Over time, I'm learning that a lot of favorite products aren't really good for me.
In fact, a lot of brands use harmful chemicals in their products that can have some serious effects on our health. Lately, I've noticed that my nails were becoming super brittle and broke off with the slightest touch. In efforts to achieve good nail health, I cut out tips and acrylic and took it back to simple manicures. While on the hunt for ways to heal my damaged nails, I came across vegan nail polish. If you're like me, then you're probably wondering, what's the difference? Well, many vegan nail polishes contain vitamins and minerals that can help your nails become stronger and more durable, helping it to serve as a more suitable option. It doesn't contain any of the toxic ingredients found in regular nail polish, like DBP (Dibutyl phthalate), Toluene, Formaldehyde/Formaldehyde Resin, and Camphor. These ingredients can cause skin damage and irritation among many other harmful effects.
Vegan nail polish is a healthier and safer way to do your nails. If you're thinking about making the switch, check out these vegan nail polish brands created by women of color and what I thought about them.
Krissy Lewis/xoNecole
Pear Nova
Krissy Lewis/xoNecole
Pear Nova is a vegan-friendly and cruelty-free nail polish brand created by mompreneur Rachel James. Pear Nova is the perfect mix of function and fancy and is committed to celebrating the strength and beauty of women everywhere.
Nail Color: Ginzaholic
Price: Originally $11.50 | On sale for $9.75
Thoughts: I tried the Ginzaholic, which is a mixture of grey and purple, and I loved it. Usually, when I shop for this color combination, it's either too light or it blends in with my skin complexion without any pop. But this wasn't the case. Ginzaholic is a soft color that works for the fall and winter season. So if darker colors aren't your cup of tea, then this is a great option.
As for the formula, it is five-free, meaning it doesn't contain five of the most toxic nail chemicals. Pear Nova polish has a long-lasting shine and applies very easily. While I wore it, I didn't experience any dullness or color fade. I learned that when I apply the Pear Nova top coat, after getting it done the first time, it will extend your nail polish wear. That top coat is a must if you want your nails to last even longer.
Breukelen Polished
Krissy Lewis/xoNecole
Breukelen Polished (which I assume is the luxury way of saying Brooklyn) is a luxury vegan nail polish brand straight out of Brooklyn. They cater to the the health conscious while also representing the grit and evolution of Brooklyn.
Nail Color: Cocoa Bread
Price: $10.00
Thoughts: Cocoa Bread is a really pretty dark nude color. I don't usually do nude because it's hard for me to find a shade of nude that fits me and my skin complexion, but this is the perfect nude! It seems like it has more hues of brown in the formula and it has a really shiny finish. Speaking of the formula, this is an 11-free polish, which means it doesn't contain the standard five toxins nor Ethyl Tosylamide, Xylene, Acetone, Parabens, Wheat and Eggs. Breukelen Polished is also pigmented, chip-resistant, and I really loved how fast the nail polish dried. The website didn't claim to be a quick dry, but I was out of the salon in no time and you know regular polish takes a bit longer.
As for shipping, I think they can improve a bit. I understand this is a small business but I ordered all my nail polishes on the same day and this one was the last to arrive. I order my polish on October 12 and received it on October 19. The website said it will take 1-3 business days and I paid $7.05 for shipping (their shipping cost was also the most expensive). Don't get me wrong, I will still shop with them again, I was just a bit surprised by the shipping experience.
Krissy Lewis/xoNecole
Law Beauty Essentials
Krissy Lewis/xoNecole
Law Beauty Essentials is a vegan polish line that encourages self-love and woman empowerment. The founder, Tanisha Lawrence, made it a mission to create pigments that are high shine, chip-resistant, and serve as a healthy alternative for self-care.
Nail Color: NETWORTH HOW MUCH?
Price: $7.00
Thoughts: When I first saw this color, I immediately thought of fall and Christmas. It's such a pigmented and smooth green— it catches your eye instantly. The name is also very catchy and cute, it's like each polish comes with its own vibe. As for the formula, I can attest to it being chip-resistant and shiny and it is also five-free. This polish also takes a bit longer to dry.
I think it's only right to include my shopping experience because I was very impressed. The shipping is very quick (my products came in two days) and they keep you informed of each step via text and email. And, what I loved the most is that shipping was only $3. I mention this because, due to this not only being the most inexpensive one, the shipping cost was low and it influenced me to buy more.
Overall, I loved all of the nail polishes. Each brand has a unique vibe and set of colors. All three are definitely inclusive, and every nail color is perfect for all skin complexions and shades. This is my first time trying any vegan nail polish and I will most likely use this moving forward. I initially thought using vegan polish would be more expensive, but it's the same price as any good quality polish.
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What October 2023 Has In Store For Your Zodiac Sign
On October 8th, Venus moves into earth sign Virgo, and love takes on a more serious and grounded tone here. Venus in Virgo has high standards and wants the best of the best. There is a possibility of becoming overly critical in love or relationships with this energy, however overall, Venus in Virgo will be focused on letting go of unhealthy behaviors in love and creating more positive ways of relating, giving, and receiving in relationships. A few days later, Pluto goes direct in Capricorn after going retrograde in Aquarius back in May, and fewer power struggles and obstacles are more likely.
With Pluto direct in Capricorn, it is easier to reach your goals, build success, and see your own self-empowerment in it all.
On October 12th, Mars enters Scorpio, and Mars loves being in this water sign as it’s the ruler of Scorpio. Mars in Scorpio is passionate and direct and heats things up when it comes to your relationships. Mars will be in Scorpio until November 24th, and a spark is definitely being lit. A few days later, we have a New Moon Solar Eclipse in Libra.
This Solar Eclipse is creating a fresh start in love, but may also be bringing things to the forefront that are uncomfortable to see. A Solar Eclipse in Libra is relationship-oriented, and this is where you will be seeing the most impact now.
Before the month ends, Mercury enters Scorpio on October 22nd, Scorpio Season begins on the 23rd, and there is a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Taurus on October 28th. The end of October is when a lot of big moves are being made, and transformations are occurring, and it’s about letting go of baggage before moving forward again. The Lunar Eclipse in Taurus is another eclipse that has an impact on relationships, as both Libra and Taurus are ruled by Venus, the planet of love.
Through what is changing and transforming in some of your close relationships, this energy suggests there is greater love on the other side of it. Find gratitude in where you are, and stand in hope and self-belief for where you want to be.
Your October 2023 Monthly Horoscopes
ARIES
AriesKyra Jay for xoNecoleYour strength is needed this month, Aries. During October, the Sun is in Libra, meaning the Sun is in your 7th house. The 7th house is the house of love and relationships, but it’s also the house of open enemies and opposition. This month, you will be finding your balance between the opening you are seeing in your life right now and what still needs to be built.
On October 14th, there is a New Moon Solar Eclipse in this area of your chart, the 7th house, and this is an impactful time for you emotionally. The intentions you have been setting in your love life and financially are creating a new scene for you. This is a good month to do more of the things that make you happy, to get creative, and to notice the beauty in your life. Before the month ends, your ruling planet, Mars, moves into your 8th house, and things get deep and even more emotional for you moving into November.
TAURUS
TaurusKyra Jay for xoNecoleOctober is a month of reflection for you, Taurus. There is a lot happening this month and a lot happening for you personally, yet you are taking the time to tend to your inner world and recreate your safe spaces. With Venus in a fellow earth sign and in your 5th house of romance for most of this month, you will be sure to have plenty of love in your life to help you through some of the downtime you are getting in October.
Mars moves into your house of love on October 12th, and this is heating things up for you in your relationships and sex life. Fuel your passions and notice what is lighting you up inside right now. Before the month ends, on October 28th, there is a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in your sign, and you are going through some major life changes. You are closing one chapter of your life of self-discovery and moving forward with a new view of yourself and the world around you.
GEMINI
GeminiKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis month is all about letting go, Gemini. You are moving through a time of releasing what has been filling your world with more chaos and confusion than clarity and are paving a new path for yourself. Your ruling planet, Mercury, is in your house of happiness for most of this month, and you are really thinking of the things that your heart wants and expressing yourself through this space of openness as well. Communication channels are exciting for you this month.
On October 14th, the New Moon Eclipse will be highlighting all of the energy of love you have been feeling this month and will be helping you hone in on your creative passions and hobbies as well. This month is surprising you on how well things turn out when you let go of what isn’t working. The second eclipse of the month is on the 28th, and this one for you is about laying the past to rest once and for all and giving yourself time to heal and process.
CANCER
CancerKyra Jay for xoNecoleOctober is an activating month for you, Cancer. There are some eye-opening moments happening, and a lot of things are coming to a head. The energy of the month is about letting things find their place and allowing yourself to be okay in the process. Venus is in your 3rd house of communication for most of this month, and you will be able to communicate more freely how you are feeling and what you need in your relationships right now.
With the Sun in Libra and in your 4th house for most of October, home is really where the heart is right now. Spending time in comfortable environments where you feel the most at ease is nourishing. Before the month ends, there is a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in your 11th house of community, and things are coming full circle for you. Lean on your support systems and community for an extra hand, and know that you deserve to take up space.
LEO
LeoKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis is a month of things moving forward for you, Leo. Patience is still needed, as things may not be moving as quickly as expected, however, they are moving nonetheless, and you are leaving the space of stagnation you have been feeling the past couple of months. Openings are coming into your life, and with Venus now in your 2nd house, you are able to capitalize on what you have been investing in and claim your abundance.
The Solar Eclipse happening mid-month will be awakening something within you when it comes to expressing yourself. You are breaking free from fears, limitations, and self-judgments and seeing yourself as someone who deserves to be heard. The Sun is also in this area of your chart until the end of the month, and you have all the support from the universe right now to speak up and speak your truths.
VIRGO
VirgoKyra Jay for xoNecoleOctober is a month of blessings for you, Virgo. This year has been a year of a lot of ups and downs for you, and in the second half of this year, you really get to settle into more stability and positive fruition. You are being guided to use your instincts wisely this month, however, so as to keep blessings rolling. Your ruling planet, Mercury, will be in your 2nd house of income for most of the month, as well as the Sun, and financially, this is a really good month for you.
On October 8th, Venus moves into your sign, and you are receiving and feeling the love right now. Venus will be in your sign until November 8th, and over the next month, this is a good time for your relationships and business, receiving positive feedback, and putting yourself out there. On October 28th, there is a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse happening in your 9th house of adventure, and you could be seeing some travel or education plans coming to fruition now. You are really ready to enjoy how far you have come this month.
LIBRA
LibraKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis month is all about creating your dreams, Libra. This is an exciting month for you and one where you are healing your inner child, gaining a new perspective, and manifesting your life. Libra Season is fully underway, and this is an impactful Libra Season for you, as there is a New Moon Solar Eclipse happening in your sign on the 14th. This Solar Eclipse is your time to shine, to bring your dreams to the forefront, and to let go of the past that doesn’t resonate with you anymore. It’s all about the vision this month; focus on the best one for yourself.
With the Sun and Mercury in your 1st house of self for most of the month and Venus in your 12th house of closures, you are finding your balance between the new and the old. You know there is a lot to release emotionally in your life still, but you are also giving yourself the space and freedom to soak in the good that has already arrived and making you happy right now. On October 23rd, Libra Season ends, and you are ready to focus more on your plans for the future.
SCORPIO
ScorpioKyra Jay for xoNecoleOctober is a month of rebirth for you, Scorpio. This is one of the most powerful months for you and one where you are starting fresh in many ways. Mercury is in your house of endings for most of the month, and your mind is focused on your spirituality, finding solutions, and letting go of perspectives and habits that don’t serve you or your health. Through the transformations that are occurring right now, new life is coming to fruition.
Mars and Mercury both enter your sign before Scorpio Season begins on the 23rd, and by the end of October, the energy moves from release to receive. You have more energy at your disposal when Mars is in your sign, and you are moving through a time of passion, action, and making things happen for yourself. This Scorpio Season for you is one where you are creating a new life for yourself and following the dreams you left to the wayside.
SAGITTARIUS
SagittariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleSagittarius, October is all about the heart and about showing up. This month for you is a time of support, friendship, and community, and a time where you are really discovering who your people are. You are awakening to what your inner child needs to heal and are seeking forgiveness this month. This is a time for you to move toward a new path in your life, one that feels more fulfilling for you and your well-being.
Venus is in Virgo and in your 10th house of career this month, and you are seeing some positive changes within your professional world. You are being received especially favorably right now, and this is a good month to ask for a promotion, network, or redefine your career goals. On October 14th, there is a New Moon Solar Eclipse happening in your 11th house, and your hopes and dreams are coming true for you. The clarity you gain this month is life-changing.
CAPRICORN
CapricornKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis month is all about patience, finding your peace, and exploring the world, Capricorn. You are focusing a lot on your belief systems, your intentions, and what goals you have set for yourself and your life. Venus is in your 9th house of adventure for most of the month, and you are really thinking about the big picture right now. You are doing more things differently this time of the year, thinking outside of the box and allowing your intentions to come to fruition.
On October 10th, Pluto goes direct in your sign. Pluto retrograde entered your sign in June, and you finally get to settle into the transformations that have been occurring since then. You’ve had a lot of moments of self-clarity and change, but now you are ready to live in this space and experience fewer changes to your environment. On October 28th, there is a Full Moon Eclipse happening, and this Lunar Eclipse is a time of love coming full circle for you. Relationships are developing at the end of October, and you are letting go of the past in love.
AQUARIUS
AquariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleOctober is all about allowing life to unfold effortlessly, Aquarius. The path of least resistance is the most rewarding one, and this month, you are tapping into your inner faith. You have truly been trusting the process, and with the Sun in your 9th house for most of the month, the divine guidance is there for you right now. This month is about trusting that things are coming together for you and enjoying your life how you can right now.
On October 14th, there is a New Moon Solar Eclipse happening, and this eclipse is helping you build new foundations in your life. You have goals you want to set, places you want to see, and people you want to meet, and this eclipse is highlighting all of that for you. The second eclipse of the month is happening on the 28th, and this Lunar Eclipse is about letting things settle in, finding your ground, and nourishing your inner world. You are going within a lot this month, and through the new insight you have found, you are ready to make some concrete decisions that have been needed.
PISCES
PiscesKyra Jay for xoNecoleOctober is a time of compassion, nurture, and love, Pisces. You are putting the love into your life and feeling this energy come back to you as well. Venus is in Virgo, your opposite sign, for most of the month, and this is good energy when it comes to your relationships and your love life. Your focus is on the people in your life and where you want things to grow in love, and you are putting in the effort to make your dreams come true for you here.
With the Sun also in your 8th house of commitments for most of the month, another love area of your chart, you can expect this to be a more emotional month for you. You are getting vulnerable, expressing where you stand, and creating a new slate for yourself in love. On October 28th, there is a Full Moon Eclipse happening in your 3rd house of communication, and the messages and insights you have been looking for are coming in.
The end of the month is a busier time for you, and you will be suddenly seeing everything you want to do and plan right now.
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Featured image by Kyra Jay for xoNecole
