Wednesday, May 15, 2019

April 2019 - Monthly Empties & Month in Masks

Here is a look at my beauty empties from April:

April 2019 - Monthly Empties
Some products may have been provided by PR - this post contains affiliate links

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil ~ sample size shown (full size is $55.00 CAN). An ultra-light, fast-absorbing face oil that doubles as a face primer—imparting a glowing, radiant look with a dewy finish.

I never thought with combo skin and an oily t-zone that I would have really loved an oil primer; but, this works amazing for my skin in Fall, Winter and early Spring. It gives me a nice glow and really helped my foundation apply smoother! This made my Feb Favourites last year! I can't wear this in the Summer or when it's really warm; but, it looks good any other time! 
Repurchase: Yes! 

Doucce Punk Volumizer Mascara ~ $24.00 US. Define lashes one by one, adding extreme volume and thickness. Instantly create dramatically full and seductive lashes for an audacious false-look effect.

I thought this was a pretty decent mascara actually - it was volumizing and non-clumpy. You can see it in action in a makeup look here! It wasn't flaky and looked really nice; but, this mascara seems harder to find and that's always not easy to find! 
Repurchase: If I saw it at a store near me! 


BeautyBlender - The Original BeautyBlender ~ $26.00 CAN. An edgeless, non-disposable, high-definition cosmetic sponge applicator.

I'm a pretty big BeautyBlender fan - of all the sponges that I've tried, I just prefer it! But, I tend to use them for too long and is the case with this one, it started to collect a bunch of product at the top and it was time to go! 
Repurchase: Yes

Covergirl Exhibitionist Mascara ~ $13.99 CAN. With Covergirl's Exhibitionist volumizing mascara, lashes are full and defined after only one coat. 

This is a volumizing formula that is not supposed to flake or smudge - you can see it in action on me here. I really did like this formula and thought it was very volumizing; but, the longer that I used it, the more it flaked and clumped on me as it dried out which was a bummer. I think it was comparable to the Lash Paradise formula; but, I would pick Lash Paradise as it didn't clump on me over time. 
Repurchase: It's a possibility 

Glamour Dolls Essential Mascara ~ $4.99 US. This Mascara is perfect for everyday use and features an easy-to-use wand to apply our new formulation for a natural look.

This formula didn't quite do it for me - it was lengthening which was good; but, it's not a concern for me. I have long, curled lashes but need volume and this did not do that for me. So, it's not bad by any means - it didn't smudge or flake, it just wasn't very thickening. You can see it on me here
Repurchase: No

Lancome Cils Booster XL Super-Enhancing Mascara Base ~ sample shown here (full size is $34.00 CAN). A lash-conditioning, mascara primer in the same great formula and new packaging that conditions and primes lashes to maximize results—creating even longer and more volumized lashes.

This was okay, I'm not sure I really noticed a huge difference (sometimes it's hard to tell given which mascara you are using with it). Also, I didn't think this primer had a lot of product in the sample as I really only felt like I used it for a month before it was all done. But, I didn't notice any dramatic results with this. 
Repurchase: Not likely

Notoriously Morbid Everlasting Gobstopper ~ NM's first ever setting spray. Spritz on after applying your makeup for a stay all day, no melt away, look.

This came in the one Vanishing Cabinet subscription that I've ever gotten and it was a trial product - it doesn't appear that they ever made it a permanent product. This little bottle wasn't a great bottle; the spritzer was a little difficult - it made it hard to spray and left big droplets on my face. I didn't really enjoy it. 
Repurchase: No 

Flexitol Lip Balm ~ $5.49 CAN. Flexitol Lip Balm for severely dry, chapped lips helps to alleviate soreness and discomfort, and visibly softens and smooths lips quickly.

This was a really good, thick lip balm - perfect to use in the Winter time. It was really long wearing and super soft. I could even use it as a nice night lip balm and really enjoyed it.
Repurchase: Yes, I would consider it! 

Mont Echo Seabuckthorn Lip Treatment ~ $?

This wasn't a great lip balm for me - it was too hard, didn't smooth over the lips well and collected a white cast around the inner lips too soon. I couldn't finish this. This also doesn't really look like it's available anywhere anymore and that's probably a good thing! 
Repurchase: No!

The Green Beaver Green Apple Lip Balm ~ $3.99 CAN. 

This is a Canadian company that uses certified organic beeswax in their lip balms. This one was okay; but, still a little hard for my preference - I'm actually a little picky about my lip balm formulas. But, otherwise it smelled good and was hydrating
Repurchase: Probably not 


April 2019 - Monthly Empties

Graydon Face Food Mineral Mist ~ $38.00 CAN. Graydon Face Food Mineral Mist is formulated with three key ionic minerals (copper, silver and zinc) which get quickly taken into the subvascular layer of the skin for deep hydration.

This was a nice mist - I enjoyed it and thought it added to my overall skin appearance. I've been loving Graydon products - they are natural, Canadian made and leaping bunny certified. 
Repurchase: Yes, I would try it again

Fresh Soy Face Cleanser ~ deluxe size shown (full size is $49.00 CAN). A bestselling, do-it-all cleanser for all skin types that’s tough on makeup but gentle on skin. 

This is a nice, gentle face cleanser - it smells like cucumbers and is really easy on the skin! Love it for in the mornings for just a nice, gentle cleanser! 
Repurchase: Yes

Lise Watier Hydraforce Hydra-Protective Comforting Cream ~ $47.00 CAN for full size (sample size shown here).  Its extract guarantees global skin hydration, acting as a defensive shield against external aggressors.

I used to love this cream years ago when I had really dry skin - since it's been changing I haven't tried this again. It's still a really nice cream, but a little too heavy during the day for me. It did make a good night cream and was very hydrating and repairing on the skin! 
Repurchase: Mmmm.... maybe 

Clinique - Clinique Smart Custom-Repair Serum ~ sample size (full size is $82.00 CAN). A potent serum that visibly improves major signs of aging. 

This was a good serum; but, maybe not quite for me - I don't have major signs of aging. But, it was decent for a couple of uses for me. 
Repurchase: Not right now

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Multi-Vitamin Booster ~ $24.99 CAN. Instantly quenches skin, while helping to improve the skin’s moisture barrier against reoccurring dryness, for hydrated, supple skin that glows.

This was a good booster - I thought it was hydrating and soothing on the skin. You can see my full thoughts on this here. The only thing is, using 2 pumps of this (as recommended) makes you go through this really fast! I only need 1 pump of my Vichy Mineral 89 booster, which i think works a little better on my combo skin. But, it was good on the skin I just have something very comparable that I prefer slightly. 
Repurchase: I would certainly use it again 

Neutrogena All-in-One Duo Make-Up Removing Cleansing Wipes ~ $20.99 CAN for a 2 pack of 25 wipes. NEUTROGENA® All-in-One Makeup Removing Cleansing Wipes are soft pre-moistened wipes that gently dissolve all traces of dirt, oil, and make-up to give you fresh, clean skin in one step.

These wipes were fine - they did the trick and removed my makeup (I generally use more for swatches than makeup removal); but, these are on the expensive side for just being okay. 
Repurchase: Not likely

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micelle Solution ~ $19.90 CAN for 500 ml (comes in smaller sizes as well and without a pump top). The cleansing and make-up removing water in Canada that respects the fragility of sensitive skin. 

I've raved about this before - it is easily my holy grail makeup remover. It works so well and is gentle on the skin. This is my first time using a pump top and it was okay; I thought maybe I was using up the product faster than without but it could have been my cotton rounds as well. 
Repurchase: Yes! 


April 2019 - Monthly Empties

The Body Shop Strawberry Hand Cream ~ $10.00 CAN for 30 ml. Perfect for on-the-go hydration, don't leave home without this handcream. Infused with the scent of fruity strawberry, the light, gel-cream formula absorbs quickly, helping to soften and protect the hands.

I can't believe how long it's been since I've used a hand cream from The Body Shop! I love their formula and this strawberry one smells amazing! This was great! 
Repurchase: Yes! I need to! 

The Body Shop Fuji Green Tea Body Lotion ~ $15.00 CAN for full size (travel size shown here). Hydrate your skin, while detoxing body and soul, with the crisp and refreshing scent of lightweight Fuji Green Tea™ Body Lotion.

This is good - the body shop has a nice body lotion formula. I got this one forever ago in an Advent Calendar. But, I totally prefer their body butters, so if I were to repurchase a lotion from them, it would be their body butter! 
Repurchase: Not likely 

Degree Clinical Protection Sheer Powder ~ $7.67 CAN. It’s formulated to provide protection that’s long-lasting against sweat, and provides extra help against odour, to help keep you dry and confident.

This is fine - I prefer the Mitchum clinical strength; but, I haven't spotted it in stores recently so it's probably being discontinued. But, this is a good alternative and worked well.
Repurchase: Yes 

Nivea Care Intensive Nourishing Cream x2 ~ $15.99 CAN for full size (sample size shown). Thanks to our new revolutionary hydrating complex, it melts into the skin leaving your skin well-hydrated and touchably soft.

This lotion is pretty good - its got a bit of an odd smell; but, it absorbs quickly, works well and is very hydrating! 
Repurchase: Maybe 

Soapberri Organic Soapberry Body Wash in "Awakening Peppermint" ~ $18.55 US full size (sample size shown). Revitalize your skin's natural radiance with the nourishing, natural lather of the soapberry, bottled straight from the forest.

This was good - it was gentle on my skin and was gentle enough on Elliott's thin toddler skin as a bubble bath. While this was good, I don't think it's $20 full size good if I'm being honest. Soapberri is all about not using chemicals and incorporates the soapberry nut in to their products. 
Repurchase: Not likely 

Bath Time Box (Store) Oh La La Oil - After Bath Nourishing Oil ~ $8.50. The super, non-greasy oil blend is perfect for after the bath or shower. After you step out, lightly towel off and then apply the oil, rubbing it in well.

I love this oil - it is so hydrating on the skin and one of the main ingredients is almond oil so it smells amazing on the skin as well. I really loved Bath Time Box and all the products they sent out - bummer, I can't find them anymore! 
Repurchase: I wish! 

Lush Cinders Shower Gel ~ $9.95 CAN. 

Cinders is one of Lush's holiday scents and it's spicy and really warmly scented. I enjoyed using this and the shower gel is a great, soft formula to use! 
Repurchase: I might next Christmas 

April 2019 - Monthly Empties

Garnier Whole Blends Marvelous Shampoo with Moroccan Argan & Camellia Oils ~ $4.78 CAN for full size (sample shown here). 

Garnier Whole Blends Marvelous Conditioner with Moroccan Argan & Camellia Oils ~ $4.78 CAN for full size (sample shown here). Silky formula blooms with a luxurious fragrance of moroccan argan & camellia oils, bringing to life our wholesome care that cocoons dry, dull hair.

These smelled good; but, I think this was almost too oily/nourishing for my fine, thin hair. It felt greasy almost right after using this and it just didn't work for me. 
Repurchase: No 

Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Dry Shampoo ~ $3.97 CAN. Our silicone-free formula with Citrus Extract, instantly absorbs oil and restores a fresh-washed look and feel.

This was a decent dry shampoo and it was so affordable! It didn't have as much of a white cast to it - I did still use it the night before and it worked really well that way! Not bad - it's not the best I've ever tried; but, it was alright.
Repurchase: Yes

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Core Restore Protein-Infused Shampoo ~ $9.78 CAN. 

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Core Restore Protein-Infused Clear Conditioner ~ $9.78 CAN. Fine hair lacks the protein necessary for strength, body & the power to hold a style. Strengthen fine hair to maximize volume & vitality.

I think I used this set 2 or 3 times max - I just could not enjoy this set. It just made my hair immediately greasy and it looked stringy right after. This is just a nope for me overall. 
Repurchase: Nooooo 


April 2019 - Monthly Empties

Live Clean Moisturizing Liquid Hand Soap Holly Berry ~ $4.98 CAN. Gently cleanse, hydrate and restore moisture balance and luster to dry hands.

I won this in a giveaway quite a while ago and I really enjoyed this scent! This was a really good soap formula and it's huge so it lasts forever! 
Repurchase: Yes, have picked up new scents already

Bath and Body Works Exfoliating Hand Soap - Ice Blue Sage ~ $6.50 US. 

These are always on sale, so never actually pay full price for them. The exfoliating soaps are fine but I prefer creamy or foaming soaps.
Repurchase: Maybe 

Colgate Total Advanced Health Toothpaste ~ $3.47 CAN. 

This was fine - I usually think toothpaste is toothpaste and it's all the same; but, I've recently tried a brand that I really liked! But, this is a pretty staple brand and I liked it. 
Repurchase: Likely 


Nivea Men Revitalizing Body Lotion ~ $6.97 CAN. New Nivea body for men Revitalizing Lotion is a daily all-over body moisturizer especially formulated to meet the needs of men’s skin.

This seems like such a silly product - a manly lotion; but, my husband does really like the scent and uses this all the time. 
Repurchase: Yes 


April 2019 - Monthly Empties

Lush Scrubee Body Butter ~ $7.95 CAN. We've combined scrubby ground almonds and coconut shell with softening honey, cocoa and shea butter in alternating exfoliating and moisturizing stripes for the smoothest skin. 

I looooove Scrubee so much! It's basically an exfoliator and a body butter in the same product - I buy it for every new mom (I mean everyone can use it; but, it's so perfect when you need something quick to use!) You do not need a lotion after this and it's perfect! It's a holy grail - I love this. 
Repurchase: Yes, already have a back up! 

Lush Cheery Christmas Bath Bomb ~ $5.95 CAN. Chase cold, dark days away with this sweet and cheery bath bomb. Soak in the bright fragrance of Sicilian lemon and buchu oils, as well as a dose of skin-soothing cream of tartar to battle dry, wintry skin.

I love a citrusy scent too and I couldn't resist this cute pink snowflake - it actually turns purple in the bath. It smelled good and worked well. I always like Lush bath bombs.
Repurchase: Yes, likely 

So, in April I used up 35 products! It always feels so good to use that many products and especially that I used up so many makeup products this month! 

Here are the masks I used in April:
April 2019 - Monthly Empties

Acure Radically Rejuvenating Under Eye Hydrogels Mask ~ $5.55 CAN for one set of 2 eye masks. Intense, soothing under eye elixir hydrogels to help rejuvenate with Cucumber and Persian Silk Tree. Keep in the fridge for a cooling boost and say hello to deep hydration!


These masks adhere really well under the eye and really worked to make my eyes look brighter and more rejuvenated. You can see a full review on these here.
Repurchase: Yes, maybe 

Biobelle #IWOKEUPLIKETHIS Mask ~ $3.99 US. Biobelle’s #Iwokeuplikethis mask is the first step towards a youthful, rosy complexion. Purify, exfoliate, and brighten – Give your skin that Biobelle glow! 

This was a tencel mask and I haven't really used that material before! Tencel is a biodegradable fiber made from the pulp of wood from entirely sustainable forests. You can see a whole review on this mask here and I really liked it and thought it delivered on it's results! 
Repurchase: Yes, if I can find it easily 


Yes To Tomato Paper Mask ~ $3.99 CAN. Formulated with tomato extracts and salicylic acid, the single-use Yes To Tomatoes Paper Mask works detoxify and clean pores.

I actually also used the Yes To Grapefruit mask - you can see my thoughts on both masks here! But, to make a quick story even shorter - they weren't good. They were super tingly to the point my eyes were watering and the fit was bad. 
Repurchase: No 

Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Tencel Sheet Mask ~ $3.00 US. The Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Tencel Sheet Mask consists of ceramides to enhance skin barriers. The sheet mask is to protect the skin from the external cause. 

This was okay - it was a lot thicker than the Biobelle tencel sheet mask that I tried. This was fine and I think it was really moisturizing and hydrating. I did think this worked well. 
Repurchase: Maybe 

So, I also used 5 masks for the month of April - I really want to use more masks than this so I need to step up my masking! 

2 comments :

  1. Great post - it looks like you had a lot of great empties this month! I have been slowly trying out different products from Lush (as they have a lot of great products for someone who is trying to be zero waste) but I haven't tried the Scrubee yet... But it will be next on my list! Thanks for sharing!
    Jenna ♥
    Stay in touch? The Chic Cupcake

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Jenna - Scrubee is such a good product, you won't regret it!

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