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When I started using anti-aging products in my 20s, before a single wrinkle had appeared, I did it all wrong. I purchased products for mature skin believing that the extra-strength would be extra-effective in preventing aging but instead I burned myself with retinoids and peels and caused break out after break out with deep moisturizing creams and night masks. At around age 30, I made a switch to natural skincare and my skin started improving. Now in my late thirties, I’ve found a routine that works and although my skin isn’t perfect, I never could have believed it would look this healthy at my age.

That’s me on the left at 27 and me on the right at age 37, earlier this year!

I organized all my favorite vegan skincare products in my Amazon Store if you’d like to check out the full list but I figured I’d share a more condensed list of the current products in my daily and weekly routine here. Included are cleansers, moisturizers and products that target signs of aging like wrinkles, sagging, puffiness and redness.

All of the items listed below are cruelty-free and made with vegan ingredients. I love them all and think you will too!

Morning:

1. Andalou Naturals “1000 Roses” Cleansing Foam
This foaming face wash with rose stem cells is perfect for sensitive skin. I’ve used this product for years and love its subtle smell rose and how it leaves my skin feeling soft- not stripped.
view on Amazon

2. Andalou Naturals “1000 Roses” Floral Toner Spray
I use this spray with rose stem cells on my face after cleaning and before applying face or eye cream. In addition to the soothing rosewater, it is made with pomegranate, hyaluronic acid & aloe vera to moisturize, uplift and tone skin. I discovered it several years ago and have used it almost every day since!
view on Amazon

3. The Body Shop “Drops of Youth” Youth Concentrate
The gel-like serum that is formulated with 3 different types of plant cells has helped me prevent and eliminate dry patches on my face. I include it with my morning skincare, applying 2-3 drops before applying moisturizer.
view on Amazon

4. Andalou Naturals “1000 Roses” Beautiful Day Cream
I have used this day cream on and off for years and always go back to it. It is light, soothing on sensitive skin, affordable and smells so delicious.
view on Amazon

5. The Body Shop “Oils of Life” Intensely Revitalizing Eye Cream-Gel
I bought this product on a whim years ago at The Body Shop and fell in love with it! The “cream-gel” consistency is perfect- it feels cool when applying, absorbs quickly and moisturizes deeply with 3 types of seed oils. This is my favorite daytime eye cream!
view on Amazon

6. Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50
We all know it: protecting our skins when in the sun is essential to help prevent lines, wrinkles and of course, skin cancer. This spray provides that sun protection, sets your makeup, smells refreshing (rosemary & peppermint) and helps prevent shine!
view on Amazon

Night:

7. Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser
This brightening face wash helps remove any makeup left behind at night, smooths uneven skin texture and leaves my face feeling baby soft! It is formulated with strawberry seed oil, hydrolyzed wheat protein and tomato extracts to help strengthen, firm and protect skin.
view on Amazon

8. Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic Acid + Retinol Wrinkle Recovery Overnight Serum
I use a few pumps of this overnight serum every other night. When I started using it a few years ago (in addition to the Retinol Peel below), it noticeably diminished the wrinkles in my forehead and between my brows. Highly recommend!
view on Amazon

9. Glow Recipe Watermelon Sleeping Mask
This popular sleeping mask really does live up to its hype! The (gel-like) texture is cool and soothing, the smell is incredible and the results are visible. Made with watermelon, hyaluronic acid and AHAs, it deeply hydrates and smooths skin overnight.
view on Amazon

10. Derma E Firming DMAE Eye Lift
This affordable lightweight cream helps to lift, firm and tighten the area around my eyes with DMAE, goji berry peptides and hyaluronic acid. If you’re looking for an inexpensive anti-aging eye product, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try!
view on Amazon

Treatment:

11. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Universal Beta Peel
This cruelty-free at home daily peel improves uneven tone and texture, fine lines and wrinkles and enlarged pores. Using this product dramatically improved my skin’s texture! I use it about 2 times a week and after each use, my skin is left bright, smooth and glowing. This products come in regular, gentle or extra-strength (my preference). This a vegan beauty must-have!
view on Amazon

12. Dr. Gross Hyaluronic Acid & Retinol Peels
This is the most effective anti-aging product I have ever used! There is no sting or feeling of a peel when you use them but you can immediately see the results. Fine lines are diminished and they leave your face looking firm and glowing. I use them once or twice a week.
view on Amazon

13. The Body Shop Youth Concentrate Sheet Mask
This mask rejuvenates skin in 15 minutes with 3 types of plant stem cells! I discovered this product last winter when my face was feeling extremely dehydrated and it saved my skin after just one use! Tip: I’ve found that there is always extra serum left behind in the packaging after applying the mask. Make sure to use this serum on your neck, elbows and knees!
view on Amazon

14. Sunday Riley Juno Antioxidant and Superfood Face Oil
I love using this facial oil to massage my face with Gua Sha massage stones (see below!). The oil is formulated with antioxidants, vitamins, essential amino acids, Omegas 3-6-9 and skin soothing botanicals. Just a few drops immediately hydrates and feels so luxurious on your face!
view on Amazon

15. Rose Quartz Gua Sha Face Massaging Stones
Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that involves scraping with massage tools to promote better circulation and drainage of fluids that cause puffiness in the face and neck. I use a few drops of the Sunday Riley Juno oil (above) with this rose quartz set to massage my face and neck and it definitely helps reduce puffiness around my eyes and jawline. It also feels amazing!
view on Amazon

1. Cruelty-Free Kitchen

1. Art of Lunch Reusable Sandwich & Snack Bags
Reduce plastic waste with these adorable reusable bags. Art of Lunch is made by a company called Art of Liv’n that partners with artists around the world. This colorful design was illustrated by Danny Ivan, a young artist from Portugal! The bags are easy to clean in the dishwasher, BPA-free, PVC-free and phthalate-free.
view on Amazon

2. Stainless Steel Straws Set
Eliminate plastic straws from your kitchen cabinet with this straw set by Mudder. The perfect gift for smoothie and juice lovers!
view on Amazon

3. Cuisinart Smart Stick Immersion Blender
This immersion blender is a kitchen essential! I’ve used this model for years for smoothies, sauces, soups and sides.
view on Amazon

4. Ninja Professional Blender
This blender has amazing value for its affordable price. It has nearly flawless reviews on Amazon praising its performance crushing ice and pureeing whole fruits and vegetables. All parts are BPA-free and dishwasher safe!
view on Amazon

5. Breville Juice Fountain Elite
Like the Ninja Professional Blender, this juicer by Breville has excellent reviews. It is powerful (heavy 1000-watt motor), beautiful (chic die-cast steel) and easy to clean (all parts except mesh basket are dishwasher safe).
view on Amazon

6. SodaStream Fountain Jet Sparkling Water Maker
Never buy sparkling water again with this sparkling water machine! In seconds, turn flat water into sparkling in reusable BPA-free containers.
view on Amazon

7. Phoney Baloney’s Coconut Bacon
This delicious coconut bacon is hand-made in CA. If you haven’t tried coconut bacon before, push past your skepticism and trust me- it is SO good. It’s crispy, salty, smoky and perfect on everything from sandwiches and salads to ice cream and cupcakes!
view on Amazon

8. Lagusta’s Luscious
Lagusta’s Luscious is the ultimate vegan chocolate shop. Their chocolates “combine a deep commitment to social justice, environmentalism and animal rights with the love of bold flavor of a true foodie and the obsessive commitment to artisan techniques of a chocolatier”. These are the best chocolates I’ve ever had, including chocolates I loved in my vegetarian years. Coconut milk caramels in decadent flavors like Rosemary Sea Salt and Strawberry Balsamic, Peppermint patties, chocolate truffles, gorgeous barks, bonbons and more.
view the Lagusta’s Luscious site

9. The Oh She Glows Cookbook
This is one of my favorite cookbooks! I love it so much that I bought it for everyone in my family last year. They’re all omnivores and they all LOVE the recipes in the book. The dishes are delicious, healthy, beautiful and easy to approach for new vegans or meat-eaters!
view on Amazon

10. TofuXpress Tofu Press
My sister gifted me this tofu press last year and it changed my life- really! Simply place a block of tofu in the press and in a few hours, you have perfectly pressed firm tofu ready to stir-fry or bake. Even better- the press also doubles as a marinating dish!
view on Amazon

11. Miyoko’s Kitchen
Miyoko’s Kitchen makes incredible artisan cultured vegan cheeses that can be shipped across the country. Vegan mozzarella, chive double cream, Mt. Vesuvius black ash cream, aged English sharp farmhouse and more.
visit the Miyoko’s Kitchen site

12. Vegan Richa’s Indian Kitchen Cookbook
Learn how to make flavorful Indian dals, curries, flatbreads and sides with this cookbook by award-winning recipe developer Richa Hingle.
view on Amazon

13. Thug Kitchen: Eat Like You Give a F*ck Cookbook
This cookbook is the first in the best-selling Thug Kitchen series. Don’t get distracted by the foul-mouthed language and categories like “Big Ass Cup of Cozy”, “Short Order Shit” and “Burritos, Bowls and Other Bomb-Ass Meals”- this cookbook is full of amazing recipes like smoky black-eyed peas with roasted sweet potatoes and collards, corn and basil chowder, roasted sriracha cauliflower bites with peanut dipping sauce and banana cream pie.
view on Amazon

14. Stainless Steel Bottle Water Bottles
These adorable water bottles keep drinks cold for up to 9 hours and hot for up to 18 hours! They are BPA-free, lightweight, scratch resistant and come in a variety of pretty colors.
view on Amazon

15. Sweet Maresa Macarons
These vegan macarons are even better than the traditional French macarons I fell in love with years ago. Their beautiful vegan meringue shells are are light, delicate, and moist and they are filled with the most mouth-watering buttercream or ganache. Before they became available in NYC (at Confectionery in the East Village) this year, I would drive almost 2 hours to get them- they are THAT good! Some of my favorite flavors: rose, vanilla, lavender, matcha, jasmine, almond and absinthe.
visit the Sweet Maresa Shop on Lagusta’s Luscious’ site
 

2. Plant-Based Beauty:

1. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Universal Beta Peel
This cruelty-free at home daily peel improves uneven tone and texture, fine lines and wrinkles and enlarged pores. Using this product has dramatically improved my skin’s texture! I use it about 2 times a week and after each use, my skin is left bright, smooth and glowing. This a vegan beauty must-have!
view on Amazon

2. Deborah Lippmann Creme Nail Polish, “Shape of My Heart”
Deborah Lippmann’s nail polishes are vegan, 7-free and cruelty-free! I’m obsessed with her creme polishes’ long-lasting wear and vibrant color.
view on Amazon

3. Deborah Lippmann Addicted to Speed Ultra Quick-Dry Top Coat
This shiny top coat is long-lasting and chip-resistant!
view on Amazon

4. Pacifica Solar Complete Mineral Palette
This gorgeous vegan palette contains eye shadows, blush, bronzer and coconut highlighters! Perfect for a cruelty-free beauty lover.
view on Amazon

5. Pacifica Mediterranean Fig Perfume
This perfume’s scent is amazing- subtle, sexy and comforting. When I wear it, it gives me the feeling of being curled up under a blanket on a rainy day! The best part: It’s all natural (made with essential oils), cruelty-free and 100% vegan.
view on Amazon

6. The Compassionate Chick’s Guide to DIY Beauty
This book is a perfect gift for someone who loves cruelty-free all-natural beauty products! It contains 125 DIY recipes for vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free makeup, skin & hair products using simple ingredients like essential oils, cider vinegar, cocoa butter, green tea, salts and vitamin E oil.
view on Amazon

7. Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen
Protect your precious skin with this oil-free, allergy-free, cruelty-free SPF 50 sunscreen.
view on Amazon

8. Tarte Matte Waterproof Bronzer, “Park Ave. Princess”
This matte bronzer creates an instant glow and warmth on your face that lasts all day. You can also use it contour and sculpt! The formula is infused with vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, water and clay to improve skin clarity.
view on Amazon

9. Supergoop! Forever Young SPF 40 Hand Cream with Sea Buckthorn
The hand cream absorbs quickly, brightens and improves skin’s texture and prevents sun damage. The small size is perfect for throwing in your bag for on the go.
view on Amazon

10. Real Techniques Core Collection Makeup Brush Set
This company makes the most amazing cruelty-free makeup brushes- better than any expensive makeup brushes I’ve ever used! The synthetic taklon bristles are SO much better than real hair- they’re less prone to breakage and non-porous which means they don’t trap or absorb product, bacteria or skin cells.
view on Amazon

11. Beauty Without Cruelty Rosemary Mint Tea Tree Shampoo
This refreshing plant-based shampoo restores body and shine while promoting a healthy scalp! The formula uses organic essential oils, vitamins and sea minerals.
view on Amazon

12. Beauty Without Cruelty Rosemary Mint Tea Tree Conditioner
This conditioner uses natural plant proteins, moisturizers, vitamins and essential oils to strengthen and protect hair. Reviewers LOVE the smell!
view on Amazon

13. MyChelle Beauty Set
This vegan set contains 3 of MyChelle’s best sellers. The Perfect C Serum uses Vitamin C and Buddleja Plant Stem Cells to brighten, protect against photo-damage, and prevent visible aging. Fight wrinkles with their Remarkable Retinal Serum, which is formulated with Retinaldehyde, Ceramide 3 and Plant Stem Cells and protect your skin with their Sun Shield SPF 28, which contains aloe to rehydrate skin after sun exposure.
view on MyChelle’s site

14. tarte Rainforest of the Sea Quench Lip Rescue, “Rose”
This is my new favorite lip product! It’s a moisturizing lip balm that is infused with antioxidants, vitamins and essential oils. It comes in 4 sheer, high-shine colors leave your lips looking perfectly dewy.
view on Sephora

15. tarte Rainforest of the Sea Quench Lip Rescue, “Berry”
A darker version of my favorite lip balm!
view on Sephora
 

3. Rescue, Shelter & Sanctuary Support

1. Adopt an Animal at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary
Donating or “adopting” an animal at a sanctuary in someone’s name is, in my opinion, one of the best gifts you can give to an ethical vegan! The feeling of knowing that an animal in need is getting help in your name is unbeatable. Take a few minutes to learn about Woodstock Farm Sanctuary and you’ll see why I’m passionate about encouraging people to support this sanctuary. They are doing so much wonderful, hard work for voiceless animals who are rescued from cases of abuse, neglect and abandonment. Sponsor an animal for as little as a month or if you’d like to sponsor an animal for a year, your gift recipient will receive a card with your chosen animal’s name, picture and story.
visit Woodstock Farm Sanctuary’s site

2. Make a Donation to Animal Haven
Animal Haven in a nonprofit organization that finds homes for abandoned cats and dogs throughout the Tri-State area. Follow their social media pages to keep up with their heart-warming success stories and upport Animal Haven by making a donation in someone’s name this year!
visit Animal Haven’s site

3. Pig Pillow Supporting Farm Sanctuary
The purchase of this adorable pig pillow supports another incredible sanctuary! Farm Sanctuary has 2 locations in California (Los Angeles & Orland) and one in Watkins Glenn, NY. They’ve rescued and cared for thousands of animals since opening in 1986. They have an amazing online store that supports their sanctuaries with lot of great gift ideas. This pillow features two of their adorable pigs, Anna and Maybelle.
view on the Farm Sanctuary site

4. Do unto Animals Notebooks Supporting Farm Sanctuary
This notebook set made exclusively for Farm Sanctuary’s online shop features the beautiful artwork from from Tracey Stewart’s book Do Unto Animals.
view on the Farm Sanctuary site

5. Farm Sanctuary 2017 Calendar
Get inspired by a different rescued animal every month! Each month features a beautiful portrait and story of a Farm Sanctuary resident.
view on the Farm Sanctuary site

6. Goats of Anarchy: Goats Just Want to Have Fun Book
This book is SUCH a great gift idea for animal lovers. It tells the inspirational story of an NYC event planner (Leanne Lauricella) who left the city to follow her dreams and create a sanctuary for special needs goats. After taking in her first goats, her friend recommended that she join Instagram so she created a page and posted her first picture of one of her goats. The adorable picture went viral, got over 30,000 likes in one day and brought massive attention to her little sanctuary. In just about a year, her account has grown to almost 350k followers! If you don’t follow them on Instagram already, visit their page right now to see why it is so popular. I happy-cried just today watching one of her goats run and jump for the first time on her new prosthetic!
view on Amazon

7. Make a Donation or Buy Gifts That Support Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue
I absolutely love everything about this animal rescue! These amazing people work to rescue dogs from high kill, rural shelters in the southern U.S. and help get them adopted into loving homes. Follow them on social media to keep up with their feel-good adoption stories and updates about dogs in their forever homes! To support Badass while gifting, make a donation in someone’s name or purchase items like t-shirts, doggie shirts, totes and tank tops from their online store.
view the Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue site
 

4. Vegan Fashion

1. Cruelty-Free Sweatshirt
This comfy sweatshirt is chic, simple and perfect for anyone who leads a cruelty-free lifestyle!
view on Zazzle

2. Matt & Nat Demi Crossbody Bag in Black
Matt & Nat is an amazing Canadian company that creates beautiful handbags without the use of any leather or animal-based materials.  They live up to their motto “live beautifully” with their gorgeous line of bags and accessories made with sustainable materials, lined with nylon created with 100% recycled plastic bottles. This crosssbody handbag, the Demi from their Dwell Collection, is the perfect size and weight for a woman on the go! I have it in white and absolutely love its chic style and simplicity.
view on Matt & Nat site

3. Happy Socks (Snakeskin)
Happy Socks make the cutest cotton socks for men and women, like these no-snakes-harmed snakeskin socks!
view on Happy Socks site

4. Happy Socks (Gray with Black Triangles)
Another adorable pair from Happy Socks!
view on Happy Socks site

5. Matt & Nat Brave Backpack in Black
I see this Brave backpack all around the city on the chicest young women! Perfect for fitting everything you need for the day without putting strain on one side.
view on Matt & Nat site

6. Matt & Nat Abiko Clutch in Curry
The Abiko clutch from Matt & Nat is the perfect size bag for a date night or dinner with friends. It comes in 5 classic colors including this gorgeous “Curry”.
view on Matt & Nat site

7. Happy Socks (leopard spots)
Another gray and black sock combo from Happy Socks: leopard spots.
view on Happy Socks site

8. Matt & Nat Hall Oxfords in Black
Matt & Nat introduced their eco-friendly, cruelty-free, vegan shoe line this year and it sold out almost immediately! Pick up a pair of the chicest cruelty-free shoes, like these amazing Hall flatform oxfords from their Wander Collection before they’re gone.
view on Matt & Nat site

9. Matt & Nat Coen Messenger Bag in Black
This classic messenger in black is ideal if you’re looking for a cruelty-free work bag!
view on Matt & Nat site

10. Stella McCartney White Falabella Box Alter Croc Shoulder Bag in Ivory
This bag is the one big splurge in my vegan gift guide! Stella McCartney has the most beautiful collection of high-end vegan handbags! Fashionistas adore them without even knowing that they’re wearing cruelty-free items! Even though her line doesn’t scream “vegan” or “eco-friendly” in its marketing materials (like my favorite handbag company Matt & Nat), I love how she’s sneaking cruelty-free fashion into the mainstream. This Falabella Box Alter Croc Shoulder Bag in Ivory is my pick for a splurge fashion gift for cruelty-free friends and family.
view on Stella McCartney site

11. Pet Studio Art Goat Tote
These adorable tote animals feature rescued animals painted by Pet Studio Art owner and artist Stephanie Conrad. This one features Walter, a goat from one of the animal rescues she supports!
view on Amazon

12. Pet Studio Art Pig Tote
Another cute tote: this one features Nathan the pig!
view on Amazon
 

5. Peaceful Yogi

1. Maxx Studio Faux Fur Throw
I own this throw and it is my favorite blanket to wrap myself in on chilly nights. So soft and cozy!
view on Amazon

2. DoTERRA Diffuser
I use this DoTERRA diffuser every day and night, at work and at home.  My favorite essential oils to diffuse are equal parts lavender and peppermint, which help me to relax, maintain focus, feel refreshed and breathe better than ever. I’ve also gifted this diffuser to several people and it’s always a success!
view on Amazon

3. DoTERRA Essential Oils Set
This essential oil set contains 3 of DoTERRA’s best sellers and includes my 2 favorites: lavender and peppermint! I’ve used many other essential oils and the past and DoTERRA’s are the best by far. They are 100% pure, without any extra ingredients and are thoroughly tested using the strict Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade quality protocol.
view on Amazon

4. Roleo Deep Tissue Massager for Hands, Wrists, Arms and Forearms
This massager changed my life! For years, I’ve suffered from wrist pain that worsens depending on the weather, how much I’ve been playing my instruments (violin, guitar, piano) and how much yoga I’ve been doing. I found this product on Amazon last year when trying to find some sort of wrist brace or pad and am SO happy I took the chance on it. It doesn’t look like much but it helps relieve me of pain that I thought could never be remedied! Put your hand through into the contraption and roll it back and forth from your hand to your forearm and the trigger point rollers massage away tension in minutes. This is a perfect unexpected gift for a yogi, musician or anyone who suffers from arthritis or carpal tunnel.
view on Amazon

5. Zafu Yoga Meditation Pillow by Bean Products
Bean Products make these Zafu Yoga Mediation Pillows in a array of beautiful colors. They’re made with eco-friendly cotton and hemp and are filled with organic buckwheat from the USA.
view on Amazon

6. Blissoma Yoga Mat Cleaner
This certified vegan yoga mat cleaner uses tea tree, lavender, frankincense, eucalyptus, citriodora and palmarosa essential oils to natural remove dirt, sweat and oils from your yoga mat.
view on Blissoma Site

7. Recycled Foam Roller by Organic Yoga
I couldn’t live without my foam roller! A foam roller will sooth your sore muscles, stretch you out and relieve back tension after exercising or a long day of work. This roller is made from recycled foam!
view on Amazon

8. Drishti Natural Cork Yoga Blocks
These sustainably harvest cork yoga blocks are a perfect give for an eco-friendly yogi.
view on Amazon

9. Gaiam Yoga Mat
This yoga mat is lightweight, durable, extra thick (5mm) and comes in a variety of fun colors & designs. I love this purple mandala one.  Gaiam’s mats are free of Phthalates, DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP.
view on Amazon

10. Way Out Wax Lavender Essential Oil Candle
Way Out Wax is a company you should know about. For 20 years they’ve been creating high quality candles using all-natural essential oils and no animal testing, chemical additives, fragrances or dyes. I love their Green Mountain collection, created in the Green Mountains of Northern Vermont. This one is their calming Lavender scent.
view on Amazon

11. Way Out Wax Clear Head Essential Oil Candle
This is my favorite Way Out Wax candle, Clear Head. It uses a blend of Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Rosemary and lives up to its name! This scent helps your mind feel focused and relaxed at the same time.
view on Amazon

12. Way Out Wax Cozy Home Essential Oil Candle
This candle has a warm cozy feel with its blend of Cinnamon, Clove & Nutmeg.
view on Amazon

I love a day at the beach or sitting by a pool but can’t stand having oily hair, a sweaty face or sunburnt skin so I’m always looking for the most effective summer beauty products.  These are my favorite beach beauty essentials. Hydrating leave-in conditioner, age-defying hand cream, waterproof bronzer, my secret for an oil-free face in seconds, an ingenious underarm product and more! All vegan and cruelty-free, of course!

1. Supergoop! “Forever Young” SPF 40 Hand Cream with Sea Buckthorn
This is my favorite summer hand cream.  The subtle scent is delicious, it absorbs quickly and brightens and improves skin’s texture! The small size is perfect for throwing in your beach bag.
view on www.amazon.com

2. Mineral Fusion SPF 30 Brush-On Sun Defense
In addition to my liquid face sunscreen, I always use a brush-on powder sunscreen for touch-ups and to control shine. This power is antioxidant-infused with sea kelp and white tea!
view on www.amazon.com

3. Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk
This is my absolute favorite dry shampoo. It quickly absorbs excess oil and restores bounce after a long day at the beach. I use the tinted version but they also offer their original clear dry shampoo!
view on www.kloraneusa.com

4. Tatcha Aburatorigami Japanese Blotting Papers
These are the best blotting papers I’ve ever tried! I always carry a package in my purse during the summer. The sheets are made of 100 percent natural abaca leaf and gold flake. They’re as pretty as they are effective!
view on www.amazon.com

5. Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm
This vegan lip balm is made with moisturizing cocoa butter and comes in so many yummy flavors. Flavors pictured: key lime, pink grapefruit, coconut, banana, mango & pomegranate!
view on www.amazon.com

6. Tarte Matte Waterproof Bronzer in Park Avenue Princess
If you’re protecting you’re face like me, you’ll need a bronzer to give your cheeks and forehead that perfect summer glow. This bronzer contains vitamins A, C, and E and even contains water to help your skin retain moisture!
view on www.amazon.com

7. Supergoop! SPF 50 Defense Refresh Setting Mist with Rosemary
This three-in-one mist controls oil throughout the day, sets makeup and provides UV photoaging protection. I love the fresh rosemary-mint scent!
view on www.amazon.com

8. Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave-in Spray
This lightweight leave-in spray smells amazing. Like one Amazon reviewer put it: “this product smells like your childhood summer at the beach”! It conditions and protects with coconut oil, argan oil, sweet almond oil, sunflower seed oil and banana leaf.
view on www.amazon.com

9. Coola SPF 30 Piña Colada Sunscreen Spray
This hydrating sunscreen is made with organic ingredients like cucumber, algae extract, strawberry extract and red raspberry seed oil. It sprays on evenly and smells incredible! Want higher SPF? Try their unscented SPF 30 sport sunscreen spray!
view on www.amazon.com

10. MyChelle Cucumber Cooler Soothing Spray
Soothe, cool and hydrate your skin after a day in the sun with this cucumber and aloe spray! Made with all-natural, non-GMO ingredients.
view on www.mychelle.com

11. MyChelle Replenishing Solar Defense SPF 30 Anti-Aging Cream
This is such an amazing anti-aging sunscreen for your face.  It protects, moisturizes and reduces lines with plant-based ingredients like zinc oxide, red algae extract, kukui oil and macadamia nut oil!
view on www.mychelle.com

12. Pacifica Underarm Deodorant Wipes
This ingenious product by Pacifica wipes away underarm sweat, neutralizes odors and soothes with coconut milk and essential oils.
view on www.amazon.com

This past weekend I attended both the NYC Vegetarian Food Festival and The Seed Experience Market.  I had such a great time, met inspiring people, tried amazing vegan food, and spent way too much money!

On Saturday, my business (TLB Music) joined The Solutionary School at the NYC Vegetarian Food Festival to lead a “Compassion Rocks” music class for the children at the festival.  It was so much fun!  We sang songs about animals, love, compassion, and world peace while the kids played on drums, shakers, and bells and we even drummed together on the Djembe:

Carly, Carina & Katia representing TLB Music at Veg Fest 2015

TLB Music Co-Founders, Carina & Katia

"Compassion Rocks" TLB Music Class at Veg Fest

"Compassion Rocks" TLB Music Class at Veg Fest

Some of my favorite vendors at the NYC Veg Fest:

Green Mustache: These fruit & veggie smoothies disguise 2 cups of kale & spinach in yummy flavors like Strawberry Banana, Mixed Berry, and Carrot Ginger.
V-Spot: I’m obsessed with their Colombian empanadas & homemade salsa!  This Brooklyn restaurant makes everything vegan: Philly Cheese Heros, Tempeh Tacos, Avocado BLTs, Chicken Parm Sandwiches and much more.
Heido-Ho: Shark Tank-approved out-of-this-world vegan cheese.  They just started selling on the East Coast!
Gusto-Organics: This NYC restaurant recently went all-vegan!  At the festival, everyone was raving about their mini seitan tacos with cashew cream and cilantro-avocado sauce.  We all snuck one in before TLB’s class! Flavorful, spicy, and totally satisfying.
NotMilk: Fresh nut milk made and sold in NYC.  They deliver “to your door on the day its made”!

Learn more about the NYC Vegetarian Food Festival here.

Me at The Seed Market!

Yesterday, I headed to The Seed Experience Market, a vegan pop-up market that just happened to be immediately next door to Veg Fest! This market is a vegan’s dream.  There are cruelty-free beauty products, food vendors, yoga classes, workshops, and lots of like-minded people.  I found myself buying so much more than necessary out of the sheer excitement of all the options.  For lunch, I had the most amazing “Rasta Roots Slider” by Monks Meats.  The sandwich:  smoked jerk seitan, organic green meat radish, roasted organic red beets, pickled organic carrots & vegan mayo on an Eli’s slider ciabata.  So good!!

Monks Meats "Rasta Roots" Slider

Some of my favorite vendors at The Seed Market:

Lagusta’s Luscious: Hands-down the BEST vegan chocolates I’ve ever tried. Their caramels, in particular, are to die for! My favs: Rosemary Sea Salt, Thyme Preserved Lemon & Maple Pecan.
Monks Meats: This company makes mouth-watering seitan that tastes incredible when grilled.  I fell in love with this “meat” at Smorgasburg and know you’ll love it too!
Cheezehound: I’ve been searching for vegan cheese that tastes like brie for years without success…until yesterday! This artisanal nut cheese is so smooth and creamy- it’s everything I missed and remembered…without the dairy.
Tamerlaine Farm: This New Jersey Animal Sanctuary raises funds by selling handmade hot sauce! I purchased “Gabby’s Smoked Red”, a delicious sweet and smokey sauce with a spicy kick.
Sweet Maresa: I’ve driven hours to New Paltz to get these macarons: just like Ladurée but even BETTER:  lavender, rose water, almond…all their flavors are divine.  These are a vegan must-try.

Learn more about The Seed Experience here.

The Seed Experience Market (March 2015)

Lagusta's Luscious Chocolate

Cheezehound Peppercorn Nut Cheese

Sweet Maresa Macarons

Treats by Gone Pie

Southern Food by Sprouting Dreams

Cruelty-Free Soaps

Yoga Class at The Seed Market

Deborah Lippmann is the go-to manicurist of the stars and the fashion industry and her high-quality line of polishes puts all others to shame. This amazing nail polish brand is cruelty-free, entirely vegan (except for the cuticle remover), and full of the most gorgeous sheer, creamy, and sparkly shades! They are easy to apply, fast-drying, and long-lasting. And, best of all- you’ll feel extra beautiful knowing that no animals were harmed for your manicure or pedicure!  Here are my picks from her current collection.

Crème, Sheer, Glitter & Shimmer: Treatment-infused nail colors with Biotin and green tea. No Toluene, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor, or DBP. No animal testing.

1.  Before He Cheats Crème Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
2.  Between the Sheets Crème Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
3.  Mermaid’s Dream Glitter Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
4.  P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) Sheer Nail Lacquer {view on Amazon}
5.  Daytripper Crème Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
6.  Happy Birthday Glitter Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
7.  Shape of My Heart Crème Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
8.  Let’s Go Crazy Glitter Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
9.  Flowers in Her Hair Crème Nail Lacquer   {view on Amazon}
10.  Build Me Up Buttercup Crème Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
11.  Stop and Stare Crème Nail Lacquer  {view on Amazon}
12. Mermaid’s Kiss Glitter Nail Lacquer {view on Amazon}

(click here to enlarge)

These are some of my absolute favorite vegan beauty products- perfect for sensitive skin and those who want to take a stand against animal cruelty (while looking gorgeous).  It’s easy to shop cruelty-free with amazing options like these!

1.  Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelée by Josie Maran ($22) view on www.josiemarancosmetics.com
This 14-hour cheek gelée adds a natural-looking flush and hydrates with coconut water and argan oil.   Available in 6 flattering colors.  My shade:  poppy paradise.

2. 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil by Urban Decay ($20) view on www.urbandecay.com
This waterproof liner is a creamy, long-lasting, and available in over a dozen gorgeous colors- everything you need in a liner. My favorite is their new, pitch black “perversion”.

3.  Argan Beautiful Eyes by Josie Maran ($36)  view on www.sephora.com
This shadow is infused with argan oil and fruit and floral extracts. The result is a soft, nurturing shadow that you’ll want to wear everyday.

4.  Absolutely Flawless Concealor by Two Faced Cosmetics ($20)  view on www.amazon.com
This flexible coverage concealor does it all: it smooths, moisturizes, and de-puffs with vitamins a, e and chilean treebark plant extract while covering imperfections and masking redness.

5. Anti-Aging Eyeshadow Primer Potion by Urban Decay ($24)  view on www.urbandecay.com
This is the ultimate eye shadow primer. It keeps lids creaseless for 24 hours while smoothing the appearance of wrinkles and plumping, firming, and hyrdating your skin!

6.  bareMinerals Matte Foundation by Bare Escentuals ($27)  view on www.sephora.com
I fell in love with this mineral-based makeup almost 10 years ago. I saw the infomercial, bought a starter kit from Sephora and could not believe the light coverage the product delivered. I never went back to liquid foundation and know lots of ladies who followed suit. Their Matte version controls oil while providing the same coverage and SPF as the original- perfect for Spring and Summer!

7.  Glamour Gloss by Two Faced Cosmetics ($14)  view on www.amazon.com
This volumizing gloss comes in a variety of shades to flatter your complexion and is infused with a combination of omega 3, 6 and 9, natural vitamin e, jojoba oil, and avocado oil.

8.  Primed & Poreless Primer by Two Faced Cosmetics ($30)  view on www.amazon.com
I’ve tried so many primers and this is one of my favorites. Vitamins A & C, Mulberry Extract and a dose of Retinol smooth over pores and and hydrate, firm, and detoxify!

9.  gifted™ Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara by Tarte Cosmetics ($19) view on www.tartecosmetics.com
This “smart” mascara’s Amazonian clay lengthens, conditions, repairs, and replenishes thirsty eyelashes.

10.  Cocoa Pigmented Bronzer by 100% Pure ($28) view on www.amazon.com
Get a sexy faux glow with this natural bronzer.

More Cruelty-Free Recommendations:
Cruelty-Free Beauty: Vegan Cosmetics
Cruelty-Free Beauty from Head to Toe
The Best Non-Toxic, Cruelty-Free Cleaning Products
16 Must-Have Vegan Skincare Products to Brighten & Tighten Your Face

These are my favorite non-toxic, cruelty-free cleaning products by great companies like Method, Mrs. Meyers, Grab Green, and BabyGanics.  Click on links beside each item to view on Amazon.
Click here to enlarge picture.

{Kitchen}
Grab Green Dishwashing Detergent Pods view on www.amazon.com
Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap in Basil view on www.amazon.com
Grab Green Degreaser Cleaner view on www.amazon.com
Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes view on www.amazon.com

{Toy & Highchair}
BabyGanics The Cleaner Upper Toy & Highchair Cleaner view on www.amazon.com

{Floors}
Method Squirt + Mop Wood Cleaner  view on www.amazon.com
Mrs. Meyer’s All Purpose Cleaner in Basil view on www.amazon.com

{Laundry}
Method Laundry Detergent in Fresh Air  view on www.amazon.com

{Bathroom}
Method AntiBac Toilet Cleaner  view on www.amazon.com
Mrs. Meyer’s Bathroom Cleaner  view on www.amazon.com

{All-Purpose}
Grab Green All Purpose Surface Spray in Thyme with Fig Leaf  view on www.amazon.com

{Glass}
BabyGanics The Sparkle Maker Glass & Surface Cleaner  view on www.amazon.com

{Wood}
Method Wood for Good Polish view on www.amazon.com

{Marble & Granite}
Method Daily Granite Polish view on www.amazon.com