May 2014 Empties

Kirkland Daily Facial Cleansing Towelettes

As I've said before these are my go-to cleansing towelettes. They are good at removing all types of makeup, and do not dry out the skin. The best thing about these towelettes is that they are super saturated with product, so they never dry out.
Repurchase: Yes

Gillette Satin Care Alluring Avocado Shave Gel

I have really dry skin on my legs and shaving makes it worse. This shave gel was moisturizing and had a light aloe scent. Although this product didn't eliminate the need to moisturize, it didn't dry out my skin more.
Repurchase: Yes

Jergens Natural Glow Moisturizer in Medium to Tan

I am very pale, but when I do want some colour I prefer to use a self-tanner. This is the self-tanner I normally purchase. This sample was a little too dark for me, I need the light to medium shade. Regardless of shade this moisturizer provides a natural tan while also replenishing lost moisture from the Summer heat.
Repurchase: Yes

John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Moisturizing Shampoo

This shampoo works well at cleansing my hair, and didn't make it overly greasy or dry. I've used this shampoo before and have never really noticed it making my hair look browner or more radiant. I've used better shampoo's that have cost less.
Repurchase: No

EM Career Life Palette Sample

I'm not sure if the quality of these products on a card is the same as the full size ones, but I was very impressed with this sample. I got two eye looks out of it, and the shadow and blush lasted all day. All of the products blended seamlessly and were very pigmented. Based on this sample  I would consider purchasing the full size.
Repurchase: Yes

Wet n Wild Mega Plump Mascara

You can see my full review of this mascara here.
Repurchase: No

Covergirl Clump Crusher Mascara

I've always been a fan of Covergirl mascaras, and this one is no exception. The brush separates the lashes and deposits the perfect amount of product to achieve volume and length. As the name claims I get no clumps. I choose this mascara when I'm going for a more natural look.
Repurchase: Maybe

Covergirl Flamed Up Mega Curl Mascara

I love this mascara! I've tried quite a few drugstore mascaras and this has got to be my favourite. The mixture of formula and brush give me VA VA voom lashes, and the curl lasts all day. The only downside with this mascara is that I find it dries out quickly.
Repurchase: Yes

Wet n Wild Mega Protein Mascara

I really wanted to like Wet n Wild mascaras because they are good on the wallet, but I've yet to find one that wows me. This mascara has a plain straight spiral brush and super wet formula. For me this equals spidery, clumpy lashes.
Repurchase: No

Elizabeth Mott It's So Big Voluminizing Mascara

I really enjoyed this mascara. It gives lots of volume and length. It coats the lashes making them super black and dries to form tubes around the lashes. It does require makeup remover to fully remove but the results are worth the extra removal time.
Repurchase: Yes

April 2014 Empties

After March's impressive 29 empties, April is lacking a bit. I was only able to finish 4 products by the end of the month. Here is hoping to have more empties for next month. I am going to Florida for a week, and bringing a bunch of mini products, so I should be able to finish quite a few. I'm wondering how my boyfriend will react when I tell him I'm bringing empty products home on the plane.

First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser with Red Clay

I was hearing great things about First Aid Beauty on YouTube, so I was ecstatic when I saw this in my Ipsy Bag a few months ago. This cleanser did not disappoint! It created a soft lather that cut through the makeup and oils like nothing. It even worked well on waterproof makeup as well.What I really liked about this cleanser though is that it didn't leave a residue on my skin, or leave my face feeling dry. Repurchase: Yes

Bath & Body Works Exotic Coconut Shower Gel

This shower gel smelt so good! It made me feel like I was on vacation every time I used it. It created a rich lather and left me smelling good all day. Although it didn't leave my skin feeling dry, I wasn't overly hydrated either. My skin just felt clean and normal. I prefer the Triple Moisture Body Wash from B&BW. Repurchase: Maybe

Garnier Fructis Anti-Dandruff Mint Cleanse Shampoo

I like to use a cleansing/dandruff shampoo once or twice a week to help clear out product buildup. This shampoo has micro exfoliating bits that help to scrub your scalp and give you the best clean possible. The mint scent was refreshing and lingered throughout the day. My hair and scalp always felt clean, but not stripped of oils when I used this. Repurchase: Yes

Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Shampoo

Herbal Essences is my go-to shampoo. I don't have a favourite from the line, I normally just rotate through the line depending on how my hair is acting. In April, I felt like I needed a boost of volume so I grabbed this one. This shampoo helps promote waves and texture, by giving it extra volume Repurchase: Yes

Products I would:
Repurchase: 3
Not Repurchase: 0
Might Repurchase: 1
Total Empties: 4

March 2014 Empties

It's time for my March Empties! In March I was bit more successful on the empties front. I also went through all of my products and pulled out some that I absolutely hate, and know I wont use ever again, and threw them into the mix, as well.

Bath & Body Works Liplicious Colour Changing Lip Glosses in Pink & Coral
I really liked the concept of these lip glosses. They go on clear, and colour adjust with your body heat. I wanted to like them, but they just smell and taste so bad. I tested them on my hand and they do shift to beautiful colours, but I want to throw up every time I apply them to my lips. Repurchase: No

Lip Fusion InFATuation Plumping Glosses in Screen Siren & Full Frontal
These lip plumpers are not empty, however, I've had them for about 4 years and wasn't grabbing for them, so it was time to toss them. The colour pigmentation of these glosses are great, but the plumping component really hurts my lips. It tingles to the point where it burns and I have to wipe it off. These glosses are also extremely sticky. Repurchase: No

Blistex Medicated Lip Balm SPF 30
I find this lip balm does a great job at protecting my lips when I am out in the sun. I wish it was more moisturizing though. I find my lips get very dry when I use this. When I go to repurchase I am going to look for a more moisturizing alternative. Repurchase: Yes

Burt's Bees Strawberry Lip Shimmer
Although pretty in the tube, this just isn't a colour I can get to look good on my lips. It's a barbie pink with an intense frost finish. To me this colour is just so dated, and not attractive at all. Repurchase: No

ELF Matte Lip Colour in Coral
This product isn't empty, I just really don't like it. The colour doesn't go well with my skin tone, it's extremely drying, yet waxy at the same time, and it applies patchy. The good thing is that this product doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Repurchase: No

Covergirl Clean Oil Control Foundation in Classic Ivory
This foundation is my perfect shade match, but it makes me so oily, despite being an oil free product. It gives medium, yet buildable coverage, but I just can't forgive how oily it makes me. I tried to force myself to finish it, but I couldn't force myself to be an oil slick everyday. Repurchase: No

M.Asam Vino Gold Magic Fini
I'm still unsure if this is a primer or a foundation, but I love it either way. It has a whipped consistency, that blends effortlessly into my skin. It gives very light coverage, so I use it on days when I am wearing minimal makeup. Repurchase: Yes

Benefit That Gal Brightening Face Primer
This product confuses me...is it a primer or a highlighter? As a primer it makes me look overly brightened. As a highlighter though, on my cheek bones, I love it. It adds just the perfect amount of highlight without making me look like a disco ball. Repurchase: Maybe

Hard Candy Eyeshadow Primer
This primer causes my lids to get so oily, that just a few hours after application my shadows have completely creased. It does everything a primer shouldn't. Repurchase: No

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation in Ivory
The consistency of this foundation feels somewhat gel-like. It gives medium, yet buildable, coverage. When I first started using it, I liked it, however over time I realized that it oxidizes a lot! I probably need a lighter shade, but the oxidation is so bad it makes me not want to try my actual shade. Repurchase: No

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Oily Skin Formula
This cleanser is so good at eliminating excess oil that it leaves my skin feeling tight and extremely dry...to the point where it hurts. Repurchase: No

The Body Shop Seaweed Mattifying Day Cream
I really love this moisturizer! It gives me the hydration I need, but doesn't cause any unwanted excess oils. I did find myself staying matte for longer when I used this. Repurchase: Yes

La Roche-Posay 60 SPF Anthelios Melt In Cream
I received this product in the very first Glymm bag, and never used it. I thought I would finally give it a try, but it's definitely gone bad. It smells rancid. Repurchase: Maybe, I would like to try it out.

B.Kamins Bio-Maple Body Lotion
A great moisturizer, I'm just not a fan of the scent. I was hoping it would smell like maple, due to the name, but sadly no. I can get past the scent though because I really enjoy this product. Repurchase: Maybe

Cyberderm H2O Hydration
This moisturizer smells so bad. It's like a mix or burnt plastic, rotting garbage, and mouldy damp basements. I couldn't even force myself to put it on my face. Repurchase: No

Cyberderm Every Morning Sun Whip SPF 25
This sunscreen blends easily into the skin, without causing excess oil or disturbing makeup application. Repurchase: Yes

Fruits & Passion Watermelon Gogi Hand Cream
This hand cream has a gel consistency, which allows it to absorb quickly into my skin. Formula and effectiveness wise, I adore this hand cream, I just don't like the smell. Repurchase: Yes, but in a different scent.

Biotherm Lait Corporel Antidrying Body Care with Citrus Essences
This body lotion is ultra moisturizing, despite its light formula. The citrus scent lingers throughout the day. The downside is that it is slightly greasy and takes a bit of time to absorb into the skin. Repurchase: No

Nivea Happy Time Shower Cream in Orange Blossom
I love this body wash. It's my go to for when Winter skin strikes. It lathers immensely, and hydrates like you are using a straight up cream. The orange scent was invigorating and lingered throughout the day. Repurchase: Yes

Garnier Damage Eraser Conditioner
When I started using this conditioner I loved it. My hair looked and felt healthier; I had less fly aways and frizz. Over longtime use, however, this made my hair worse. It made my hair staticy and the frizz came back even worse. This product smells amazing I just wish it consistently worked for my hair. Repurchase: No

John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Satin Shine Finishing Creme
This creme is supposed to help tame fly aways and give subtle definition to your hair. This product leaves my hair feeling crispy and looking greasy. Repurchase: No

Joico K-Pak Revitaluxe Bio Advanced Restorative Treatment 
I've had this product for so long, and I finally tried it, and it literally does nothing for my hair. There is no good, or bad to talk about because it doesn't do anything! Repurchase: No

Biore Combination Skin Balancing Cleanser
I have combination skin, so I thought this cleanser would work wonders for me. It did quite the opposite, however. Not only did it cause me to break out, but it left a greasy film on my face. Repurchase: No

Marcelle Essentials Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover Lotion
These isn't much to say, expect that this is my Holy Grail eye makeup remover. This removes even the most stubborn waterproof mascara, yet is super gentle. I would recommend this to anyone, just be prepared to fall in love. Repurchase: Yes

Elizabeth Grant Collagen Diamond Miracle Concentrate
I bought this serum in hopes of achieving a brighter complexion. It gave hydration and a slight sheen to the skin, due to shimmer particles in the product, however, I didn't notice any major changes to my complexion by the end of the bottle. Repurchase: No

Elizabeth Grant Caviar Eye Creme
This eye creme was very hydrating, and I really enjoyed using it throughout the Winter. It had a gel consistency and absorbed very quickly into my skin. Repurchase: Yes

Products I would:
Repurchase: 8
Not Repurchase: 15
Might Repurchase: 3
Total Empties: 26

February 2014 Empties

This month I was pretty successful on the empties front. I finished a mix of both sample and full size products, as well as, a couple makeup products. If I keep it up, at this rate, I will have worked through my stash of products in about 8 years!

John Frieda Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Hydrating Shampoo

I loved this shampoo! It lathered well, and was easy to rinse out of my hair. I found I had less product buildup when using this. Frizz and static stood no chance against this shampoo. Repurchase: Yes

L'Oreal Mystery Brand Shampoo

This turned out to be the Garnier Damage Eraser line, and I adore it. This shampoo is moisturizing and hydrating and has helped repair my winter hair. Plus it smells exactly like bananas. Repurchase: Yes

The Body Shop Seaweed Clarifying Toner

Last month I finished the cleanser and I really liked it. This toner worked well as in it cleansed excess makeup/oils off my face; but beyond that I didn't notice any mind blowing results. The result I was looking for was reduced excess oils and I was left disappointed. Repurchase: No

Clinique Clarifying Lotion

This is my Holy Grail exfoliant! I love it because it is easy to use and I get a great exfoliation without having to wash the product off after. When my skin was bad I used this 2 times daily, but now I use it a few times a week for maintenance. My skin feels smooth and super clean/refreshed after every use. Repurchase: Yes

Lady Speed Stick Deodorant

What can I say about deodorant? It smells good, kept me smelling good, and kept the sweat at bay. I'm not picky about deodorant, as long as it works I'll buy it. I but this kind in bulk at Costco, 4 tubes for $8. Repurchase: Yes

Beauty Secrets Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover

I bought this in hopes of moving away from acetone due to chemical consumption, and nail health. But I really didn't like this. It didn't remove polish well, and removing glitter was near impossible. What I liked about this remover was that it smelled good. Repurchase: No

Gillette Series Shave Gel for Sensitive Skin

Although I smelt like a man after using this, I really like this shave gel. It lathered well and left my skin soft and smooth. I'm not picky about shave creams, so I have no qualms with using one made for men. Repurchase: Yes

Delon Exfoliating Cotton Rounds

My favourite cotton rounds from Costco. You get 800 for $12. Repurchase: Yes

PUR 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup

I received this years ago in one of the first Glymm boxes,and I loved it when I first got it. Great coverage and a matte finish are to be had with this powder. However, over the years this product seems to have oxidized and it's time to let it go. Repurchase: Yes

Sula Natural Lip Gloss

This is another Glymm product. This gloss is great at toning down brighter lipsticks, and adding some life to more neutral tones. No stickiness with this gloss, and I got long lasting shine. The years have caught up with this beauty and it is starting to smell quite rancid. Repurchase: Yes

Glymm Makeup Bag

This bag served its purpose, but the zipper broke. So in the trash it goes. Repurchase: I cant.

January 2014 Empties

One of my New Year's resolutions is to decrease my Beauty Inventory by at least 50%. Having 800+ products is not manageable, practical, or affordable. To do this I am trying really hard to use up my sample and deluxe sample products first, because they take less time to use up. As a way to keep myself focused on this goal I have attached a few other resolutions to it. Every month I am going to write an Empties post. This makes sure I will actually use products, and it will get me reviewing more. Also, the more products I use, the more money that will go into my "beauty bank", and this money can be used towards new beauty purchases.

Now onto my January Empties.

Clarins Super Restorative Replenishing Comfort Mask

There was enough in this sample for one use. I found that it hydrated my skin, but I didn't notice any miraculous results. Repurchase: No

The Body Shop Seaweed Deep Cleansing Facial Wash

I bought the sample size of this cleanser to try before committing to a full size. When used with the complete seaweed system I found my skin clean, clear, and less oily. It didn't cause me to break out and it wasn't too drying. Repurchase: Yes

Mario Badescu Strawberry Tonic Mask

I quite enjoy when I receive this mask sample. My skin always feels extra clean after using it, but not like all of the essential oils have been stripped away. It also helps with oil control. Repurchase: Yes

Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Treatment Mask

It's hard to tell by a one-time mask if it is going to do wonders. I had a hard time getting it to fit my face. My skin felt moisturized after, but I saw no major effects. Repurchase: No

Biore Pore Strip

I like to use these pore strips every once in a while when I feel like my pores are getting extra congested. I may use them once a month. They do a good job at clearing out my pores. It's always so gross seeing what comes out of my pores with these. Repurchase: Yes

La Fresh Oil-Free Face Cleanser Wipes

I wasn't a huge fan of these makeup remover wipes. I found them to be thin, and too small to cleanse my entire face. They also were not saturated with enough product. Eyeliner had to be scrubbed off and it felt like I was scratching my skin. I did enjoy the pomegranate scent though. Repurchase: No

Delon Exfoliating Cotton Rounds

I don't normally review/include these in empties posts because I am always going through them. These are my go to cotton rounds. I buy them in bulk at Costco and they work great. The soft side is good for removing eye makeup, and the exfoliating side is good when using toner. I go through about a pack a month. Repurchase: Yes

Bourjois Paris Volume Max Mascara

I loved this mascara! It both lengthened and voluminized my lashes, with no flaking or raccoon circles throughout the day. It also held a curl really well. Repurchase: Yes

MAC Studio Careblend Pressed Powder in Light Plus

Did I like this powder? Yes. Did I love it? No. It gave pretty good coverage, and it worked well at setting my foundation. I just wish it did more for oil control. Repurchase: No

Empties #9

The past month has been great for me with empties! I've used up 20+ products, so I figured it was time for an empties post. I'm going to try and get back into the routine of doing a monthly empties post, because 20 products in a post is a lot of writing and reading. Hopefully, I can keep my momentum in using up stuff. My inventory list is still pretty big, and I want to get it down to where I only have one or 2 of each product on hand at a time. That's a goal for 2014!

1. Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara - I like this mascara to a point. As soon as it becomes the tiniest bit dried out it flakes, and clumps, and is a pain to work with. I also find that it gives a more natural look to the lashes, and I like a more dramatic look to my lashes. This is a good mascara, just not for me, so I would not repurchase.

2. Vidal Sassoon Moisture Shampoo - I've heard good and bad things about this shampoo. I wanted to like it, but the only thing I ended up liking was the smell, and that it lingered in my hair all day. Shampoo wise I've used better, this was nothing special, and I found my hair quite dry after frequent usage.

3. Benefit The Porefessional Primer - Holy Grail product right here! You need the tiniest amount for your whole face, and it makes pores just disappear. I never have issues with piling, and my foundation looks good all day. I wish it did a bit more for oil absorption, but I supplement with an oil absorbing serum before and I'm covered. I will repurchase after I use up the other primers I have in my stockpile.

4. Mario Badescu Special Cucumber Lotion - I finished this toner just to finish it. I am not a huge fan of this product. It doesn't clean the skin very well, and it leaves a sort of film on my skin. I really hate the smell, and the colour of it looks like urine in a bottle. I would not repurchase.

5. Caudalie Vino Perfect Enzymatic Peel Mask - This sample was tiny, I only got one use out of it. I didn't overly like or dislike it. The name made me think it was going to be a peel off mask, but it ended up being a cream mask that you had to wash off when dried. It did make my skin feel nice, but I would not repurchase.

6. Pixi Lash Booster Mascara - This has got to be the worst mascara I have ever used. The formula coats the lashes well and makes my lashed look good with a few coats. However, the problem arises when I go to take it off. The moment water or makeup remover touches my lashes they all clump up into one ball of sticky yuck. It takes tons of rubbing to get the product off and I was losing up to 5 lashes an eye. I used it twice and was tired of the hassle, so in the trash it went. I would never use it again.

7. Garnier Anti Dark Circle Roller in Light - This is another go-to product for me. I use it everyday as an under eye concealer. Its ingredients help to reduce the puffiness around my eyes and the light concealer helps to mask my dark circles. On most days this is all that I need. And when I need more coverage I just layer another concealer on top. I have already repurchased a replacement.

8. Urban Decay Primer Potion - I bought this due to all of the hype surrounding it and I wasn't disappointed. My eyeshadows look more vibrant, and last all day without creasing. I did find the formula a bit greasy and hard to blend in sometimes, but the payoff in how my makeup looked was worth it. I would repurchase this after using up some other primers that I already have.

9. Pantene Expert Age Defy Shampoo - It's hard to tell by a one time packet if you are going to like a shampoo or not. This one was okay. Smell was good, and my hair felt clean, and not overly dried out. I just don't normally go for Pantene shampoos, so I probably wouldn't repurchase.

10. Balea Revitalizing Hair Mask with Moroccan Argan Oil - This mask smells amazing and the scent lingers in your hair all day. It left my hair feeling extremely soft, and it looked ultra glossy. I did find it very hard to wash out of my hair. The package said just to "rinse" out, but I had to wash it out with shampoo. I didn't feel the need to condition my hair for a few days after using this. I would not repurchase due to price/usage ratio.

11. Garnier Moisture Rescue Cleansing Clothes - I just have no luck with Garnier face clothes. I always have a problem with every one I try. I find Garnier cleansing clothes very dry, and therefore abrasive on the skin. The scent of these ones were nice but I didn't feel like they overly did much for me skincare or cleansing wise. I would not repurchase.

12. Lady Speed Stick Deodorant - What can I say about deodorant? It worked at keeping me sweat and smell free. There is nothing special or extraordinary about it. I but it because at Costco I can buy a bulk pack for pretty cheap, and it lasts a long time.

13. Clean & Clear Makeup Dissolving Foaming Cleanser - This is a simple foaming cleanser, which effectively removes even the most stubborn of waterproof mascara or makeup. My skin is thoroughly cleansed and refreshed, and not left feeling dry and stripped of essential oils. I would repurchase.

14.  Marcelle Essentials Oil Free Eye Make-Up Remover Lotion - As I've said many times before this is my holy grail eye makeup remover. It is extremely gentle on the eyes, and removes makeup easily and effectively, even though it is oil free. I have already repurchased.

15. Nivea Aqua Effect Refreshing Toner for Normal Skin - My skin loves this toner! It smells good, cleanses the skin well, and doesn't leave any residue. What more could I ask for? Nivea's toners leave my skin feeling moisturized. I always use less moisturizer when I use this toner. I will repurchase when I use up the other toners in my inventory.

16. CAKE Lemon Cupcake 3 in 1 Shampoo, Shower Gel, and Bubble Bath - This product smells heavenly, and it lingers for hours after using it. I don't like it as a shampoo, or bubble bath, but it is one of the best shower gels I've used. It lathers great and leaves my skin feeling moisturized. I would repurchase.

17. Nivea Apricot Crème Shower Cream - This shower cream smells amazing and is uber moisturizing. I used this during the summer because of the fruity scent, but the moisturizing properties are good enough to stand up to the dry skin that winter causes. I would repurchase this.

18. Satin Care Lavender Kiss Shave Cream - This is a great shave cream. It is very moisturizing. I don't love the smell, so next time I will pick a different scent.

19. Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship Shampoo - I love Herbal Essences shampoo, it's my go-to. I usually stock up when I see it at Dollarama because it's the cheapest there, and I always buy a variety of kinds. I find by the end of the bottle that my hair is getting used to it, and it isn't cleansing as well. This shampoo smells really good, and like all H.E. shampoos the scent lingers for most of the day. I found it very moisturizing and detangling. I would repurchase.

20. John Frieda Volume Thickening Conditioner - For the most part I'm not a conditioner fan. I prefer to use a 2-in-1 combo. This one worked well with a variety of different shampoos. I did feel like my hair felt thicker. The smell was nothing special. I would use this again and repurchase, however, there are much cheaper options on the market that will do just as good a job.

Current Empties

In keeping with my current low-buy/no-buy I have been working through my stash of products, both full size and samples, and have been loving discovering new and old favourites. Along the way I have also found some products that I am not particularly fond of, so I thought I would share my thoughts on these products.

Although I have an abundance of makeup I find it extremely difficult to use up makeup quickly because there is always so much product in the container. I hope to have more samples used up for the next post, because I am currently swimming in sample sizes.

Biotherm Aqua Source Deep Serum

I found that a little goes a long way with this product, and it is super moisturizing. I found that I didn't need  moisturizer on top of this serum. I have saved another sample of this to use in the Winter when my skin gets a bit drier. I'm not sure if I would repurchase or not.

Nivea Hand Crème

This isn't empty, I am throwing it away because I don't like it. It smells horrible, and it does not absorb into my skin. My hands are left with a slippery film that gets on everything. This is the first Nivea product that I haven't liked. I would not repurchase.

Lucia Goat Milk & Linseed Soap

I found this soap very moisturizing. It left a subtle scent which lingered for part of the day. I would repurchase.

Garnier Fresh Grape Water Cleansing Cloths

I hated these cleansing cloths. They were so dry and barely removed my makeup. Because they were so dry I felt like they scratched my skin. I also didn't like the scent. I would not repurchase.

Kirkland Cleansing Towelettes

These clothes come from Costco and are my favourite cleansing clothes. They remove all of my makeup, including eyeliner and mascara with minimal effort. I don't have to tug at my eyes to get the makeup off. They are very moist with solution so I never have to worry about the package drying out. My face feels thoroughly cleansed after using these. I will continue to repurchase.

Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara

This used to be my go to mascara, however since discovering some other mascaras, I find this one lacking. I prefer a wet formula mascara, which this is not. If I am looking for a natural, volumized look, this will be my go to, however, I will look elsewhere for a dramatic volumized lash. I may repurchase.

Maybelline The Rocket Volume Express Mascara

I heard such great things about this mascara, and I really wanted to love it but I just didn't. It didn't give me the volume I like at the base of my lashes, and removal was such a pain. It took a lot of makeup remover and rubbing to get the product off, and even then it felt like I couldn't get everything off. The only plus to this mascara for me was how dark black the formula was. I would not repurchase.

Revlon Lash Potion Mascara

This has been my #1 mascara ever since receiving it from Revlon to review. The formula combined with the unique brush shape gives me that perfect false lash look. I can see this being my Holy Grail mascara for the foreseeable future. I have already repurchased.

Face Stolkholm Luxe Lash Mascara

I found the formula of this mascara to be very dry. Because of this it was hard to get a dramatic look to my lashes. The brush was good at separating my lashes, so I may save and clean it to use with other mascaras. I definitely don't think that this mascara is worth its price tag, as most times when I was wearing it, it barely looked like I was wearing anything at all. I would not repurchase.

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser

I actually like this cleanser at first. It lathers well, is very gentle on the skin, and cleans my makeup off very well. However, after a few uses I found that it was making my skin extra oily. Since this was the only new product I was using at the time it is safe to say it was this causing the excess oiliness. I will be sticking to oil free cleansers in the future. I would not repurchase.

Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel

I really did not like this cleanser. It smelt weird, had a weird consistency, and didn't clean my face. There was no lather. It felt like it just sat on my skin. I always had to use a cleansing cloth after to get my makeup off. I would not repurchase.

Glamglow Tingling & Exfoliating Mud Mask

I have heard nothing but good reviews about this product, but my review is kinda 50/50. The good is that my skin looks and feels amazing after using this. The bad is that I get no tingling and it really hurts when I have to wash it off. I don't have overly sensitive skin but I found the bits in this mask way too sharp and abrasive for me. I would not repurchase this, but I wouldn't mind trying a different mask from this brand.

Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser

I really enjoyed this sample. It had the perfect amount of exfoliation to cleanser. Although it didn't lather I felt like my skin was thoroughly cleansed. The orange scent was very pleasant and helped wake me up in the morning. If the price was a little lower I would definitely repurchase.

Mario Badescu Cucumber Lotion

This toner is just okay. My face doesn't feel overly clean or dirty after using it. I feel like it leaves a film on my skin, and it doesn't really help with my oilyness either. I would not repurchase.

Herbal Essences Bye Bye Breakage 2 in 1 Shampoo & Conditioner

This one of my favourite HE shampoos. I love using a 2 in 1 because I am super lazy and don't like having to use them separately. I find that this shampoo really helps with split ends and I have smoother hair, with less flyaways when I use it. This shampoo also gives my hair a nice shine. I will continue to repurchase this product.

John Frieda Volume Thickening Shampoo

I didn't really enjoy this shampoo. The thing I liked best was the colour of the bottle and the smell of the product. I found this shampoo drying. I definitely needed a conditioner after using this. I would not repurchase.

March Empties

1. EOS Shave Cream in Pomegranate Raspberry - I've reviewed this before and I don't really like it. It only slightly moisturizes and it really clogs up the razor. I really liked the scent, so I bought a new lip balm in it. Repurchase - No.

2. John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Conditioner - I didn't love or hate this conditioner. It was just OK. I kind of expected more from John Frieda. I found that it really didn't add much moisture into my dry hair. Repurchase - No.

3. Herbal Essences Colour Me Happy Shampoo - This shampoo was over a year old, from the last time I dyed my hair. I didn't find that it overly did much when my hair was coloured or when it wasn't. I do like the Herbal Essence brand though and will continue to purchase their shampoos. Repurchase - Not this exact shampoo, but others I will.

4. Nivea Refreshing Toner - This is my current Holy Grail toner! It smells amazing, gets all the dirt/oil/makeup off my face, and leaves my skin feeling moisturized. Repurchase - Yes.

5. Mario Badescu Strawberry Face Scrub - I love this stuff! It smells so good, like you are putting strawberry shortcake on your face. Although the strawberry seeds do exfoliate nicely, I wish it was a bit more scrubby. Repurchase - Yes.

6. Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel - I didn't really enjoy this cleanser. It didn't lather, smelt kinda funky, and I didn't feel like it really cleansed my skin. Repurchase - No.

7. Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser - I loved this cleanser! It foamed up nicely and gave a very gentle clean. After using this I always felt like I got all the dirt and makeup off my face. Repurchase - Yes.

8. Kirkland Daily Facial Cleansing Towelettes - These wipes really remove all my makeup with just one or two swipes. They are not drying to the skin and have a nice scent. Repurchase - Yes.

9. EOS Summer Fruit Lip Balm - I really like these lip balms and they are perfect for in your purse. I really liked the scent and I only used half, but it lasted forever. I just didn't find it sanitary anymore, so I am throwing it out. Repurchase - Yes.

10. Seche Vite Top Coat - As I've said before, this is one of the best top coats I have ever used. I just wish it didn't get thick and goopy after you've used half. Repurchase - Yes.

11. China Glaze Code Orange Mini Nail Polish - I received this in my very first Luxe Box almost two years ago. At the time I really liked the colour, but now I think that it just looks gross on my nails. Plus it is getting slightly goopy so I'm throwing it out. Repurchase - Yes.

12. Calvin Klein Splendid Basis Protective Base Coat - This base coat did not protect my nails from staining and caused my nail polish to peel after a few days. Repurchase - No.

13. Leaves Mini Candle - I love the smell of this candle (I know...typical blogger statement). This mini candle burned for about 5 hours and I loved every minute of it. Repurchase - Yes.

14. Quo Blush Brush - This is my second one in less than a year. I am not impressed with this brush at all. It sheds from day one and within a few months all the bristles are broken in half and it hurts my face to use, because the bristles are so picky. Repurchase - No.

February Empties

So this post is a little late...but I guess better late than never! This month I was pretty successful in using up full size products. Next month I want to try and use up a bunch of samples that I still have kicking around.

eos Shave Cream in Vanilla Bliss
This shave cream is just OK. I don't find it moisturizing at all. I actually find that I need a lot of moisturizer after using this, because my legs are left so dry. It also clogs up the razor like crazy. The only thing I really like about this is the smell. Repurchase: No

St. Ives Apricot Cleanser
I bought this cleanser because I really like the St. Ives Apricot Scrub. However, I didn't really like this. I feel that it really didn't clean my skin and it left a residue that made me want to wash my face all over again. The consistency was weird and I had to force myself to use it up. Repurchase: No

B. Kamins Bio-Maple Lip Balm
I really hated this lip balm. I found that the ultra thick consistency turned really liquidy on the lips and I was eating more of it then what was staying on my lips. The smell and taste were off-putting and I am happy this tube is finally finished. Repurchase: No

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles
So this product isn't actually empty. The packaging on this sucks, in my opinion, and broke when a quarter of the product left. I depotted it cause I didn't want to just throw that much product away. I do like this concealer but I feel like the colour is a bit to dark for me. It does a great job at concealing under eye circles and other blemishes. I wish it was packaged differently. Repurchase: Maybe

Seche Vite Fast Dry Top Coat
This is my Holy Grail Top Coat! If  it was up to me I would only use this forever and ever but at its cost per mL my bank account wants me to find something cheaper. It leaves my nails super glossy and my mani's last at least a week. Repurchase: Yes

Korres White Tea Facial Cleanser
I found this cleanser to be very liquidy and non-foaming. I found I had to use double the amount of product because it kept slipping right through my fingers. I didn't overly love the smell and cleansing wise I wasn't wowed. A big step down considering how well the scrub worked. Repurchase: No.

Korres Pomegranate Scrub
I got this deluxe sample as part of a complete sample skincare set at Winners. I loved this scrub! The smell was amazing and so were the scrubby bits. It reminded me of the texture of the St. Ives Apricot Scrub. It left my skin feeling ultra clean and smooth. Repurchase: Yes, if I could find it on sale.

TRESemme Split Remedy Shampoo & Conditioner
I don't normally gravitate towards Tresemme products but I really enjoyed these samples. My hair smelt great and I noticed less fly aways and frizz. Repurchase: Yes

Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy Shampoo & Conditioner
This product has always intrigued me but I wasn't wowed by these samples. They really left something to be desired. However, I want to try them again for a longer period of time because they are a hair therapy duo, so one use isn't going to show instant results. Repurchase: Maybe


Have you used any of these products before? If so, what are your thoughts on them?

Current Empties

So here are my current empties from the past few months. I've kinda been hoarding empty product containers and thought it was time to empty the empties bin. Since I am now keeping track of an inventory list I needed to get rid of all the empty products that weren't included on the list.

 

1) EOS Shave Cream - I bought this on a whim because it was on sale at Shoppers and I love the EOS Lip Balms. This was kind of a disappointment to me. I didn't find it overly moisturizing and I found it clogged up the razor. The smell was nice but I wouldn't repurchase this again. For less money I have used better shave gels and creams.

2) Herbal Essences Bye Bye Breakage 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner - I love this stuff. I got it on sale for $1 at Walmart but knew I would love it because I use Herbal Essences on a regular basis. I found that this shampoo really helped me with breakage and split ends. I have three more bottles to use up but I would repurchase.

3) Evolvh Shampoo & Conditioner - I got this in a past Glymm Bag and really enjoyed these samples. They smelled great and my hair felt really clean afterwards. I would repurchase this if it was more readily available.

4) Pantene Shampoo & Conditioner - I received these samples in a P&G Sampler Box and thought they were okay. I have never been a huge fan of Pantene hair products. I think they work mediocre. I would not repurchase the full sizes.

5) TruTerra Shampoo & Conditioner - I took these samples from a hotel in Toronto when I was there for a wedding. They smell like lemongrass and I liked how the scent lingered in my hair. However, I found the shampoo extremely drying and the conditioner didn't remedy that. I can't purchase a full size and I don't think that I would use this again.

6) Biore Pore Strip - I have used these before and really like them. I will continue to repurchase in the future.

7) Mai Couture Foundation Papers - This foundation was very shimmery and I really didn't like how it looked on my skin. I would not repurchase.

8) La Fresh Makeup Remover Wipes - The scent of these were ok, but I didn't enjoy using them. I felt like they left an oily residue on my skin. I would not repurchase.

9) Free Your Mane Shampoo & Conditioner - This was another Glymm Sample. I heard good things about this duo but when I finally got around to using it didn't see any results. I didn't really like the smell and my hair didn't feel any different after. I would not repurchase this.

10) Various Face Cream Samples - I used these over a week and the only one I somewhat liked was the Clinique Moisture Surge Intense lotion. I felt that the others were not good with my skin type and left an oily film on my skin and didn't fully absorb. I would repurchase the Clinique one though because it really helped my dry skin.

11) Caryl Baker Visage Eye Gel - I didn't see any results from using this but want to continue using an eye cream. This one is kind of expensive so I would not repurchase this one.

12) MAC Select Concealer - I transferred the rest of my concealer to this bottle when it would no longer squeeze out of the tube. I would repurchase this.

13) Mario Badescu Ceramide Eye Gel - This made me break out. I would not repurchase.

14) Avon Cream to Powder Eyeshadow - This was a really pretty silver-lavender colour and I used about 75% of the product before it dried out. I would repurchase this.

15) Clarins Extra Firming Day Cream - I liked this but I didn't think it was anything special. I would not repurchase.

16) Mario Badescu Cucumber Cleansing Lotion - I really really liked this toner. It smelt great and make my skin feel amazing! I would definitely repurchase.

17) Cyberderm H2O Hydration - This cream is really nice and I like that there isn't a scent to it. Because it is so expensive I would not repurchase.

18) L'Oreal Liquid Liner - This is my favourite liquid liner I've used so far. I would repurchase.

19) Marcelle Essentials Makeup Remover - This is my holy grail makeup remover. It is seriously amazing and nothing compares. I will use this forever and I cant find anything bad about it. If you haven't tried this before, get it, you wont be disappointed.

20) Nivea Natural Beauty Face Cleanser - This cleanser is really gentle but has slight exfoliating beads which really makes it feel like your skin is getting really clean. It smells really good and the bottle lasts a long time. I would repurchase this.