Veganism and vegetarianism is fast on the rise, especially with the emergence of documentaries like "Food Inc." and "Cowspiracy" (both available on Netflix for our viewing pleasure). I recently looked into vegetarianism for health reasons, and although I have not made the commitment, I found another small way that I can help the animals. I have made the choice to transition to cruelty-free makeup products, and trust me, it's easier than you think. A good way to distinguish products on your own is to look for the “Leaping Bunny,” or these other symbols:

I know the struggle: you find the perfect hair conditioner or foundation and there’s no way you want to give it up. However, there are tons of brands that are cruelty-free. Changing your products to cruelty-free can save dozens of animals. Here are just a few of my favorite drugstore and high end brands that are certified cruelty free.

Drugstore Brands:

1. Milani.

Most popular products: Baked blush in Luminoso, 2-in-1 foundation and concealer.

2. Elf.

Most popular products: Elf’s brushes are amazing, cheap and also cruelty-free! In addition, their entire line is full of great and super affordable products.

3. Wet n Wild.

Most popular products: Their eye shadow trio in Walking on Eggshells is a widely loved product. They also feature a great setting spray, finishing powders and highlighters.

4. Jordana.

Most popular products: They have a beloved line of mascaras, great powder blushes and great lipstick options in every formula.

5. Physician’s Formula.

Most popular products: All their products are great for people with sensitive skin, but some of the general favorites are their Butter Bronzer and their 2-in-1 Eyeliner and Lash Serum.

High-end brands:

1. Anastasia Beverly Hills.

Most popular products: ABH has some great brow products, and the typically sold-out highlighting palettes which they call “Glow Kits” are great, too.

2. NARS.

Most popular products: NARS has some amazing foundations and blushes, among other products. Their Creamy Concealer is a total cult favorite.

3. Too Faced.

Most popular products: Too Faced has tons of great eye shadow palettes, and the great “Better Than Sex" mascara.

4. Urban Decay.

Most popular products: Mostly known for their Naked eye shadow palettes, UD also has a great selection of setting sprays and gel eyeliner pencils.

5.Tarte.

Most popular products: Similarly known for their eye shadow palettes, Tarte also has a great selection of foundations and blushes.

Bonus! Cruelty-free household cleaning supplies:

1. Method.

2. Trader Joe's.

3. Martha Stewart.

Bonus #2! Hair and body products:

1. Shea Moisture.

They have great hair, skin and facewash lines for every skin or hair type imaginable. They are also organic.

2. Carol’s Daughter.

3. Yes To.

With this one, it should be noted that some individual products are not cruelty-free, so check carefully.

So, obviously, there are lots of great affordable and high-end products that don’t feel the need to hurt animals. And I understand that if you’re a broke makeup lover like me, you’re not going throw out all your makeup at once and going on a shopping spree. I would suggest that when you run out of a product, you try a cruelty-free option instead. You’re helping the animals, and you may find a product you’ll fall in love with. All these products are from two websites: Cruelty Free Kitty and My Beauty Bunny, which having many more brands than the ones listed here. If you want more information, I'd also check out PETA and Leaping Bunny.