I have been a pet friendly blog for a year now but the one thing I have never touched upon was parent companies and animal testing. For anyone new, I started researching into buying cruelty free skincare, makeup, haircare etc. a random Summer’s night when I was in bed watching a film and Sunney was right next to me. I discovered the pain and torture that animals go through just to check whether our foundation will okay on our skin and I started crying. From that moment I knew I didn’t want to support those brands. I wanted to find more cruelty free friendly brands to support, however, little did I know how tricky and confusing it can be and I still struggle to this day.
With this week’s announcement that Too Faced has now been brought by Estée Lauder, I think it is important that I talk about parent companies. Gemima wrote a very helpful post last year, Animal Testing & Parent Companies, which I think is important to mention as this really helped me to get a better understanding myself.
There are also so many helpful content creators that have helpful posts on blogs and Instagram that I regularly turn to when I am looking for a specific product. They all work so hard in staying up to date with the latest information that I take my hats off to them. Some of my faves are: mo’adore, Cruelty Free Kitty, Ellie, Logical Harmony and Vegan Beauty Girl.
A parent company is one that owns another or multiple companies, otherwise known as a subsidiary. The parent company has control over management and operation. In terms of animal testing, a parent company may have identical or completely different views on animal testing policies. For example, Jason is owned by the parent company Hain Celestial. Both the parent company and Jason are cruelty free and Leaping Bunny approved. Whereas, Urban Decay are Leaping Bunny approved which means they never test on animals, however, their parent company is L’Oreal who is one of the greatest offenders of animal testing.
Now the big question, and one which is divided amongst the cruelty free blogging community is: “what if a parent company tests on animals?”
This all depends on you as a person and the values and ethics that you follow. It also raises arguments and concerns amongst the cruelty free community. Some think that if the brand is owned by an animal testing company, that brand will not be cruelty free. This in itself can be confusing for people who are just beginning to look for cruelty free brands and I know that this is something that can put many people off researching into where they buy their makeup and skincare from especially when you are feeling overwhelmed standing in the middle of Boots with all the makeup stands around you and you are just wanting to pick up a mascara to replace the one that ran out this morning.
Another point to mention from Gemima’s post is that when a brand is owned or brought by a parent company, the brand will often remain independent of the parent company in certain ways. This means that their products can be made separately and without being tested on animals. For example, the likes of The Body Shop, Urban Decay and NYX Cosmetics are all owned by L’Oreal however many people within the cruelty free community remain to buy from all of them companies. Liz Earle clearly prints the Leaping Bunny logo on the back of every product however they are owned by Avon and of course, Too Faced is now owned by Estée Lauder.
When asking on social media what other bloggers thought about parent companies, I received a mixed response. I’ve included some below which may help you come to a conclusion too. Many people agreed with Sarah, that is is important to still buy from the brand itself to show there is still a demand for cruelty free products.
as long as the brand itself remains cruelty free I'll still shop from it because I think it's important to show demand for CF!
Personally, I think it is a really hard decision to make especially as a beauty blogger in an ever growing community. You could say that you are supporting a cruelty free brand, whether it is owned by a testing parent company or not, therefore you are sending a message to them that a large number of consumers don’t want products tested on animals. However, others state that we would be funding animal testing because the parent company is still performing certain actions that harm animals whilst reaping the profits from its’ cruelty free brand.
Overall, I believe it is completely down to you. I am not going to be the one to judge anyone for their decisions. Buying from brands with parent companies that test on animals will, of course, give you more options. However, if you decide to only use products from brands with cruelty free parent companies then you may be limiting yourself to the products that are available to you and how easy it is to get them. Whatever your stance is when it comes to animal testing and parent companies remember that it is your opinion and don’t feel upset or bothered if someone else’s opinion is different. It’s a similar discussion as the vegetarian and vegan argument. You should feel proud for contributing to the community, even if it is a simple decision as to which company you are gong to buy your next facial wash or eyeshadow palette from. Personally, I care about the welfare of the animals and this is something I’ve grown passionate about especially since doing my research but I do also want to share the availability of products that we have around us and raise awareness that the smallest difference can make a big change.
What are your thoughts on brands with parent companies? Do you buy from them?
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Bonfire Night. Most definitely my favourite day of the year. I love how the local community comes together to celebrate something together. Fireworks are magical. They are pretty and beautiful. They represent the start of winter and new beginnings. It’s always freezing cold and I am always the one gathering everyone together half an hour before the start to get the front row seats. After watching the fireworks, it is a family ritual to end off the evening with hot dogs, toffee apples and a hot chocolate.
Do you enjoy bonfire night? What’s your favourite day of the year?
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Periods. They are a taboo topic. I want to try and change this and make everyone feel more comfortable around here. I find it so awkward to talk about them with anyone including my own sister! I hate when they come around – it’s like a monthly dread that I wish we didn’t have to deal with but we do and that sucks. I’ve learnt a few tips over the years that have helped me and hopefully they could be of use to you too. Think of it as a bit like a period survival kit to help you get through that time of the month.
So obviously the first thing I wanted to talk about was the essentials: pads and tampons. You are all probably rather familiar with what is out there in the market, however, there is one brand which I will always go back too. Always is my go to brand! All their pads just do the job and work best for me but I have heard that Veeda is a lot better for the environment as they are made with 100% natural cotton and are chemical, synthetics and dye-free. I haven’t got round to trying them to give you my opinion but Lauren and Amie have done a post about them. I usually pick up the Ultra Long for during the day and Always Maxi Comfort & Protection for during the night. I just find them so comfortable to wear that sometimes I even forget that I am on my period at the time. The other good thing is that they are so easy to remove but they still give you the ultimate protection.
There would be days that I would be laying in bed in so much pain because of the cramps, however, there are a few essentials that I turn to for help. The first is Nurofen specifically for period pains. I don’t know whether they are any different to other pain killers but they work so fast and are easy to take. If you don’t like taking tablets then I usually opt for a hot water bottle or a microwavable teddy bear. The one I have is a dog from Sainsbury’s and I use him religiously. Most of the time it is as bad as when I had appendicitis, no kidding! I have been to the doctors plenty of times about the pain but they don’t offer much advice.
Of course, chocolate is the first thing that I turn to around that time of the month. I have learnt that dark chocolate, such as Cadbury’s Bournville, will satisfy your craving and increase your happiness levels without being as fattening as other types of chocolate. Dairy is something to stay away from as that can increase bloating and just make the whole week very uncomfortable. Bananas are the next food I turn too. Whether I make ice cream, milkshakes/smoothies or eat them as they come. They are known for helping you to avoid cramps and reduce bloating.
Other foods I have heard is good for you are: hummus as it can help you sleep better and put you in a better mood, spinach or kale as it can help with cramps but is also a great source of calcium and nuts. Don’t forget to drink enough water to keep you hydrated, keep away cramps and help with bloating.
Pampering yourself is definitely a key aspect in maintaining your happiness levels. It helps me feel a lot more relaxed and a little bit more human. Warm baths are really soothing for my cramps and of course this means using bath bombs and bubble bars. Another skincare essential is Mask of Magnaminty. My skin ends up feeling oily and breaking out before, during and after my period so I’ve found this mask to be the best on the market. It’s so cooling due to peppermint oil and overall it reduces the breakout of my skin. The other beauty essentials that I use are Superdrug’s Feminine Body Wash and Feminine Deodorant. Not only are they cruelty free and suitable for vegans but they leave me feeling clean, fresh and ready to start the day.
Update: Since originally writing this post I have been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). I originally went to the doctors because of the pain. My periods were getting progressively worse and irregular. Many different tests later they diagnosed me with PCOS which explains why I was in so much pain all the time. If you do think the period cramps are abnormal I encourage you to go to the doctors. I keep track of all my symptoms using an app or the Health settings on my phone. If you want me to write a more in-depth post then I certainly can.
Do you have any period essentials that get you through that time of the month? Let me know whether you use any of these.
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I have gone through my fair share of writer’s block. When you have been on the blogging seen for so many years it can be challenging to come up with some fresh and exciting new content for your readers so I thought writing down a bank of ideas will not only help yourself but me too!
So grab yourself a drink, your favourite notepad and a pen and get writing down some post ideas. Happy blogging…
A Recent Shopping Spree – Share what new cruelty free treats made their way into your shopping basket…don’t forget the prices and links too, it may just lead to an exciting opportunity!
Monthly Favourites – A classic post to write letting your readers know what you’ve been loving.
Evening Skin Care Routine – Share your fave lotions and potions that you use before you catch up on your beauty sleep…
Morning Skin Care Routine – and of course you can do the same for your morning routine too!
Wishlist – On a budget? Wishlists are brilliant one for your readers. Not only is it letting them know what your lusting over but it is also giving them a chance to find something for them to buy too.
Face Of The Day (FOTD) – My personal favourites – it also adds new products to my wishlist daily!
Reviews – Share your thoughts on your favourite products that you’ve been brought or sent.
Brand Focus – Found a new cruelty free favourite brand? Let your readers discover them too. Don’t forget to include social media as well.
New Collection – Whenever something new is released in Lush, I want to get my hands on it straight away so I can share my thoughts on my blog too.
Empties – You could even add a mini review of the products that you’ve used up!
Seasonal Favourites – Share your holy grail products for certain seasons, every beauty blogger looks for new products too.
Shopping Your Stash – This is another good one if your on a budget or running out of post ideas. A lot of bloggers sometimes write these a week before payday when they have ran out of money.
What’s In Your Travel Makeup Bag – Share your travel essentials…you could even split this into skincare and makeup
Haircare Routine – Do you have certain staples that your hair can’t live without? Share them with your readers!
Your Favourite Cruelty Free Bloggers – There are plenty of us #cfbloggers now, share your favourites because it’s always nice to be kind and whoever you mention will make sure to return the favour because we are all so supportive!
What’s In Your Shower – Share your favourite shower treats.
Skincare/Makeup Tips & Tricks – Have you been taught something from your relatives or friends that has changed your routine? Share them with your readers, they may even thank you for it!
Answer The Questions From A Tag – these are really good for starting you off or…
Create Your Own Tag – don’t forget to share it on social media, with your bloggers, with your dog/cat!
Subscriptions – Share what’s inside your subscription boxes, or perhaps your favourite articles in the magazine your subscribed too.
Beauty Dupes – Found something on the high street which is just as good, if not better than the high end product you brought a couple of months ago? Share it! The same could be send for cruelty free vs. non cruelty free products too.
Disappointing Products – Admit why you didn’t like products you’ve previously brought. It’s also a good chance to share products you’ve replaced them with. No one wants to read a fully negative post!
Host A Giveaway – Not only is this really fun to do but it gives you a chance to make a reputation online. I’ve gained a handful of followers that have came from previous giveaways and they have stayed with my blog until this day.
Pamper Evening Routine Essentials – We always love a good pamper, share your ultimate favourites!
How-To’s – This could be anything from: creating the perfect brow or your favourite eye look to a nail art tutorial or a celebrity inspired makeup look.
Your Favourite Nail Polishes, Lipsticks Or Eyeshadows – Round up your all-time favourites or your favourite colours of the season and get swatching!
Interview A Blogger – Don’t be afraid to interview your favourite bloggers, I am sure they will be more than happy to get coverage from you and they will help spread the word about your blog too.
Guest Blogger – A great way to introduce new cruelty free blogging buddies to the scene of blogging.
Share Your Favourite Cruelty Free Posts – Gather your favourites posts from your favourite bloggers and share them in a post on your blog. You could even have a certain theme.
Cruelty Free Resources – Talking about how you find cruelty free products, make a list of the brands that you buy from or want to try in the near future.
Do you suffer from writer’s block? What’s your top tips for fresh new content? Don’t forget to add any of your suggestions below!
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I feel well and truly spoilt to live in Whitley Bay. I think you can really take for granted some of your local landmarks when you have lived somewhere for a long time but after moving away from the North East and then moving back, I don’t ever feel anywhere else can quite match up. There are so many amazing places to eat along Park View and don’t forget the little independent shops to explore. It is home to St Mary’s Lighthouse and the Spanish City but also the most beautiful beach that is perfect to walk along when you want some time for yourself. During the Spring, seals use the rocks around the Lighthouse as a mating ground which I think is so special. There is even a Seal Group with local volunteers to help protect and take care of them. If you ever find yourself near the coast, I would pop into Pantrini’s for a good old chippy tea and if you can squeeze in a little tub of ice cream, you can’t beat Di-Meo’s Kinder Nutella Swirl!
Do you live near the coast? Is there anywhere local to you that signifies where you live?
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Does anyone else think this week is going super slow? I was planning on writing an in-depth post about skincare but I just don’t feel like writing that, not today. It can be saved for another time when I have thought about the wording more carefully. Recently, I read one of Kathryn’s posts and it brought back many childhood memories that I just wanted to share with you. I thought it would not only cheer me up after a bit of a stressful week but it would be something fun to write and bring back some nostalgic memories for you to consider too.
There was so many amazing programmes on TV but my favourites were Tracy Beaker, My Parents Are Aliens, The Worst Witch, Arthur and Home Farm Twins. Please say that you remember these. Every time I talk to my friends about them, they can never remember watching some of them. Home Farm Twins was definitely my favourite though because the girls just wanted to save and keep all the animals without them getting hurt. I can remember running home from school just to watch them all.
McDonald’s Happy Mealsexcited me so much! I used to collect all the different toys that was in them and covered my bookshelf with them all. I remember that I needed to collect the whole set so I could keep them as a collection. I used to cry when my dad tidied my room because he would put them in a box under my bed. I always had the chicken nuggets from the meals but never had the chips! I just found them too salty. There was also a restaurant that had lovely truffle style chocolates that my dad used to get for free on Friday’s because my dad knew the owner. Although they were all gone by the time I went home…
Jacqueline Wilson books was so popular with the majority of girls in school and don’t get me wrong I used to buy them too, however, I never read a single one until Diamond Girls and Kiss came out. It’s probably because I really struggled to read and the teachers didn’t know until further into my education that I had dyslexia. It’s probably the main reason why I hated English and just sat making doodles in the back of my book during ‘quiet time’.
What did you do without internet and money? I used to go and play on the swings in the park with my friends. We spent hours down there and then came back once it started getting dark to have pizza before they headed home. I can remember playing with playmobil and making pretend families with all the characters. I spent hours sitting in a circle with friends playing on Bop It. Singstar, Guitar Hero and Ratchet and Clank were my favourite games on Playstation 2 and don’t even get me started on Nintendo. Did anyone else have Nintendogs?
Can you relate to any of these? Is there anything else you can remember about the early 90s? I think I could go on forever about them!
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