024/IMG_4103.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6PL5SliPMyoa_4lnQxaIUcNgwkhGXEVQSGQXGG7zB5Qa3bedGSIWQNRjVoPq2NL3Emtf8maSJkP9cOEVd2YkYMzmZswI91CcH7XqLY0wvQEKm4rDImE58TJFrL9pmWangIjRPbdgaG6UX/w640-h640/IMG_4103.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Unplug & Connect with Those that Matter Most</b></h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shrsl.com/2llee" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'Layers' 500 Piece Puzzle</a></h4><div>My fiance and I have been having so much fun completing this puzzle together. It's currently laid out on our coffee table. This particular design is pretty challenging thanks to the repeating colors and pattern, but it makes for a fun activity that we wouldn't necessarily have thought of! Great for a rainy day, or just when you need to unplug and refocus your mind. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGniEeRyqRmI6IYUa_-Zx-jqbBKznvkDtVs9p-b4my62xQQMXnhVVqG_pHMdVcXppEA4t-Y3xQQqxkXHBavbTdNitU0J7xK2-j2pyaQYObYlUliG-c6Kzxhfvb3VeHCXx__5gN3Ik7afe/s3024/IMG_4107.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGniEeRyqRmI6IYUa_-Zx-jqbBKznvkDtVs9p-b4my62xQQMXnhVVqG_pHMdVcXppEA4t-Y3xQQqxkXHBavbTdNitU0J7xK2-j2pyaQYObYlUliG-c6Kzxhfvb3VeHCXx__5gN3Ik7afe/w640-h640/IMG_4107.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=995504&u=2261252&m=71368&urllink=www%2Eerincondren%2Ecom%2Fcolorful%2Dplaying%2Dcards&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'Colorful' Playing Cards</a></h4><div>We love to have a deck or two in the apartment for when friends come over, especially around the holidays. These cards are beautifully designed and make for the perfect stocking stuffer! Hoping to use these at a future girls night. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTsVN9VLb6fkGPIHffSo9L_8jxfEEnW7HN5Fmlid6XjooC-quUXfoqbSqKs8FUcr06Yk2v3gCVDQHYudU6hPFBcjR-MULu978Slj784-d4fv0mFEWC_nTWgrZknuuNvBa6CXJkqIhwYbc/s3024/IMG_4102.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTsVN9VLb6fkGPIHffSo9L_8jxfEEnW7HN5Fmlid6XjooC-quUXfoqbSqKs8FUcr06Yk2v3gCVDQHYudU6hPFBcjR-MULu978Slj784-d4fv0mFEWC_nTWgrZknuuNvBa6CXJkqIhwYbc/w640-h640/IMG_4102.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Essential Errands & Gifting</b></h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://shrsl.com/2llej" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Metallic Leather Crossbody Clutch </a></h4><div>Erin Condren had a beautiful line of accessories, and I was so happy to receive this gorgeous bag. It's multifunctional, with a removable strap, interior zippered pocket, and it also includes a few credit card slots. It's a great size to take to dinner for an outdoor dining date or throw over your shoulder when you head to the grocery store. I'm a pouch kinda girl, so I'm thinking of removing the strap and using inside my work bag to hold my tech essentials and corporate cards. The uses are endless and I love the mix of a neutral shade with metallic hues. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiav-ZT4mfx3MjKDqiNZN5KGHCpx5p4qMmg6G5kCydP634v41aHNtb6rrQF3N0PktnOP9OQA9ahoAJDhoICdVHKth56W2npFRKIj9rltTpFFKflyJ9J3q-NBP5NvSPxiVqTBToAg3Qd5v83/s3024/IMG_4106.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiav-ZT4mfx3MjKDqiNZN5KGHCpx5p4qMmg6G5kCydP634v41aHNtb6rrQF3N0PktnOP9OQA9ahoAJDhoICdVHKth56W2npFRKIj9rltTpFFKflyJ9J3q-NBP5NvSPxiVqTBToAg3Qd5v83/w640-h640/IMG_4106.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Holiday collection will be live on the <a href="https://shrsl.com/24oti" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Erin Condren website </a>today, November 5th. Check back here soon, I will have another gift guide coming your way shortly! </div><div><br /></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-86982925208883223122020-10-19T16:40:00.000-04:002021-02-28T21:07:15.581-05:00Is my search for the perfect natural deodorant over? <div>Anyone who has transitioned to a natural deodorant knows how difficult it can be to find <i>the one</i>. I've tried tons of brands over the years and I haven't really been able to stick to a brand or formula for too long... some caused rashes thanks to the abundance of baking soda, others stopped working after a few months, or were super messy to apply. Aluminum-based deodorants may have links to breast cancer and Alzheimers, and while the articles I've read have not been conclusive enough I have become increasingly aware of the ingredients in my beauty and personal health products, and have been slowly switching to non-toxic alternatives. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was excited when <a href="https://www.lavanila.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lavanila</a> reached out about testing a few of their products, they are a major name in cruelty-free personal care products and somehow I never got around to trying them, until now! </div><div><br /></div><div>Lavanila products are packed with organic, nutritious ingredients that are non-toxic and claim to be non-irritating even for sensitive skin types. Their products are free of parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, aluminum, and synthetic fragrances. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EZ3CgpHo2mZTT2BnbIdJvSHX1NjJTEAhnbkQ9lmJpx7Tq5TNybenjZTtgkuBe_CYjtNuhSHOGQ1sky_tiRwy6bJZdA1mbTyZJEyZIsm62QUlpQY6pZDBPBfeWeDobJ299tWu9UabxMp8/s3024/IMG_4048.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EZ3CgpHo2mZTT2BnbIdJvSHX1NjJTEAhnbkQ9lmJpx7Tq5TNybenjZTtgkuBe_CYjtNuhSHOGQ1sky_tiRwy6bJZdA1mbTyZJEyZIsm62QUlpQY6pZDBPBfeWeDobJ299tWu9UabxMp8/w640-h640/IMG_4048.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><br />The Healthy Detox Mask</h4><div>At the start of my swap to Lavanila products I used The Healthy Underarm Detox Mask, the mask contains charcoal and malic acid (from green apples) these ingredients help exfoliate, purify, and pull metal ions to the surface. I've never used an underarm mask before, but I found this product easy to apply. According to the <a href="https://www.lavanila.com/products/the-healthy-underarm-detox-mask" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">product page</a> even if you already use a natural deodorant you can use this mask weekly to help rid the area of pollutants. After using the mask my skin felt clean and nourished. </div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMUpGUG2o6m5LoDinrfw0m8D9pEW09U5EXtdHL0Ip1jvzBDMFxiD0Ezgk_MGPESmVvelfceKw6AC7H9agtZvb3Rn5uqElg1EwjWwGXIcMQx3_0utU50eZpenNwzE4qM96kPyQdVijwLSQ9/s3024/IMG_4050.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMUpGUG2o6m5LoDinrfw0m8D9pEW09U5EXtdHL0Ip1jvzBDMFxiD0Ezgk_MGPESmVvelfceKw6AC7H9agtZvb3Rn5uqElg1EwjWwGXIcMQx3_0utU50eZpenNwzE4qM96kPyQdVijwLSQ9/w640-h640/IMG_4050.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Pure Vanilla Deodorant</h4><div>This is the first Lavanila deodorant I've tried and I was not disappointed. I see why people rave about Lavanila! The scent is lovely, not too sweet, just clean, warm, natural Madagascar vanilla. It's also formulated without baking soda, which in the past has been an irritant for my skin. Because of this, the formula glides on. I began Couch to 5k the same week I started testing these products, and I've stayed fresh through all of my workouts thus far. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01Ha7IkYESE4io9bXzix49r32MTMluQsoRjY6M7VInAHDY-sT025mT7xrAODOUg20rgohHIVwHLsx2lkzXbkEpW1INZUdpIW7com36iZLHoRVN15Gv46ZiJ_guj5OIO_5Z-IdJq_9WeXO/s3024/IMG_4049.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01Ha7IkYESE4io9bXzix49r32MTMluQsoRjY6M7VInAHDY-sT025mT7xrAODOUg20rgohHIVwHLsx2lkzXbkEpW1INZUdpIW7com36iZLHoRVN15Gv46ZiJ_guj5OIO_5Z-IdJq_9WeXO/w640-h640/IMG_4049.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Vanilla Grapefruit Fragrance</h4><div>This is arguably my favorite product of the bunch. I have been searching for a cruelty-free fragrance pretty much since my cf journey began. They aren't easy to find, and the ones that I have tried weren't anything to write home about. The Lavanila team hit it out of the park with this one. The scent is classic, it's the perfect blend of fresh citrus, warm cedarwood, and vanilla. I can see this being a staple in my collection for years to come. </div><div><br /></div><div>From my past experience with natural deodorants, I've found that the performance can change over time. Having used these products for the last two and a half weeks I can confidently say these are working well for me. The scents are amazing, and I like having peace of mind that I am not applying any harmful chemicals to my skin. I have one more Lavanila deodorant scent in my 'need to test' pile that I plan to post about in a few weeks time. If you would like to see a review of the Probiotic Vanilla Eucalyptus deodorant, and or would like me to check back in a few weeks time for an update on the deodorant, leave me a comment below! </div><div><br /></div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Shop this post: </h4><center><div data-sc-widget-id="P-5f8decf0c09dd0103c3b57c4"></div><script async="" src="//widgets.shopstyle.com/shopstyle-widget-snippet.js"></script></center> </div><i><div><i><br /></i></div> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-11547219372739567232020-09-22T12:00:00.000-04:002020-09-22T12:00:48.858-04:00Curating my Space with Level Naturals<div>One of my projects during the pandemic was creating a more relaxing environment. Spending so much time at home has me analyzing my space, and getting a better feel for my style and the vibe I'm going for. While I am far from done with my redesign, my favorite part of what I've done so far is redecorating my bathroom and curating the products in that space. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are a few reasons for this, since I'm in my apartment more often than not these days, I wanted to create a space that is calming, a space that makes it easy to unwind. I also am curating my products these days. I've been staying away from buying things unnecessarily and paying more attention to ingredients in the things that I am purchasing and testing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Things have changed drastically these past few months and I am leading projects more often at work, and still actively planning my wedding (which fingers crossed will happen this summer). Selfcare and pampering are things that have fallen wayyyyy to the bottom of my to-do list. Updating my bathroom, and getting back into a routine was a must.</div><div><br /></div><div>The bathroom in my apartment is somewhat outdated and could use some sprucing up. Like most apartments, I'm kind of limited and can't impact every feature I would like to update. I began by swapping out the <a href="https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/dynan-open-storage-white-10318178/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">etagere</a> (the shelf over the toilet) to something white. Since the space is mostly white I wanted something that would blend in. The plumbing in my apartment makes it difficult to find a shelf that works in the space, and many shelving units won't fit thanks to the placement of the crossbar on the bottom. I opted for a white shower curtain with a geometric pattern that felt both minimal and bohemian at the same time. To bring in a bit of color, I purchased a <a href="https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/fejka-artificial-potted-plant-oregano-10375159/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">faux plant</a> from IKEA, and added an <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/788109791/raw-crystal-air-plant-mobiles-hanging?ref=shop_home_active_4&frs=1&crt=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">air plant</a> to my window area. </div><div><br /></div><div>Due to the open nature of the shelving, I downsized on a lot of the products I kept in my old etagere. I've reworked my storage so that anything that is used infrequently is tucked away, and my most used items are in plain sight, sometimes doubling as decor, adding a pop of color. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMYUFreOllV6EF4UakR7b8Xo58VBV7yracTv6VMGyTl0nL63FNp7urQEClagH9pa0pG45Zj7hBF8eLtzdp0f4uSX62qlYIGZBseTvNfqUxmniocoaauTtQD3a33Fmq6c64XaevGn56tV8J/s3024/IMG_3930.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMYUFreOllV6EF4UakR7b8Xo58VBV7yracTv6VMGyTl0nL63FNp7urQEClagH9pa0pG45Zj7hBF8eLtzdp0f4uSX62qlYIGZBseTvNfqUxmniocoaauTtQD3a33Fmq6c64XaevGn56tV8J/w640-h640/IMG_3930.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span><div>Now to get into the real reason you're here. What cruelty-free products are currently living in my bath? With all the stress and running around I've been doing lately I have been loving products with essential oils. I am a huge believer that the scent of lavender truly helps you wind down. I was thrilled when <a href="https://levelnaturals.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Level Naturals</a> sent me their lavender shower bomb along with some other amazing products. Level Naturals is PETA & Leaping Bunny certified, their line is also gluten-free and manufactured in Southern California with no synthetic fragrances or dyes. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://levelnaturals.com/collections/shower-bombs/products/organic-menthol-lavender-shower-bomb-4-pack" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Level Naturals Organic Menthol + Lavender Shower Bomb</a></div><div>I have been loving these little shower bombs. Our style of apartment doesn't have a true bathtub so I've been missing out on bath bombs. I love that I can still get the relaxing aromatherapy benefits in the shower. This is a great way to unwind after a long day or a hard workout. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://levelnaturals.com/collections/body-polish/products/grapefruit-bergamot-body-polish" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Level Naturals Grapefruit + Bergamont Shower Body Polish</a></div><div>This may be my favorite body polish that I've tried in the history of 'A Cruelty Free Me'. It's packed with shea butter, coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, jojoba oil, and fruit oil. It's perfect for exfoliating pre-shave, and the lovely blend of oils helps to keep my skin moisturized especially now that the colder fall temps are here. </div><div><br /></div><div>Level Naturals converts all of their leftover veggie oils to biofuel, so nothing goes to waste. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://levelnaturals.com/collections/frontpage/products/lemon-coconut" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Level Naturals Lemon + Coconut Bar Soap</a></div><div>I've been hanging on to summer with this scent. I absolutely love coconut scents and this coconut lemon combo is delicious smelling. If you're a morning shower person this is the perfect scent to help you wake up and get your day started. I've been using this bar for a few weeks now and as you can see in my latest (first ever--haha) reel it is really long-lasting! </div>
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font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0px 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CFcaiw-H9up/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Patti | ACrueltyFreeMe (@acrueltyfreeme)</a> on <time datetime="2020-09-22T15:33:16+00:00" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 22, 2020 at 8:33am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>
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<div><i>Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit.</i></div><center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-10481804700228523212020-08-16T12:13:00.002-04:002020-08-16T12:13:16.662-04:00What's in my Handbag| Summer 2020<div class="separator"><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><div>Summer 2020 has been interesting, to say the least, there have been so many new experiences; wedding planning, adjusting to social distancing guidelines, and face masks becoming the hot new accessory. </div><div><br /></div><div>While adjusting to this new way of life I've noticed that I have both added and removed things from my day bag. I thought it may be fun to show you what I've been toting around recently. </div><span><a name='more'></a></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxK8udk7frT3xcdaE7RO0RqfyoCxSIDBWslVSQ2vXm7WkUWaeCD2Jki2q5lN7Q9WFT64esTbuVjT7lRqQ61XWaX6wm_36sEstRw5cquj_yykcxS6zjDQrtd1nDZOfRwu3dL2ulrtFmf_Ux/s3024/Image+2.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxK8udk7frT3xcdaE7RO0RqfyoCxSIDBWslVSQ2vXm7WkUWaeCD2Jki2q5lN7Q9WFT64esTbuVjT7lRqQ61XWaX6wm_36sEstRw5cquj_yykcxS6zjDQrtd1nDZOfRwu3dL2ulrtFmf_Ux/w640-h640/Image+2.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The Bag </li><ul><li>My go-to bag this summer has been the <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/blDZ2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MZ Wallace Micro Sutton</a>. I have been loving MZ Wallace bags these past few months, I purchased two this winter that I found incredible for commuting nad travel. These bags are lightweight, durable, washable, and I think they're pretty cute! </li></ul><li>The Wallet </li><ul><li>My most used wallet is the <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/blDYj" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chanel Caviar Card Case</a>, I throw this in any bag I'm toting. I prefer card cases rather than bulky wallets. I find it easier to grab and go. </li></ul><li>The Essentials </li><ul><li><a href="https://oxygenwellness.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Oxygen Health & Wellness</a> Hand Sanitizer</li><ul><li>The Oxygen team was kind enough to send me a few bottles of their sanitizer last month. I created a station near my front door so I can always grab a few <a href="https://oxygenwellness.com/collections/frontpage/products/sachet-hand-sanitizer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">single-use sachets </a>or pop a <a href="https://oxygenwellness.com/collections/frontpage/products/hand-sanitizer-soothing-gel-pack-of-2-5oz-3-99-per-bottle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bottle</a> in my bag before I head out the door. </li><li>Oxygen hand sanitizers are cruelty-free, vegan, contains 70% alcohol (the CDC recommends 60% or higher), and made in the US. </li><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><li>Oxygen has donated 50,000 bottles to organizations in the state of Florida.</li></ul></ul></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2883" data-original-width="2883" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fwyDhk3GeyTFzstm53tLvBupl-CrVqV-5mRS0Xq5F9fNocE1Cvzc35pH34x-vx-mL1XHCjJnocbI14vox_5CTgLa6aXsuKWkqRtt1imhe8B3S1x7uVpPdiKgqtlKyJ87v87INehS0R1M/w640-h640/image.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></div></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><ul><li><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/blDYM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Winky Lux Rainbow Tinted Lip Balm </a></li><ul><li>I received this in my summer <a href="https://share.fabfitfun.com/x/NIeuVK" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FabFitFun</a> box, and it has been my favorite balm to throw on for an effortless, neutral look. While it hasn't been used as frequently as I would have liked this summer (re: face masks) it's been great to throw on for outdoor dining date nights.</li></ul><li>Face Mask</li><ul><li>I don't have a favorite to link just yet. I feel like it's been trial and error as the seasons change. For summer I'm loving silk/satin, or cotton masks. I've found these to be the most breathable, and they irritate my skin the least. </li></ul><li>bkr </li><ul><li>I love my <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/blDYX" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bkr bottle</a>. I typically carry the 500ml version wherever I go. </li></ul><li><a href="https://drinkhab.com/products/2-bottle-pack" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hab</a> </li><ul><li>Sometimes I need a little incentive to drink my water, so when the Hab team sent over a few samples I was intrigued to see how I would get along with these tiny tabs. </li><li>Hab's naturally flavored bits(tabs) are packaged in recyclable packaging and are an easy way to make your water more interesting. I typically add 3 to my water bottle to flavor to my liking. </li><li>I love that these also help to cut down on the account of single-use beverages I may be tempted to by while I'm out and about. </li><li>Hab currently comes in two flavors, clementine & lemon-lime. Both are tasty, but lemon-lime is my personal favorite. </li></ul></ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRmOeAtxbFeT0yHfazR_jfVThkC0i9IdURHRXnqOnD2YbMgFEeA4jMtL1kKFXcQQp0TezzvEcB4SboglhQAXCHJ65upl53dFl4mtXyvyC5ljgOk8sFtG3mUoEICtQjivgu2oN8Pt4Qky6u/s3024/IMG_3830.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRmOeAtxbFeT0yHfazR_jfVThkC0i9IdURHRXnqOnD2YbMgFEeA4jMtL1kKFXcQQp0TezzvEcB4SboglhQAXCHJ65upl53dFl4mtXyvyC5ljgOk8sFtG3mUoEICtQjivgu2oN8Pt4Qky6u/w640-h640/IMG_3830.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Have any of your daily staples changed recently? Let me know in the comments, I'd love to hear what your daily essentials are. </div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span></span><i>Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-2423521604960541632020-07-27T11:01:00.003-04:002020-07-27T11:17:15.451-04:00Cruelty Free Haircare Routine| Trying Bondi BoostTo give an idea of where my hair is at the moment (<i>as of March 15th</i>), we're at the part of quarantine where I desperately want a haircut. Aside from the warmer temps rolling in, the reason I want a chop so badly is because I feel like over the past year or so I have more fallout than ever before and a trim may help with the overall health of my hair or at least reduce fallout. I'm assuming this fallout is from my obsession with the top knot hairstyle, but who's to say. <div><br /></div><div>Last year I got a balayage, and when it grew out I decided to dye my hair red instead of touching up the blond highlights since they appeared too chunky initially. At this stage, most of the red has faded or washed out, but there's still a bit left on the tips. For this reason, I've been wanting to grow my hair as long as possible so I could trim off any remaining red sections. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eS-q0LNY9GqH0d6qVZgOCu9BqMIX2LJVUoF4fTkz8KjkbE8evidjTa2x_KAtn04USPMUts82zczZTWKSshndimQCMlYd6fWuU-WwcWuTkH0i17w18wZ4u_ko365wBpNz6UhD5cE7Mcc6/s3024/Image.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eS-q0LNY9GqH0d6qVZgOCu9BqMIX2LJVUoF4fTkz8KjkbE8evidjTa2x_KAtn04USPMUts82zczZTWKSshndimQCMlYd6fWuU-WwcWuTkH0i17w18wZ4u_ko365wBpNz6UhD5cE7Mcc6/w640-h640/Image.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /><div>
While this is a crazy and uncertain time, I'm doing my best to make this period about improvements. I've been using the stay at home order to focus on myself more; workout, cook healthy meals for myself, and to try new health supplements and skincare.<br />
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I thought this would be the perfect time to test out a new haircare routine.<br />
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I began testing out the <a href="https://bondiboost.com/collections/hair-growth-shampoo-conditioner/products/growth-value-pack-valued-at-180" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bondi Boost Hair Growth Bundle Pack</a> on March 15th, the first day of quarantine. On the 15th I started with the hair elixir oil on dry hair, then followed with the shampoo and conditioner. I would recommend rinsing with cool water, as I found this ensured I got any excess oil out of my hair.<div><br /></div><div>Over the next few weeks, I saw less fallout and quite a bit of growth! If you love the beach as much as I do, but the salt and sun negatively affect your hair please give the hair oil a try! This was amazing to use after a day in the sun. I also purchased a hair scalp massage tool (<a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bkHmg" target="_blank">currently $2.39 on Amazon</a>) which really helps me massage the shampoo into my scalp, I plan to try it with the oil next. </div><div><br /></div><div>After washing my hair feels silky smooth and nourished. I'm planning on getting a trim as soon as I'm able to schedule an appointment, just to even things out and add some layers-- but look at this growth! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIy3sqes5J-wRmAWSgvTZiQpFGtyT-7W2-Kjk0S1bp3oPuVJI3c44jOHK4tl02-Fs0dQSx4bVgLUS2HSad4ksNp2VAqkH9cgpCWq8z35ZX4wveNnTPrnrnUR2ffRz0dducCiED9uVRzhpJ/s800/Bondi+Boost+Before+and+After.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIy3sqes5J-wRmAWSgvTZiQpFGtyT-7W2-Kjk0S1bp3oPuVJI3c44jOHK4tl02-Fs0dQSx4bVgLUS2HSad4ksNp2VAqkH9cgpCWq8z35ZX4wveNnTPrnrnUR2ffRz0dducCiED9uVRzhpJ/w640-h640/Bondi+Boost+Before+and+After.gif" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Bondi Boost has no silicones, parabens, or sulfates. The entire line is also cruelty-free. While I've been conscious of ingredients lately, I also love that Bondi Boost has partnered with <a href="https://www.mettlegifts.com/about" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mettle Women Inc </a>which is an organization that employes and supports women escaping violent and dangerous situations that have led to homelessness. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Thanks to Bondi Boost I'll be able to keep my hair healthy and nourished for my upcoming wedding. 💕</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div>Have you tried Bondi Boost? Let me know what you thought in the comments below. </div><div><br />
<i>Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
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</div></div></div></div></div>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972839.9423093 -75.296866299999991 41.483241299999996 -72.7150793tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-59197464527157780732020-06-28T09:08:00.004-04:002020-09-10T14:26:09.158-04:00First Impressions of The Lip Bar & Next Steps for A Cruelty Free Me <div>A few weeks ago<a href="https://www.acrueltyfreeme.com/2020/05/finding-perfect-nude-lights-lacquer.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> I posted about the Lights Laquer YNBB launch</a>, I spoke about how the launch and the inclusion of an array of nude shades really made me think about the lack of inclusion I was seeing from the rest of the beauty industry. I posted about how I wanted to do better as a consumer, and support brands that celebrated diversity. ...And then I went silent, I took a little break from my blog over the past few weeks and instead have tried to be vocal when appropriate on Instagram. I've talked about my intention and where I want to take A Cruelty Free Me in the future, but I didn't want to post this immediately. </div><div><br /></div><div>Like many Americans, I've had a tough few weeks of anger and reflection. As a child, race wasn't really spoken about at home, and it wasn't until college that I really understood my environment and how redlining affected my neighborhood and the ones I hung out in. I used to struggle internally with race as a kid, being half white and half Puerto Rican, I wasn't really sure where I fit in. I experienced some microaggressions through the years and recognized these behaviors as early as elementary school but as I got older I also began to realize the privilege of being white-passing. </div><div><br /></div><div>In many ways, quarantine has been a blessing in disguise as I've used it to slow down a bit and to reflect. Covid-19 brought about more change than I anticipated, some good and some of it an opportunity to learn. I've realized the importance of self-care now more than ever. Like many, I've also used this as an opportunity to learn more-- about being an ally, diversity, and finding my voice in other aspects of my life. I still have work to do, but I'm thankful that I am in a place where I recognize that. and that I am alive during a time where there are so many <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/u/0/d/1wtawPIxNuYuYlPTIBMxPe6jmaMSN7aH0pJO5x7cy4nc/mobilebasic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">resources</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>While I know shade inclusion in the beauty industry may seem small to some-- it's important! I want everyone to see someone that looks like them in beauty marketing and retail advertising. Beauty is not something that's limited to one race or gender and I think it's time that beauty manufacturers step up. Much like my approach to my cruelty-free stance, I believe that as consumers we 'vote' with our dollars. By choosing to support brands that align with my ideals, I'm casting my vote for the brands that I would like to see thrive and bring more fun and creative options to the table. While I'm working on myself I also want to inspire change in the industry I'm spending so much of my free time in. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOi3Le3EdaqoZd-LQk_ftKcQD1jR6p5ROQgYHd-zYWNUZqR6j8Xa8bE1K2GH2mrF61ZSuDCuy3n_R-jOhWC5wiqZmuYl44IwdQkBNffYotWyywE2nHlPHvcfL0Dj3-yN-QnWu4DGvAenkH/s2037/IMG_3582.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2037" data-original-width="2037" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOi3Le3EdaqoZd-LQk_ftKcQD1jR6p5ROQgYHd-zYWNUZqR6j8Xa8bE1K2GH2mrF61ZSuDCuy3n_R-jOhWC5wiqZmuYl44IwdQkBNffYotWyywE2nHlPHvcfL0Dj3-yN-QnWu4DGvAenkH/w640-h640/IMG_3582.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>After some research and thought I decided to purchase from was <a href="https://www.thelipbar.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Lip Bar</a>. The Lip Bar is vegan, cruelty-free, and the founder, Melissa Butler is dedicated to inclusivity. I decided on two products for my first order <a href="https://www.thelipbar.com/collections/skin-serum-foundation" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Skin Serum Foundation</a>, and a <a href="https://www.thelipbar.com/collections/lipsticks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">lipstick</a>. </div><div><span><a name='more'></a></span></div><div><a href="https://www.thelipbar.com/collections/skin-serum-foundation/products/foundation-01-04" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><font size="5">Skin Serum Foundation in Shade 1:04</font></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Ok, I admit I messed up a little here. The Lip Bar provides the option to test out 3 shades so you can find your perfect match. I bypassed this step and instead used the shade match tool and attempted to match my <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bjqTo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation</a> (in shade 200) by Fenty Beauty. I've had this foundation for a while and it is my go-to for medium to high coverage days. 1:04 is not an exact match to 200, however with some kind-of intense blending I was able to make it work. On my next application, I plan to use a bit less, or mix with a skincare oil to see how the shade would fare. Keep in mind The Lip Bar mentions in their FAQ that you can exchange for a better match, I didn't feel this shade was far enough off for me to justify an exchange. </div><div><br /></div><div>Overall I really like this foundation! It felt more like skincare as it contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Irish moss extract. Unlike my fave Fenty foundation, this formula is dewy, but it stayed put just as long! I like the click pen style dispenser, after clicking the base a few times I used the brush end to apply a few streaks to different zones of my face. I then used my <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bjqVo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ecotools blending brush</a> to blend into my skin and create a flawless base. </div><div><br /></div><div>As you will see in the pics below. I had a bit of sunburn left on my face from a beach outing the week prior, and I found that this foundation clung to those dry patches, but I wasn't overly concerned as that isn't usually a factor for me. I've used matte foundations in the past while my skin was on the dry side and I was generally impressed with how the skin serum foundation sat on my skin. Not perfect, but as good as I think it would get over dry sunburned skin. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was happily surprised by the coverage of this foundation. While it is serum-based, it's buildable to a medium to high level of coverage. </div><div><br /></div><div><font size="5"><a href="https://www.thelipbar.com/collections/lipsticks/products/baby-bellini" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lipstick in Baby Bellini</a></font> </div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><div>Trying out lipstick in June, let alone a time when we're all wearing masks out and about has its challenges. The Lip Bars lipsticks are paraben-free, and packed with shea butter, avocado oil, coconut oil, and vitamin E. Not even being dramatic, these may be the only lipsticks I purchase again. My lips felt moisturized throughout the day, and the color stayed consistent and didn't go patchy. As you may have guessed by the ingredients this is a very shiny looking lipstick, which I love especially in summer, but if mattes are more your thing this formula may not be for you. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBf8nLc5BybF44PCV_ybDDz1zviuI8l3CtcEK_hj9X9rXoPlXTJhT9tr2sqFl7X10wXW44asqhviWHNRj_FAOWYv3E35ZQ7ZbmoNMChSVuqS_0ZTAeFxzcvbBms6UihF18Q36Hmpnktne/s979/IMG_3541.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="979" data-original-width="979" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBf8nLc5BybF44PCV_ybDDz1zviuI8l3CtcEK_hj9X9rXoPlXTJhT9tr2sqFl7X10wXW44asqhviWHNRj_FAOWYv3E35ZQ7ZbmoNMChSVuqS_0ZTAeFxzcvbBms6UihF18Q36Hmpnktne/w640-h640/IMG_3541.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Are there any cruelty-free and inclusive brands you think I should try? Leave me a comment below and I'll add them to my shopping list! </div><div style="font-style: italic;"><i><br /></i></div><i> Many (but not all) of the links on A Cruelty Free Me are affiliate links. This means that a special code is used and that I may make a small commission on the sale of an item if you purchase through one of these links. The price of the item is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps me to maintain my blog and fuel my coffee drinking habit. </i>
<center><a class="blsdk-follow" data-blsdk-type="button" href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/a-cruelty-free-me-19015861" target="_blank">Follow</a><script>(function(d, s, id) {var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if (d.getElementById(id)) return;js = d.createElement(s);js.id = id;js.src = "https://www.bloglovin.com/widget/js/loader.js?v=1";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, "script", "bloglovin-sdk"))</script></center>Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6381768795545390280.post-8015693969303020612020-05-22T13:06:00.001-04:002020-05-22T13:08:56.926-04:00First Impressions of Altwell CBD<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">'A Cruelty Free Me' is no stranger to CBD products, I've spoken about CBD infused cleansers, bath bombs, face masks, and muscle rubs. However, I was always curious about CBD supplements for stress and general wellness. CBD products have worked wonders for my skin as well as minor workout aches and injuries, so I had faith in finding other benefits. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Altwell kindly sent me a box filled with some of their newest launches, and over the past week I've been trying out different supplements to see which I preferred and which worked best for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Altwell team is best <a href="https://altwell.com/pages/about" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;">known for its work on Muscle Milk</span></a>. Personally, I've never tried Muscle Milk as I've been dairy-free almost as long as I've been interested in health and fitness. But I know that they are a tried and true brand and have been around for generations, so I trust their judgment when it comes to their new product line. Keep reading to learn more about Altwell's offerings! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoBPL3v6yt91zTPG-IM1iwBBCuh4bftQSwj26WpqGEfy_vRLSd4ZkRCpbemz7bVGKFzSSf8p6hObSBFz0EcRxs2XrgX1zV2gKOnLnWmxRnxDOtxqMkSWaGQCYtLdCnA_MjMWBOZPV1nE6/s1600/IMG_3403.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoBPL3v6yt91zTPG-IM1iwBBCuh4bftQSwj26WpqGEfy_vRLSd4ZkRCpbemz7bVGKFzSSf8p6hObSBFz0EcRxs2XrgX1zV2gKOnLnWmxRnxDOtxqMkSWaGQCYtLdCnA_MjMWBOZPV1nE6/s640/IMG_3403.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://altwell.com/collections/gummies" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CBD Gummies </a></span></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I tried both the restful sleep variety and the balance blend. These were so easy and fun to take and the citrus yuzu flavor is delicious. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thanks to social media, I often have trouble shutting down in the evening and heading to bed early enough. I took the sleep gummies about 10 hours before I knew I needed to be awake (I like to give myself an extra hour or so with melatonin products). In my experience the gummy worked similar to a slow-release melatonin, which was great because I didn't feel like I hit a wall as soon as I took it. I drifted gently to sleep, and I woke up feeling well-rested and ready to conquer my workday.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMxvK4jgYT5B6gJorTAqg2D44VIIqJK4fZKtNGG1TJQD07iqWLTOQXLR_qLJEXK-c_UOY8e5X_tEzQ_NOCo7ltk4eUHrKMKkssgFrugIVRqabZZWBkG_WsfhJ6DqQtYu2m47r7VFuEDMi3/s1600/IMG_3402.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMxvK4jgYT5B6gJorTAqg2D44VIIqJK4fZKtNGG1TJQD07iqWLTOQXLR_qLJEXK-c_UOY8e5X_tEzQ_NOCo7ltk4eUHrKMKkssgFrugIVRqabZZWBkG_WsfhJ6DqQtYu2m47r7VFuEDMi3/s640/IMG_3402.PNG" width="480" /></a></div>
<b style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://altwell.com/collections/protein-powder" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Plant-Based Protein Supplement</a></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I cannot get enough of this! Being dairy-free I am particular about my protein supplements. When I'm looking for a protein supplement I want to ensure that it has 15 to 20g of protein per serving, is free of whey and casein, and tastes great. Not only is this protein delicious, but it is also packed with protein. Each serving has 20g of protein and it's sweetened with stevia and monk fruit, which I prefer to cane sugar when available.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I tried this protein both ways to ensure it met my standards and it honestly surpassed my expectations. I tried the chocolate variety on its own (blended with almond milk), and used the vanilla in a smoothie (blended with strawberries, kale, spinach, almond milk, raspberries, bananas, and blueberries). I loved both flavors, the chocolate flavor reminded me of chocolate chip brownies, and the vanilla tasted fresh and creamy. I love feeling like I'm treating myself to something decadent instead of a kale and spinach smoothie. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2BpE2g-wG0_xyfIpt6XFCj7vhOLoATvzy_S6CRtqKbnEg0LtCBPM4SGpNoyAN8_eKbXTuVbQnBLCSVIBoRAT84Tyfw3hSGEuVoni1gNbchmCyugJp86VWuwhUPKtrYL4qKDyTHI5HtBt/s1600/IMG_3401.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2BpE2g-wG0_xyfIpt6XFCj7vhOLoATvzy_S6CRtqKbnEg0LtCBPM4SGpNoyAN8_eKbXTuVbQnBLCSVIBoRAT84Tyfw3hSGEuVoni1gNbchmCyugJp86VWuwhUPKtrYL4qKDyTHI5HtBt/s640/IMG_3401.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://altwell.com/collections/softgels" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>CBD Softgels</b></a></span><span style="color: black;"><b>/</b><a href="https://altwell.com/collections/tincture" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>CBD Tincture</b></a><b> </b></span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I took the 'balance mind and body' formulation on days when my schedule was the most packed. I'll admit normally I get a bit stressed and worn out on days when I have back to back calls, need to work on spreadsheets, and still find time to workout and cook my meals. On days when I took a dose of CBD I felt calmer, and like my day was a bit more manageable. Both forms worked in the same way for me, but I felt that the tincture worked best for me. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Overall Impression: </span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is my first time trying CBD as a supplement so I wasn't quite sure what I would think or how I would feel. First and foremost looking through the Altwell site, I was amazed at the transparency they have as a brand, they even allow you to check the certificate of analysis that links back to your specific purchase. As I get older brand transparency is something that has become increasingly important to me. Of course in terms of beauty brands I only purchase from brands that are crystal clear about their cruelty-free status, I'm just as picky when it comes to supplements and I want to know exactly what I'm putting in my body. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I also love that Altwell packs the same great ingredients into every type of supplement they produce. I think it's great that I have a range of options to choose from, and can pick what works best for me. Personally, I liked the protein supplement and gummies the best. Both of these products were super easy to fit into my active lifestyle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Altwell is a brand that I'll be purchasing from in the future. As a brand they tick all the boxes I'm looking for as a consumer. Their supplements helped me to feel calmer and more relaxed, even on days that were anything but relaxing. </span></div>
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Patti Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11348764130222001094noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972839.9423093 -75.296866299999991 41.483241299999996 -72.7150793