Tag: beauty empties

3 months Beauty Empties

This year, I decided to do 3 monthly empties, just to see how many empties I could accumulate over a 3 month time period! I can finally share my empties with you! I’ve divided them into categories to make it easier to navigate! I will be sharing mini-reviews (for full reviews check out my review tab!) and the big hits and misses!

Be warned its a long post!

Cleansers

  1. Nivea MicellAir Micellar water– I found this to be disappointing. I love micellar water and I have made my way through most drugstore ones. This one left my skin dry and tight afterwards. I found I have to use a few large cotton pads for cleansing even when I am only wearing powder foundation! I got this in a buy one get one free offer and I’m more than halfway through my 2nd I won’t repurchase. There are more effective micellar waters available that don’t dry the skin
  2. Superdrug Natural Radiant Hot Cloth Cleanser- this is a cream cleanser that feels butter smooth on the skin. I’m actually surprised at how effective it was. Honestly, I was expecting much lol. It doesn’t dry out the skin or leave a residue.
  3. Clean Creamy Foam Hydrating Cleanser- my fav drugstore cleanser. Check out the full review here
  4. 2x Murad Essential C Cleanser– check my Instagram for a review
  5. L’Oréal Fine Flowers Gel Cream wash– full review here. Another great drugstore face wash
  6. Elemis Super Food Facial wash- I actually really liked this cleanser and I wouldn’t mind the full size. Gentle lather and leaves the skin clean without drying it out
  7. Beauty Pie Plantastic Apricot cleansing butter– I have a full review here
  8. Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm

Serums & oils

  1. Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting serum- full review coming soon.
  2. Elizabeth Arden Superstart skin booster- I have another bottle of this and I will do a review soon
  3. Inkey List Hyaluronic acid serum- I LOVE this. Non-tacky, hydrates and leaves the skin plump and hydrated. Can’t wait to repurchase! The review is on my insta
  4. Superdrug Simply Pure Hydrating serum– for a £3 serum this serum packs a BIG punch. I have repurchased so many times and it hasn’t failed me!
  5. The Ordinary MAP– repurchased several times and will keep doing so!
  6. Drunk Elephant B Hydra- just check out my review here
  7. Estee Lauder Advanced night repair– full review here
  8. Elizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Capsules- I have another travel size of this to finish so I can form my full opinion on it

 

Face creams

  1. Beauty Pie Super Retinol Moisturiser– I have a full review here
  2. Beauty Pie Daily Moisture Lotion– full review here
  3. Clinique Moisture Surge 72 hr hydrator- this is beautiful. Beautiful texture and leaves the skin plump and hydrated
  4. Farmacy Honey Drop– another amazing moisturiser! I have a full review coming soon!
  5. Nivea Q10 plus Vit C sleep cream– full review here
  6. Kiehl’s SPF30- full review here

 

Face masks & sheet masks

  1. 7x sheet masks: Oh K! Brightening Gemstone mini masks– got this in the Debenhams advent calendar, I don’t see the point of these lol. They are mini face masks (why?) and com sin 8 mini pieces, I guess it’s good for targeted application but I prefer a full mask. Soap & Glory Radiance Booting Mask– this has vit c in it and promises to give glowy skin. It works and I really liked it! Forec Natural skin plan sheet masks- 5 pack- Aloe Vera, Cucumber, Blueberry, Honey and Pomegranate- I really liked these, I found them super hydrating and easy to use. I got these as a secret Santa present and I would love to repurchase them.
  2. GlamGlow Thirst Mud– one of my fav GlamGlow masks! This is a leave-on mask but I wash it off after 20 mins, leaves the skin so hydrated, glowing and smoother!
  3. Soap & Glory Puffy Eye Attack eye patches
  4. Skin Sense Face mask- this mask was rubbish, it didn’t do much
  5. Superdrug Optimum Midnight Moisture Mask- this is a leave-on mask but I rinsed it off. It leaves the skin soft and moisturised and doesn’t leave residue on
  6. Peter Thomas Roth 24k Gold Mask– this luxury mask promises to lift and firm the skin. I found it hydrating, easy to wash off and leaves the skin glowing. It doesn’t leave shimmer or a yellow tint on the skin but leaves it more radiant

Toners & face mists

  1. First Aid Beauty Radiance Pads- full review here
  2. Nip Fab Extreme pads
  3. Murad Rapid Resurfacing peel- I have another pad and will review once I used it as well. I have a good feeling though
  4. Garnier Rose Soothing Glow Mist- hmm, I do like the rose collection from Garnier because it’s a dupe of Pixi’s but this mist was subpar. It doesn’t spray in a fine mist which didn’t make it pleasant to use and it was ok.
  5. Kose Clear turn lotion in cotton pads
  6. Garnier Rose Soothing Toner- exact dupe of Pixi Rose Tonic. I really like this toner for hydrating and AM use.

Shampoos & cleansers

  1. KeraCare Care Honey Shea Co-wash- this smells amazing! I love co-washes and this one has quickly become a favourite. It has a lot of slip which makes detangling easier and also gently cleanses the hair. it also leaves my hair really soft

Hair conditioners

  1. Garnier Ultimate Blends Maple Healer Intense Repairer balm- I love this! and it smells great!
  2. 2x Cantu Cleanser & Care hair and scalp masque– full review here
  3. Vitale Hair Mayo
  4. Organix Coconut Curls Conditioner– full review here
  5. Philp Kingsley- I will do a full review when I finish my 2nd tube of this.
  6. Schwarzkopf conditioner

 

Hair styling & oils

  1. Got2b blast freezing spray- I mean you know what we use this for
  2. As I am Scalp serum- this promises to strengthen the hair but I honestly didn’t use it consistently enough to notice results. it smells great and hydrated the hair is all I can say
  3. Gorilla Snort Gel

Bodycare

  1. Clinique deep comfort body wash- this was a gift with purchase. I really liked this. Leaves the skin clean and comfortable with drying it out. it lathers and feels so creamy and velvety on the skin
  2. 3x Mitchum deodorant
  3. Soap & Glory hand food
  4. 2x Soap & Glory Righteous butter
  5. Sol de Janeiro Lip butter
  6. Nivea stick roll on
  7. Nivea Cherry Blossom body wash- this has an amazing scent and I lingers for a while. Leaves the skin clean and smooth without feeling tight

Makeup

  1. GlamGlow Glowsetter setting spray– full review here
  2. The Ordinary High Adherence primer- full review here
  3. Makeup forever radiant primer

Perfume

  1. Rihanna Rouge
  2. Lancôme La Vie Est Belle
  3. Beauty Pie Love perfume- I loved this so much I got the full size
  4. Beauty Pie Petals, Heliotrope & ambrette perfume

Others

  1. 3x Primark makeup remover cloths
  2. Wet Ones hand wipes
  3. Boots Refreshing hand wipes
  4. Superdrug artificial nail remover
  5. 2x cotton pad packs
  6. 1x cotton buds pack
  7. Feather & Down pillow spray- this smells great and so relaxing! It actually works! It helps me relax and helps me fall asleep! I was gifted this ages ago but I will definitely buy this soon

Total 79

Some products were gifted, some links are affiliate links

This was an exciting project for me and I can see a reduction in my collection! Join me for the next round of empties from April to June!

Catch you later

June Beauty Empties

I really look forward to the end of the month because I get to review how much products I have been able to use up! this month was a bit slow but I managed to add a few more empties to my overall challenge.

Skincare

Kose Lotion in cotton– I have a full review soon. I originally wanted to use it as a ‘neck’ mask but I ended up using it as toner wipes. Check out the review. Repurchases of- Avene Thermal mist, BodyShop Vitamin E mist, Your Good Skin SPF 30( this has started stinging my eyes after application. It never used to do that so I don’t know if the formula has changed), Primark Gentle Wipes and Nip Fab Glycolic Foaming pads. I have a full review of the Pixi Peel & Polish, OMI Protect Gel, Clarins Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser and Shiseido Mineral SPF. I really liked the Tony Moly hyaluronic sheet– a lovely hydrating sheet mask. Tony Moly is a very popular K beauty brand. This sheet felt amazing on and left my skin plump and hydrated. I got this as a GWP from Yesstyle but its something I would also buy.

 

Estee Lauder Day wear– this is a luxurious moisturiser that feels good on the skin and moisturises without an oily residue. I got this in a giftset last year. Purity Cleanser– I really do not understand the hype of this cleanser. I thought it was average and I hated the packaging. It reminds me of a shower gel and as I got further down the bottle it was harder to dispense.

Jiinju Avocado Sheet Mask review

If you love k beauty and sheet masks then this post is for you. I got the Jiinjua Avocado Sheet Mask from Superdrug as a gift with purchase a few months back. This mask came as a duo, the Avocado Sheet mask is for soothing, calming and moisture. Made with avocado extract and chamomile.

The mask had a pleasant scent and was large enough to fit my face properly. It’s a fibre mask. I had the mask for about 15 mins and it stayed on for the duration. The mask is drenched in a very lightweight milky serum which feels very hydrated. My skin was left glowing and soothed, especially as I used it after dermaplanning. Very easy to use mask I absolutely love. I wouldn’t mind buying this.

Haircare

I finished my absolute favourite co-wash, As I am Long & Luxe Gro Wash– if you love cowashes you have to try this! I have raved about this so much on Instagram. Palmers Coconut Repairing Conditioner– this was ok. I used it as s cowash (because I run out of my Growth mid wash). I felt like it didn’t make a huge difference in terms of leaving my hair soft and conditioned. Its for dry and damaged hair but I thought it was average. It won’t be the first conditioner to recommend for dry hair.  ORS Black Olive Oil Elixir– I really liked this oil, it smelt great and adds shine to the hair without weighing it down. It worked well on natural hair as well as my wigs.

Other/Bodycare

Primark 3pk Cleansing mitts– I love these mitts! They are makeup remover cloths that need only water to remove dirt & makeup. I have them in my cleansing routine whether I am wearing makeup or not. I have backups of these always and I usually throw them out after 1 month. Palmer’s Coconut Oil Body lotion– this is a nice lotion, its thicker than your usual lotion texture and adds some hydration without oily residue. I refer body cream or oil but this one was ok. Finally two soap bars- Dove Shea Butter & Cuzzon Mild Cleansing bar

Total- 21 total so far 164/400

Catch you later

 

 

Monthly Empties- March Empties

The first quarter of the year is done! March went by super quick but I’m very excited because April is my birthday month! Whoop whoop! I have another empties post so say tuned for mini product reviews, products worth buying and ones to miss!

Skincare/Makeup

I love the Superdrug Vitamin E Hydrating Mist, this is probably my 2nd repurchase. I also finished the Beauty Pie Japanfusion HydraPrep Lotion which was lovely to use. Superdrug’s Natural Radiant 5% Glycolic acid is one of the more affordable drugstore acid toners. I have 2 more bottles to get through and I will bring a full review. Superdrug’s Optimum Anti Skin Stress Midnight Moisture Mask*, this was a nice hydrating mask and I loved mixing it with the Vitamin C powder from the Ordinary. Primark Cucumber Cleansing wipes– cheap and nice to use. I always go in to cleanse afterwards if I use this for makeup removal. The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% Ferulic acid 3%, I am an antioxidant fanatic, the more the better and I love this one because I find it so easy to use. Repurchased a few times. Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA Miracle toner– I will have a full review of this soon. B.Soft Multi acid Retexturising pads– when I saw this in Superdrug I was really excited because it meant the drugstore was giving us more acid toners. This one has fruit and glycolic acids and promises to leave the skin smoother and brighter. I am disappointed with these because I didn’t think they were that great. The pads also felt damp but I don’t know if it’s because I have had this for a while but it was unopened. The scent is also a huge letdown- it smells like something that has gone off. This is my 2nd tub of this product and I won’t be repurchasing. B Confident Night serum*- I briefly mentioned this serum in the B skincare brand review post. This is a lovely lightweight hydrating serum that works really well when layered on with something else. It doesn’t pill and I have had no issues with it. I find this easy to use and pretty much pair it with a lot of actives. It has Niacinamide in it which helps with skin brightening but it’s not a lot to expect great things from it. I would definitely recommend this if you just want something lightweight and hydrating. Pur Correcting Primer– so I have had this little buddy for a while now and it’s actually lasted longer than I thought! This is a nice smoothing primer it’s the not greatest for large pores but nice to make the skin look & feel smooth. It’s one of those primers you have to let your moisturiser sit for a while before going in with it otherwise the texture of it changes. When used properly as in after letting your moisturiser ‘dry’, it does give a soft matte finish. The correcting properties of this are supposedly for redness however I do not have any redness so I can’t comment on that. Other than that it is a lovely primer to use. I also finished Pixi Glow Tonic which I got in an advent calendar

Eleni & Chris Age Renewal Eye Mask*- I was gifted this in a goodybag from an event I attended in the month. This is a bio-cellulose eye patch which feels nice and cooling on the skin. It doesn’t move around once in place. I left this on for about 10 mins and it did hydrate my under eye area and left it looking refreshed. This is a brand that is new to me but it’s a Scandinavian luxury brand doing good things.

Yousha DIY Compressed sheet maskx3– ok so dont judge me on this one. As I was getting obsessed with Yes Style I came across these DIY compressed sheet masks. They are completely flat and expand when immersed in liquid. I thought it would be a fun way to experiment with my own potions for sheet masking. I actually got these from Amazon and I have been very impressed with them. It is a cotton material and it soaks up liquid very well. I am also very impressed with the size and fit- it’s actually big enough to cover my face up until my ears. At the moment I am using the masks with my toners and vitamin C powder-I’m really trying to use up stuff!

Bodycare/Other

Primark cotton rounds. Sephora Foot mask– I really love this one. It’s a repurchase and I highly recommend it. Dove Body scrub– my full review is here. A sample size of Thiery Mugler Angel perfume. Wildseed Multi Purpose moisturiser*-  I was gifted this at an event and I fell in love with i straight away! the texture is so soft and it smells like chocolate orange!

Haircare

Probably one the best co-wash I have used so far- As I am GroWash Cleansing Crème conditioner* it’s moisturising, extremely slippery for detangling and leaves my hair so soft. I have a full review on the ApHogee Keratin 2Min Reconstructor. I also finished the ORS black olive Repair 7 shampoo*– I have a full review here. KeraCare Thermal Wonder* is an amazing pre-poo treatment and this is the second time I have used it. 3xCreme of Natural Argan buttermilk leave in*- this is very nice to use both as a leave in and moisturiser

That’s all for March, I have a total of  27 and a accumulative total of 87/400

I gave up buying skincare for lent so I haven’t made any purchases and to be honest so far I havent been buying much (except for my brief obsession with K beauty lol) or I have no interest in getting a lot of new products. I’m very content with what I have at the moment and I am enjoying discovering all my old products

 

*Gifted

Monthly Empties- January Empties

Hey guys, I’m back with another empties challenge! I’m glad a lot of you loved my Ultimate empties challenge last year which I totally smashed btw! The target was 250 but I got 341 empties. This year I challenged myself even more, 400 empties! I saw a HUGE reduction in my collection and managed to use up a LOT of old products.  However, over the Christmas period, I received skincare/makeup gifts plus my 2 beauty advent calendars came to replenish the collection again. I was actually very good and didn’t buy a lot of new products, only my Beauty PIE items I needed for the BP challenge and a few sheet masks.

Amway empties is back and here’s what I finished in January

                                                            Skincare

Cleansers/toners– Beauty Pie Japan Fusion Pure transforming cleanser, oh what a beauty this is! Find my review here. Simple Soothing Facial toner– another good product, it’s gentle and soothing, my full review is here. 2x Primark Micellar wipes. Nip Fab Extreme pads– these are 5% AHA with a blend of BHA & lactic acid. I have 2 more of these and I will bring you a full review. B Soft Multi-Acid Retexturing Pads- I didn’t like the scent of these and I thought they did not make a difference. I have one more tub and I will do a review. B. Refreshed Essence Lotion– is this the best essence in the drugstore? Read my full review here.

Serums/Creams– Glossier Invisible Shield SPF 30. It’s a gel formula and it’s 100% clear on dark skin! I recommend and will repurchase (PS my invisible SPF for darkskin edit is COMING). Estee Lauder Revitalizing Supreme Global Anti-aging cell power crème– it’s a long name but it was nice to use. TO Salicylic acid 2%– you know how I feel about this. Read my full review here.

Face masks– a few sheet masks- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrogel Recovery Mask– the Hydro Boost range from the brand is very popular and raved about. The mask is formulated with hyaluronic acid which is known for its ability to hold water to hydrate the skin. The mask promises intense hydration for noticeably supple skin. It’s a very good sheet mask! It comes in two parts but I find it on the smaller side in terms of size. The cut-out areas has flaps so it was nice to be able to fold the eye area down as an ‘eye patch’ and cover the lips too. I did find the mask cooling and very hydrating! It left my skin hydrated and glowing. The hydrogel mask was easy to wear and stayed on for the duration of time I needed it to be on without moving. The chin area came undone but it wasn’t sliding all over the place. I used the leftover serum in the sachet over my neck and face and it felt hydrating on. A great buy and highly recommended, demo below

111 Skin Rose Gold Brightening sheet mask– for a ‘high end’ mask this was very basic. I got this in my advent calendar and I do not think its worth the full size. Sephora Algae Face mask– love as always. 2x skin academy snake eye patches. Oh K! Gold Dust Under Eye Mask– another advent calendar find. This was not soaked in serum compared to other eye patches. It didn’t really deliver on hydration or under eye brightening which are some of the claims of the eye mask. On the other hand, the Sephora Cucumber eye mask was a pleasure to use. Cooling and refreshing, it hydrated my eye area! Glamglow Youth Mud– I rave about this all the time on Instagram. It is the perfect pre and post party/holiday/date night mask. Smoothes, tightens and clears. Pixi Rose Flash Balm– I have spoken about this mask in my Pixi brand review- coming soon.  This works in transit camera close up mask, moisturiser and primer– firstly I do not like multi-use products and always use it for 1 use. I used this as a mask. I have nothing much to say another than I don’t think it made a difference when I used it.

                                                                     Bodycare

Naissance Grapeseed oil– a favourite oil for my body butter mix. It’s hydrating and very light- repurchased! Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Bodycream– used as a hand cream. Great scent and good with moisturising. Mitchum 48hr Roll on– probably the best roll on ever. Carmex Strawberry SPF 15 lipbalm– sun protection and moisturising? Check, check. Vaseline Pink Bubbly lip balm– because who wants dry lips? Skin fix Hand Repair Cream– very moisturising and long lasting but can feel heavy on the skin. I liked this however I didn’t think the tube was full because I run out of this quick! Another advent calendar find. L’Occitane Dry Skin Hand cream– yes and yes. got in my advent calendar

                                                                    Makeup

BodyShop Mandarin Energising face mist– they said it was makeup friendly so I used this as a makeup mist to melt powder into the skin and for a dewy glow. I had to layer a few times but the glow was minimal. I didn’t think it was very hydrating either. I won’t repurchase but I do have 2 more in different scents which I will use as a skincare mist. Benefit they’re real primer– it’s not really finished but it’s started to get crumbly and clumpy so I have to throw it out. Its an amazing lash primer. It lengthens and separates and good for bottom lashes. I love it! find the demo here. Revlon Ultimate All in One– one of my fav drugstore mascara. Again it’s not really finished but its drying and clumpy so has to be thrown out. I have had it for 2-4 years! ( don’t judge me) it came in a glossy box and I will definitely purchase.

Haircare– 1 sachet of Crème of Nature Argan Buttermilk hair milk– great scent and moisturises my hair

Other– 1 Primark cotton rounds pack

Total- 32/400

Check out all the reviews I have linked!

Catch you later

Ultimate Empties Challenge- December

This is it! The final empties post for 2018! This Ultimate Empties Challenge really pushed me to use up a lot of old products & half used products and I can definitely see a difference in my collection! I have rediscovered some old products, fallen in love with some new products and I have had to throw some products away. Anyway let’s get into this month’s empties!

Cleansers & Toners

Vitalised Vitamin Facial Spritz– I love this! I received this as part of my B Skincare brand review, you can check that out here. I will have a full review on this later. Caudalie Micellar Cleansing water– I love micellar water so I was very happy to get this in my advent calendar. This smells very fresh and botanical and is very effective at removing makeup even mascara. It doesn’t strip my skin or leave it feeling tacky. It feels very gentle on the skin. I really like this and I would buy the full size of it. Glossier Solution– I have a full review of this here. I do like this toner but I would honestly like to know the conc of acids in it and a bigger size would be nice.

Serums & Creams

Clinique Dramatically different moisturising lotion– there is a reason this is a best seller! This is possibly the best moisturiser I have ever used PLUS it lasts a very long time! The Ordinary Amino Acid serum– this is a serum that provides hydration and it is amazing! I have a full review here. Embroyolisse Lait Cree Concentre– this cream is very hyped and I understand why. Its lightweight and adds moisture without feeling heavy or oily. DHC Beauty Lift Eye roll on– the very first eye cream I have finished! I actually liked this very much because it was so easy to use with the roll on balls. The metal balls feel cooling on the skin and they don’t tug on it. Lancome Advanced Genifique– a nice serum and easy to use, I love the texture of this serum. Superdrug Vitamin E serum– one of the amazing products in the Vitamin E range from Superdrug, check out my full review here

 

Face masks

Skin Laundry Hydrating Radiance Facial Treatment Mask– I got this for free after my facial at Skin Landry. It’s such a beautiful mask. I will have a full post on my experience and a review on this mask. Skin Academy Snake Venom Gel Eye Patches x2– I got these from the Vuelio Blog awards in my goody bag. They are so difficult to open! They do feel cooling on but they do not stay in place! The Ordinary AHA 30% BHA 2% peeling solution– this is a mild chemical peel at home with zero downtime. I love this and it’s something I will repurchase, I will have a review on this soon. B. Hydrated Leave on Mask– I thought this mask didn’t do much to my skin. I have a full review as part of my B skincare brand review.

Haircare

Crème of Nature Moisture & Shine Shampoo– I actually liked this shampoo both on my natural hair and wigs, I have a full review here. Shea Moisture JBCO Edge Treatment– this honestly did nothing for my edges in terms of grown or even as a styling product. In the end, I used it as a prepoo treatment. I have a brand review on Shea Moisture here. Palmers Coconut Oil Hair Milk– this was nice to use as a leave in but too much of it left white flakes in my hair. check out my full thoughts on this and other Palmer’s products in my brand review here.

Others

Specsavers contact solution for my contacts. Makeup Revolution Ultra Face Base Primer– this is such a good drugstore primer and its something I will definitely repurchase! Check out my full review here. Primark Cotton Pads.

Total this month- 20

Grand total- 341!

That’s all folks! I am so happy I met my target, I exceeded it by 91 empties more. The lowest number of empties I have had in a month is 20 and the highest was 43! over the year, I have finished approx 26 serums, 34 toners, 80 face masks, 21 face creams, 37 haircare etc

I will be carrying over my empties series for next year as over the Christmas period, I accumulated more products from advent calendars and gifts! I actually didn’t buy any beauty items during the sales (apart for those for my new skincare challenge ft one brand, more details tomorrow!)

Check out my review index for all the reviews of products I have used

See you in 2019!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Ultimate Empties Challenge September

Can you believe 2018 is only 2 more months now? It’s flown by! I am so proud of myself for sticking with this challenge and actively work each month to finish my products. So did I hit my target this month? Let’s find out!

Cleansers & Toners

I finished my big bottle of Pixi Glow Tonic. Is the supersize 500ml version worth it? I opened this on the 23rd of April and it finished on the 20th of September: just close to 5 months. Its £32 (vs £18 for 250ml which lasts about 4 weeks ish) so it’s worth it. The pump makes it easier to use although it doesn’t reach the bottom of the bottle so I had to remove the pump to catch the last few bits of it.  If you are a hard-core glow tonic fan then you would like this. I got mine with a discount code so it’s worth searching for one first. Superdrug Refreshing Vitamin C Cleansing Pads– these are not toner pads which is what I thought they were. These pick up excess dirt and oils and leave it refreshed. I won’t use it for heavy makeup or rely solely on this for cleansing. I finished another tub of Nip Fab Dragon’s Blood Cleansing Pads. The BodyShop Drops of Light Essence Lotion– I really liked the Drops of Light serum so I thought I would like the essence lotion as well however I was wrong. The essence lotion only adds hydration (not a lot) and don’t help to brighten skin over time. My current essence is much cheaper and adds more hydration than this. I won’t repurchase this. Sukin Hydrating Mist Toner– this is a nice hydrating mist that sprays in a fine mist and adds hydration to the skin. It doesn’t leave the skin sticky or clog pores. This was a nice addition to my routine.  Another empty packet of the Primark Micellar Facial Cleansing Wipes.

Face Masks

4x sheets mask from Amazon which I absolutely love. I left these random ones till later because I thought I wouldn’t like them but surprisingly I do! The Potato and Snail sheet masks were really hydrating and cooling so were all of them tbh! Read the K beauty Amazon post here. Its Skin Pomegranate Sheet mask– this was nice but my least fav out of the 3 I had. It adds hydration but I can’t remember any special thing about it. Superdrug Spaa Refreshing Eye Patches x3– these are actually nice! They are not soaking wet like the traditional eye patches but they have some serum. I do like these because they actually reduce bags and refresh the eye area. I will repurchase. The Body Shop British Rose Mask– this gel texture mask adds hydration and soothes the skin. I reached for this mask anytime I wanted hydration or something to calm my skin if it’s been a particularly hot day or stressful week. It’s something I would buy again.

Creams & Serums

The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors– this is a non-oily hydrating face cream. It’s really thick and a little goes a long way. I really like this because there is 0 oily residue and the hydration lasts all day. It also softens the skin. I experienced no irritation with this. This tube didn’t last a long time.  The Ordinary MAP 10%- I have a full review of this here. Palmer’s Perfecting Facial Oil– so I am not the one for facial oils but this one I love. It’s not oily oily if you understand and it leaves the skin silky soft. I even love this as a body oil. It smells great! It has a mixture of good ingredients e.g. Retinol, Resveratrol etc but I am assuming not enough to have a huge impact on the skin. It’s a lovely facial oil to use. Finally another bottle of Niacinamide from The Ordinary. Read my full review here. As summer has come to an end this would be the last of Niacinamide till next spring. Read my Summer to Fall Routine here.

Bodycare

Sure Bright Bouquet roll on. St Ives Even & Bright scrub– I used this as a body scrub because I thought it would be v gritty( it says mild exfoliation on the back) to my disappointment it’s not mild, it’s very light. It didn’t leave my skin any smoother, to be honest. I won’t repurchase. Black Girl Sunscreen. I love this! My full review is on the BrownBeautyTalk website.  Soap & Glory Super Crush body scrub– this smells amazing and its gritter than the Flakeaway scrub. It leaves the skin super soft and smooth. Thierry Mugler Angel Muse Perfume– I got this in July after falling in love with it. it was my everyday perfume so the 100ml bottle lasted 3 months. It’s expensive but the perfume smells so good I am going to repurchase soon. Naissance Refine Avocado Oil– I used this in my body butter mix and in oil mixes for bae.  The BodyShop shea Butter hand lotion– I loved this, it smells great and moisturises the hand. Finally Nair Shower Cream

HairCare

Kera Care Hydrating Detangling shampoo– this stuff works! It’s super slippery and gives a lot of lather which was great for finger detangling. It also left my hair really soft. It’s something I would recommend and buy.

Makeup

Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Marine Boosting mist– so I bought this for a dewy finish to makeup as you guys know is my preference but unfortunately, it let me down. It melts powder into the skin sure but it doesn’t add dewiness to makeup. L.A Girl Colour Corrector– this little tube lasted 2 years! (18-month expiry but shh) I love L.A Girl the brand because their products are cheaper but good. Orange correctors cancel out darkness on dark skin tones so I used this for under eye circles and dark patches I have around my face

Total this month- 30

Total so far- 257/250

I did it! It took 9 months but I finally hit my target! GO ME! I can really see a massive difference. I have cleared most of my really old products and half used ones. I noticed The Ordinary serums were something I kept repurchasing but these were all replacements of ones I was used before and not to keep as a backlog! I’m so happy. Right now I am going to push further to see how many more products I can finish by 31st December

Thanks for everyone who supported me by reading my blog! I hope if you started this challenge too but carried on and stuck to it!



Ultimate Empties Challenge August

Hey guys

I hope all is well. August is over and that means another addition to the Ultimate Empties Challenge! I can’t believe it’s been 8 months, this year is going really quick! Let’s see how many empties I got this month! As always there will be links to reviews and where to buy them

Cleansers & Toners

Garnier Micellar Gel Wash– I really like this wash- it’s a 2 in 1 makeup remover/facewash. It doesn’t dry out my normal/combo skin and it removes makeup well. Superdrug Calm Skin Mist– this is part of a new range in Superdrug for stressed skin. I got this a while back actually but started using it recently. I picked it up as it has Niacinamide & hyaluronic acid which I love for my skin. It’s an OK mist. It doesn’t add a lot of hydration and it doesn’t clog pores. It was nice to use morning & night for layering. I wish Superdrug would fix the spray nozzle though, it comes out like a jet stream and hits you in the face lol. I have to spray at arm’s length to avoid that lol. I would repurchase, but it’s something I won’t hurry back to. I fell in love with the [amazon_textlink asin=’B07F6FV14H’ text=’Olay Daily Facial in a box’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’sarahfynn-21′ marketplace=’UK’ link_id=’70c6710c-aca3-11e8-a5de-d3d584561cb4′] water activated dry sheet cloths. My full review is here. Can’t wait to pick more up! [amazon_textlink asin=’B01GQ3NOC0′ text=’Nip Fab Bee Sting Fix Toning Pads’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’sarahfynn-21′ marketplace=’UK’ link_id=’677816c4-aca3-11e8-8de2-d7e2e9435d99′]- I purchased this because I wanted to try another range from Nip Fab and it was on sale for £5. It’s formulated with bee venom for a plumping effect, propolis extract which has antioxidant properties and allantoin which supports healthy skin regeneration. The pads have the same texture as their other pads and I love the fresh subtle scent of these. They are ok, whilst I didn’t notice any difference it in my skin, I feel like it does add some hydration to my skin. I used it in the mornings. I will repurchase but again it’s not something I would get straight away. Liz Earle Skin Tonic Spritzer– now this is something I need to repurchase soon! I really love this mist from Liz Earle- it hydrates and does exactly what it promises- adds instant radiance to the skin! I first fell in love with this in Geneva when I randomly got it at the airport. Need the full size. Finally Boots Cucumber Cleansing Facial Wipes.

Face Masks

More Sephora Sheet Masks- Pearl, Rose and Watermelon after sun mask– I discovered the later in Santorini and immediately I needed it! I used it after a 3hr hike in the heat and it felt so cooling and left my skin hydrated! It’s a two-piece mask with a part for face & neck/chest. I had to get another one to use here in the UK and after that heatwave we had, it felt so good! Another Sephora Lip Mask. You guys know how I feel about the Nip Fab Glycolic Fix Bubble Mask Extreme. Its lovely and you need one! I finally finished the 3xTony Moly Panda Eyepatches! Yes! And finally Bobbi Brown Radiance Boost Mask– I was disappointed with this it was more of an exfoliating scrub than a mask and it really didn’t add a boost to the skin.

Bodycare

Impulse True Love Body spray– I carry this in my bag and use throughout the day when needed. This smells great. The BodyShop Almond /milk & Honey body cream– I got about 8 of these mini body creams from BodyShop last Christmas as gwp. I have been using them as hand creams and body creams when I travel. This is one of my favourite out of the bunch. Palmers Body Scrub– oh my! This smells amazing! It’s not as gritty but it leaves your skin seriously soft and so smooth! I was gifted this by Palmers (thanks!) and I will definitely purchase again! Superdrug Fast Acting Hair Removal Cream– so where do I start?! This promises up to 7 days of smooth skin but it’s more like 3-4 days. It also doesn’t dissolve the hair properly so after removing this my skin doesn’t feel smooth, it feels like when you shave your legs but don’t get a close enough shave. I have even left it on even longer than recommended and still no difference. I won’t repurchase! Back to Nair!

Creams & Serums

Guys you know how I feel about the BodyShop Drops of Light sunscreen. This is probably my 3rd or 4th tube of this stuff! I’m never using another SPF 50 that isn’t sheer like this! Do I have backups? Yes, yes I do! Fair Squared Argan Facial Cream– I’m not sure if this product is still available. I have had this for 3 years but only started using it a month-ish ago! It’s nice, non-oily and moisturising but I do not like the scent! I used this in the morning with a few drops of The Ordinary’s Ferulic acid & resveratrol. This gives it a luminous finish. No7 Protect & Perfect Intense SPF15– I used this for my body as SPF because I didn’t like the texture of this on my face! I also didn’t enjoy the scent. The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% serum– this is a water-free oil-free serum that can be used alone or added to creams/serums. It has no scent and although its oil free it feels like an oil. I LOVE this stuff! I have used it ‘neat’ as in without mixing it and I didn’t experience any irritation. I have been very interested in antioxidants this year and I decided to try this one first. Antioxidants enhance sunscreen protection and protect your skin from external pollutants. I have been using this in the mornings since March and I can definitely tell the difference! My skin looks healthier and more radiant and my skin bounces back quickly from stuff. I’m on my second bottle and I will repurchase definitely! I have been adding a few drops to The Ordinary’s MAP at night and girl my skin has BEEN GLOWING! I have also added a few drops of this to my body oil. If you are interested in antioxidants, please take a look at this! Finally Bare Mineral Vital Power Infusion– it was ok, it really didn’t do much but I liked the texture of it.

 

Hair care

Palmer’s Manuka Flower Honey Leave in conditioner– another 3-year-old product (smh). This is a nice leave in conditioner although I prefer the spray leave in that comes in the collection. It was ok for my 4c natural hair but there were times I wanted more from it. Ogx Extra Strength Argan oil of Morocco conditioner– I like the original Ogx Argan Oil of Morocco but the extra strength version is really nice! The conditioner smells amazing and has lots of slip for detangling! It also leaves my hair really soft. Finally 2x sachets of KeraCare conditioner & Essential Oils– lovely oils for pre-pooing!

 

Others

Boots Nail Polish nail remover extra strength– this stuff is serious! It works to take off glitter nail polish like a dream but its sooo drying and the scent is so strong! Superdrug large cotton wipes– I like the size of these- I usually cut them into two for my nails and the full size for skincare stuff. Sport Fx Face mist– so this was a bit of a let-down. It sprays in a VERY fine mist- I almost I can’t feel this on my face when I spray it. It’s supposed to hydrate and fix makeup but I feel like it doesn’t really do much. I used it as a ‘first’ mist after powdering and whilst it melted the powder into the skin, I felt like I had to use a lot of it to get that result. It doesn’t add any sort of finish in my opinion. I got this in last year’s beauty advent calendar but it’s something I will not buy. Bobbi Brown Skin Smoothing Pore Perfecting Primer– oh man this is painful! I fell in love with this primer during the heatwave we had in the UK. It really smooths the skin and keeps your makeup matte and fills in pores. When I got ready to buy the full size, it’s been discontinued! It’s too painful.

Total this month- 32

Total so far- 227

Guys, I am almost there! Only 23 to go! It’s been a long journey, my collection has definitely reduced, and I can see a huge difference! Purchasing has literally been kept to a refill only basis with the exception of this month where have treated myself to my new goodies! I’m so happy

Check back next month to see if I finally reach my target!

Ultimate Empties Challenge- July

July came and now swiftly gone but that just means it’s time for another instalment in the ultimate empties challenge! I’m so proud of myself for coming this far and pushing myself every month to finish my products! I have seen a huge reduction in the number of products I have now so this challenge is definitely working! Anyways let’s get into the empties, as always I will link reviews and where to buy

Cleaners & Toners

Liz Earle Hot Cloth Cleanser– I have reviewed this here. I’m not sure why this product is so hyped but for me, it was a disappointment, I have since then used far cheaper but much better cleansers. Superdrug’s Vitamin E Hydrating Mist– this is probably my 2nd or 3rd bottle of this and I have purchased another as backup. It’s a lovely mist but they really need to fix the spray nozzle, it comes out like a jet stream and hits you in the face lol. Other than that, it’s a lovely hydrating mist. Primark Skin Resurfacing pads– miss this! I have my full review here. I have finished another tub of my fav morning toner pads- [amazon_textlink asin=’B00OYT1G2Y’ text=’Nip Fab Dragon’s Fix Cleansing pads’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’sarahfynn-21′ marketplace=’UK’ link_id=’62a9da2a-9554-11e8-ab1e-6db1ca74a5bd’]. Finally, 2 face wipes- Primark Micellar Cleansing wipes– these are actually really good and remove a lot of makeup plus it takes of mascara with a few rubs (I still wash my face afterwards) and Boots Cleansing wipes

Face Mask

Ultimate Empties Challenge- July

L’Oréal Bright Mask– I have a full review and comparison post here. It’s really not worth it ( ahhh I didn’t even clock the pun LOL, but its intended) and another [amazon_textlink asin=’B00TUPB32A’ text=’Tony Moly eye patch’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’sarahfynn-21′ marketplace=’UK’ link_id=’8af08529-9554-11e8-b7ed-874bcd7ad257′]- I can’t wait to finish these, I think I have 4 to go( mini challenge next month?)

Creams & Serums

Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Smoothing Moisture Treatment– I have had this since last November but started using it in January 2018. I used it in conjunction with the Clearly Corrective serum which I loved so much review on Instagram. They pair beautifully together and did help improve the clarity of my skin. The moisture treatment really does add a lot of moisture to the skin and leaves it looking luminous. But that’s about it. When I used this alone (finished the serum) it was disappointing. It didn’t brighten my skin any further and it was only good for adding moisture. I think it helped with texture irregularities and helped kept my skin smooth. I am so disappointed because, after 4 to 5 months, the smooth gel-like texture of the treatment changed. It became clumpy and slightly separated with a pool of serum/water/oil at the bottom. The shelf life of the product is 12 months so why it behaved like that after 5 months beats me. The full price of this is £52 (I purchased mine on Black Friday last year where they had a £5 offer off their products) but it’s really not worth that much. It has the same ingredients as the serum which is £36. If you have to choose between the two, please go for the serum! I won’t recommend this, it’s too expensive for a subpar product, the serum is £20 less and much more effective (even when used alone) at hyperpigmentation.

Ren Instant Firming Beauty Shot– I took this on holiday and was disappointed with this. I didn’t find it as hydrating as they claimed but it does tighten the skin. It also didn’t pair well with my Niacinamide serum I was using it with. Your Good Skin SPF 30 Day cream– full review of this and other Your Good Skin products here. The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2%- I felt like I had to give this serum a second chance as the first time I used it I wasn’t consistent enough to see any results. This time around I was consistent with it and still no results on my hyperpigmentation. The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2%- I will have a full in-depth review of this serum soon, but the short version is YES I love it!. You guys may already know how I feel about the Ordinary Niacinamide serum– I have a full review here and I am already on my 3rd bottle or is it 4th?

Haircare

Even though my haircare empties have been trickling in each month, it’s one area I have seen the most reduction! I used to have my shampoos & conditioners on two separate shelves but now they fit in two medium-ish drawers! [amazon_textlink asin=’B003YELGF2′ text=’ORS Hair Mayo’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’sarahfynn-21′ marketplace=’UK’ link_id=’50d11a9d-9555-11e8-aa06-277502a53bc2′]- used to love this when I was relaxed and again as a natural haired beauty. It is a light protein treatment that leaves my hair feeling stronger with less breakage. Palmer’s Olive Oil Cowash– literally one of the best co-washes for natural hair! It softens, provides enough slip for detangling and it gently cleanses the hair too. If my hair is very dry (which it is lol) but I don’t have a lot of product build up, I would use this and leave on for 15 mins and rinse out- no need for shampoo or conditioner and my hair is left feeling soft and conditioned! [amazon_textlink asin=’B00ONTOTO2′ text=’Sunny Isle JBCO’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’sarahfynn-21′ marketplace=’UK’ link_id=’6150e43f-9555-11e8-9bb3-2dd2105528a3′]- used this in my oil mix for scalp massages, hot oil treatments or pre poo treatments. It’s one of the ancient products; I have had this since 2015! Intensive Colour Conditioner– it came in a Superdrug box dye I used this month. It’s actually a really good conditioner. Keracare Thermal Wonder Pre Poo Conditioner– I don’t know what they put in this but whatever it is, IT IS LIT! It has so much slip (could this be the slipperiest thing ever?) and detangling was a BREEZE! It also softens the hair like no other! I need to find the full size! Kera Care Honey Cowash– I used this with the Palmers Cowash so I’m not sure if this made any difference.

Makeup

Mario badescu facial spray with rosewater– I have a full review on this mist here. Makeup Forever Mist & Fix Makeup setting spray– this was slightly disappointing to use. Mist & Fix is supposed to be a long-lasting and moisturising mist that gives a dewy finish. It didn’t. It does spray in a very fine mist and doesn’t disturb makeup. It helps melt powder into the skin and definitely takes away the dry powdered ‘look’ but I have to mist a few times for it. It also doesn’t give a dewy/luminous finish even after layering 2 or 3 times. I always buy the travel size of expensive setting sprays for trial so I don’t waste money on the full size in case I don’t like it. Happy to have only spent £10 on this, I won’t repurchase.

There are only 2 top coats I love from the drugstore and the Essence Gel top coat is one of them. Seriously, this top coat plumps the nail and extends wear, it also prevents chipping and dries very fast! I need to get two more of this top coat! Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara– so this mascara is extremely hyped, is it worth it? No, it’s a good mascara don’t get me wrong but I have used way cheaper mascara for similar if not better results! It’s not finished per say but its super dry and crumbly now I have had it for 2 years (don’t judge me)

Body care

Boots Soltan Sensitive Face SPF 30– it’s a face cream but I used this on my body. It’s not oily and works. [amazon_textlink asin=’B000056W74′ text=’Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Moisturising Body Oil’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’sarahfynn-21′ marketplace=’UK’ link_id=’b4c02471-9555-11e8-a1ed-3b4fef7a3254′]- this is lovely body oil but its not too ‘oily’ and sinks right into the skin- it’s what I have been using in the heatwave instead of my usual body butter! it provides a light moisture and it smells amazing! I’m on my second bottle already! It leaves my skin so soft and smooth! I have recommended this for my brother who suffers from dry and itchy skin and he really likes it too. Boots Mango Body Lotion– doesn’t waste your time, energy or money on this. Avon Glycerine hand cream– Avon hand creams are good and this glycerine one was a good one to use! Nair shower cream (2x)-I love this hair removal cream. It doesn’t have the chemical scent like the others plus it actually stays on whilst showering. It works but I have dark coarse hair so I have to leave on for 5-6mins for it to work properly. SheaButter Cottage Bentonite clay– another product I have had from 2015. I have used this as a clay wash for my hair- it’s amazing, post on that here. Face mask- I don’t like it as such however more recently I used it as a body mask mixed with green tea water and let me tell you, my skin was so soft afterwards! I mixed it into a thick paste and used it all over my legs, stomach, arms and back. It took about 30 mins to fully dry and harden whilst sitting there awkwardly lol. It’s also slightly itchy whilst drying but when rinsed off your skin will thank you! I have another unopened pack and it’s very clear what I will be using it for! BodyShop Shea Butter body cream– I got a lot of mini body creams last Christmas as a gift with purchase from the BodyShop and I have slowly been working my way through them, using them as hand creams or travel creams. So far the shea butter cream is one of my favourites. Its light, moisturises and not oily

Total this month-33

Total so far-195/250

7 months down! I’m so happy with this challenge and how it’s going. I’m on track to hit my target and after that, I will push to get to 300 empties by 31st December!

This month I have bought a few backups and replacements for some products but spending on products has been kept at a minimum and need to basis! Progress!

Catch you later