Saturday, February 4, 2017

January 2017 - Monthly Empties!

Another month over and it's time to look at the beauty trash I have accumulated over the month! (spoiler alert - there is a lot more than last month!!!):

Too Faced Cosmetics Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer in "Light Medium" ~ $32.00. An oil-free concealer that minimizes the appearance of imperfections while leaving skin with natural-looking radiance. 

I really liked this concealer - it was light, felt fresh and smelled like coconut! This made my favorites back in August (you can see that post here!) and I will say it is more of a Summer concealer. It has a bit more of a lighter, natural coverage! 

Repurchase: Yes, for this Summer! 


Lise Watier HydraForce Hydra-Protective Comforting Creme ~ $45.00 for 45 ml. The formula’s effectiveness lies on the remarkable power of GaspĂ© Algae Extract. A survivor of harsh environments, the GaspĂ© algae has developed a highly efficient resistance system, enabling it to thrive in severe conditions. Its extract guarantees the skin’s global hydration, transforming it into a veritable defensive shield.

I received this in a Glamsense box and really, really liked this moisturizer! The base ingredient is an algae and I will use anything if it makes my skin feel good! I loved this, especially in the Winter. I see now though, that this isn't available in the hydraforce line anymore, which makes me sad but I will probably try the gel-cream that they have instead! 
Repurchase: If I can find it again! 

Dermalogica Active Moist ~ sample size 0.24 oz for $4.24 (full size is 3.4 oz for $60). This oil-free, lightweight moisturizer in a sheer, easy-to-apply formula helps hydrate combination skin. Contains Silk Amino Acids and a unique combination of plant extracts that help improve skin texture and combat surface dehydration. Formulated without artificial fragrances and colors.

I really like Dermalogica products - this was a good moisturizer. The sample was a little small, but I received it in a beauty box a long time ago! This is a nice, gentle formula and worked well on my dry skin! 

Repurchase: Probably 

Pur~lisse Pur~delicate Gentle Soy Milk Cleanser and Makeup Remover ~ sample size 1 oz for $6.43 (full size is 5.6 oz for $36). Appreciate your skin, don’t irritate it. Cleanse the day away in one simple step with this sulfate-free blend of Soy Milk, Whole Oat and White Tea. This gentle cleanser leaves your face silky soft, without a trace of impurity. The 4-in-1 sulfate free & non-drying formula gently washes away dirt and makeup (even mascara!), while soothing and toning skin. 

I have pretty much tried the whole purlisse line thanks to subscription boxes - this is a really nice cleanser. It was very gentle and was perfect at night time to clean up any extra makeup my micellar water may have missed. While I like this, I'm not sure it's amazing.
Repurchase: Mmmm... probably not

Tarte Rainforest of the Sea™ Drink Of H2O Hydrating Boost Moisturizer ~ sample (full size is $47.00). A refreshing, lightweight gel moisturizer to help moisturize dry, dehydrated skin. 

I really liked this moisturizer - it was a gel type and felt really great on the skin! This worked well on my dry skin too! 
Repurchase: Probably... I have so many moisturizers I love...

Tarte Rainforest of the Sea™ Marine Boosting Mist ~ sample (full size is $16.00 to $30.00). A four-in-one primer, makeup setting spray, hydrating mist, and skin refresher. 

This came in the same set as the hydrating boost moisturizer and is reviewed in the same post! I really like this mist - it smelled amazing and worked so well on my skin! I have only used this as a hydrating mist, so I can't review this as a primer or makeup setting spray, but this is a great hydrating mist! 
Repurchase: Yes! 

Farmacy Hydrating Coconut Gel Mask "Brightening" (Purple Broccoli) ~ $32 CAN for 3 masks on Sephora, or $24 US for 3 on Boxycharm. This mask helps even skintone and improve overall clarity. Purple broccoli extract delivers a powerful skin clarifying action due to the varietal’s high level of antizymes, which possess antioxidant properties in addition to the benefits of chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals. 

I LOVE these masks - probably some of my favorite masks! You can see a full review of this mask here! This mask is a thin gel mask and fits amazing on the skin! This mask has the perfect amount of essence and makes my skin feel fantastic! 
Repurchase: YES! 

The Body Shop Vitamin E Hydrating Toner ~ sample (full size is 200ml for $16.00). A hydrating toner that removes traces of cleanser, dirt and make-up without drying the skin, leaving it feeling soft, supple and refreshed. It leaves a velvety feel on the skin.

This is an alcohol free toner, and the Vitamin E line is well reviewed. I quite liked this toner - it was gentle and soothing on the skin. I always like finding western brands with alcohol free toners, so I will keep this on my list! 

Repurchase: Most likely...

To Go Spa Coconut Eyes ~ pack of 3 for $12.50. Hydrate, Nourish, Soothe and Moisturize your under eyes leaving them refreshed and rejuvenated.

I really like these gel eye masks - the coconut masks are so hydrating and soothing to my under eyes! If you put these masks in the fridge first, they are even more amazing! 

Repurchase: Yes



Lush Ro's Argan Body Conditioner ~ gift basket size (full size is 225g for $35.95). Slathering on this juicy, fruity rose-scented body conditioner has become a beauty ritual we can't do without. Packed with cocoa, shea and cupuacu butters along with brazil nut, almond and argan oils, this luxurious conditioner deeply moisturizes skin without a greasy feel. After washing up, massage it all over your body, then rinse and pat dry for supremely soft, vanilla and rose-scented skin.

This lotion came in a Mother's Day gift basket and this has a nice cocoa butter mixed with rose scent. This was very moisturizing and I loved it on my skin! The Lush lotions are all amazing - one better than the next! 
Repurchase: Yes most likely 

Lush Snow Fairy Shower Gel ~ $9.95 for 100 ml. Oh how we've missed lathering up in those fluffy pink bubbles! We crave Snow Fairy's bubblegum and sweet vanilla fragrance all year, and just can't imagine the holidays without her. Our famous fairy contains a smattering of biodegradable shimmering luster (or as we like to call it, Fairy Dust), so she won't harm the earth one little bit. And this year, Snow Fairy’s formula has been expertly rebalanced to be totally self-preserving, so no synthetic preservatives are required.

This is the BEST scent ever - this is always a special edition Christmas release! It is a delicious, sweet scent and this is the best shower gel! This was featured in my December Favorites - this one was actually from 2015 and i repurchased another one for the holidays 2016 because this is only released with the Christmas goodies! 
Repurchase: Yes whenever I can! 

Bliss Tried + Blue Body Lotion ~ sample (full size is $29.00). 

I can't remember which subscription this came in but Tried + Blue is not available on the Bliss website anymore. This was good and smelled nice and fresh. While I liked this, I didn't think it offered all day moisture - it needed to be reapplied.
Repurchase: No

Marcelle for Thyme - Hydrating Stretch Mark Cream ~ sample (full size is $29.95). This stretch mark cream from Marcelle is a must-have for pregnant women's skin! This flagship product celebrates moms-to-be's changing body by combining ingredient that help prevent stretch marks, including two plant extracts that improve skin's elasticity and two moisturizing elements that hydrate to help restore and retain the skin's natural moisture. Safe, soothing, effective!

I got this sample from Thyme when I bought some maternity clothes - I used it a few times and managed to get stretch marks at the same time. I prefer body oil and a different lotion layered to prevent more stretch marks.
Repurchase: Nope 

Dermahouse Aloe Vera Aqua Gel ~ full size $29. Aloe Vera is recognized as one of the most effective soothing, relieving and moisturizing - it will create a protective barrier over your skin! Use as the last stage of your night skin routine for your whole body, or after the shower. 

This came in an old Memebox - it was good, and I like using aloe vera after showers (not just in the shower). For $29, this was not a stand out next to any other aloe vera gels. 
Repurchase: Not likely 


Q-Tips Cotton Swabs 500 Count ~ $4.00. Q-tips is your ultimate beauty too! Blend and apply eye shadow, apply and soften lipstick, remove mascara smudges, and touch up or remove nail polish.

I use these for everything - makeup, nails, anything! 
Repurchase: Already have

ABBA Moisture Shampoo ~ $17.95. Abba Moisture Shampoo is a soothing shampoo that gently cleanses your hair and scalp. Peppermint stimulates the scalp and gives your hair a fresh, clean feeling, without the need of unnecessary sulfates and chemicals. Olive butter moisturizes and smoothes your hair, reducing frizz and flyaways. Abba Moisture Shampoo is suitable for all hair types, and ideal for those with sensitivities.

I have posted a review of this shampoo and conditioner - you can check it out here! These smell like peppermint making using these in the morning amazing! I was really impressed with how well this worked and how long my hair was clean for!
Repurchase: Probably!!! 

ABBA Moisture Conditioner ~ $18.95. Abba Moisture Conditioner is a soothing conditioner that gently moisturizes your hair and scalp. Peppermint stimulates the scalp and gives your hair a fresh, clean feeling, without the need of unnecessary chemicals. Olive butter moisturizes and smoothes your hair, reducing frizz and flyaways. Abba Moisture Conditioner is suitable for all hair types, and ideal for those with sensitivities.

This is reviewed in the same post as the shampoo - it also smells very bright and worked well! I didn't need very much to make my hair nice and smooth! I like that both of these products are low ph too! 
Repurchase: Probably! 


Mitchum Clinical Soft Solid ~ $8.99. Mitchum's most advanced formula for odor and wetness protection.

Deoderant is nothing special - but this is my go to. I like that it is both an antiperspirant and a deoderant. It works the best! 

Repurchase: Yes


COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence ~ sample (full size is $19.00). If you're into snail mucin, this essence has a whopping 96% snail secretion filtrate for super intense repair and hydration. Think of this like vitamins for your face since it's loaded with replenishing and revitalizing nutrients to help prevent and repair damage, giving you ultimate elasticity and hydration. Snail mucin has the ability to repair everything from dry patches, to acne breakouts while helping zap hyperpigmentation, so with loyal use your skin will glow to look its healthiest.

I love Cosrx and I love all snail products - this is a small sample, but I was happy with what I tried! This was good to my skin and didn't leave a sticky feeling! 
Repurchase: Yes, likely! 

BiorĂ© Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser ~ sample (full size is $7.97). Introducing Charcoal, your new secret weapon for fighting clogged pores. Draw out and trap 2x more dirt and impurities than basic cleansers with this innovative black cleanser that foams white and rinses clean. Infused with Japanese Skin Purifying Technology, this facial cleanser gives you results after just one use!

I actually really liked this cleanser - it comes out dark grey and you think it's going to be heavy, but it is not! This worked really well and I quite liked it! My skin hasn't been great so I liked that it felt really deep cleaning! 
Repurchase: Actually, I have a bigger sample to use first! 

Pantene Pro-V Repair & Protect Shampoo ~ sample (full size is $4.48). Pantene’s Pro-V Repair & Protect shampoo, with unique dual-polymer complex helps repair damaged hair; restoring smoothness, shine and manageability. Now your hair is healthy and protected from future damage. Use with Pantene’s Repair & Protect Conditioner to visibly erase 6 months of damage.

These foil packets of shampoo and conditioner are great for travelling - this lasted 2-3 uses for me. I haven't used Pantene in so long, but I have to say I really liked this. I thought it worked well! 
Repurchase: While it was good, probably not as I have other brands I use more! 

Pantene Pro-V Repair and Protect Miracle Protecting Conditioner ~ sample (full size is $4.48). Help stop damage starting now with Pantene Pro-V Repair and Protect Conditioner. This nourishing conditioner helps repair the signs of damage by restoring smoothness, shine, and manageability. Its strand-protecting dual-polymer formula of keratin protection plus damage-defying antioxidants helps prevent protein loss, erasing 6 months of visible damage in 1 use with use of shampoo and conditioner as a system. This conditioner also protects hair from future oxidation.

Again with the shampoo, I was impressed with how many uses I got out of this sample and this worked well! 
Repuchase: Probably not..

Lucayan Skincare - Pineapple Lip Balm ~ appprox. $4.

I bought this on our honeymoon in Turks and Caicos - this is local, handmade lip balm. This worked well and I liked it! It smelled good and was hydrating! 
Repurchase: Probably won't be able to... but it was good! 

Nova Scotia Fisherman Xtreme Skincare - Sea Salt Soap ~ sample (full size is $6.95). Our 100% natural, hand poured soaps are made from Olive, Palm, Coconut, and Organic Castor oils using the time honored “Cold Process Method.” Reduced water content delivers a harder, longer lasting, more concentrated bar. Organic Shea butter provides extra moisture and a satiny feel.
No artificial preservatives are added and all-natural scents are used.

I like natural soaps and this was pretty good - the scent was okay and I thought it worked well. It actually disappeared faster than most soap (like weirdly fast) so I probably won't buy from this brand again.

Repurchase: No

Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream with Super 7 Complex ~ sample (full size is $20.00 to $56.00). A daily age-defying moisturizer formulated with Fresh’s proprietary super 7 complex to prevent visible signs of aging, provide up to 24 hours of significant moisture, and boost radiance. 

This smelled so good - very gentle and spa like scent (like cucumbers!) This worked well from what I could tell, but this sample didn't last long! Good thing I do have a bigger size to use! 
Repurchase: I will use my bigger sample first!

Bumble and bumble - Thickening Shampoo ~ sample (full size is $29.00). This shampoo builds body in the shower and gives fine or limp hair a lift while moisturizing and sealing split ends. It's ideal for fine, thinning, limp, or flyaway hair.

The smell of this shampoo was not good at all - I can't even remember how the shampoo worked because I couldn't get past the scent! 
Repurchase: No

Bumble and bumble - Thickening Conditioner ~ sample (full size is $31.00). This conditioner moisturizes, protects, and separates strands to make fine hair look and feel fuller. It's ideal for thinning, limp, or flyaway hair.

This smelled the same as the shampoo, so nope not good. Blah. 
Repurchase: No

Clarins Super Restorative Total Eye Concentrate ~ sample (full size is $85.00). An innovative, all-in-one antiaging eye cream that targets the entire eye zone—temple to temple. 

This was a nice creamy eye serum - it worked well, but $85?! Yikes! 
Repurchase: Not for $85... 

Banana Boat Sport Performance with Powerstay Technology Ultra-Lightweight SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray ~ $9.47. Formulated with PowerStay Technology that locks active ingredients in place, boosting the staying power of the sunscreen. Provides powerful protection that absorbs quickly and won’t run into your eyes. 

I like the spray sunscreen - this worked well. No complaints - sunscreen is sunscreen.
Repurchase: Sure

Coppertone® Sunscreen Lotion Sensitive Skin SPF 50 - Face ~ $7.97. Coppertone® Sunscreen Lotion Sensitive Skin™ SPF 50 for face and body is clinically proven appropriate for sensitive skin. Its broad spectrum formula is hypoallergenic and non-acne genic; it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. It helps smooth and soften skin and is quickly absorbed. With naturally sourced zinc oxide and other sunscreen ingredients. Dermatologist tested. Water Resistant (80 minutes).

I think I had an older bottle that was still SPF 60 - that doesn't look available still. I like that this is made specifically for face so that you don't have to be as worried about your pores being clogged. This worked well. It's not my favorite face sunscreen (I do prefer my japanese sunscreens) but this is my husbands favorite and I use it on the go when we only want to pack a small beach bag!)
Repurchase: Yes


BVspa by Bon Vital’ - Body Lotion "Pink Grapefruit" ~ sample size 1 oz. for $1.50 (full size is 8 oz. for $11.99). Lightly whipped and fast absorbing spa quality body lotion formulated with moisturizing extracts and 100% pure essential oils leaves skin well-nourished and smooth.

I received this lotion in a past Topbox and I love
 grapefruit scented lotion! I have been hearing really great reviews. This lotion was almost too greasy - it left an oily layer on my skin and did not completely absorb.
Repurchase: No

The Body Shop Wild Argan Oil Shower Gel ~ sample size (full size is $10.00). Lather up with richly foaming, non-drying cleansing for your shower, enriched with Community Fair Trade argan oil from Morocco.
 

This was actually a really great shower gel - I thought the argan oil base made my skin feel super smooth and it was really moisturizing! 
Repurchase: Maybe... 

Banana Boat Sport Performance SPF 50+ Sunscreen Spray ~ $9.47. Provides powerful protection that absorbs quickly and won’t run into eyes. These lightweight clear sprays are specifically designed for the sport enthusiasts and active individuals who don’t want to be slowed down when out in the sun!

These mist sunscreens are really easy for on-the-go and I liked that this was an spf50. It worked well and wasn't sticky or anything. 
Repurchase: Sure 

Coppertone Sport® Sunscreen Lotion - SPF 30 ~ $9.97. Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection. Waterproof. Sweatproof. Retains SPF after 80 minutes of activity or sweating. Hypoallergenic. Specially formulated for active adults.

This is another good sunscreen - it worked well.
Repurchase: Don't See Why Not...

Living Proof Flex Shaping Hairspray ~ travel size for $19.00. A revolution in hairspray designed to be workable, brushable, and touchable as you set, style, and finish damp or dry hair. 

This was really good - I was sad to be finished. It is an expensive hair spray, but it is so light weight and holds my easy styles really well. I really like it.
Repurchase: Yes

John Masters Organics - Lavender Rosemary Shampoo For Normal Hair ~ sample (full size is $27.00). Lavender and rosemary extracts are combined with 13 other certified organic ingredients plus soy protein to leave hair healthy, shiny and manageable. Does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate. Safe for color-treated hair.

This was a really good shampoo, and I love lavender but I just thought that this was too weird of a scent for shampoo! Especially in the morning - I need something to wake me up, not put me to sleep!
Repurchase: Not likely 

John Masters Organics - Lavender & Avocado Intensive Conditioner ~ sample (full size is $36.50). Lavender and avocado oil are combined with 10 certified-organic plant extracts and oils to bring intense moisture and vitality to dry hair. Hair is left shiny, soft and luxurious. Wonderful, light lavender scent. Safe for color-treated hair.

Again - good, but the scent is too relaxing and bath scented for me to like as a hair product!
Repurchase: Not likely

Glamglow Supercleanse™ Daily Clearing Cleanser ~ sample size (full size is $16.00 - $43.00). A revolutionary Mud to Foam™ daily cleanser that changes color and transforms from mud into a gentle, effective foaming lather to dissolve oil, makeup, and impurities. 

This was okay - I like that this was a mud to foam cleanser, but I found this stung my eyes if it got near them which I wanted to do because this says it is good for removing makeup. This was okay, but nothing amazing.
Repurchase: No

Revlon Professional - Equave Hydro Nutritive Detangling Conditioner ~ sample size for $0.85 (full size is 200 ml for $18.95). Revlon Professional Equave Detangling Keratin Enriched Conditioner is a leave in conditioner designed to first hydrate, then nourish your hair. The first phase hydration formula adds necessary moisture to your hair, increasing your hair’s natural strength and shine. The second phase gently replenishes your hair’s natural oils and amino acids, stimulating healthy hair growth, shiny luster, and soft textures. Made UV resistant, Revlon Equave is designed to protect your hair and scalp against harmful ultra violet solar light. 

I was not impressed with the size of this sample when I received it from Topbox - I thought that it would work twice. This did last a little longer than I thought, but it did nothing to my hair at all. I saw no benefit or improvement.
Repurchase: No

Preventive Measures 101 - Lips 101 After Hours ~ full size $13.00. We created Lips 101 After Hours with the same extraordinary 
technology and innovative ingredients without the SPF 30. We increased the moisture ingredients to maximize its benefits
 to the lips. In Lips 101 after hours, we have formulated the product to intensify 
the benefits to relieve cracked, wrinkled and dry lips. Increasing the anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory delivery system 
technology.

A lip balm for $13 better be amazing - this wasn't. This didn't last very long and I felt like I was constantly reapplying this. Plus, it wasn't very smooth so it was constantly leaving a white cast on my lips. Ugh.
Repurchase: Nope

Origins Drink Up™ Intensive Mask Pods ~ $10. A limited-edition set of four one-time use pods featuring the luxurious nighttime mask to quench skin’s thirst.

This came in a set of 4 pods - that isn't available anymore, but the drink up mask is still available. This little pod is awesome and actually lasts 4-5 nights. You need so little product for this! It is so hydrating and feels amazing! 

Repurchase: Maybe.. I still have a few pods to use first...

Eslor Soothing Cream ~ sample (full size is $65.00). A regenerative and calming day and night cream that helps improve the skin’s suppleness and vitality. The combination of Ginkgo Biloba Blend and Super Oxide Dismutase help to offset the damage that leads to premature aging.

These samples are always great for travelling! I have really liked the Eslor products I have tried and this was good! It worked well - I'm just not sure it's worth the $65 usd price tag! 
Repurchase: Not with that price...

Bumble and bumble - Thickening Shampoo ~ sample (full size is $29.00). Same as above.

Bumble and bumble - Thickening Conditioner ~ sample (full size is $31.00). Same as above! 

Laneige Water Bank Serum ~ $46.00. Formulated with exclusive biogen technology, hydro ionized mineral water delivers six moisture-maximizing minerals—zinc, magnesium, manganese, potassium, calcium, and sodium—deep within where toned, re-texturized skin begins. The luxurious formula delivers 24-hour hydration, protection, and revitalization for skin that looks supple and silky. 

This was a good serum - this sample was only a 1 use sample so it was a little hard to tell how it would be over time. I did find this hydrating and soothing. I do like Laneige products so I would like to try more of this serum! 
Repurchase: I would like to try more first...


Lush Honey Bee Bath Bomb ~ approx. $6. 

I got this in a big bath bomb gift basket - this bath bomb isn't available on the website, so I don't have too many details. This smelled good, but the colour got weird in the bath and looked sort of brown - not an appealing colour to bath in! 
Repurchase: Probably not this kind. 


Harry Potter Sorting Bath Bomb ~ $3.00. 

I found this off a lady who made homemade bath bombs in a facebook group - this starts out white and then as it gets to the bottom it has a surprise Hogwarts house colour inside. Cleary I'm a Gryffindor! It was actually a little weird to have a bright red bath but it was fun! 
Repurchase: Probably not. 

So in January I used up 47 products - holy batman, that's a lot! It does help that I was in Hawaii for 2 weeks so I used up a ton of samples! I finished a ton of skincare, bath etc. but not a lot of makeup this month! If you are interested in checking out more empties post, you check them out here

2 comments :

  1. You mention you prefer Japanese sunscreens - any info on brands or where you get them. I have trouble finding a kind I like. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes - I use one specifically ~ Biore Sarasara UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
      found here: https://www.amazon.ca/Biore-Sarasara-Watery-Essence-Sunscreen/dp/B00LA6QEOE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1487381287&sr=8-2&keywords=biore+uv+aqua+rich+watery+essence

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