There are lots of odd things you come across when going cruelty free or are trying to use vegan products. Nail polish remover was one i didn't think about even checking into for a while but it turns out there are lots of options out there and i'm about to share some with you!

.
Ella & Mila | Soy Nail Polish Remover - $11.50- 29.50
(find them here)
This vitamin enriched soy-based remover contains lavender oil and vitamins A, C and E. The packaging is really damn cute and comes in 4oz or 16oz options.
Ella & Mila also have awesome nail polish options and some really lovely lip products, you can find my video featuring them here. Discount code "Ella40" gets you 40% off.

Sienna Byron Bay | Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover & Polish Remover Wipes - $18-30
(find them here & here)
If you desire nail polish remover in the swankiest packaging ever, this one is for you. It comes in a bottle or in wipe form and contains soy and vitamin e. Super Swanky.

Lauren B | Nail Polish Remover & Cuticle Treatment - $18 
(find them here)
This cute little bottle contains Geranium and Petitgrain oils to moisturize and invigorate nails and cuticles. Lauren B is also the maker of one of my favorite cuticle oil treatments too.

Aila | Nail Colour Remover - $22
(find them here)
This soy based formula with argan oil not only removes your nail polish but also treats skin with Vitamins A, C & E (vitamin E being a personal favorite of mine 😎)! It also has 5 stars on Petit Vour, one of my favorite vegan and cruelty free sites that has some of the most thorough reviewers out there.

NCLA | Take It Off Remover Sheets - $19
(find them here)
Another soy based remover that strengthens as it works and this time in handy little individual packs perfect for travel or quick removal on the go. NCLA also have a great range of vegan and cruelty free nail polishes that are 5 free (so, no formaldehyde, DBP, Toluene, Formaldehyde Resin and Camphor) and are bringing out new shades all the time. Their nail wraps are also super fun!

Madam Glam | Express Polish Remover & Remover Wraps - $10-12
(find them here & here)
Now time some less botanical options! Madam Glam offer a handy little pot of remover you just put your nail into, twist and your polish is removed. They also have wraps that i use to remove both gel polish and glitter polishes!
If you want products to build nail enhancements that are vegan and cruelty free, MG is the place to go. I've used their gel polishes, gel builder and also polygel to sculpt my nails and LOVE their products. I also have a 30% discount code for their site which is just "Rhian30" at checkout.


(note: affiliate links and codes are used, these help support my blog and channel)

I'm seeing yellow nails everywhere lately and during my yellow-nail-polish online window shopping sesh, i figured why not share some of my top vegan and cruelty free yellow nail polish finds with you?!

(note: affiliate links and codes are used)

As you'd probably expect from me, lets do Madam Glam first who have 2 (maybe more) gorgeous gel options for your yellow nail needs. When i say "regular gel" i just mean that you need a base and top coat to go with it. The "one step gel" needs no friends and stands alone. Their site has lots of swatches of their colors too so you can see the shades on a variety of hands. As always, i do have an affiliate code you can use for 30% off: Rhian30 

Regular gel in Mimosa, One step gel in Pale Yellow

Next up for yellow gel options we have a brand i've not tried before but found listed on the Logical Harmony Cruelty Free Brand List and that is, Dimension Nails. Obviously i can't say how they perform but this color is GORGEOUS!

Regular gel in Save The Bees

Moving away from gels, for those who prefer regular polishes, we have some beautiful options from Ella + Mila! Again, you can use Ella40 for $$ off and you can find them at Target too. These three have subtle differences but as a nude lipstick collector, i feel i can say "but the undertones are totally different".

Sunburst, Copabikini and Limoncello

Speaking of subtle, these next two from LVX are much more subdued yellows. Whether you just want a lighter, more spring color or maybe a stepping stone to a brighter shade... these are GORGEOUS!

Primrose and Lemondrop

Lastly from Deco Miami is this beautiful summer shade, Tequila Sunrise. Not only is their packaging gorgeous but their colors come in two sizes for those of us who love collecting polishes and never use them up, the minis are perfect!

Tequila Sunrise

Anyone else call anything yellow a banana-something when they were a kid? "Banana-car" etc? Just me? 

Be sure to sign up for email notifications of new blog posts and let me know your favorite yellows in the comments below.

I've had lots of questions on nail products lately so figured i'd film a round up of all of my favorites from gels, to non-toxic options and even nail wraps!

PRODUCTS MENTIONED:

Madam Glam One Step Gels (sweet melody, VIP & only you) - http://bit.ly/2hd41mb 

Madam Glam LED Light (its gold now!!!) - http://bit.ly/2jMuO9M 

NCLA (nudes vol1, nudes vol3 & glistening scales) - http://bit.ly/2jfw98n 

NCLA Nail Oil - http://bit.ly/2hiMWnN 

OCC (pleasure model, covet & starling) - http://bit.ly/2jfvW4Y 

Pacifica (wonderland, rainbow top coat & dolphin) - http://bit.ly/2jfoerS 

Aila Nail Color Remover - http://bit.ly/2jrRR6C 

Note: affiliate links are used

Self care is something many people struggle with and i for one enjoy knowing how others like to show themselves a little self love so in hopes of opening a dialogue, heres my personal self care checklist!

Things i mentioned/featured:

Fred & Far Pad - http://bit.ly/2dLTm0Q 

Fred & Far Self Love Pinky Ring - http://bit.ly/2cThgqb 

Madam Glam Gel Polish - http://bit.ly/2dLVAgD 

Headspace App - http://apple.co/2cKsDhO 

Kani Skincare  - http://kanibotanicals.com/

I won't pretend to be a nail professional but this is how i get my nails to grow out after treating them poorly.

Day 1

• Remove all residual polish.
• Push back cuticles and trim any dry skin- be careful not to Black Swan your fingers when you do this.
• Shape the edges so they're more rounded and can't catch on anything.
• Apply a layer of both base and top gel polish.
• Use nail oils and hand lotions galore for the next 7 days!

Day 7

• Buff the previously applied gel polish to give a smooth surface.
• Push back cuticles and trim any dry skin.
• Start to shape your nails how you like them but try and retain your length.
• Apply 2-3 coats of whichever gel color you prefer.
• Oils and lotions again!!

Day 14 (some people might like to wait longer)

• Remove your gel polish with foil, acetone and cotton balls.
• Trim/file them all into the same length and shape.
• Push back cuticles and trim any dry skin.
• Treat yourself to a nice gel mani... maybe half moons or french!
• Oils and lotion until it becomes second nature.. your nails will thank you and your hands will look young and fresh!

Tips to stop biting nails

• Set reminders on your phone to stop biting/chewing.
• Tell people around you to remind you if they see you do it.
• Take up a new hobby that uses your hands to keep them occupied.
• Wear a dark lipstick so you try and avoid putting your hands near your mouth at all.

Products i use

• Diamancel File
• Cuticle Pusher 
• Cuticle Trimmer
• Madam Glam Gel Base & Top Coat
• Madam Glam Gel Colors in Beige Rose & Shimmer White

Other useful videos

• Madam Glam Gel Application
• Madam Glam Gel French Mani Application 

Here i show you how to repair a split nail with a teabag and how i got this semi-natural french mani using Madam Glam gel polishes!

What i used:

• Nail repair: Nail Glue, Tea Bag & Buffer
• Madam Glam Perfect White
• Madam Glam Shimmer White
• Madam Glam Base & Top Coats
• Madam Glam Mini LED Lamp
• Rubbing Alcohol & Cotton Balls
• Orange Stick
• Acetone
• Pura D’or Nail Therapy Oil

You can find my previous Madam Glam Video here. 

My Pura D’Or Review Video is here. 

Find Madam Glam polishes here and i'm not sure if this code still works but, worth a try! 30% off with code “rhian30”.

And sign up for their subscription service here and get 3 gels a month for $29!

If you ever can't decide between two nail colors, Madam Glam might just have solved your indecisive nail issues!

These photos are both their Color Change Gel Polish in "Man Eater". The color difference in this polish is subtle but i love it! The top photo is at normal or low temp and is a pretty raspberry with the finest sparkles and the bottom photo is at low temp and turns a deep plum (obviously the sparkles remain).

Some of the other polishes have a more obvious color difference which you can see swatched on their site but i love the subtle change in this shade! Although you might not see the color change much in the summer months, this might be a fun way to brighten up winter nails.

Vegan gel polishes that change color? Yes please.

Find Madam Glam polishes here and use code "rhian30" for 30% off!



FTC: This polish was sent to me free of charge but this post is not sponsored. All opinions are my own 'cause i don't have time for anyone elses <3

Spring has sprung and my makeup routine has changed!

Products used:

• Madam Glam Age Defense BB Cream in Light
• It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Airbrush (i think?)
• Pacifica Transcendent Concentrated Concealer in Light
• Zoeva Face Shape Brush
• Pacifica Under Eye Brighteners in Dreamlit & Bare
• The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzer
• OCC Small Blush Brush
• ELF Pressed Mineral Bronzer in Baked Peach
• It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Wand Ball Brush #8
• Colour Pop Blush in Holiday
• Zoeva Cream Blush Brush
• OCC Creme Colour Concentrate in Pleasure Model
• Eyeko Brow Gel
• Too Faced Primed and Poreless Loose Powder
• Real Techniques Duo Fiber Contour Brush
• Colour Pop Eyeshadow in Cheeky
• Morphe Fluffy Blending Brush
• OCC Loose Shadow in Clove
• My Finger
• Jouer Brow Pencil in Blonde
• Eyeko Lengthening Skinny Mascara
• Too Faced Lip Liner in Perfect Nude
• OCC Lip Tars in Divine & Lament
• OCC Lip Brush
• Sonia Kashuk Kajal Liner    
• Fig & Yarrow Complexion Water

You should still be able to get 30% off Madam Glam with "rhian30" at the checkout.

♡FTC♡

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you purchase one of the products mentioned via that link, i’d receive a small % of the sales.

If you do not wish to use these links, you can find the company info via google :)

The BB Cream was send to me, free of charge by Madam Glam

This post is not a sponsored or paid advertisement.

All opinions expressed are my own and 100% honest.

I got you, boo.

I've made a few changes to my nail care since i posted my last gel manicure video so i thought i'd post a little update in addition.

(here's the original video for those who missed it)

While filming that video i used a UV light which, looking back on, was really a poor choice. I did use UV gloves when i remembered but ultimately using a UV light is a ridiculous idea.

Madam Glam changed all that by sending me their LED light to try and WOW, what the hell was i doing with that giant UV thing?

(can we just appreciate the size difference alone?)

So the main difference in my nail routine is that it takes about 1/4 of the time it did before. UV lamps cure a lot slower than an LED lamp (read more about it here) along with upping your chance of skin cancer.

Since i've been using the LED lamp i've noticed my nails get a lot less flakey and so my manicures last longer, my nails remain stronger than before and i have minimal, if any, damage from almost exclusively using gel nail polish.

You should still be able to get 30% off using the code "rhian30" if you're interested in their products. 

Another change i've made is that i've been shaping my nails with a Diamancel file (number 1).

I've found my nails stay smoother longer, don't split and i don't have to file off as much to get a smooth finish.

They have many files to choose from including foot files but i've found their number 1 file is perfect for me. I also use it to seal off any edges if a gel manicure starts to lift or chips. The fine grit creates such a smooth edge.

On top of its other obvious pros, i've found that these just don't wear out. I had one for years and it was just as effective that entire time, until i lost it. You can keep them clean with just soapy water and a soft brush and its good as new again.

Lastly, and possibly one of my favorite additions is the Pura D'or Argan Oil Nail Therapy. I've been using this on my nails nightly or whenever they seem dry and its made a world of difference.

Their oil contains Argan oil (obviously), lemon oil and biotin and has the most delicious fresh scent. 

It's perfect for a nightly treatment, to apply after a manicure to give a beautiful shine and repair any damage from filing and just whenever you need to feel a little pampered.

As a chronic nail/skin biter (disgusting, i know), i find this helps me stop doing that. Whenever i catch myself picking or biting nails anxiously, i reach for this and take the time to rub it into each nail and its quickly becoming a new habit. Not only does this replace the old habit of biting my nails by occupying my hands but it makes me more determined to break the habit because my nails are making such great progress.

Pura D'or often have discounts for new customers or orders over a certain amount so check their store for other treatments for hair, acne, scarring and more.

Share some of your favorite nail care tips below!

♡FTC♡

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you purchase one of the products mentioned via that link, i’d receive a small % of the sales.

If you do not wish to use these links, you can find the company info via google :)

The LED lamp and nail oil were send to me, free of charge by their respective companies.

This post is not a sponsored or paid advertisement.

All opinions expressed are my own and 100% honest.

I got you, boo.

I mentioned this in my February Favorites and have since had some questions on it and how it compares to the traditional UV lamps so here's a little break down!

What is a nail lamp?

UV or LED lamps are used to cure or harden gel polishes. These polishes last a lot longer because the polish is sort of... baked on to the nail.

UV vs LED

UV lamps have the same harmful effects as the sun or tanning beds, not something you want concentrated on your hands over and over again. Not only does it have the possibility of causing cancer, but it will age the crap out of your hands. Generally they take around 2 minutes to cure each coat.

LED lamps eliminate the harmful side effects AND cure the polish a lot quicker, around 30-60 seconds per coat depending on the polish instructions. There really is no down side.

The Madam Glam Pocket LED Lamp

This thing is seriously adorable (note the size comparison to my old lamp in my February Favorites video) and powerful at the same time. 

What you'll receive is the cute little mini lamp and it's AC power adaptor. 

It cures your nails in 30 seconds per coat and it still blows my mind every time.

One thing i've had problems with in the past is getting my thumbs to lay flat when curing. The reason this is important is that if you don't hold your fingers flat, the polish can slide down to the lowest edge of the nail. 

To eliminate this i usually paint 4 fingers on one hand and the thumb of the other hand and cure those at the same time, this way you can hold them all totally flat. This lamp makes it super easy to hold your fingers and thumb on the edge of a table or surface, too.

There really is no downside to this new lamp, its not damaging; its tiny; its fast.

You can find the lamp here and they are always running sales!

(Madam Glam "Vivid Purple" Gel Polish)

FTC: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a % of the sales. If you do not wish to use these links you can find the company via google :)

The product was sent to me, free of charge, by Madam Glam but this is not a paid or sponsored advertisement.

All opinions expressed are my own and 100% honest.

Lush: The Olive Branch Shower Gel (V)

One Love Organics: Easy Does It Foaming Cleanser

Herban Cowboy: For Her Blossom Deodorant (V)

Mario Badescu: Glycolic Acid Toner

Mario Badescu: Rosehips Nourishing Oil

Too Faced: Better Than Sex Mascara (V)

Too Faced: Cocoa Powder Foundation (V)

Georgie Beauty: No. 6 Lashes (V)

Madam Glam: Gel Nail Polish in Baby Pink (V)

Madam Glam: LED Lamp

Hot Tools: 2” Curling Iron

Breville: The Oracle

Canon EF-S 10-18mm Lens

(items marked V are vegan according to the respective brands website but unmarked items are unconfirmed so be sure to check yourself)

Home pics taken with the new lens can be found here.

My Madam Glam Gel Nail Polish Tutorial

Find Madam Glam here!

It can be hard for cosmetics companies to expand into different areas of the market but Madam Glam took it from nail polish to makeup effortlessly.

Products-
Blush in Au Naturale 487
Black Liquid Liner
Long Lash Black Mascara
IRave Eyeshadow in Ginger Snap


Powder Blush- 5/5

• Great color, texture and color payoff. Easy to work with and very blendable.
• Slightly smaller than a Tarte blush pan (3.1g vs 5.6g) and works out slightly more expensive but, in my opinion, has better color payoff than Tarte and needs less layering.
• Sleek packaging with tiny mirror and brush in base.
• Be sure to use the smallest amount for fair skin or a sheer application because this stuff is VERY pigmented.
• Lasts well through out the day with no major fading.

iRave Eyeshadow- 5/5

• Sleek tube makes for mess-free pigment application and smudger stick included works surprisingly well.
• Beautiful duochrome finish works sheered out or packed on for a more intense finish
• No major fall out!

Liquid Eyeliner- 5/5

• Brush is an awesome shape and size and makes for easy crisp line work.
• Formula is very black, not lumpy and easy to layer without cracking.
• Easy to correct mistakes with a damp angled brush.

Longlash Mascara- 5/5

• This might be the easiest, most natural fibre mascara i've used.
• No flaking or fall out during application or after wearing.
• No transfer onto lids throughout the day.
• Very black and a great consistency.
• Easy to layer without getting clumpy.

Clearly, overall, i'm very pleased with the products i tried and i'm a big fan of Madam Glam in general.

You can get 30% off at Madam Glam with code "rhian30".


Madam Glam Gel Nail Video

Current Foundation Routine Video

Paula's Choice Matte Nudes Palette Video


MadamGlam.com

I've fallen in love with a new vegan foundation and wanted to give you an update on how i apply my base so, here it is!

What i used:

• OCC Large Blending Brush
• Illuminaré Concealing Mineral Foundation in Fair
• Zoeva 102 Silk Finish Brush
• Illuminaré Creaseproof Sunscreen Eye Makeup in Latte
• ELF HD Lifting Concealer in Brightening 
• Beauty Blender
• Physicians Formula Nudewear Touch of Glow
• Chantecaille New Stick Foundation in Banana
• It Cosmetics Angled Buffer Brush
• Anastasia Contour Palette
• Cozette S165 Brush
• Jouer Cream Highlighter in Tiare
• Madam Glam Blush in Au Naturale
• It Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Powder
• Real Techniques Duo Fibre Face Brush
• Lips- Jouer Brow Pencil in Blonde & Melt Cosmetics Lipstick in Summer! 

• OCC Lip Tars in Harlot & Vintage
• Topshop Zip Front Boots
• Lush Breath of Fresh Air Toner
• Madam Glam Blush in Au Natural
• House of Lashes Pixie Luxe Lashes
• Dyptique Philosykos Rollerball Oil
• Roomie App
• Rarg
• Amy Poehler Yes Please
• Alexis Bittar Fox Cuff
• Alexis Bittar Fox Ring
• Menu Thermos Kettle
• Young Mountain Tea Assam Black
• Stella McCartney Tote
• New Look Neon Tote
• Pull and Bear Coat

(linked what i could find)

So heres another update of an oldie, a little more in depth and clearer than my last one and also includes removal and prep!

What you'll need for removal and prep:

• Cotton balls
• Foil
• Acetone
• Scrapey tool
• An array of files and buffers

What you'll need for gel application:

• Gel polish
• UV lamp
• Small detailer brush
• Acetone
• Rubbing alcohol
• Cotton balls

You can find Madam Glam nail polishes here!

And get 30% off with the code YGEL30OFF

Also, if the order is over $25 after applying the discount, the international shipping is free.

I mentioned it in my October Favorites but god damn this is too good of a product/deal not to share again.

You can get 30% off these awesome gel nail polishes with the code YGEL30OFF used right here.

This color is honeydew, in case you're interested.