Necessary News: Toxichip could spell the end of animal testing

Hi all!

An Irish news report released today announced that during the first Nanoweek (running this week, from 30 November to 4 December), scientists will unveil a new little gem known as a Toxichip,which could eliminate the use of animal testing.

The news report, released by RTE.ie, said: "Toxichip, which was developed at the Tyndall National Institute in Cork, is capable of monitoring how cells behave and interact with drugs, chemical pollutants in the environment and toxic substances in food and beverages.

"Cell-based biosensors, developed and made at Tyndall, integrated in the Toxichip platform also have the potential to replace animal testing currently used in toxicity screening.

"Already two companies, one in Ireland and a second in France, are seeking to invest in and apply this new technology."

Let's all keep our fingers crossed that the Toxichip is here to stay so we can spread the luck of the Irish to animals worldwide!

You don't have to be cruel to be kind,

GiGi

Guiltless Goodies: Guiltless gifts for the holiday season!

Hi all!

It's been a while since I last editorialized on the reasons I am doing this blog, so I thought I'd preface this post with a reminder about my motivations. Please bear with me, it's an important message that I will restrain from repeating too often but it is, I feel, worth a read as a reminder from time to time.

It is important to have a conscience. Especially in today's world, which is often corrupt and capitalist.

Companies like to make money; the bottom line is that they are entirely focused on their bottom line. Sadly, in order to meet their financial goals, many of them look for the cheap way out - not caring who or what they hurt in the process. There are all kinds of problems that have emerged because of this competitive attitude: sweat shops, fur farms and child labour are just a few. The cruelties of the leather and fur industries, the realities of poorly-regulated animal testing that still takes place in overcrowded laboratories - it is overwhelming and can make any consumer feel disturbed and powerless. However, if the companies' concern is their bottom line, that is something that everyone, as a consumer, can impact.

Major designers such as Max Azria (owner of the BCBG group) and Stella McCartney (whose line is vegan, meaning fur- and leather-free) have taken stances against the use of fur in the fashion industry. Brands such as Almay and Origins boast natural, often organic and always cruelty-free products at drugstore prices. Cosmetics giant Revlon has trumped its competitors - L'Oreal and Maybelline among them - by banning animal testing in the production of its products.

For guilt-free purchases this holiday season, below is a list of festive products that would make an ideal gift for anyone and everyone. Using purchasing power for good will ensure everybody wins – including the animals.

You don't have to be cruel to be kind,

GiGi

A COSY KNIT SWEATER:

Expensive Elegance: Stella McCartney’s wool cashmere ladder knit V-neck sweater, $825, StellaMcCartney.com (shown here in round-neck version)

Ideal Investment: BCBGMAXAZRIA’s cable-knit long cardigan, $198, BCBG.com

Bargain Buy: Old Navy’s women’s cable-knit V-neck hoodies, $34.50, OldNavy.com

AN EYE-CATCHING CLUTCH:

Expensive Elegance: Matt and Nat’s Kogan clutch, $150 (Canadian), mattandnat.ca

Ideal Investment: Bebe’s satin bow clutch, $59, bebe.com

Bargain Buy: Charlotte Russe’s studded chain clutch, $16.99, CharlotteRusse.com

THE ULTIMATE PAIR OF PARTY SHOES:

Expensive Elegance: Mink Shoes’ Bull pump, $355, minkshoes.com

Ideal Investment: Charmoné’s Cinnamon – Black shoes, $179, charmone.com

Bargain Buy: Payless ShoeSource’s Miss Puerto Rico by Payless Divina sandal, $34.99, Payless.com

A RED LIPSTICK FOR ALL:

Expensive Elegance: Estee Lauder lipstick removed after more research discovered the company partakes in animal testing

Ideal Investment: Too Faced Cosmetics’ Drop Dead Red lipstick, $18, TooFaced.com

(Too Faced's Lip of Luxury lipsticks)

(Drop Dead Red)

Bargain Buy: Revlon Colorstay soft & smooth lipcolor in Red Velvet, $9.99, Revlon.com

HIGH-SHINE NAIL POLISH:

Expensive Elegance: OPI’s Designer Series DS Reflection, $12.50, OPI.com

Ideal Investment: Sally Hansen item removed (the company is owned by Coty, Inc. which does animal testing)

Bargain Buy: Avon’s Nailwear pro nail enamel in Ruby Slipper, $5.99, Avon.com 

Guiltless Goodies: End-of-year list of best of beauty products!

Hi all!

REDBOOK Magazine is the latest to publish its favourite products of the year in the Top Beauty Products of the Year feature in its latest issue. Click here to read the feature in full.


My favourite celebrity blogger, Lainey Gossip, recently blogged on the increasing number of lists we're seeing as we approach not just the end of the year but the end of the decade. I may be a list lover but I too see her point on how sifting through them all can take up some serious time! 


With this list I blasted through the animal testers and threw them out, leaving you with a list of the best and the kindest beauty products out there this year, so take a quick look through this list and feel assured in buying any of these as a treat for yourself or a gift for someone else this Christmas.


*NOTE: Each brand name is a link; if you click on it, it will take you to a website - usually the company's own - that states the company's policy on animal testing.

You don't have to be cruel to be kind,

GiGi

REVIVE...with products that offer instant gratification:


Benefit One Hot Minute, $30

The most flattering non-bronzer bronzer ever: This rose gold face powder adds a touch of warmth so your skin tone looks fresh and fabulous - not fake and baked.

Burt's Bees item removed - it is owned by Clorox


Avon Anew Wrinkle Zone Line Smoothing Duo, $12

Avon took a tip from Penn and Teller, creating a magical duo that makes things disappear. Fill lines in with the soothing balm, then top with the loose powder and...presto! Wrinkles vanish before (and around) your very eyes.


Jonathan Product Green Rootine Dry Shampoo, $19

Give greasy roots the brush-off. When you've skipped the shampoo, this hair powder absorbs oil and adds volume - even on the go, thanks to the clever brush applicator.

Sally Hansen item removed - owned by Coty, Inc.

Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream to Brighten and Depuff, $29.50

Since we all get the recommended eight hours of sleep every night, there's no need for this product. Hahahahaha. Well, thank goodness for this botanical blend that relieves irritation, swelling, and scary undereye shadows.

Too Faced Primed & Poreless Skin Smoothing Face Primer, $30

Take a shortcut to perfect skin. This velvety cream instantly preps skin for makeup (even powder formulas) by smoothing over large pores and fine lines. Meanwhile, skin-smoothing vitamin A goes the distance to repair skin in the long run.

RETOOL...with the best new gadgets and tools:

Sephora Brand Color-Dipped Brush Collection, $18 to $32

(Click on the above link and at the bottom of the page, in the Product Q&A, Sephora state that the hairs on the brush are synthetic, not animal. I have previously stated that Sephora Brand does not test its own cosmetics on animals, although it does sell some brands who do).

Twice as nice: These colorful brushes save space and cash. Each is double-ended so you get two uses in one. Shown in photo above: Every Day Eye Brush, Winged Eye Brush No. 5, Perfect Complexion Brush, Grab 'n' Go Brush, and Smoky Eye Brush.

RELIEVE...the burden on your wallet with beauty products $15 and under:

Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Liquid Lipcolor, $11

Long-wearing lipsticks have earned a bad reputation for sucking the life out of your kisser. But this formula gets it right: The satin-finish colors (there are 20 to choose from) have a conditioning topcoat built in so the shades stay on your lips without flaking or caking. 

Nexxus Botanoil Nourishing Shampoo, $9, and Botanphuse Nourishing Botanical Conditioner, $15

This shampoo-and-conditioner duo is like a mini spa treatment for your strands with its fragrant rose hip, sunflower seed and grapeseed oils and other healthy hair essentials.

Nivea item removed - owned by Beiersdorf, which tests on animals.

REPAIR...your skin, hair and nails with the best treatment products:

Fresh Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Treatment, $22.50

With this lip balm, it was love at first swipe. Its creamy texture, citrusy flavor, and sheer red tint made us swoon. But it was the antioxidants and SPF 15 protection that turned this into a lasting relationship.

Ellen Sirot Hand Perfection Nail & Cuticle Treatment, $22

Quit your nipper addiction: This pen releases oils as you push cuticles back, making proper cuticle care easy.

REJOICE...with pretty products that just make us happy:

OPI DS Mystery, $12.50

You can't always judge a polish by its bottle: We were perfectly pleased when we thought this shade was a dark, plummy brown but upon application, we were tickled purple to see a shimmering violet, formulated with flecks of diamond dust.

Laura Geller Beauty Ingenuity Baked Bites, $29.50

Just a touch of this baked powder coats lips with rich, moist, shimmering color. Wear the red and bronze-y colors separately or blend them together. Then top 'em off with the gloss for a little sheen.

Mary Kay Eau de Toilette shower gels in Exotic Passionfruit and Sparkling Honeysuckle, $15 each

Scent your skin with these luscious-smelling bubbles. They not only lather like crazy but also make a cheerful addition to your shower ledge.

Cargo Runway Kit, $49

This adorable makeup kit comes ready to wear with a palette of three bright blush shades in a cable-knit design and six jewel-tone eyeshadows in the shape of buttons. Fashion, meet function.

Estee Lauder item removed - it tests on animals

Emani Minerals Hybrid Color in Love Addict, $18

This creamy shadow trio, evocative of Van Gogh's Starry Night, is sure to make your eyes the star of any night: The shades blend together perfectly to create an instant smoky eye.

Stila Lip Enamel Luxe Gloss, $22

As if names like Happiness, Giggle, and Ecstasy (shown) don't make us giddy enough, these glosses are infused with a botanical extract meant to put you in a good mood. Now that's lip service with a smile!

Necessary News: Shiseido not there yet, but getting closer...

Hi all!

Recent news revealed that top Japanese cosmetics manufacturer Shiseido - who have previously admitted their animal testing practices (click here for post) told an anti-animal testing activist group today that they have "boosted efforts to suspend" animal testing "in the near future, if not immediately".

While this is not the time to go out and support Shiseido by purchasing their products, this is a time to communicate your encouragement to the company, so visit their Contact Us page on their Corporate Social Responsibility website and send encouraging notes to ensure that the company follows through with its promise and sets the standard for zero tolerance for animal testing in the cosmetics industry!

You don't have to be cruel to be kind,

GiGi

Necessary News: The doctor has spoken!

Hi all!

One of my favourite magazines, Vegetarian Times, featured an important question (which is especially relevant to this blog) in its Ask the Experts section: What are alternatives to animal testing?

As I have said many times, the doctor explained that very often animal testing is irrelevant anyway, as animal's biological systems are so completely different to humans'.

Anyway, here is the full response from the doctor, and to see the full feature and more on Vegetarian Times click here.

You don't have to be cruel to be kind,

GiGi

Q: What humane testing methods exist in place of animal testing?
A: It still surprises many people to learn that non-animal testing methods are not only more ethical, they are also more applicable to human health. The differences in biology, chemistry and physiology mean that research conducted on animals doesn’t always translate effectively to humans. As more researchers realize this, they are turning to some of the following methods:

• Selective formulation Choosing previously tested ingredients to create new products eliminates the need for further testing. Many manufacturers follow this principle in planning their product lines.
• Human cultures Epiderm and EpiSkin are human skin cells grown in test tubes that are layered to mimic the structure of human skin. Cosmetics and household products can be tested on these rather than the skin of live rabbits. Corrositex is another test-tube option that gives an easy-to-read color change reaction to a hazardous product. And EpiOcular, a mass of skin cells specially grown to form a thin layer like that of the human cornea, has the potential to completely replace the cruel rabbit eye irritancy test.
  Skin cultures taken by permission during surgical procedures (such as breast-reduction surgery) can be used to test whether a chemical can pass through the skin and be a potential poison risk.
  Surgical specimens are also the main source of human tissues available from the National Disease Research Interchange (NDRI) in Philadelphia. This non-profit tissue bank makes more than 100 types of human tissues available for medical research. NDRI, along with Asterand, a company with offices in the US, UK and Japan that supplies human biomaterials for research, has made it easier than ever for companies to access human cells for testing.
• The physiological chip Just as a microchip holds an intricate system of electronic connections, this 1x1-inch square of cultured cells is made up of cell compartments that are linked by a lifelike circulatory system that mimics the complex functions of the human body. The chips, developed by the Hµrel Corporation in Beverly Hills, CA, can be used to test for harmful (and beneficial) effects of experimental drugs, as well as toxicity of the liver and other organs.
• Cellular tests Experiments that measure white blood cell response to chemicals and medical substances can be used in place of rabbit injections. These tests check for unexpected fever and inflammation—especially from receiving intravenous medications. The European Union just approved the use of five of these tests.
  Bacteria-based tests performed on common microbes such as salmonella can be used to assess whether chemicals can damage DNA, and therefore present a cancer risk.
• Microdosing Minuscule amounts of a test substance—much smaller than a typical dose used for medical purposes—are given to human volunteers so that researchers can track how the substances are transported and absorbed throughout the body.

Q: How do I know what products out there have been tested on animals?
A: Companies are not required to label their products to refl ect whether they have been tested on animals. But those that do not practice animal testing often print “cruelty-free,” “not tested on animals” and even “vegan” on their labels. Look for products with the V logo (for “certified vegan,” you can check it out at vegan.org) or the leaping bunny stamp of approval (leapingbunny.org).
Guiltless and Glamorous note: you can also check out the blog for frequent suggestions and updates on cruelty-free products!


Q: What will it take for companies to stop animal testing for good?
A: Pharmaceutical manufacturers are particularly reluctant to deviate from standard test procedures because animal tests have been the path to regulatory approval of their products with a minimum of liability. But the Vioxx scandal showed that animal tests are far from a guarantee of safety. (Vioxx was the anti-infl ammatory approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that was later found to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke; it was subsequently pulled from the market.
What’s more, the Environmental Protection Agency, the FDA and other agencies remain decidedly loyal to decades-old animal tests. Progress will come as legislators pressure these agencies to modernize the testing processes and as stockholders of major drug manufacturers bring resolutions that move the companies away from animal testing.
Ultimately, the recognition that animal testing is cruel, inaccurate and unnecessary will win the day, and benefit both the welfare of animals and scientific progress.


Neal D. Barnard, MD, lives in Washington, DC, where he conducts human clinical research. His team developed the first cruelty-free test for insulin.

Guiltless Goodies: Wardrobe staples from an elegant Caring Company!

Hi all!

SHAPE Magazine featured an article on essential clothing staples a while ago, and I am revisiting its lists in this post to showcase suggestions for products that fulfill each of the magazine's recommended 'staples' (for the original magazine article, click here).

This post features products from TULLE clothing line (leather- and fur-free) as well as other vegan and fur-free lines/stores. TULLE is a line I have recently discovered that features cruelty-free products at reasonable prices and with a classic design (making it the ideal line to represent wardrobe classics!). For more on TULLE visit their website here and find out about the company's cruelty-free policy in my post here.

You don't have to be cruel to be kind,

GiGi

The Basics
1. Classic trench
A basic belted trench is versatile and comes in a variety of fabric and colour options. To avoid looking like a secret agent: Choose a well-tailored option that hits right at (or below) the knee for a polished look.

Canvas trench, $93 reduced to $37.20 (tulle4us.com)

2. Sexy bikini
The most flattering two-piece is one that's not too skimpy; pick a halter or bandeau top with a hipster bottom for just enough coverage. Or play up curves and make legs look longer in a one-piece suit with a high-rise cut.

Ombre leopard triangle top, $29, and string bottom, $20, victoriassecret.com

3. Stylish pair of flats
Give your feet a well-deserved break; try a knockout colour like red. Heels aren't the only way to fancy up your feet. From preppy-casual to peep-toe sexy, you'll love the way the right flats look with jeans, dresses and trousers.

zoe&zac Snapdragon ballet flats, $19.99, payless.com

4. Sophisticated white shirt
Think of a white button-up blouse as your upper body's version of black pants - it's versatile enough to wear anywhere, with almost anything. Pair it over a bikini for a weekend getaway or with your favourite pants for work.

Cotton sateen button-front shirt, $69, LizClaiborne.com

5. Cashmere sweater
Invest in a classic style in a statement-making, vibrant colour to brighten up your wardrobe. Cashmere is luxurious and versatile - you can wear it to the office, for an evening on the town or just chilling out at home.

Mitered V-neck Cable Cashmere, $475, RalphLauren.com

6. Sexy camisole
For a hint of sexiness and sophistication, wear this essential underpinning with a jacket or a cardigan. With several flattering styles from silky to lacy, it looks super-stylish on its own too.

Try a slip - you can still let the top peek through as a camisole: Slip, $33 reduced to $16.50, tulle4us.com

7. Slimming A-line skirt
From mid-thigh to knee-skimming or longer, a skirt with just enough volume to move with you is always feminine and fun.

Printed lawn flared skirt, $85 reduced to $34, tulle4us.com

8. Fabulous-fitting jeans
Whether faded or tailored, the right pair of jeans will make you feel super-sexy every minute.

Belle flare with flap - Spruce jeans, $175, WilliamRast.com

Career Must-Haves
9. Signature scarf
The right scarf can add instant impact to a suit or a crisp white shirt. Pick one in a bold colour or vivid pattern; tie it around your neck or onto your purse handle, or twist it and wear it as a simple, but vibrant belt.

Sky fashion scarf, $24.99, designed by Fran Whinnery, available at KittyGallery.com

10. Confidence-building suit
From boardroom to bistro, an up-to-date, well-fitting suit flatters any shape. And it offers endless style options: Wear blazer and pants with a blouse for that impress-everyone meeting; pair the pants with a crisp white shirt and cashmere sweater for everyday; or ad a camisole to the suit (along with a sexy pair of heels) for that evening event.

Lightweight wool blazer and straight pant, $198 for jacket, $98 for pants, BananaRepublic.com

11. Sophisticated belt
A well-crafted faux leather belt looks polished and completes your look. Pair it over a long blouse, with a suit or to dress up a basic tank.

Truth "red planet" unisex belts, $52, truthbelts.com

12. Face-flattering shades
The easiest way to class up any outfit - for work or weekend - is with a super-classy (and UV-protective) pair of sunglasses. A general rule of thumb when shopping for the perfect fair: Rounded frames soften a square jaw line, square frames slim cheeks and rectangular frames add width and dimension to your face.

Annabel sunglasses, $108, TommyHilfiger.com

Evening Essentials
13. A clutch
Accessorize your evening wardrobe with a sleek, compact bag that's just big enough to hold your keys, cash and cell phone.

The Polo clutch, $42 reduced to $10, by Parapette (available in metallic white, ivory and brown), amazon.com

14. Strappy high heels
A pair of dressy-looking heels (silver, gold or black are always good choices) can be worn year-round to the office - as well as out on the town.

Bat shoes, only available through special order, MinkShoes.com

15. Basic black dress
Dazzle in a classic black cocktail dress with a sexy neckline. The look is simply stunning - now and for years to come.

Shimmer linen dress (available in BLACK also), $73 reduced to $29.20, tulle4us.com

Caring Companies: TULLE is a great new find!

Hi all!

When researching the use of fur in the companies included in FITNESS Magazine's Jacket Jackpot feature (which I blogged about here and which can be viewed in full here), I came across a design company I was not familiar with - maybe I'm behind the times, or perhaps they are brand new - but after emailing TULLE to find out what their policy is I was delighted when I received the below response. It seems that not only are they fur-free but also leather-free, so feel free to shop away at TULLE! I have updated the jacket post to include the TULLE jacket that FITNESS was showcasing and a post on the necessary wardrobe staples for every woman is upcoming, featuring all TULLE clothing!

You don't have to be cruel to be kind,

GiGi

TULLE's response:

No we do not use real fur or real leather.

Thanks!
T U L L E  .  C L O T H  L O G I C
Product@tulle4us.com

Guiltless Goodies: Jackets for every body type

Hi all!

Maybe it isn't in my part of the world, but I am aware that many places are experiencing a season known as 'winter' right now! Jackets are an essential part of any fall/winter closet, and FITNESS Magazine's October issue included a feature titled Jacket Jackpot featuring jackets suitable for any body type.

After plucking out some cruel options, I have a full collection of flattering, fashionable and funky jackets below. The full feature can be found online here.

You don't have to be cruel to be kind,

GiGi

For boy shapes:
You'll be at ease wearing the double-breasted military trend, which adds volume to a narrow frame.

Old Navy military cotton blazer, $40, Old Navy stores

For hourglass shapes:
The best cut for your curves: a fitted style in stretch denim that accentuates your tiny middle.

H&M Everyday Moto denim jacket, $35, hm.com for store locations

Levi's 70s Plaid Trucker stretch-cotton jacket, $90, Levi's stores.

For apple shapes:
Looking slim is a cinch in a belted trench that defines your waist and lengthens your torso.

American Eagle Outfitters AE Patchwork cotton trench, $80, ae.com

Converse One Star Milly cotton jacket, $40, target.com

Best jacket for pear shapes:
Go bold! Big buttons or graphic prints draw the eye upward, keeping the focus on your top half.

TULLE cropped wool jacket, $85, tulle4us.com