I didn’t get around to doing an empties post in October, so now I’m doing a double empties post for October and November. I took photos of all the empty bottles, jars and packets, and now I can’t find the bag with all the empties in it. Good thing I took those photos! And also, it’s a good indication that I have way too much stuff in my house if I can’t find a bag of empty beauty products!
Skincare
- Lindi Skin Eye Hydrator: You’ve heard me sing the praises of this golden gel that’s perfect for my dry red eyelids. Repurchase? Absolutely! It’s already here. If you ever want to try it for your own dry eye area, use the 25% off code on my original review of Lindi Skin products.
- Simple Cleansing Micellar Water: I like Simple Cleansing Micellar Water, but I still wish that it didn’t make my eyes sting so I could use it to remove eye makeup. Nevertheless, it does a great job removing my face makeup, so I steer clear of my eyes when I use it. Repurchase? Yes, I just opened the new bottle. But I just noticed that Garnier has launched a micellar water, and I’d like to try it next time to see if it’s any gentler on my eyes.
- Paula’s Choice Resist Vitamin C Spot Treatment: My spots aren’t gone but they are lighter. I figure I’ll try one more tube of this cream. Repurchase? Yes.
- Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes: These are one of my favorite wipes. They do a good job getting rid of my eye and face makeup. No complaints. Repurchase? Yes
- Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover: I use this eye makeup remover in rotation with a few other brands. Even though it’s oil-free, it leaves a weird oily-ish feeling that I don’t love that much. Repurchase? I’m sure I will at some point because I always come back to this one, but right now, I’m trying out Almay’s Eye Makeup Remover.
- Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin, Nails Biotin: I purchased this brand of biotin because I couldn’t find the brand I used previously. I didn’t like the fact that I had to take a couple of these tablets twice a day in order to get the dosage that I like: 5000 mcg. Repurchase? No, I’m on to another brand.
- DermaMD Soy Body Moisturizer Intense Healing Cream: The white pump bottle is the unbranded version of this fabulous light green gel-cream body moisturizer that came straight from the lab. I adore this stuff. It is incredibly hydrating, absorbs on contact, no greasiness at all. Repurchase? Fortunately, I have one more jar that DermaMD sent me. I will treat it like gold. It’s pricey, but I think it’s worth it.
- Nature Island Botanicals Sweet & Blood Orange, Pink Grapefruit & Bergamot Soap: OMG, I adore this soap. It is gorgeous to look at in hot pink and orange, and the scent – sweet and blood orange, pink grapefruit and bergamot – is divine. It is so hydrating but it also does a great job cleaning. I love a good bar soap (I have my own shower). Daphne from Nature Island Botanicals handcrafts her soaps and all her skincare products with natural and organic ingredients. They are the BEST quality. The soap is a large bar that I cut in half and get two out of it. Any of her fabulous products makes a beautiful hostess or holiday gift! Check out Nature Island Botanicals etsy shop natureislandskincare.etsy.com or call her directly at 954-646-4005. Review coming soon of some of the new products I am currently using, but check out my original review of Nature Island Botanicals. Repurchase? Absolutely! And there’s free shipping and free gift wrap now till 12/15/15
- InstaNatural Anti-aging Skin Clearing Serum: I love the ingredients in this good smelling enhanced vitamin C serum. It contains niacinamide, an ingredient that I find effective at providing anti-aging benefits. It also has hyaluronic acid for moisture and salicylic acid. Because I don’t have acne or breakouts, I was concerned about the salicylic acid but it didn’t dry out my skin at all, and I believe it also has anti-aging benefits. Repurchase? At some point I will because I like this serum a lot, but now I have a million other serums to try out.
- Kleem Jeunesse Vitamin C Serum: Unfortunately the pump bottle that my Kleem serum arrived in was broken so I decanted it into another empty serum bottle. Kleem’s vitamin C serum has a light citrus scent and it’s a thin, easily absorbed serum. I’ve used this serum previously, and I like it. Repurchase? Again, I have other serums waiting in the wings, but I may repurchase in the future.
Fragrances
- Scentbird – Oscar De La Renta Oriental Lace EDP: I reviewed this fragrance that was the first one that I received from Scentbird. It was chosen for me by the algorithm/survey based on the scents I had been using and my responses to the survey questions. And so far, this is the scent that I like the best! It’s a “floriental” scent but it’s light and lovely. I love it! Repurchase? I bought a full size bottle after I had used up two Scentbird deluxe/monthly samples. On another topic, have you tried Scentbird yet? It’s an amazing service for fragrance lovers that let’s you try out a fragrance with a 30 day sample for about $15 rather than committing to a full bottle before you know you love it. Click Scentbird here for more info.
- Nordea’s Soaperie Hippie Chick Perfume Oil: I met Nordea from Brooklyn NY at a craft fair in Boston about 5 years ago. I originally bought Hippie Chick for my friend’s daughter who was turning 13. I liked it so much I bought a rollerball of the scent for myself, and I’ve purchased a bunch of them over the years. I still love it. And I love perfume oil because it lasts longer on my skin. The scent is a hippy-ish patchouli, but it’s more feminine and a bit more sophisticated than a straight hippy scent. I get so many compliments on this $12 perfume oil! Repurchase? I definitely plan to. This small rollerball is great to keep in my purse makeup bag, and it’s great for travel.
Makeup
- Maybelline Color Tattoos Cream Eyeshadow in Nude Pink: I am crying because this 2 year old cream eyeshadow is dried out. This was my favorite cream shadow shade, and it also made a great base. I am soooooo disappointed that Nude Pink, a matte shade, was one of the original limited edition shadows in this line. So unfair that it was a limited edition. 🙁 Repurchase? I would if I could. I think I will buy a similar shade in a Paint Pot from MAC, but the price won’t be as good!
- Too Faced Lip Insurance: Although it is a bit drying, Too Faced Lip Insurance really and truly does help my lipstick stay on muuuuuuch longer. Repurchase? Before I spring for another, I must search my stash and see if I can find one that I thought I bought a while back. If not, I’ll get one during the Ulta discount coupon that I hope is coming soon.
Sundries
- Sensodyne Repair & Protect Toothpaste: I have sensitive teeth so Sensodyne is my jam. I am also very concerned about losing the enamel on my teeth, so I’ve been alternating between Sensodyne Repair & Protect and ProNamel – not sure what the difference is between the two! Repurchase? Yes, I already have. Next time, I’ll get Pronamel again and look at the ingredient list.
- Secret Clinical Strength Invisible Solid Anti-Perspirant: I originally received the gel version of this from Secret to try out a while ago, and I liked it a lot even though I don’t have problem perspiration. I repurchased the solid form by mistake, and I don’t like solid APs. But I hate throwing stuff out, and I was too lazy to return it to Walmart since it’s relatively far away, so I used it up. Repurchase? I don’t know. I don’t really need “clinical strength”, but then I liked the gel form. On the fence.
So here are my empties. What have you used up past month or two?
What’s your Reaction?
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I definitely want to try the Nature Island soap — it sounds like it smells wonderful!
Rebecca, you definitely should check it out! It is heaven. A very big bar that I divide in two. Daphne makes many, many different scents and ingredients but I’m in love with the colors and scent of this one, so happy looking!
WOW! You had a lot of empties!!! I wanted to like the Simple Micellar Water because the Bioderma I love costs me a fortune. However, the Simple stings my eyes so bad!!! Maybe I’ll give the Garner one a try. I have seen a lot of other bloggers talk about it, is it finally available here? I think they make wipes as well!
Christine recently posted…Simply Stine Holiday Gift Guide 2015: Beauty
I’ve heard that Bioderma stings eyes too! Sammi wrote a few days ago that Dr. Jart MW doesn’t sting her eyes so I may try it eventually. I have to steer clear of my eyes with the Simple MW but it’s affordable and good for removing my foundation, lipstick etc.
The Nature Island soap sounds amazing!
Lisa recently posted…Marley Spoon: Week of November 13th 2015 & $30 Coupon Code
It really is a gorgeous soap, Lisa! thank you for persevering 🙂
Well done on the empties and thanks for linking up! I wonder why thumbnails did not turn up this time. That soap looks really nice! My Mum has been trying to convert me to Sensodyne but I’m too much of a Colgate person.
Renu recently posted…Charlotte Tilbury Book of Makeup Magic Advent Calendar 2015 Review, Contents
Yes, I wondered about the thumbnails too. I used to use Colgate but the gentleness of the Sensodyne & ProNamel won me over finally
You really finished up an enviable pile of products, Allison! I LOVE the look of the Nature Island Botanicals Sweet & Blood Orange, Pink Grapefruit & Bergamot Soap– as I told you long, long ago I love the combination of bright pink and orange, and for that reason alone I would want this soap! It sounds like a truly divine soap!
Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog recently posted…TOM FORD BEAUTY LIPS & BOYS LIP COLOR SWATCHES OF ALL 50 SHADES | SPECIAL GWP FOR LOLA’S READERS
The soap is beyond fabulous, and she makes a million different varieties and scents. I need to place an order now during her free shipping promo.
Kleem Organics is one of my favorite serums. I use it weekly after my DIY skin care routine. Love.
Just curious, why only use Kleem serum weekly?
I’m always so sad when my Color Tattoos dry out, they are so amazing for the price! I haven’t seen any new collections recently so I wonder if they will be producing any more LE shades? I hope so!
Julie recently posted…ColourPop Forever Freshman Eyeshadow Collection
I wondered about that too, Julie. Color Tattoos haven’t had anything new since spring.
I am so bad for using up products but I am starting to run low on a few skincare bits since it’s getting colder in the UK I need to moisturise a lot more!!! This is a great post which reminds me to use up some products x
http://www.kirstyjennifer.com
yes, skincare gets used up faster this time of year!
The Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is one I have used and finished over and over again. Great empties! <3
Shipra recently posted…#LatherUpYourHoliday with LATHER Soap & Candle Stocking Stuffers
The Neutrogena wipes are so dependable!
I really like these posts with all of the mini reviews. It’s helpful to know whether products are good enough for a repurchase. Thanks for that!
Stacie recently posted…Shimmering Makeup for the Holidays
You’re welcome, Stacie. I write such long reviews I’m sure this is a relief: Repurchase? yes or no
I want to try the resist spot treatment. I love my other resist line products.
Carleen recently posted…Prepping for the Holidays with RoC
This is my only PC Resist product, but so far, I love all the PC products I’ve tried.
Nice trash heap! 😀 I love Neutrogena wipes. I blow through soooo many! I need to try a cleansing water. Soon!
Erika recently posted…Lather Up Your Holiday!
😀 I just wish I could find the bag of empties so I could get the satisfaction of recycling them! I just noticed that Garnier has a new MW, and I think it’s next on my list. Hope it’s gentler on my eyes.
That soap looks awesome and I love patchouli scents so the Hippie Chick perfume sounds amazing!
Jen Mathews recently posted…No Photoshop! Before and After Makeup to Cover Acne
I love both the soap and the Hippie Chic perfume oil, and I love that they’re handmade!!
The Nature Island Botanicals Sweet & Blood Orange, Pink Grapefruit & Bergamot Soap sounds like it smells so good!
Phyrra recently posted…Beautiful Hair by Christian
It really does! I adore this soap. I’ve bought several bars of it and I’m about to buy some more! Great for hostess gifts too.
Noooo for the color tatoo! Funny story, I just threw away 2 because they were bone dry. I think they were about as old as yours, too! I love my color tats!!
Color Me So Crazy recently posted…Lolita Lacquer Holiday Mani BOMBS!!
It is soooooo sad to throw out those Color Tattoos. I’m over limited editions. Please make stuff that I can buy if I love it!!
I love the Neutrogena wipes and makeup remover!
Cindy (Prime Beauty) recently posted…Solutions for Tired Skin!
Yes, they’re good ole standbys!
You’ve used so much. My dentist’s office had some coupons for Sensodyne so I bought a few of the Pronamel last week. The difference is that Pronamel is gentler on the enamel of your teeth while both are gentle on your mouth.
I’ve only used the Simple Micellar Wipes and I haven’t had a problem with them on my eyes. One of these days I’ll try the Water too.
MarciaF recently posted…On the 2nd day of Christmas, Beauty Info Zone’s giveaway is for Boxycharm November
Thank you so much, Marcia, for explaining the difference between the two toothpastes. Next time, I will definitely buy the Pronamel! In the past, I bought the Simple Eye Remover (liquid), and that burned my eyes too so I returned it. Maybe it’s me, but the Simple MW bottle says not to get it in your eyes and I haven’t figure out how to get my eye makeup off without getting some product – especially a liquid – in my eyes!
I have repurchased the Simple Micellar water several times and the InstaNatural serum is one of my favorites… I have repurchased many times 😀 great empties.
Honeygirlk recently posted…Holiday Gift Idea For The Traveler – Cleanse On The Go With Michael Todd Soniclear Petite
I’m still on the hunt for a micellar water that doesn’t burn my eyes, but Simple is great on the rest of my face. I’ve loved everything I’ve tried so far from InstaNatural
THAT SOAP!!!!! It’s gorgeous!!! And three of my favorite bath and body scents all wrapped up into one. I think I might start next year with empties…it’s a good way to keep track of what you have liked the most thru out the year.
Polarbelle recently posted…Block Island Organics Cruelty Free Vegan Formula Night Cream – Review Plus A Savings Coupon!
The soap from Nature Island Botanicals truly is my favorite, bar none. She’s got free shipping & wrapping going on now 😉 And you should do empties posts. They’re a great way to keep track and to motivate you to finish up and recycle stuff!
That soap looks so happy and sounds like it smells amazing. Congrats on finishing so much stuff!
Bailey recently posted…THEFACESHOP Holiday FOTD
I love to finish up and recycle my empties! Such a feeling of accomplishment. The soap from Nature Island Botancials really is the best 🙂
Wow, good job! You sure emptied a lot of products 🙂
Such a feeling of accomplishment!
I used up a can of Alveeno shave gel – and that’s it. I’d repurchase, but it’s not a priority brand. Really liking the Kiss My Face 4 in 1 Moisture Shave, which I will repurchase.
Monica.
MonicaP recently posted…The Tie Front Blouse
I’ve gotta remember to try the KMF shave cream when I run out of the fabulous but expensive Whish Shave Cream!
I love your Empties for October …I can’t live without my Sensodyne toothpaste!!
Ursula
It’s difficult to use anything else after using Sensodyne!
If you’re looking for a Paula’s Choice spot treatment that really zaps the spots I reallllly like the Clear Extra Strength spot treatment. But the one you used up sounds really great for lightening! I need something like that in my routine. 🙂
Jodi recently posted…Guest Post: Holiday Makeup Look with Chelle
Fortunately, I’m past the stage of breakouts, Jodi, but I’m sure some of my readers will love that tip about another great Paula’s Choice product! I also recommend Shiseido IBUKI Multi-Solution Gel that gets rid of blemishes overnight
I love that Simple cleansing water!
Kristin Bassett recently posted…Three Days in Detroit
I love empties posts- you did a great job! I just posted an empties myself last week. Neutrogena Makeup removing wipes are some of the best I’ve found at breaking down makeup, but I didn’t find that the Simple Micellar Water worked that well for me. That soap looks so nice though- like something you would find at Lush!
Thanks, Megan. I will have to check out your empties. Yes, the Neutrogena Wipes are reliable. Simple MW does fine at removing my face makeup but it stings my eye so badly I can’t use it to remove my eye makeup. Still on the hunt for an MW that can do both. The soap is similar to a LUSH soap, but in this case, I know the artisan and exactly how she makes it. The scent is incredible
Of course! Thank you that’s so sweet 🙂 Yes, I always find myself going back to the Neutrogena wipes, although right now I’m trying to avoid using wipes when I can in order to be a bit more eco-friendly, but sometimes it’s unavoidable. I agree the Simple MW breaks down face makeup well, but it dried out my skin! I prefer Bioderma much more! That’s so cool about the soap!
Megan T. recently posted…Favorites: Fall 2015
Unfortunately, Bioderma is out of my price range right now. A friend said she found BioD to irritate her eyes, but she’s the only one who said anything about it so I’m hoping it’s gentle in case I do get to try it at some point. I’m with you about the wipes, but then again, I go through quite a few cotton rounds too. Somehow I never feel that just washing off my makeup with cleanser gets it all off, so I always end up with some cottony pad/wipe that I’m throwing away 🙁