Vegan Beauty Favorites
Hii guys! Today I will be talking about one of my favorite topics, SKINCARE. As someone who has battled with acne and hyper pigmentation my entire life I have tried almost everything under the sun. However my skincare routine changed dramatically since I switched to using only vegan/cruelty free products. I'll admit that it was hard to find products that worked and were somewhat affordable. Even thought I love all things skincare, I will not $300 on a moisturizer.
When looking to lock down my skincare routine I was looking for products that actually got the job done and that wouldn't leave me broke AF! Here's a list of my favorite products that actually work!
Ayele & Co. Sunflower Sweet Serum
I first found Ayele & Co. on Twitter back when they were know as Bahi Cosmetics and I'll admit i was skeptical but once I tried that Sunflower Sweet Serum I was hooked! I've been using it for the past two years and my skin almost acne free.
Why i love it: This serum contains Vitamin E Oil, Tea Tree Oil, and Jojoba Seed Oil which works miracles on acne prone skin and reduces breakouts overnight!
How i use it: I usually use it at night after applying direct acids or as a spot treatment if i have a crazy breakout. 2-3 drops is all you need.
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA
I love The Ordinary for many reasons but mostly because it was so ridiculously affordable and IT WORKS! I was introduced to this brand because of all the hype around it even before it launched. I should preface by saying direct acids are not for everyone, I did a ton of research to figure out which one was right for my skin needs and even now im still learning. Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid, it very mildly exfoliates the skin and helps with uneven texture, diminishing acne scars and hyper pigmentation.
Why I love it: This product was a total game changer for me. I can see the changes on my skin the next morning, it makes my skin visually smoother and it diminishes redness and inflammation.
How i use it: I only use this product at night time and always use sunscreen the next day because this product can make your skin sensitive and prone to sunburn. Because its a mild peeling formula, I had to build a tolerance for it at first by diluting it with a serum. I use it after toning my face and let it dry for a minute before my next step.
Amika Soulfood Nourishing mask
Having blue hair is a full time job, i have tried almost everything under the sun but I have fallen in love with this hair mask! Its leaves my hair looking so amazing that i get complements on it all the time. Amikas nourishing hair mask is super hydrating but its doesnt make my hair greasy which i love.
why i love it: Its hard to find hair products that actually work and that are also vegan/cruelty free. Its free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, gluten and mineral oil.
How i use it: I use it once a week and leave it on for about 10 minutes.
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
I have tried hundreds of masks in my lifetime but this $8 clay mask is the ultimate face mask. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is 100% natural calcium bentonite clay and it truly is the most powerful facial mask, at least in my case. Bentonite Clay is formed from volcanic ash, add water to the clay and it creates a negative electric charge which on your skin removes all impurities and helps control the overproduction of oils.
Why I love it: Last year my skin went through a crazy period of acne, a friend recommended using this mask once or twice a week and its was unlike anything I had ever used. My first experience was a little scary because the clay does make your skin red after using it. But this mask helped reduce the oiliness, unclogs my pores and leaves my skin very glowy.
How I use it: Twice a month, mix 1/4 tbs of clay powder + 1 tbs apple cider vinegar until its has a paste texture. Apply it on your face and leave it for 20-30 min. Wash off with warm water.
African Black Soap
If you dont know about African black soap it WILL change your life. What makes black soap so special? It contains ingredients that are amazing for your skin like plantain peels, cocoa pods, palm kernel oil, coconut oil and shea butter.
Why I love it: This product is an all over product meaning I sometimes use it as body wash, as a hair treatment and as a face cleanser. Its naturally anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and super moisturizing.
I’ve get mine from etsy.