Sunscreen is an important preventive measure against skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation (2020), " Regular daily use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by about 40 percent ." When spending time on the water, from boating to snorkeling to just relaxing with a book, a water-resistant sunscreen is important. However, while spending time in the water, even water-resistant sunscreen will wash off your body and into the environment, which is particularly hazardous for coral reefs. Studies show that oxybenzone, a common active ingredient in sunscreen, can cause permanent DNA damage to coral, impacting new growth and reproduction (Downs, et al. 2015). According to Dr. Pamela Hallock, a professor of Marine Science at the University of South Florida, "Sunscreens that humans use are in the category of 'local stresses of nearly global extent,' so are in a similar category as overfishing and nutrient pollution (as cited by LoFaso 2020)." Coral reefs play an integral role in ocean biodiversity. Coral reefs support more species per square area than any other marine environment even though they cover less than 1% of the ocean floor (NOAA 2016). According to the Coral Reef Alliance, “Coral reefs provide shelter for nearly one quarter of all known marine species. And over the last 240 million years, reefs have evolved into one of the largest and most complex ecosystems on the planet. They are home to more than 4,000 species of fish, 700 species of coral, and thousands of other species of plants and animals. Scientists estimate that, in total, more than one million species of plants and animals are associated with the coral reef ecosystem.” Threats from ocean acidification, trawling, and pollution have already severely reduced coral reef populations. Current projections show that all corals will be threatened by 2050, with 75 percent facing high to critical threat levels (Coral Reef Alliance). So how can we help to reduce the damage? There are many steps we can take to protect and conserve our reefs, but one of the easiest is using reef-safe sunscreen. Experts recommend using reef-safe sunscreens with natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium oxide (National Park Service). In 2018, Hawaii became the first state to ban the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, followed by Key West, Florida (Beitsch 2019). Deciphering all of the ingredients and determining whether a sunscreen is reef-safe takes some time, so we've done it for you! All of the sunscreens listed on Pill Clarity's marketplace are both animal-free (no animal-derived ingredients) AND reef-safe! Look at our selection HERE . Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! References Beitsch, Rebecca. “Some Sunscreens May Kill Corals, but Should They Be Banned? Scientists Are Not so Sure.” USA Today , Gannett Satellite Information Network, 11 Mar. 2019, www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2019/03/09/some-sunscreens-may-harm-coral-reefs-should-they-banned/3106001002/. Coral Reef Alliance. “Coral Polyps.” Coral Reef Alliance , coral.org/coral-reefs-101/coral-reef-ecology/coral-polyps/. Downs, C. A., et al. “Toxicopathological Effects of the Sunscreen UV Filter, Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3), on Coral Planulae and Cultured Primary Cells and Its Environmental Contamination in Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands.” Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology , vol. 70, no. 2, 2015, pp. 265–288., doi:10.1007/s00244-015-0227-7. Gutierrez, Ben. “Headed into the Water at Kealakekua Bay? You'll Need to Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen.” Https://Www.hawaiinewsnow.com , Hawaii News Now, 3 Jan. 2020, www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2020/01/03/chemical-sunscreens-restricted-big-island-park-year-ahead-statewide-ban/. LoFaso, Ashley. “Sunscreen Pollution Accelerating Demise of Coral Reefs, Experts Say.” ABC News , ABC News Network, 22 Feb. 2020, abcnews.go.com/International/sunscreen-pollution-accelerating-demise-coral-reefs-experts/story?id=68807099. National Park Service. Protect Yourself, Protect the Reef! Protect Yourself, Protect the Reef! , National Park Service. NOAA. “Coral Reefs.” NOAA's National Ocean Service , 10 June 2016, oceanservice.noaa.gov/oceans/corals/. Skin Cancer Foundation. “Skin Cancer Facts & Statistics.” The Skin Cancer Foundation , 16 Apr. 2020, www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/. #goanimalfree #reefsafe #coralreefawareness #savingspecies #reefsafesunscreen #savethecorals #oceanacidification #coralreefconservation #coralconservation #healthyliving

Did you know… “Sanitary ware including menstrual pads, tampons and panty liners now amounts to 200,000 tonnes of environmental waste. A woman will go through an average of more than 11,000 disposable menstrual products in her lifetime.” - Dr. Nitu Bajekal Traditional feminine hygiene products are single-use and loaded with chemicals. As a woman, I don't want to use those products in or on my body, and definitely not every month! Dr. Nitu Bajekal, a friend of Pill Clarity and one of the top plant-based women's health experts, recently posted a great guide on reducing the environmental impact of feminine hygiene products ( you can the Instagram post here ). Pill Clarity has done the leg work and curated several products to help you switch over to kinder feminine hygiene choices. Below are a few of our favorites! Click HERE to view our complete collection of eco-friendly, animal-free feminine hygiene products. NatraCare Natural Ultra Pads with Wings NatraCare is a slim-fitting pad with wings for light flow or flow at the end of your period. This pad features a cotton cover and is filled with wood pulp for absorbency vs. the powdered gel polymers found in traditional pads. NatraCare is free of plastic, fragrance, GMO ingredients, and chlorine. The pads are biodegradable and compostable. Ingredients: Pad - Certified organic cotton, ecologically certified cellulose pulp, plant starch, non-toxic glue Wrapper- Paper peel strip, paper pocket Packaging - Recycled cardboard printed with vegetable-based ink Click HERE to Order from Amazon o.b. Organic Tampons with New Plant-Based Applicator o.b. is a familiar brand that has made changes to their product line to offer cleaner options! This tampon features their Tru-Comfort applicator, of which is 92% plant-based and made from renewable resources. The tampons are 100% cotton, and free from chlorine, dyes, and fragrances. Material: Cotton Click HERE to Order from Amazon Wegreeco Bamboo Reusable Sanitary Pads Want to make an even bigger impact? Consider reusable pads! I made the switch several years ago, and love the comfort of a cloth liner. These reusable pads are easy to clean and maintain. Beyond just being biodegradable, these pads actively reduce the amount of plastic waste from menstrual products...and they're super cute! As a bonus, each package comes with 1 leak-free wet bag for easy hygiene on-the-go. These bamboo cloth pads are free from chemicals such as chlorine, dyes, and fragrances. Ingredients: Outer Shell - 100% leak-free lamination fabric Inner -100% bamboo charcoal against ladies skin for utmost comfort. Click HERE to Order from Amazon Flex Menstrual Cup Menstrual cups, like reusable pads, actively reduce the amount of plastic waste from menstrual products. This is a great option for those of you who prefer tampons but still want to reduce waste. Flex Menstrual Cups are made of medical-grade silicone (latex-free!) and are FDA registered, hypoallergenic, and BPA/phthalate free. Flex Menstrual Cups are available in slim and full sizes. According to Flex's website, " For most people, either size will work...it really comes down to choosing the best fit for your comfort and capacity needs; if you're a first-time cup user or have a light to medium flow we recommend the Slim Fit. The Slim should work out for heavy flows as well, you just may find that you have to empty it and reinsert a bit before the 12hr mark. If you have a flow that is on the heavier side or have had multiple vaginal births, try the Full Fit out!" Click HERE to Order SLIM SIZE on Amazon Click HERE to Order FULL SIZE on Amazon Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! #femininecare #women #womenshealth #vegan #pad #tampon #vegancat #vagina #vegetarian #pillclarity #products #monthly #period #menstruation #menstrualcycle #vhessentials #oborganic #natracare

Compounding is an important service for many people. According to the FDA, “drug compounding is often regarded as the process of combining, mixing, or altering ingredients to create a medication tailored to the needs of an individual patient.” The end product still has the same prescribed active ingredients but removes offending filler ingredients. For patients with specific health concerns or lifestyles, such as veganism, compounding provides a much-needed medical option. Here at Pill Clarity, we view compounding as an invaluable component in providing animal-free prescriptions to anyone who needs them. While many pharmacies offer some basic level of compounding, the majority of compounding orders are completed at specialty compounding pharmacies. There are about 56,000 pharmacies in the United States. Of these, about 7,500 specialize in compounding services (APhA). Pill Clarity has partnered with ScriptWorks, a compounding pharmacy in Walnut Creek, CA, to increase the availability of animal-free medications. We have done the research and identified specific medications that can be made without any animal-derived ingredients. This is possible due to the unique partnership between Pill Clarity and Scriptworks. To our knowledge, we are the first and only collaboration in the country to provide this valuable service. Currently, we can make common animal-free medication for conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, thyroid, depression, pain, and asthma/COPD. ScriptWorks is a Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) and Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC)-accredited pharmacy committed to providing quality evidence-based pharmacy compounding services to patients all over the state of California (Scriptworks). For more information on compounding or to begin the process of customizing your own medications, check out our Made-To-Order page ! Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! References APhA. “Frequently Asked Questions About Pharmaceutical Compounding.” American Pharmacists Association , www.pharmacist.com/frequently-asked-questions-about-pharmaceutical-compounding. ScriptWorks. “SCRIPTWORKS.” SCRIPTWORKS , scriptworksrx.com/. FDA. “Human Drug Compounding.” Human Drug Compounding , FDA, www.fda.gov/drugs/guidance-compliance-regulatory-information/human-drug-compounding.

Here at Pill Clarity, we avoid using the word "vegan" to describe medicines and supplements. Veganism avoids all exploitation of animals, but due to current regulations, animal testing is often used in the development of medications and supplements. A large percentage of medications and supplements are not vegan, but they can be animal-free. The most robust method for companies to confirm that their products are animal-free is third-party certification, however, not every certification is created equal. Some certifications only look at an ingredient list or manufacturing process. Others, such as Pill Clarity's Animal-Free Certification , incorporate laboratory testing in certain cases, to ensure the product contains no animal ingredients. Companies can also confirm their products are free from animal-derived ingredients with self-verification, meaning the company itself claims an animal-free product. This confirmation leaves more gray area and requires a high degree of trust between the consumer and the company. All products on Pill Clarity's online marketplace have been verified, however, not all of them are certified. Verification means that the Pill Clarity team verified the ingredient list from individual companies to determine that the products do not contain animal-derived ingredients. Verification and certification processes are incredibly important! Product labels are notoriously complicated and confusing, and m anufacturers do not always list every ingredient (especially fillers) on the label. We want to help people quickly and confidently choose products that match their lifestyle preferences and health necessities. Click here to learn more about the American Medical Association's recommendations on labeling animal-derived ingredients . Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! #GoAnimalFree #Healthylifestyle #animalderivedingredients #veganmedicine #animalfreemeds #veganmeds #AMA #amaguidelines #veganlifestyle

Medicinal drugs are composed of two parts: active and inactive ingredients. Active ingredients provide the therapeutic effects of a drug (Registrar Corp). For example, the active ingredient in Advil Tablets is ibuprofen. Ibuprofen creates the pain relief and fever-reducing effects of the drug. Inactive ingredients foster drug absorption, improve stability/taste, make the drug more appealing, or hinder tampering. Oral medicines contain an average of 8.8 inactive ingredients, though the number of inactive ingredients ranges from zero to 35! ( Harvard Health, 2019) Gelbe Liste , a German database of almost two thousand medications, reported an average of 71% ± 26% inactive ingredients in each tablet formulation (Reker, et al. 2019). In short, inactive ingredients generally compose at least three-fourths of a pill. Inactive ingredients are not entirely benign. Reports of adverse reactions from inactive ingredients continue to mount (Reker, et al. 2019). The formulation of new inactive ingredients requires comprehensive toxicology profiling. As a result, most medicines use the same inactive ingredients (Elder, et al. 2016). FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) commonly cause adverse reactions, and 55% of all medications contain at least one of these potential irritants (Harvard Health 2019). A common FODMAP in medications is lactose. Though 75% of the world's population is lactose intolerant, lactose is in 45% of all oral medications (Harvard Health 2019). All available formulations of rosuvastatin, a common medication for lowering cholesterol (WebMD), include lactose as an inactive ingredient, leaving no options for patients that are searching for an animal-free option. Even more concerning, the mass content of medications is not always reported by manufacturers, making it difficult for consumers to avoid certain ingredients, including known allergens (Reker, et al. 2019). How do we make a difference? What is the solution to this widespread problem? 1. Increase research into the effects of different inactive ingredients 2. Produce more alternative formulations that avoid certain inactive ingredients 3. Increase awareness of animal-derived ingredients in medications and supplements Multiple manufacturers will commonly produce formulations of the same medication. In some cases, "more than 23 alternative combinations of inactive ingredients have been commercialized to deliver the same [active ingredients]" (Reker, et al. 2019). The Pill Clarity team believes that labeling on medications should be complete and clear, to include designating ingredients that were derived from animals. We hope that through our educational efforts, outreach to manufacturers, and animal-free certification, we can make steps towards our vision of a world where medications and supplements are completely free from animal-derived ingredients . Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! References Steinberg, Marshall, et al. “From Inactive Ingredients to Pharmaceutical Excipients.” Pharmaceutical Technology , July 2001, pp. 62–64., https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/b4ff/6e1ca5d5ab3154d02cc9eb1843a35cdf6aa4.pdf. Berlin, Jr, et al. “‘Inactive’ Ingredients in Pharmaceutical Products: Update (Subject Review).” Pediatrics , vol. 99, no. 2, 1 Feb. 1997, pp. 268–278. Elder, David P., et al. “Pharmaceutical Excipients — Quality, Regulatory and Biopharmaceutical Considerations.” European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences , vol. 87, 25 May 2016, pp. 88–99. Harvard Health Publishing. “The Risk of Inactive Ingredients in Everyday Drugs.” Harvard Health , July 2019, www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-risk-of-inactive-ingredients-in-everyday-drugs. Registrar Corp. “U.S. FDA Drug Definitions.” Registrar Corp , www.registrarcorp.com/definitions/. Reker, Daniel, et al. “‘Inactive’ Ingredients in Oral Medications.” Science Translational Medicine , vol. 11, no. 483, 13 Mar. 2019. WebMD. “Rosuvastatin Oral : Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing.” WebMD , www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-76701/rosuvastatin-oral/details. #GoAnimalFree #HealthyLiving #excipients #medicineallergies #medicineintollerances #betterlabels

Ever been stuck in the aisle poring over a label like the one above? So have we... One of the hardest parts of a vegan and animal-free lifestyle isn't always the decision to give up animal products, but figuring out WHAT is an animal product. Reading every label for animal-derived ingredients becomes a daily shopping task. Unfortunately, labels, especially medicinal labels, can be confusing. Deciphering which of the many long-winded, chemical-sounding ingredients are animal or plant-derived can give even the most patient of us a headache. Based on an analysis of the Pillbox database, an average tablet or capsule contains 8.8 inactive ingredients with the most common ingredient being magnesium stearate (72%). Lactose (45%) and gelatin (17%) are animal-derived ingredients that are also used frequently. [Reker, et al, 2019] To make things even more complicated, some ingredients can be derived from plants OR animals, and manufacturers rarely differentiate between the two. In those circumstances, many choose to err on the side of caution. Your Essential List of Animal-Derived Ingredients: Magnesium stearate is the most commonly used emulsifier, binder, thickener, or lubricant. It can be derived from an animal source or a plant source. Lactose is derived from cow milk and is a frequently used filler or binder in tablets and capsules. Gelatin is typically used in capsule exteriors or as a tablet binder. Common sources of making gelatin includes cows and pigs, and the use of gelatin dates back to 6000 BC. Carmine is a red-colored cochineal extract from bugs and insects used as a coloring agent. 70,000 beetles must be killed to produce one pound of this red dye. Glucosamine/Chondroitin, used for bone health, is typically extracted from shellfish or cartilage from cows and sharks. Shellac is sourced from insects and often used as pharmaceutical ink or glaze. Shellac is also a common ingredient in nail lacquers. Estradiol is used as a hormone replacement and can be derived from horse urine or soy. Premarin, a popular hormone replacement therapy, derives its name from “PREgnant MARe’s urINe.” Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! References Rekker, Daniel, et al. “‘Inactive’ Ingredients in Oral Medications.” Science Translational Medicine , vol. 11, no. 483, 13 Mar. 2019, doi:10.1126/scitranslmed.aau6753. #GoAnimalFree #HealthyLiving #excipients #medicineallergies #medicineintollerances #betterlabels

Are you excited about summer's soon arrival? Summer means spending more time outside: visiting local parks, walking around the neighborhood, and enjoying evening BBQs in the backyard. Unfortuately, the long, warm days bring biting bugs. Because of disease transmission, mosquitoes are the deadliest animals in the world. Mosquito-borne disease varies based on climate, mosquito species, and access to preventive measures and medicine (Elfein 2019). According to the most recent statistics from the CDC, West Nile virus (WNV) ranks number one for mosquito-borne diseases in the US. In 2018, WNV infected 2,647 people, resulting in 167 fatalities. The best way to protect against WNV is to prevent transmission, since there are no vaccines or treatments for the virus. In addition to wearing long sleeves and pants, the CDC recommends using insect repellent while outdoors. Here are a few animal-free options! If you have an adverse reaction to a product, please discontinue use and call your doctor. California Baby Bug Repellent Spray Babies and people with sensitive skin will love this bug repellent! This bug spray uses DEET-free ingredients, including citronella, lemongrass, and cedar essential oils. The essential oils in the spray not only prevent new insect bites, but soothe existing bites . This product even won an award for “Best Best Skin Care for Baby” from the Eco Excellence Awards in 2013. California Baby's Natural Bug Repellent Spray is allergy-tested, gluten-free, soy-free, oat-free, dairy-free and nut-free (except for coconut). Ingredients: Pure essential oils of *cymbopogon nardus (citronella) 5%, *cymbopogon schoenathus (lemongrass) .5%, *cedrus atlantica (cedar) .5%. 94% Other Ingredients: Aqua (water), *carnauba wax (cera carnauba), vegetable glycerin. *Certified organic, sustainable or renewable Sky Organics Bug Spray This DEET-free bug spray uses all-natural ingredients to repel insects, including citronella oil, lavender oil, and lemongrass essential oil. It is animal-free, cruelty-free, and certified organic. Sky Organics also packages this bug spray in an eco-friendly, recyclable aluminum bottle. Ingredients Water, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil*, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil*, Cymbopogon Nardus (Citronella) Oil*, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Oil*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil*, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Bark Oil*, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil* Nantucket Spider Tick Repellent Spray Do your summer plans require more protection from ticks than mosquitoes? Ticks are also known for spreading disease, particularly Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Nantucket Spider Tick Repellent contains specific ingredients to repel ticks - clove, geranium, peppermint, cedarwood, spearmint, rosemary, and cinnamon. Ingredients Water, Vanillin, Glycerin, clove Oil (2%), Geranium Oil (2%), Peppermint Oil (2%), Rosemary Oil (2%), Cedarwood Oil (1%), Spearmint Oil (1%), Cinnamon Oil (0.5% ) Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! #GoAnimalFree #veganbugspray #veganmedicine #veganbugrepellent #animalfreebugrepellent #optoutside #gooutside #outdoorvegan #veganlifestyle #deetfreerepellent

The Boy Scout motto of "always be prepared" definitely rings true for a well-stocked first aid kit. Every household should maintain a complete kit with bandages and unexpired medications to be prepared for any emergency. When you are looking for animal-free options for your kit, count on our Pill Clarity experts to do the legwork for you! Below are four of our favorite animal-free first aid products, but be sure to check out our complete collection on our online marketplace . Curoxen First Aid Ointment This ointment acts to prevent infection and speed healing for cuts, scrapes, burns, and blisters. Curoxen's ointment, made from natural ingredients, will not lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant super bugs. Manufacturer: OrganiCare Ingredients: olive extract, calendula, oxygenated olive oil, pure essential oil (lavender) Click HERE to Order on Amazon StingEze Max Bug Bite Relief Pen  Dauber This product is a first aid antiseptic and external analgesic that works to relieve pain, stop the itch, and reduce infection! Throw StingEze in your purse, keep it in the medicine cabinet, or add it to your camping gear for itch relief when you need it most; the convenient applicator pen makes application and storage easy. Manufacturer: Pharmacal Health and Wellness Ingredients: Benzocaine, Phenol, Camphor, Menthyl lactate, propylene glycol, SD Alcohol 40B 20%, Water Click HERE to Order on Amazon Marie's Original Poison Ivy/Oak Relief Soap This all-natural soap utilizes antihistamines to relieve itching and remove toxins from the skin. Like Marie's other products, this soap is free of harsh chemicals, parabens, GMOs, SLS, petroleum, phthalates, gluten, artificial dyes and scents. Manufacturer: Marie's Original Formulas LLC Ingredients: sassafras root bark, noni fruit powder, white willow, European green clay, organic oat bran Click HERE to Order on Amazon Patch Bamboo Adhesive Strip Bandages Patch bandages are ethically produced from 100% bamboo fibers and come with three additive options: activated charcoal, aloe vera, or coconut oil. This product is also free from latex, fragrances, irritants, toxins, and plastic. As a bonus, Patch bandages are also biodegradable and compostable...talk about zero waste! Manufacturer: Nutricare Click HERE to Order on Amazon Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! #mariesoriginal #patch #bamboo #bandages #firstaid #emergency #firstaidkit #soap #relief #poisonivy #poisonoak #irritant #irritation #bugbit #bugbite #curoxen #ointment #vegan #vegetarian #fragrancefree #fragrancefree #antibacterial #moisterize #pharmaceutical #pharmacy #overthecounter #OTC #labeling #pillclarity #amazon #animalfree

May is Skin Cancer Awareness month! According to the Skin Cancer Foundation (2020), over 5 million people are diagnosed in the United States with skin cancer every year, making it the most prevalent form of cancer. Skin cancer usually forms from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, often from sunlight or tanning beds. The UV light alters the skin's DNA so that it cannot properly control skin growth, leading to cancer (Gardner 2018). Risks for Developing Skin Cancer Time in the Sun The more time spent in the sun, the more exposure you have to natural UV light. Having 5 or more sunburns doubles the risk of melanoma. Time spent under artificial UV rays, such as tanning beds, also increases skin cancer risk (Skin Cancer Foundation 2020) . Light Skin, Eyes, and Hair Pigment in the skin protects your cells from UV rays...the more pigment, the more protection. However, those with darker skin can still develop skin cancer. Bottom line, you should practice sun protection regardless of your color of skin (Gardner 2018). Location Warmer climates and higher elevation exposes people to higher amounts of natural UV rays. (Gardner 2018) You can always check the local weather for the UV index in your area. Age As people age, their sun exposure continues to accumulate. Most non-melanoma cancers will show up after the age of 50 (Gerdner 2018). At least one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70 (Skin Cancer Foundation 2020). Preventive Measures Given the prevelance of skin cancer, here are some preventive measures you can take to lessen your odds of developing skin cancer. Skin cancer is the cancer you can see! Regularly plan skin exams at home and with a dermatologist (Skin Cancer Foundation 2020). More than 2 people die of skin cancer in the U.S. EVERY HOUR, but if caught early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%. Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats. Avoid the sun in the middle of the day. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, even during the winter. Wear sunscreen year round and on cloudy days. Avoid tanning beds. Animal-Free Options We have a lot of outdoors enthusiasts here at Pill Clarity, so we made sure that there were animal-free options for sunscreen available on our marketplace! Head over to the Skin Cancer Foundation to learn more about skin cancer and Skin Cancer Awareness Month . Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! References Gardner, Stephanie S. “Skin Cancer: What Are the Causes of Nonmelanoma?” WebMD , WebMD, 6 Aug. 2018, www.webmd.com/melanoma-skin-cancer/melanoma-guide/causes-skin-cancer#1. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Skin Cancer.” Mayo Clinic , Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 20 Feb. 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20377605. Skin Cancer Foundation. “Skin Cancer Awareness Month.” The Skin Cancer Foundation , 2020, www.skincancer.org/get-involved/skin-cancer-awareness-month/. #SharetheFacts #skincancerawarenessmonth #goanimalfree #healthyliving #vegansunblock #staysafe #thebigsee

The weather is getting warmer, and the days are getting longer. Many families are enjoying the outdoors while sheltering-in-place with walks and BBQ-ing (while maintaining social distancing of course). The change in seasons brings back memories of outdoor revelry... but also bugs. Despite our best bug spray efforts, bug bites are sometimes unavoidable. It's a good idea to have some bug bite relief tucked away in your medicine cabinet to decrease scratching and skin irritation, but animal-free bug bite relief is very rare! Many formulas include glycerin and beeswax. The Pill Clarity team is just as susceptible to bug bites as the rest of you, so here are a few of our favorite products. Please speak to your healthcare provider and discontinue use if you have an adverse reaction to bug bite relief. Teresa collecting data using a kayak-based camera Teresa Henry (you may remember her from our previous Meet the Team blog post ) is an avid outdoors person. She regularly hikes and kayaks, and she is no stranger to bug bites. Teresa always stocks two bug bite remedies: Nature’s Willow Bug Bite Balm and baking soda . Biting bugs, such as mosquitoes, inject saliva containing anticoagulants, proteins, and histamines into the wound. The histamines create the itchiness, swelling, and inflammation that make bug bites unbearable. Products like the Nature’s Willow Bug Bite Balm use menthol (an analgesic) to combat the pain and discomfort of a bug bite. Teresa also carries a small bag of baking soda in her first aid kit. Baking soda is an alkaline product that can help neutralize the acidic pH in the bite (Ryther 2012). Baking soda is a common ingredient for many bug bite remedies (DerSarkissian 2017), but Teresa's favorite recipe is homemade: Teresa's Bug Bite Remedy 1. Mix one part baking soda and three parts water to make a baking soda paste. 2. Rub the paste onto the affected area and let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. 3. Wash the baking soda off with water (DerSarkissian 2017). If you are making the paste at a campsite, wash off the paste at least 200 feet away from water sources (REI). Dani Pender , who also enjoying hitting the trails, prefers to use ammonia on her bug bites. Like baking soda, ammonia neutralizes the pH of the bite, providing relief. She'll also often carry a stick of StingEze MAX Bug Bite Relief Pen Dauber in her bag. Combining benzocaine, phenol, and camphor helps provide maximum bug bite itch relief and bee sting relief. StingEze is also less messy than a small bag of baking soda and easier to apply. Don't let bug bites ruin your summer! Try one of these products and #goanimalfree! Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! References DerSarkissian , Carol. “How Can Baking Soda Treat Insect Bites and Stings?” WebMD , WebMD, 29 Oct. 2017, www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/qa/how-can-baking-soda-treat-insect-bites-and-stings. REI. “Leave No Trace Principles.” Leave No Trace Principles | REI Co-Op , www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/leave-no-trace.html. Ryther, M. B. The Dynamic Duo: Vinegar and Baking Soda . CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2012. #GoAnimalFree #HealthyLiving #veganbugs #veganbugbites #veganbugbitesrelief #vegancures #animalfreecures #veganfirstaid

Why did you join the Pill Clarity team? I grew up vegetarian, believing in preserving all life-forms as much as possible. Putting myself in the shoes of a sentient animal, I sometimes wonder how it would feel to have my own skin, bones and body parts sacrificed without my permission for use by others. We say, "What goes around comes around!"; why limit that thought to human interactions? Can we truly create health for ourselves by taking away the health of another being? It is these questions that make me want to strive for a world where health and well-being do not come at the cost of another life. What is your favorite animal-free product? Coconut oil all the way! I find it come to rescue through out my day. Starting in the morning with oil-pulling, which leave my teeth feeling sparkly clean to after-bath DIY moisturizer, chap stick and deodorant to salad dressing and vegan chocolate mousse to stain removal from my furniture. Truly Nature's Versatile Gift!! What was the most shocking thing you discovered about the pharmaceutical industry when you started working here? Two aspects of the "Pharma World" shocked me: 1) Pharmaceutical companies themselves don't always know whether the ingredient used in manufacturing is animal-derived or not. They simply source the ingredient from suppliers. For example: Magnesium Stearate is a fatty acid most commonly derived from animals but it can sometimes be plant-based. It is hard to deduce by just reading the ingredients on the product label. 2) Researchers have searched the breadth of Earth to isolate animal-derived ingredients. Some of them really bizarre! Ambergris, for example, is a solid, waxy substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales and is used in medicines, fragrances and food! Similarly, blue-blood is harvested from Horseshoe crabs! Couldn't have imagined! What are you doing to help pass the time while sheltering-in-place? They say, "When you can't go outside, go inside!" I am using this time for self-reflection, planning, sharpening my tools by gaining domain expertise and trying to live a balanced life style (yoga, meditation, and a plant-based diet)! Namaste! Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! #TeamPillClarity #aboutus #pillclarity #goanimalfree #healthylifestyle

A lot of people ask us about vegan antibiotics for minor wounds. Is Neosporin vegan? What options are there for animal-free first aid antibiotics? After all, it's a necessary staple in any first-aid kit! Sadly, there are no truly "vegan" antibiotics. Currently, the FDA requires animal testing during the creation of new drugs, including first-aid antibiotics . However, there are some animal-free products which do not include any animal-derived ingredients. It is important to consider allergies when researching antibiotics. Neomycin and bacitracin are both common allergens (Menezes de Pádua, et al. 2005), and in 2003, bacitracin was named "Allergen of the Year" due to its high risk of skin allergies (Fraiser 2015). If you ever develop an allergic reaction to a first-aid antibiotic, stop using the product immediately and contact your doctor. Neosporin + Pain Relief Dual Action Ointment Neosporin + Pain Relief Dual Action Ointment contains bacitracin zinc, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B sulfate. This product also contains pramoxine, a topical analgesic, to provide minor pain relief. Since Neosporin Dual Action Ointment contains three antibiotics, it addresses more types of bacteria than a bacitracin-only product (Villines 2020). Polysporin First Aid Topical Antibiotic Skin Ointment Those who are allergic to neomycin should consider Polysporin First Aid Topical Antibiotic Skin Ointment , which contains polymyxin B sulfate and bacitracin zinc only. CUROXEN First Aid Antibiotic Ointment Many people prefer homeopathic antibiotics to synthesized ingredients. CUROXEN First-Aid Antibiotic Ointment is a homeopathic product containing olive extract and calendula. Unlike Neosporin, which uses synthesized ingredients, Curoxen uses naturally-derived ingredients. According to tests conducted by Nelson Laboratories, Curoxen's antibiotic ointment is as effective as Neosporin products (Greenling March 9, 2016, Greenling September 8, 2016). Calendula has also been shown to increase healing and reduce scarring (Eghdampour, et al. 2013). It's important to keep your first aid kit stocked for any contingency. In addition to antibiotic ointments, check out our other animal-free first aid products! DO NOT USE EXPIRED ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENT! IF YOU HAVE AN ADVERSE REACTION TO ANY ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENT, DISCONTINUE USE AND CALL YOUR DOCTOR! Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates. Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right— your support helps keep this vital service alive. Looking for certified and verified animal-free products? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients! As a reminder, please comment on our   FDA Citizen Petition , requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference. If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to  reach out to the Pill Clarity team ! References Eghdampour, F, et al. “The Impact of Aloe Vera and Calendula on Perineal Healing after Episiotomy in Primiparous Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial.” Journal of Caring Sciences , vol. 2, no. 4, 30 Nov. 2013, pp. 279–286., doi:10.5681/jcs.2013.033. Fraiser, Julie. “Allergy to Bacitracin.” DermNet NZ , Sept. 2015, dermnetnz.org/topics/allergy-to-bacitracin/. Greenling, Danielle. Time Kill Study Final Report , Curoxen. International Biophysics Corporation,September 8 2016, https://www.curoxen.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Final-Nelson-Report-Curoxen-10.3.16-1.pdf. Greenling, Danielle. Time Kill Study Final Report , Neosporin. International Biophysics Corporation, March 9, 2016, https://www.curoxen.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Final_Nelson_Report_Neosporin.pdf . Liu, Yanhong, et al. “Assessment of the Antimicrobial Activity of Olive Leaf Extract Against Foodborne Bacterial Pathogens.” Frontiers in Microbiology , vol. 8, Feb. 2017, doi:10.3389/fmicb.2017.00113. Menezes de Pádua, C A, et al. “Contact Allergy to Neomycin Sulfate: Results of a Multifactorial Analysis.” Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety , U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2005, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15880442. Villines, Zawn. “Bacitracin vs. Neosporin: What's the Difference?” Medical News Today , 15 Jan. 2020, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327491#pros-and-cons. #GoAnimalFree #HealthyLiving #veganfirstaid #animalfree #staysafe