We’re all guilty of sticking to what we know, especially when it comes to beauty products. Chances are that once you find a brand that you are happy with, you settle with it, adding it to your basket each and every time you head to the supermarket to replenish your supply of beauty products. While you may be comfortable with your choice, it’s important to remember that many companies and brands will change their products’ formulas over time, meaning that over the years you’re actually buying multiple different products that are merely placed in the same packaging that you are used to. This means that you may well end up using a product that isn’t as effective or suited to you as the one you originally chose. It is also paramount that you keep an eye on the ethical guidelines of the companies that you use. Perhaps you’ve opted for a certain brand because of their cruelty-free aspect. While many brands are cruelty-free and do not test on animals when they start out, they may turn to animal testing as their popularity increases in order to sell their products to larger markets such as China, where animal testing is a necessity for any product being sold to the nation’s public. What starts out as a cruelty-free product may well develop into a product that doesn’t conform to your moral or ethical compass. So, here are a few parts of your routine that you might like to switch up!

Shampoo and Conditioner

You may think that all shampoos and conditioners are pretty much the same besides their scent, but you’d be surprised at how much the ingredients can vary. Many hair products are packed with chemical nasties that may make your hair appear good in the short term but will prove damaging in the long run. Be particularly wary of products that claim to give your hair a high-shine finish, as these products often coat your hair with particles of plastic based substances in order to reflect light. You should also avoid sulfates and parabens as much as possible. Sulphate, in particular, in a surfactant that removes dirt and oil from hair. While this may sound ideal, it is actually damaging, as its chemical composition strips hair of natural oils, often leaving it dry and straw-like. So, instead of immediately reaching for your usual hair care combo, try out the best sulfate free shampoo and conditioner combinations. You will see the benefits in no time.

Bath Products

What’s better than a long hot soak in a bubble bath? Well, a long hot soak in a bath that is completely cruelty-free and composed of all natural ingredients. Many bath bombs, bath salts, and bubble bath liquids contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin. Instead, check out the amazing ranges available to you by brands such as Lush. Lush dedicate themselves as a company to creating delicious smelling, magically coloured products that can transform your bath into a mermaid lagoon, intergalactic space landscape, or glittery pink haven. What’s more? They’re completely against animal testing and many of their products are also suitable for vegans. Perfect!

Remember, as well as switching up your cleansing products, you should also keep an eye on the makeup, hair styling and hygiene products that you make use of. It’s always best to be well aware of what you’re using and placing on your body.