What surprises me more than the 9 products that I used in October, was the fact that this month seemed to go by incredibly fast. Of the 9 products that I finished all of them were full-size except the one deluxe travel-size hair styling product.
Spongellé Botanica Tobacco Flower Body Wash Infused Buffer (Was $18.00 from Spongellé): While this particular Body Wash Infused Buffer was limited edition, and is no longer available, there are many different types from which to choose. These buffers with built-in body wash are infused with extracts of yuzu, edelweiss and vetiver root to cleanse, exfoliate, massage, and hydrate the skin for a spa-like pampering experience at home.Purchase Again? It appears that they no longer have this, but I have other scents to use next!
Renpure Lavender & Honey Calming Body Wash ($6.16 for 24oz from Walmart): This softly scented body wash is pleasant and calming to the senses, and it thoroughly cleans the skin without ever stripping it or leaving it dry. This is a wonderful daily body wash that is a definite repeat purchase! Purchase Again? I just opened another one of their body washes in another scent!
Mrs. Meyer's Compassion Flower Hand Soap($4.99 for 12.5 oz. and a 3-pack for $13.94 from Amazon, Walmart and Target): is not your typical floral scented hand soap, but instead the aroma is neither too sweet, nor too fragrant. It has a light and delicate floral aroma that is uplifting and understated. This is a very moisturizing hand soap that neither strips the skin, nor leaves behind an oily residue. Instead, it is utter hand soap perfection. Purchase Again? I just opened another bottle!
evanhealy Rose Geranium Facial Tonic HydroSoul ($31.99 for 4 oz. from evanhealy and Amazon): evanhealy Rose Geranium Face Tonic HydroSoul is a refreshing revelation that leaves skin delightfully soft and hydrated when used alone, but when paired with evalhealy face oils it is an even more amazing performer of miracles in its ability to aid in their rapid absorption. Purchase Again? I have a few open hydrosol sprays currently open, but this is the one that I would actually repurchase!
WYLYS Double Rose Luminizer ($188.00 for 1.01 oz. from Boxwalla): As a huge proponent of luxury face oils, I was elated to try this gorgeous mid-weight oil that sumptuously melts into the skin. Used after the Saro De Rue x Gothamista Essence, this ultra-luxe oil, with its stunning light herbal/floral aroma, leaves skin hydrated, soft, smooth and supple. It has an unparalleled silky texture, and it never leaves behind a greasy residue. It effectively softens the appearance of fine lines, leaves skin with a luminous glow, and it is a true joy to use. This is one of the most lovely face oils that I have tried in the last decade, and I simply cannot underscore the extent to which this is a delight to use, and that it delivers tangible and visible results. Purchase Again? Maybe at some point, but I have too many open face oils, and can't see buying another one just yet.
Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum ($195.00 for 30 ml/ 1 oz. from Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, bluemercury, Vintner's Daughter):This lightweight and fast absorbing golden elixir boasts a delectable warm and earthy aroma from which one can detect the Rose Damascena Absolute, Jasminum Grandiflorum Flower and a fusion of the remaining essential oils. The intoxicating aromatherapeutic experience delights and calms the senses while it quiets the mind. I find that I slow down and inhale deeply as I massage in into my skin, and that any residual stress that I may have been experiencing just melts away. This ritual is utterly relaxing, and it heightens the sensory experience of using this luxe oil. This serum significantly bolsters radiance and it leaves skin silky smooth, soft and supple. I note a distinct brightening and evening of my skin tone, a lifting and softening on my fine lines, and an undeniable increase in the long term hydration of my skin. Purchase Again? I can't wait until I use up a few more of my facial oils because this is at the top of my list to buy again!
Shu Uemura Art of Hair Ultimate Reset ($73.00 for 6 oz. from Shu Uemura, Sephora and Amazon): What an amazing hair mask, and it's definitely a splurge. I am a big fan of Shu Uemura Art of Hair products, and I am tremendously impressed by this mask in particular. It deeply conditions, makes hair manageable and frizz-free and even gives it a wonderful luster. Purchase Again? I just opened another one of their hair masks, but it is one especially for color treated hair.
SACHAJUAN Ocean Mist ($38.00 for 5.1 oz. from Dermstore, Revolve, Amazon, Credo Beauty, ): This styling salt spray is formulated to create definition and texture to the hair. It gives hair that beachy wave texture associated with a day spent playing in the salt water and sand. It is non-sticky and creates enough volume and structure and without impairing the natural movement of the hair. Purchase Again? YES!
Adirondack Fragrance Farm Balsam & Cedar Vintage Hand Cream ($19.00 for 2.3 oz. from Adirondack Fragrance Farm and their Amazon Store): is a rich and nourishing hand cream that immediately moisturizes even the most dry and chapped hands. The Balsam and Cedar scent evokes a walk through the Adirondacks on a crisp and cool afternoon. The woodsy scent is at once uplifting and intoxicatingly beautiful, and it isn't in the least bit overpowering. Sandy created this scent because she loves Balsam Fir and the essence of Northern White Cedar leaf combined with the "esters of white pine needles released on the wind on a sunny day." It is a beautiful embodiment of this amalgam of woodsy aromas, and it is a joy to use. Purchase Again? Eventually I will, but I just opened two difference hand creams that I need to use first.
Overall Assessment: I am quite pleased that I finished all of these products up before any of them began to go bad! What did you finish up, toss out, give away or return in October? Any real winners or duds to report?
Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own.
Somehow the months of June and July went by in a flash, and I was so busy that I didn't have the time to do my monthly Empties post, but instead combined the two. I did manage to finish up a fair number of nearly empty products, and my success is not attributed to my will to finish them so much as it is a function of reaching for them because I leave them out in plain sight. This foolproof method is the only way that I am able to finish anything up given the insane size of my stash of products!
Surya Brasil Sapien Women Shave Gel (Reviewed HERE): This remains one of my all-time favorite shaving gels because it is ultra hydrating, it has a delectable tropical scent, and it gives me the closest shave imaginable. It is gentle and nourishing, and such an amazing addition to my shower product line-up. In fact, this is such a great shave gel that my husband still uses it for shaving every single day. Good enough to get again? Definitely.
Farmhouse Fresh Sweet Cream Fine Body Scrub (Reviewed HERE): This is a wonderful body scrub that features ultra-fine grain salt that feels wonderful against the skin as they remove dead skin cells. The salt granules are suspended in a wonderful base of nourishing and hydrating antioxidant-rich rice bran oil, and the end result is silky-smooth, hydrated skin that is unmistakably luminous. The aroma is an intoxicatingly delicious velvety cream that smells good enough to eat, but I certainly wouldn't recommend it! Good enough to get again? Definitely.
ClarityRX Get Clean Crushed Bamboo Exfoliator (Reviewed HERE): This facial scrub, which features gentle exfoliants suspended in a nourishing and comforting cream base, effectively removes dead skin cells without irritating or damaging the skin. Additionally, Bromelain and Papain enzymes aid the exfoliating particles by helping to dissolve some of the dead skin cells, and this combination of the two types of exfoliants make skin soft, smooth, supple and luminous. Good enough to get again? Without question!
AromaFloria Muscle Soak Body ScrubandAromaFloria Muscle Soak Body Wash (Reviewed HERE): These beautifully aromatic bath products were such a joy to use, and the deluxe travel sizes were thoroughly enjoyed during my travels. Good enough to get again? Yes, but I currently have so many scrubs and body washes that it will be quite a while before I need to buy any.
Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar (Review forthcoming): I love Dove bar soaps and have used them for years and years. The sensitive bar is so gentle on the skin, and it never strips or irritates the skin. Good enough to get again? Oh yeah, and I have several bars that I will open soon!
Jason Normalizing Tea Tree Treatment Shampoo: This is a really great shampoo if you have issues with dry scalp. I don't as a general rule, but sometimes when I am testing too many hair products my scalp does dry out. Another culprit, for me, is using softened water when I travel. For some reason my skin does not like soft water, and tends to get irritated and dry, and this shampoo definitely helps. Good enough to get again? Definitely.
Fresh Monster Toxin-Free 2-1 Shampoo & Conditioner(Reviewed HERE): These toxin-free 2-1 Shampoo & Conditioners come in fun scents that are neither too fragrant, nor do they smell like chemicals. They are fun to use, and so gentle on the hair. Good enough to get again? Yes, but I have so many shampoos and conditioners right now that it will be a very long time before I need to make another purchase.
Topganic Intensive Hair Mask with Brazilian Nut Oil: This is a very rich and hydrating hair mask that does wonders for my dry and curly hair. It really smoothes and tames the frizz, too. Good enough to get again? Yes, but I think that the company may have discontinued this mask, They do, however, have another variety that is quite good as well.
SACHAJUAN Hair Repair: I have several samples of this hair repair mask, and it is absolutely AMAZING! It is an intensive hair treatment with, "ocean silk technology for damaged and stressed hair." It leaves my hair soft, silky, manageable and frizz-free. Good enough to get again? It is so amazing that I definitely plan to purchase a full-size bottle.
Caudalie Divine Oil: Given my penchant for oils, I naturally had to try this one, and it really is aptly named because everything about this oil is divine! From the smell to the texture, to the way that it effortlessly penetrates the skin, and finally to the way it makes your skin über soft and unbelievably moisturized. I have only tried it on my body and hair, but from the moment that I first tried it I was madly in love. I used it sparingly in my hair and it left my curls bouncy, glossy and beautifully moisturized. I noticed that my body felt silky smooth and softer than you can imagine. What’s more, the scent is so intoxicating that I find myself sniffing my arm all of the time just to get another whiff! Good enough to get again? This was my second or third bottle already, therefore the answer is a resounding yes!
Amlactin Ultra Hydrating Body Cream (Reviewed HERE): This cream is very thick and rich, and it really is ultra hydrating. Unlike some alpha-hydroxy based moisturizers, Amlactin has the distinction of not drying out the skin. I have found that Ultra Hydrating Body Cream leaves my skin indescribably soft and supple, and it eliminates any dry patches that I may have. While this does not contain fragrance it does have a light slightly medicinal scent– one that is rather nondescript and fades quickly. Good enough to get again? Eventually, but I have far too many creams and lotions to use up before buying more.
Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Day Cream (Reviewed HERE): If you have deydrated skin, or normal to dry skin, then Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Day Cream is a perfect choice. It is ultra-moisturizing and hydrating without feeling heavy on the skin. The Hyaluronic Acid attracts and retains hydration, while the peanut and vegetable oils add moisture to the skin. This cream is fast-absorbing, and leaves skin soft, supple and hydrated. Good enough to get again? I would definitely use it again, but it will be quite a while before I need to buy another face cream.
Mario Badescu Peptide Renewal Cream (Reviewed HERE): This lightweight and fast absorbing cream, that is filled with Peptides and Hyaluronic Acid, leaves skin remarkably hydrated, smooth and lifted. In addition to nourishing the skin, it also makes skin radiant and luminous. Good enough to get again? Yes, but it will be quite a while before I need to buy another face cream.
Rodin + FieldsREDEFINE Overnight Restorative Cream(Reviewed HERE):is ahighly moisturizing night cream that has a thin consistency, but it is a very nourishing and hydrating nighttime treatment cream. It is very concentrated therefore only a tiny amount is needed, and it sinks in effortlessly leaving my skin soft, hydrated, supple and balanced. Good enough to get again? It is, but I have other night creams that I prefer.
LIERAC Paris Hydra-Chrono Intense Hydrating Balm (Reviewed HERE): This is such a lovely hydrator with such a delectable thick gel texture. It is very nourishing, hydrating and calming. It can be used day or night as a wash-off mask, or as a moisturizer. It leaves skin soft, supple, hydrated, plumped and luminous! Good enough to get again? Yes, but it appears to have been discontinued.
Savvy Wipes (Reviewed HERE): In the Klear wipes are lint-free, and therefore perfect for cleaning the lens on your phone, camera, screens and glasses. No Sweat wipes are antiperspirant/deodorant wipes. Both are perfect travel companions, and I always have them in my travel bag and purse. Good enough to get again? Yes, definitely!
Omorovicza Moor Mud Cream Cleanser (Reviewed HERE): is a gentle, non-foaming, cream cleanser that leaves skin thoroughly cleansed, without any stripping, and renders it remarkably soft and refreshed. Furthermore, it leaves behind no greasy residue that necessitates a second cleansing for its removal. Ideal for sensitive and dry skin, it is likewise a treat for normal to oily skin types as well. My skin, which is normal to combination, experiences a pronounced clarity as a result of its clarifying and detoxifying formula, and it lifts impurities and gently clears congested pores without drying the skin, or leaving it taut and uncomfortable. Skin is left soft, smooth, supple and luminous.
It should not be overlooked that this cleanser is incredibly refreshing to the skin courtesy of the cooling blend of essential oils (Camphor, Peppermint and Eucalyptus), and one should most assuredly avoid contact with the eyes. That said, it should be stated that the cooling effect is mild rather than overdone and I do not find it in the least bit irritating to my sometimes finicky skin. However, if you have known sensitivities or allergies to any of these essential oils, then you should avoid this cleanser altogether. Good enough to get again? Yes, absolutely!
Odacité Ba+S : Eye Contour Serum Concentrate: This fantastic eye oil is described as, "a highly nutritive serum is specially formulated for the delicate, thin skin of the eye contour. Rich in vitamins A, E and F along with plant sterols, baobab oil targets all signs of aging around the fragile eye area, helping to increase elasticity and reduce wrinkles. It helps relieve puffiness and dark circles, and has a delectable aroma. Good enough to get again? Yes, I was so impressed by my sample that I plan to buy a full size bottle.
Assorted Fragrance Samples: Of the samples used, the only one that I love enough to own is TOM FORD Neroli Portofino, and I do, in fact, own a bottle (that I covet). Good enough to get again? I can't imagine not having a bottle of Neroli Portofino!
I have said it many times before, but I must say it again: placing my mostly used products in the line of sight has been a tremendously effective way of making sure that I really do finish up of each of those products. By far my most effective trick has been loading my shower up with nearly finished products, and this is why each month I finish so many things. Here is what I finished up in April:
Haircare (Shown Above):
Fresh Monster Ocean Splash Kids Shampoo & Body Wash (Reviewed HERE. $7.99 for 8 oz. from Whole Foods, Target and Amazon): This kids shampoo and body wash smells delicious, was gentle and non-stripping, and left our skin super soft. While this may be intended for kids, it is good enough for the whole family to use.
Key West Aloethera Moisturizing Shampoo(Reviewed HERE. $21.00 for 16 oz. from Key West Aloe)):is a great choice if you seek a shampoo that is gentle enough for everyday use. The formula is gentle, non-stripping, and offers enough moisture without weighing hair down.
Key West Aloe Aloethera Keratin Conditioner (Reviewed HERE. $22.00 for 16 oz. and $16.00 for 8 oz. from Key West Aloe): is a fantastic choice if you need a conditioner that combats frizz, detangles, and moisturizes without weighing down your hair. It leaves my hair soft, silky and ultra manageable.
ColorProof SuperRich MoistureTreatment (Reviewed HERE): This is one of those products that I didn't know that I needed until I used it for the first time. Since I have naturally curly hair, that leans dry, and I color treat it– I have no choice but to condition it a lot. This moisture treatment is so effective in its ability to deliver a surge of moisture to my hair, that I often use it between hair washings. It is a wonderful way to tame frizz, add moisture, deeply hydrate, and maintain a gorgeous shine. The aroma is a light fruity Baobab that I absolutely love.
SACHAJUAN Hair Repair ($33.00 for 3.4 oz from Sephora, Space NK, Barneys New York, Bloomingdale's, Net-A-Porter and Cult Beauty): I am not sure why it took me so long to use this sample because it is absolutely AMAZING! It is an intensive hair treatment with, "ocean silk technology for damaged and stressed hair." It leaves my hair soft, silky, manageable and frizz-free. It is so amazing that I definitely plan to purchase a full-size bottle.
Aveda Shampure Shampoo ($13.50-$40.00 for 8.5 oz.-33 oz. from Aveda and Nordstrom): I used this shampoo years ago and loved it so much. I found a sample in my stash, and now I remember why I loved it so much! It is very gentle and non-stripping on the hair, and it has a wonderful aroma. I definitely plan to purchase another bottle once I use up a few more shampoos.
Brigeo Rosarco Milk Reparative Leave-In Conditioning Spray ($20.00 for 5 oz. and $9.00 for 2 oz. from Sephora, Lord & Taylor and Anthropologie): I have naturally curly hair, and I almost always use leave-in conditioner after I wash my hair to detangle and to fight-frizz. This is an ultra-light, leave-in conditioner that hydrates and moisturizes hair, but it never weighs it down. I definitely liked it enough to buy a full size bottle.
Cleansers, Scrubs, Soaps and Shave Creams:
Jack Black Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser (Reviewed HERE. $19.00 for 3 oz. from Bloomingdale's, Sephora, Macy's, Nordstrom and Ulta): This is a "dual-purpose liquid cleanser and toner" in one, and while my husband primarily used it, I liked it so much that I often reached for it. It left my skin so clean, but without stripping it. I will eventually get him another tube, and I will undoubtedly reach for it again!
Silkriller Facial Foam (Reviewed HERE.): This is a deep cleansing face cleanser that gently washes the face, lifts impurities and oils without stripping the skin. Skin is left soft and smooth. I liked this cleanser, but I have so many cleansers in rotation that I don't think that I will need to buy another cleanser for a very long time.
Trader Joe's Moisturizing Cream Shave in Honey Mango: This is another staple in our house, and I usually buy 3-4 tubes at a time. It is creamy, moisturizing and the scent is wonderful.
Surya Brasil Sapien Women Facial Scrub (Reviewed HERE. $16.99 for 3.38 oz. from Surya Brasil and Amazon): is a gentle, all natural, exfoliator that effectively removes dead skin cells while nourishing the skin. Skin is left soft, smooth, hydrated, and without any irritation. The tropical scent is refreshing and utterly delightful.
BSB Culminé Pot Of Gold Scrub (Reviewed HERE. $55.00 for 10 oz. from La Bella Day Spa and Ahalife): This is an ultra luxurious, antioxidant-rich face and body scrub that has a delectable warm rich aroma that is an absolute delight to the senses. This oil and vitamin infused exfoliant gently removed dead skin cells, and it never strips the skin. Instead, it hydrates the skin, and leaves it velvety soft, silky smooth, supple and luminous.
Trader Joe's French Liquid Soap in Orange Blossom Honey: I still love this soap so much that I buy multiples at a time. It is gentle on the hands and smells delicious. You can't beat the price for such a great hand soap. I need to pick up a few on my next trip to Trader Joe's.
Soapberry Body Lather (Featured HERE): This ultra-gentle body soap has antibacterial properties that have been used in Ayurvedic herbal medicine for a wide variety of skin issues. Its vitamin-rich lather is gentle on the skin & hair, and protects them from becoming dry and damaged.
Serums and Creams:
EO® Certified Organic Body Serum 02 Restorative (Reviewed HERE. $21.99 for 4 oz. from EO Products and Amazon): is a featherweight, fast absorbing oil that immediately hydrates the skin while leaving it remarkably soft, smooth and supple. It is an ultra-nourishing body oil that leaves skin luminous and perfectly quenched. The scent is a mood elevating aromatherapeutic blend of the Lavender, Orange, Grapefruit and Rosemary oils, and this combination is utterly scrumptious and calming.
derma e Purifying Youth Serum with Marine Algae and Green Tea (Reviewed HERE. $29.50 for 1 oz. from derma e and Whole Foods Market): This is a perfect serum to pair with the derma e Purifying Gel Cleanser with Marine Algae and Activated Charcoal because, it too, is ideal for combination to oily types of skin. It is a very lightweight and fast absorbing serum that is loaded with anti-aging antioxidants, but it also includes a combination of minerals and "natural toxin fighters" that draw out impurities while delivering much-needed hydration. This works very well on my normal/combination skin, but I use it as needed– rather than on a daily basis.
ClarityRX Take Care Daily Antioxidant Red Tea Serum (Reviewed HERE. $64.00 for 1 oz. from Clarity RX): This lightweight antioxidant-rich, Hyaluronic Acid-based serum immediately hydrates skin plumps fine lines and reduces inflammation and skin irritation. Furthermore, this soothing formula gives skin a healthy, dewy glow.
Mario Badescu Bee Pollen Night Cream(Reviewed HERE. $20.00 for 1 oz. from Mario Badescu and Amazon): This thick and rich cream has the texture and consistency of a balm, and only the smallest amount is needed for the face, neck and décolleté. It is perfect for people with normal to dry skin, but when used sparingly is perfect for my combination skin. It is ultra-hydrating and nourishing, and it leaves skin remarkably soft, supple and luminous.
Philip B. Oud Royal Forever Shine Shampoo (Reviewed HERE. $75.00 for 7.4 oz. from Philip B., Nordstrom, Space NK, Barneys New York, SkinStore, Amazon, Cult Beauty (UK) and Net-a-Porter): is utterly unbelievable! This ultra-nourishing shampoo features time-released botanical moisturizers that make hair soft, supple, hydrated and give it a praiseworthy glossy shine. Like the Philip B. White Truffle Ultra-Rich Moisturizing Shampoo, Oud Royal Forever Shine Shampoo is able to give my naturally curly hair unprecedented shine. Those among you with curly tresses know the extent to which it is difficult achieve shiny curly hair, but this miracle formula really delivers serious shine. This ultra-luxe shampoo is without question of of the most decadent and covet-worthy shampoos that I have ever used! I have a full size bottle, and will immediately purchase another as soon as I finish it. It really is that amazing!
Mario Badescu Seaweed Cleansing Lotion(Reviewed HERE. $15.00 for 8 oz. from Mario Badescu and Nordstrom): I should probably first state that I don't generally use a toner, and in large part because they tend to be alcohol-laden and as a result they generally dry out and strip my skin with regular use. However, Mario Badescu Seaweed Cleansing Lotion is a remarkably gentle and soothing non-drying alcohol-free toner- therefore I thought that it would be worth trying. While it is formulated with the needs of dry and sensitive skin in mind, I will say that it works wonders on my combination skin as well. It feels refreshing on the skin, and leaves it thoroughly clean, soft, balanced, and I have even noted that my skin feels hydrated after use. Additionally, it feels so refreshing on the skin that I find myself reaching for it twice a day for that reason alone! It has a fresh clean scent that quickly fades upon application- therefore the scent does not linger.
Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel (Reviewed HERE. 2 oz. $7.00, 8 oz. $12.00 & 16oz. $20.00 Available from Mario Badescu & Nordstrom): This non-foaming gel cleanser thoroughly removes the day's makeup, dirt and oil without drying the skin. Papaya and grapefruit extracts are exfoliating alpha-hydroxy acids that help prevent dulling build-up that can cause blackheads and pimples. Leaves the skin looking radiant and pores clear. Enzyme Cleansing Gel has a light clean scent that reminds me of the smell of lots of aloe vera based products that I have used, but that is not among the listed ingredients. This hardworking cleanser lifts dead skin, oil, dirt, and makeup, but does so without stripping the skin. After use my skin is left unbelievably clean, silky and soft. If you believe that your skin will only get truly clean from using a foaming or lathering cleanser- then be prepared for a paradigm shift!
Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Eye Cream(Reviewed HERE. $18.00 for 0.50 oz. from Mario Badescu and Nordstrom): The Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Eye Cream is a lightweight non-greasy cream that sinks into the skin nearly instantaneously, and it immediately hydrates and moisturizes the delicate eye area. In fact, this is such an effective moisturizer/hydrator that I reached for it often.My delicate eye area is not only left deeply moisturized, but fine lines are simultaneously plumped up, and my skin is left with a luminescent glow.
Mario Badescu Oil-Free Moisturizer SPF 17 (Reviewed HERE. $22.00 for 2 oz. from Mario Badescu and Nordstrom): Mario Badescu Oil-Free Moisturizer SPF 17 is a lovely lightweight moisturizer that is very gentle, hydrating, moisturizing, and comfortable on the skin. The formula is oil-free- yet is it emollient, non-greasy, and very soothing.
Tata Harper Rejuvenating Serum ($158.00 for 1.7 oz. from Nordstrom, Space NK, Net-A-Porter, Selfridges, Spring, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue): This is a really wonderful antioxidant-rich anti-aging serum, and for some unknown reason I thought that I would have a luke-warm response to it, but was I ever wrong. I loved this down to the very last drop, and it is now at the top of my list of serums to buy. It is lightweight, moisturizing, and it leaves my skin soft, lifted and silky smooth! LOVE!
L'Occitane Immortelle Precious Cream ($62.00 for 1.7 oz. from L'Occitane, Sephora, Nordstrom and Skin Store): This is a very rich and creamy anti-aging cream with a luxurious velvety texture. It is a little bit rich to us on my normal/combination skin all of the time, but I love using it on my neck and décolleté. This is a really lovely cream, and if you have skin that is drier than mine, you should consider trying a sample– because I think that you might really love it!
Assorted Sample Packets: As I have repeatedly said, sample products do not provide enough product to allow for any sort of meaningful impression about their contents. The only product that I can really comment upon is the TATCHA Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder (Reviewed HERE. $65.00 for 2.1 oz. from TATCHA, Barneys New York, Sephora and QVC) because I own the full size jar, and absolutely LOVE it! Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder is wonderful water-activated enzyme powder that exfoliates the skin without any harsh abrasives, and it leaves skin baby soft and smooth. This is one of the greatest cleansers that I have ever used, and I will always have a jar on hand.
Perfume sample vials: My hope is to find a few perfume samples that are so in sync with my body chemistry that I will be compelled to purchase as full-size bottle. While there are lovely fragrances in this pile of empties, none were so spectacular on me that I am moved to make a purchase.
Sunscreens:
According to COOLA,
Hurray for Spray! Spritz your sunscreen on the go with this clear, continuous spray in an all natural Citrus Mimosa scent. Offering broad spectrum SPF 30 protection, this Farm to Face® sourced spray will nourish and hydrate skin with 70%+ certified organic ingredients like Cucumber, Algae and Strawberry Extracts; and Red Raspberry Seed Oil, a natural sunscreen booster rich in Omega-3 and 6. Have your fun in the sun and then some with COOLA!
COOLA Sport SPF 50 Unscented Sunscreen Spray (Reviewed HERE. $32.00 for 6 oz. from COOLA, Sephora, and Nordstrom): is perfect for all skin types and active outdoor sports. This unscented high SPF 50 spray sunscreen, like COOLA Sport SPF 30 Citrus Mimosa Sunscreen Spray, is very easy to use. It applies quickly, thoroughly and efficiently. It dries down quickly, and it has no smell of any sort.
What did you use up, toss out, recycle, return or give away in April? Any winners or duds to report?
Shu Uemura Art of Hair Ultimate Reset ($73.00 for 6 oz. from Shu Uemura, Sephora and Amazon): What an amazing hair mask, and it's definitely a splurge. I am a big fan of Shu Uemura Art of Hair products, and I am tremendously impressed by this mask in particular. It deeply conditions, makes hair manageable and frizz-free and even gives it a wonderful luster. Purchase Again? I just opened another one of their hair masks, but it is one especially for color treated hair.
Adirondack Fragrance Farm Balsam & Cedar Vintage Hand Cream ($19.00 for 2.3 oz. from Adirondack Fragrance Farm and their Amazon Store): is a rich and nourishing hand cream that immediately moisturizes even the most dry and chapped hands. The Balsam and Cedar scent evokes a walk through the Adirondacks on a crisp and cool afternoon. The woodsy scent is at once uplifting and intoxicatingly beautiful, and it isn't in the least bit overpowering. Sandy created this scent because she loves Balsam Fir and the essence of Northern White Cedar leaf combined with the "esters of white pine needles released on the wind on a sunny day." It is a beautiful embodiment of this amalgam of woodsy aromas, and it is a joy to use. Purchase Again? Eventually I will, but I just opened two difference hand creams that I need to use first.
