Novemeber Empties

1. Clean & Clear Oil-Absorbing Sheets
I have reviewed this product in a previous empties post and my review THERE still rings true now.

2. Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy Body Wash & Foam Bath in Energy Lemon Zest Mini
This was nice for a freebie (there was a facebook coupon for it a while back). I like lemon scents so I loved the scent of this one, especially because it was like a true lemon zest scent, not a sweet lemonade-y one. The foamy-ness and its bubbles for the bath were adequate but nothing to write home about. Probably won't buy the full size though because the White Citrus scent is like a better version of this one!

3. L'Occitane Pivoine Flora Hand Cream
I got this when I bought a gift sent with this scent as the perfume (hauled HERE). I love the scent but was disappointed by the texture. I assumed that because it was a hand cream that it would be similar in texture as the Dry Skin hand cream (which I have reviewed HERE). Sadly, this was not the case. This Pivoine Flora one is a lot more fluid and as a result I feel that it doesn't moisturize as well. However, I do think it might dry a little faster and with less of a greasy feel. Will I buy again? Probably not. I do have another one that I got for free though, so I will still be using that one, but after that I don't anticipate ever buying one again unless I got it for free.

4. Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask
I got this sample a while ago at the Towson Townceter Fashion's Night Out event. I decided to try it because I have heard about it here and there on Youtube, and I love face masks, so, why not? I thought it was pretty good. I felt like it did help get the crap out of my pores but it wasn't a super miracle worker. However, I didn't think to use a hot towel to open my pores before applying the mask like the instructions on the website said. Perhaps it works even better when you do that? I'd love to try this again to find out, though I don't think I'm ready to take the risk of buying it in the full size to do that so I'll be hunting down another sample.

5. Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste Mini
I have used the ProNamel version of this toothpaste many times (check out my posts HERE, HERE, HERE) and got this tube (along with a few others) for free from my dentist when I complained of sensitive teeth. I don't like the taste of this one, the ProNamel tastes better, but I think that it helps just as well with sensitivity as the ProNamel formula. This formula is little less foamy I think, which bothered me, but might be a perk to others. Buy the full size? Probably not, but I would buy it if I had too because there was no ProNamel at the store and I desperately needed sensitivity relief.

6. Olay Complete All Day UV Moisturizer SPF 15 Sensitive Skin Formula
I really liked this moisturizer. I wouldn't say it is "holy grail" because it does have a few things that could be improved, but otherwise I love it. I like that it has SPF, and drys down decently well in the morning before applying makeup. It moisturizes just the right about for during the day so I don't feel like I am left parched, but it is a little greasy so I had to blot with an oil absorbing sheet before apply makeup each day. I got this for a super good deal, and because at the time I wasn't lusting over any moisturizer in particular when I ran out. I would probably buy this again if I am ever stuck in a rut about what to use again.

7. Crest Complete Whitening Plus Deep Clean Toothpaste
I love this toothpaste. It is the only toothpaste I have ever used that has ever really made the back of my teeth free really clean. Usually toothpastes leave behind a layer that I can feel, but I never had the problem with my front teeth. With this toothpaste my whole mouth felt super deeply cleaned! The taste is also not bad, and I like how foamy it is. I didn't buy this, I "borrowed" it when my brother left it at my parents house when he went back home after a visit. Muhaha, thanks brother! However, I will be buying this myself because it is amazing!!

8. Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Cleanser Pads
I really love the idea of a cleansing pad instead of a regular cleanser. I feel like it can get more stuff off of your face because of the swipe of the pad. Usually I would use this by rubbing it on my face and then scrubbing again with just my hands like you would with a regular cleanser. I think that for most people it could be gentle enough to use daily, but I felt that after a week or two of continuous use it felt drying. When I started using it only a couple times a week I fell back in love and didn't have a dryness issue. It is expensive for a cleanser if you are going to use it every day because it only comes with 28 pads, but I think its worth it. Also, I weirdly love the huge container it comes in, haha! Buy again? Definitely! Just gonna try out some other things first.

**some affiliate links may be used**

Mid Month Empties - Novemeber

1. & 2. Herbal Essences None of Your Frizziness Shampoo & Conditioner
I really liked this! I bought this when I was out of my last shampoo and couldn't find the "Honey I'm Strong" line at my local CVS. I was plesently surprised and I think I like this shampoo better than the honey one (see my review of that line HERE)! It is like all the good aspects of the honey shampoo & conditioner, without that slippery texture. Also, I think I prefer the smell of this one better. I think it helped to fight frizz, but sometimes its hard to really tell with any shampoo & conditioner whether that really works. I do know it didn't make my hair more frizzy! Buy again? Totally!

3. Unknown Dome Brush
I have had this brush for a few years now and it served its purpose. I found it on the ground near my apartment one time, and thus have NO idea what brand it is because the handle doesn't indicate anything. I have decided that it is time to retire this brush because it is a little pokey/scratchy when trying to darken up the outer v, and I found a nice replacement brush on sale at Sephora!

4. CVS Brand Eye Makeup Remover Oil-Free
I really liked this, though I think the Simple Makeup Remover I used previously works slightly better on mascara. However, I will probably by buying this again I'm sure because this is way cheaper than the Simple brand, and sometimes CVS gives you coupons for $ off CVS brand stuff, making it an even better buy! 

5. Sensodyne ProNamel Toothpaste
I've reviewed this three times already (HERE, HERE, and HERE), and my opinion is still the same.

6. Aveeno Active Naturals Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes
I got these for free through Klout.com and was excited to try them out since they are a pretty new product (Thanks Klout!). I found that they work fine, but I think the texture of the towelettes aren't the softest, and sometimes they left me wanting them to be wetter. I've tried other brands (Like Simple, and Garnier) and I feel that the Aveeno ones just didn't measure up. Buy my own? Probably not.

7. L'Occitane Dry Skin Hand Cream
Another free hand cream, this time through a Facebook coupon. My opinion about the previous tube remains true for this one. Buy full size? Contemplating!

8. L'Occitane Pivoine Flora Shower Gel
I got this in the perfume gift set I bought this summer, and have loved every single use of this! I love the scent as a perfume, and in the shower gel form! I just made me feel so feminine and girly. But will I buy it again separately? At $20 it's not likely, but I would love to have it via a set of some kind again!

9. Blinc Mascara
Previously reviewed a sample size HERE. I loved it so much then that back in January/February-ish I bought the full size with my Birchbox points! This tube of mascara lasted FOREVER, about 8-9 months! O.O That is insane! And I loved every use. I loved that I didn't have to worry about raccoon eyes, and that the effect always pleased me. However, now that I have used another mascara I'm not sure I would buy this again because I want to try other styles of mascara and I think I like mascaras that are a little more defining and separating that this one.

10. Towson Town Center Unscented Hand Sanitizer
I got this for free at an event at my local mall last year. Not much to report about it since it is just a plain hand sanitizer. It did it's job, it was free, the colored beads were fun to look at, but nothing else to report. Not re-buy-able unless Towson Town Center gives them out again this year at another event!

11. Baltimore City Health Department Clean Hands Save Lives Aloe Hand Sanitizer
I don't know why this was called "aloe" hand sanitizer because there is no aloe in it... just fragrance that smells like aloe. Even the ingredients give it away! Otherwise, it was a nice hand sanitizer, but not any different than a non "aloe" one. I got this for free at the Baltimore Book Festival, and it came with a carabiner hook on the top, which I am keeping, so that was cool. Like the Towson one this is not re-buy-able, but I would welcome more free hand sanitizer since I use it like a fiend at work!

12. La Fresh Original Formula Makeup Remover Wipe
I got this single wipe for free at a hotel that I said at this summer. I don't even remember how I felt about using it recently, so obviously it is not a memorable product. I remember that it was moister than the Aveeno ones mentioned above, so that was good, but otherwise it was just a average plain-jane makeup wipe. Buy full size? Probably not.

13. Garnier Fructis Style Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Styling Cream
Thank God this is out of my life! I hated this product. It was so easy to use too much product and end up with gross greasy hair. Occasionally the results were OK if used quite sparingly, but never was is amazing, or even good. I think I bought this originally because I liked the Anti-Humidity Styling Milk that I had bought before, but the cream formula is so much inferior to the milk version. I'll never buy this again, and wouldn't even want it for free!

14. Softsoap Milk Protein & Honey Moisturizing Hand Soap
I could have sworn that I used this soap before but I can't find the empties post with it in it, so maybe I am mistaken? Either way, it feels like the hybrid between The Up & Up Milk & Honey Soap and the Softsoap Shea Butter soap. Could still make your hands dry after using it, but more moisturizing than a non-moisturizer soap. The scent was nice and it had the interesting slick honey texture. Buy again? Probably if I saw it on sale but I am not obsessed or desperate about it needing to be in my life. It could disappear and I wouldn't be that upset. 

15. CVS Brand Premium Cotton Rounds
Cotton rounds are cotton rounds and I used these previously and my review there is the same now.

16. Hawaiian Tropic Lip Balm SPF 45+ in Vanilla Mint
I bought this spontaneously when I was on vacation in Florida in August. I needed a new high SPF lip balm because the one I had been using was one of those balm that made your lips white and I didn't think that was cute for surfing! haha. This did its job SPF-wise but the taste was gross because it was like you could taste the chemical sunscreen in it, and not the vanilla or mint. Bleck! It was decently moisturizing, but I won't miss the gross taste! Will stick to Sun Bum lipbalm instead!

**some affiliate links may be used**

Vacation Empties! (13 Things!)

So like a good Blogger I managed to have some empties while on vacation! Check em out!

1. Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration SPF 12

See my previous posts here, and here where I discuss this product.

2. Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter Body Butter Mini

I got this at Sephora when I had some store credit because everyone on Youtube that I watch from England loves Soap & Glory and raves on and one about the scent. I decided to give this a go since it is only like $5 and a girl always needs body butter. I concur that the smell is AMAZING! And this body butter is the right amount of rich moisturization! Would I buy the full size though? Not sure, because it is so expensive, but I am definitely interested in trying out other Soap & Glory products and am not below putting the full size body butter on my Christmas list, haha.

3. Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy La Fleur Sample

I got this sample in my August Birchbox and I loooove it! I have sampled the classic Viva La Juicy before in my January Birchbox. I am vaguely contemplating buying the full sized bottle of the La Fleur through Birchbox when I have enough rewards points for it. It is like the regular Viva La Juicy but with more floral notes, while also retaining the classic Viva La Juicy scent! Perfection! <3

4. Boscia Black Mask Sample

I liked this mask, and found it to be quite similar to the White Mask which I had used before vacation and LOVED. I liked this Black one and the application and process is the same as the white one, but when I peeled it off it didn't feel as refreshing or brightening as the White one. It is possible that this feeling is all in my head and that the Black & White masks really are the same, just different colors, but I know I would buy the White one before the Black one.

5. Caudalie Beauty Elixer

I previously reviewed this product in a post dedicated all to itself!

6. CVS Brand Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50

This sunblock was ok. I loved that I got it for free through a CVS coupon, and that it was SPF 50, but otherwise, there is nothing amazing about this sunblock. The smell is a little off, kinda like old bananas (ewwy!). However, the staying power was really nice, and if I remember correctly, the price point is pretty fabulous. If I was on a tight budget or got tired of frou frou sunscreens, this one is just fine. Buy full sized? Maybe after I've tried all the Branded kinds.

7. Hawaiian Tropic Sensitive Stick Sunscreen SPF 50

I bought this back in December when I made my first extended stay in FL after an incident where I managed to sunburn my eyes due to all my other sunscreens making my eyes burn upon application and causing me to never apply enough around my eyes. Not a cute look I must say, so out of desperation I bought this face stick sunscreen so my face would stop stinging from other blocks, and so I would stop burning. I also figured that extra SPF on my face would be good to prevent acne scars from getting darker. This product was a win win in both categories! It never stung my face, and it never let me down. The only off thing is, because I apply this product thickly, when I am at the beach sand tends to get stuck in the sunblock and then kinda just stay there all day, even when my face is dry. So, maybe not the best choice for a date, but given that I was always at the beach by myself, I didn't mind, haha. Re-buy? Definitely will be next summer! (Or this winter if I end up in Florida again and need face block sooner).

8. Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration SPF 30 

I have previously discussed this product in a post dedicated entirely to it! Check it out: here.

***Please note that I got this product for free through Influenster, but was not obligated to write a review***

9. Sally Hansen Nails & Cuticles Hand Cream

Let me preface by saying that I have always been marginally interested in trying this product because I kepy seeing coupons for it on Coupons.com, but just never got around to trying it, so was thrilled when I finally got the chance too! I also loved the timing of it, because I had used the Caudalie Vinotherapie Hand and Nail Cream a few months ago. I found the Sally Hansen to be kinda like the cooler younger sister of the Caudalie cream. It has a very similar smell, but to me the Sally Hansen is better and smells more fruity rather than Pez-y. I also loved the resulted. It wasn't that heavy, but I always felt moisturized afterwards. I found myself looking forward to using this product nightly because I loved the smell and the feeling of it! I don't know if it had any kind of long term preventative effect because I wash my hands so often, but I know it always helped when my hands were dry! Will I buy the full size? I think I definitely will after I use up the 3 or so hand cream samples I have managed to get for free recently (2 L'Occitane ones even! Woo hoo coupons! ).

***Please note that I got this product for free through Influenster, but was not obligated to write a review***

10. Aveeno Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion SPF 55

I really liked the sunblock. I turned to its aid when a SPF 15 was just not cutting it for me after long days at the beach and I was getting burned. I had this in my stash after a super coupon-a-palooza in late june/early july (think CVS Aveeno Coupon, Manufacturer Coupon, CVS coupon for $ off a certain $ amount purchase, and maybe even the product also being on sale, it was a magnificent moment in couponing history) and never was super excited about it because I though: "SPF 55? How can I get a tan with that?" And let me tell you, being preventative about sun burn obsessively and slowly tanning over an entire morning & afternoon, is way better than say a limiting hour of tanning with SPF 15. More beach time! And I think, more product use allowing moisturization! I won't lie, this sunblock was thick, and didn't have any special smell or anything, but it worked, it was reliable, it didn't sting, and it wasn't greasy! Would I buy again? I'm not super motivated enough to buy it full price, but if I stumble upon an amazing deal like I did with this tube, I think I will. The only thing holding me back is the price given the 4 oz size, because it only lasted me a full days of use (Though please note that I am a known product over user, and the day before I used this product I got a sunburn so was even more obsessive about application and so may have been even more of a product over user, so maybe it would last you longer?).

11. Sun Sum SPF 15 Continuous Spray Sunscreen
I have used up a bottle of this before and reviewed it here. I still love it, and I actually got this bottle for free from the Sun Bum guys when I visited their office down in Cocoa Beach! I mentioned on facebook that I was excited to buy Sun Bum sunblock while down for vacation and then messaged me saying I should drop by their office, and while I was there they gave me free swag! I wasn't even expecting anything! Thanks Dustin & Dustin! Sun Bum forever! Do you Trust The Bum(Tm)? Cuz I sure do!
***I got this product for free from the company, but only because the guys there are super cool. Absolutely no obligations what so ever to talk about the product because they don't even know I have a blog!***

12. Proxi Skincare Body Wash in Cucumber & Green Tea
Can I just say, I love the weird smell of this product? Because I do. I love it. It reminds me of freshly cleaned pool locker rooms. It must be the fresh smell of the hydrogen peroxide that the brand is based around, along with the cucumber and green tea (though the tea smell is super faint). Whatever it is, I love the vaguely clorine-y smell! It makes me think clean, and the product delivers a fabulous and foamy clean! Would I buy this? Yes I definitely will! I have some coupons for the product, so now I just need to hunt them down in Baltimore! (Sold in certain grocery stores, just not ones I normally shop at so haven't actually seen it for sale with my own eyes, but I know it is actually sold in certain stores).
***I got this product for free through Klout, but had no obligation to do a review***

13. Alba Botanica Natural Very Emollient Foam Shave in Sea Mist
I bought this semi on a whim when I was doing a secret shopping job at a natural food store. I didn't really need any groceries so I decided to get some natural beauty products, and one of the ones that called to me was this foam shave. I love that it is a non-aerosol shaving foam!!! I also love the mist because it is kind of masculine so it leans unisex! Normally I like a fun smelling shaving cream, but for some reason I really grew to love this scent! I also loved the application. Something about the non-aerosol made it easier to get the right thickness of product on my legs, etc. When ever I use gel creams I always feel like I have WAY too much product during my shave and that I'm not getting as close of a shave as a result. With this Alba foam shave I never had that problem. It has enough of a foam to do it's job without getting in its own way. It also found that this product was non-drying and kind of moisturizing, which is always nice with shaving products. Will I buy it again? Yes, and yes! There is another scent of this product that I saw when I bought this one, so I would love to try that next, the next time I come across this product (everyone needs an excuse to go to Whole Foods right?) . I would also love to try other non-aerosol shaving creams & foams, but so far this is the only one I know about.

So what do you think? Have you guys tried any of these products and had similar or completely different experiences? Wanna know more about a product and think I should do a post devoted entirely to it? Comments, concerns, questions? Comment below and let me know!

End of July Empties!

1. Got2b Fat-tastic Instant Collagen Infusion Mega-Lift Root-Booting Spray
I bought this after I saw a vlogger love it on Youtube, and it made her hair more voluminous. However, that girl's hair was thin, whereas my hair is quite thick, so that resulted in this product not doing anything for me at all. But it did smell nice, and I did manage to get it for free because when I purchased it at Rite-Aid last summer there was a rebate to get the whole purchase price back. Would I buy it again? Nope. But I do want to try out other Got2b products, specifically ones targeted for my hair type.


2. Nexxus Pro-Mend Split End Treatment Shampoo
I loved the smell of this: jasmine and coconut. I wish I could have the smell in a perfume. However, this shampoo is a little "eh." Once I used this up and switched to other shampoos I realized how must this shampoo was NOT taking out of my hair, and that my hair didn't really feel clean even when using this 2x each shower. I wouldn't buy this shampoo again, but I do like the brand, and the line, and maybe if my hair was super-duper damaged the over moisturizing nature of this shampoo might be ideal?


3. Nexxus Pro-Mend Split End Treatment Conditioner
I liked this, but I didn't love it. Again, the smell is divine, but I didn't find that this conditioner did magical things for my hair. However, I think this is a good conditioner and that I am just bias because I have used the Split End Binding Treatment in the line, and I think that product really does work better, now that I have used the conditioner alone. But, now re-reading my past post about the treatment, perhaps both products only perform well when they are used together? Perhaps I'll try it out again next summer, since using this product in the summer time seems to be my trend, haha.


4. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash
Like the Skin Relief line of the Aveeno body washes, this body wash is ok. The smell is tolerable, but nothing to write home about. The lather is adequate, but nothing special. Would I buy the full size? I don't think I would, only because I feel like the Skin Relief one might be slightly better. But, if this was in the travel aisle and I needed a travel body wash, I'd probably pick this up. **Note: I got this product for free through Influenster without an obligation to review it**


5. Secret Smooth Effects Wildflower Fresh Conditioning Solid
I love this deodorant, and this scent is my favorite in the line. I love that it is conditioning, and that it isn't a true solid. It does give you the classic white streak problem if you put it on before clothing, instead of while already wearing clothing, but I still love it. I have tried other scents (Smooth Powder, and Eucalyptus Blossom) when this scent has been out of stock, but the Wildflower one is still my go to. Buy it again? Definitely! 


6. & 7. Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy Total Care Shampoo and Conditioner
See my previous empties post about this product, or my more detailed new posted dedicated to the product.
**I received this product for free through Influenster for testing and review purposes.**

8. Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel
Smells weird, and was too harsh for me. It would leave my skin feeling sensitive and angry afterward. I am glad I got this as a free sample through the Mario Badescu website to learn this. I think that maybe if I used it less often (like once a week?) I might have had less issues with it, but either way, I am not interested in buy the full size of this.


9. Proxi Toothpaste Fresh Clean Mint
This toothpaste is good but not great. I love it while I am brushing because the mint flavor is so my style, and I like that it had a smooth and not gritty consistency. However, I feel like the hydrogen peroxide base that this line is based upon, gives it a funky aftertaste after a few hours. It's hard to describe but I guess I would call it kind of peroxide-y. I don't think I would buy the full size of this tookthpaste, but I do like the idea behind the line and would be interested in buying other things from Proxi.
**I got this for free through Klout (no obligation to review, or talk about it what so ever).**


10. Burt's Bees Rejuvenating Lip Balm with Acai Berry
After the Chapstick Lipshield incident last month, I enlisted recommendations from my friends and a few people recommended Burt's Bees to me. I have used the traditional classic Burt's Bees in the past, but never these new non-minty ones, and I gotta say, I am hooked! I loved the smell of this one, as well as the smooth buttery consistency. This tube lasted me approximately a month and when I bought it it came with another Lip Balm in Mango, and was an excellent deal & combo if you ask me. I also found that with this lip balm I didn't need to reapply as often as I have had to with other brands, though perhaps I am a little biased after the insane amount I had to apply the Chapstick Lipshield? Either way, I approve of this, and would buy it again!


11. Fresh Moisturizing Body Wash
I got this for free from CVS when they had a coupon. Do note, however, if you get a coupon that is for "CVS brand body wash" this line does not count and such coupons cannot be used on this product, even though I would consider it a CVS brand body wash, but whatever, fine print nuances right? Anyway, for a free body wash I quite liked it. The smell was good, though I wouldn't say amazing. I would call it a cucumber kind of grassy smell, with occasional hints of green apple. Also, I think it smelled better lathered up than it does straight out of the bottle. The lather was good, and I have no reason to dislike this product. Buy it again? I think if I was on a tight budget I would, because the price is fantastic ($2.50ish), and the smell is fine. I just wouldn't buy it if I felt I could spend a few more dollars and get a scent that I love instead of just like.


12. Bed Head TIGI Headrush Shine Adrenaline with a Superfine Mist
Words cannot express my love of this product. The smell is amazing (and I was complimented for it on many occasions by persons of both sexes), and I love its results. I love shine sprays in general, and I love this one specifically because the mist is so fine. I think that because it is so fine, it allows you to use more shine spray without the risk of greasiness, and all the perks that you get a with shine spray. Buy again? When I have a budget that can justify the cost, yes! When I bought this bottle I managed to get it at half price so maybe if I way long enough I'll come across a good deal for it again!


13. Dove Hair Therapy Nourish Oil Care Anit-Frizz Serum
I had used the conditioner in this line in the past, so when I had a bunch of CVS extrabucks saved up I decided to buy this product because it was basically free due to my rewards $ (though only $8-9 normally), and I am so glad I did! I love the results! I don't care that it is hoping on the argan oil trend, and it is not Morrocan Oil brand, etc, and that it has silicones in it in addition to the argan oil: I love it. I can not deny that my hair likes silicone in moderation. I would use this on my wet hair after a shower, as well as a de-frizzing touch up on occasion, and always love it. I never had a greasiness problem, even when I used 3 or 4 pumps at a time. Buy it again? Yes! Just gonna try out some other argan oil based products first, because this one is amazing, and even for its small size, it lased quite a long time! I wanna say, 2 or 3 months?


14. L'Oreal Youth Code Serum Corrector
I like this product, and its results, but I am not hooked, or 100% convinced. I think that this did help my hard spots some what, but it was nothing miraculous, and the differences I saw could also be attributable to the passage of time, and a lack of sun exposure. I did like the texture, smell, and that I don't think it broke me out. Sometimes if this was paired with certain moisturizers in the morning, there could be a rolling/pealing problem, but I attribute that more to the moisturizers than just this serum, because this serum is nice and lightweight. The only think I dislike is that I can't see into the packaging and know when it is empty before nothing comes out. Buy it again? I think I might, but only after there is a deal going on. When I bought this one I think there was a cash back (CVS extra bucks) deal going on, and I had a coupon or two, so I think that is what made me bite the bullet to try this out since it does cost $25 full price (though it is often on sale I think).


15. & 16. L'Occitane Milk Concentrate Sample x 2
I liked this moisturizer, but I don't think I love it enough to buy the full size. I loved the playdoh/milky smell, and it was nice an moisturizing without being thick or greasy. It was a nice thing to take with me when I was traveling, and I wouldn't mind getting this as a gift or something.


17. & 18. Garnier Fructis Color Shield Shampoo & Conditioner
It's been a while since I used a Garnier Fructis shampoo and conditioner, and getting to use it (I got the sample through the Summer Target Beauty Bag) reminded me how much I love the smell of the products and the basic & reliable results. I didn't notice anything special about this set since I don't have colored hair, but the smell was great, and my hair felt clean and refreshed after I used it. Buy the full size? Not of the Color Shield line, but other lines, yes.


19. Supergoop! Spf 30+ City Sunscreen Serum
I like the idea of a sunscreen serum, but this serum didn't like me. While the Spf was great, I found that my skin was unusually sensitive a week after I used this, and I am pretty sure that it was this product that caused it. My eyelids became super sensitive, red, and peelly, aka, not a cute look! I have one more little packet of this because I got 2 of them in my July Birchbox, and I will try to use that one up too, and avoid my eye area, but I am not interested in buying the full size, and I am not sure I am interested in much more of the Supergoop! line other than maybe the lip product.


20. CVS Brand Premium Cotton Rounds
What can I say, these are cotton rounds. I liked them, they did all their jobs, they didn't shread during use, and they are way better than cotton balls. Buy again? Definitely, as well as other CVS brand cotton products.


21. Harvey Prince Eau Flirt Lavender Pumpkin Perfume Sample
I liked how it sounded on the product info, but the actual execution of the lavender and pumpkin together just does not work for me. I am picky about lavender to begin with, and adding pumpkin to it didn't help it here. I think that a pumpkin based perfume could smell really nice, but pairing it with lavender was not the way to go. Buy the full size? Nope. But was happy to try it out through my July Birchbox

**Referral Links used**

Mid-July Empties

1. Dial Naturals Hand Soap in Tangerine & Guava
Words cannot describe how amazing this smells! It is the perfect summer fruity smell, I LOVE it! I am considering buying the body wash form when I am in the market for body wash! Buy this again? Heck yes I am! I love it!


2. Gillette Satin Care with a Touch of Olay Shave Gel with Shea Butter
Meh. Can I for one say that I think it is weird that this product comes out blue? When I first used it I thought "wait... it's blue... is Gillette sure they teamed up with Olay, because it seems like the teamed up with Dawn!" because it even kinda smells kitchen soapy! Haha. But, all in all, this shave gel is ok. I did feel like it moisturized but it was amazing or anything. Something about the blue-ness makes me hesitate though. I don't think I will buy this again, if only because I think I like the texture of shave lotions rather than shave gels. The bottle did seem to last for a really long time and it's cheap! So I am resort to this product again if I find myself in super budget land.


3. Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips Ultra
These are a great staple, and what girl doesn't love a good pore stripe or face mask right? I love the whole pore stripe concept, and probably would love these like I used to, but having used the Boscia Pore Purifying Black Strips last year and LOVING those, it's hard to go back to the drugstore version. I do love the new Biore rewards system though! (I know, I'm such a sucker for coupons, rewards, and freebies!). Buy again? Quite likely since the Boscia ones are SO expensive and I can't justify it right now. Plus, hello rewards points!

4. & 5. Tresenne Split Remedy Shampoo & Conditioner.
See my review of this product in my previous empties post here as my opinion hasn't really changed with further use.

6. Sephora Brand Snag-Free Hair Elastics
I love these. I love the matchbook packaging (though would be awesome if it was half sized). I love the black color. All around fabulous! Re-buy? Definitely! Any time soon? Perhaps. But might try out the drugstore Goody Brand ones just to see how they compare because I imagine they are super similar and the you get way more of them in the Goody package. However I LOVE that the Sephora ones are only $3.50! A STEAL right? :P


7. Bodycology Wild Poppy Nourishing Body Cream Sample
I got this sample for free via the Bodycology facebook page and I am so happy I did! I LOVE this new scent! Someone take me to a Target now, I want this in my life! I am staring down my full Nivea lotion because that is what is preventing me from running out and buying this body cream right now! Haha. Added bonus, the sample came with a coupon too!


8. Aveeno Smart Essentials Daily Detoxifying Scrub
I liked this but I wouldn't say it is anything special. The texture kind reminded me of the Garnier Nutritioniste Nutri-Pure Daily Exfoliating Gel Cleanser of my past, but otherwise I am not dying because this product is out of my life. I like the idea of a daily scrub though. I've been using a lot of gel and cream cleansers without scrubs recently, and I think I need a little more scrub in my life! haha. Considering trying out the other Aveeno daily scrub for brightening though!


9. Simple Refreshing Facial Wash Gel

To bad I didn't get this sample sooner, I could have included it in my Simple Skincare Overview Post. I got this sample a while ago when CVS was giving them out for free when Simple first launched in the US. I found myself quite enjoying this simple (har har) wash. It really is a no frills gel wash, but that is what I liked about it. I imagine my feeling is kinda like why people like cetaphil. It just is what it is, and nothing more, and that's all we really want from it. It washed without drying, and it never stung or anything. Buy again? Perhaps. Though I am not interested in trying out their Moisturizing face wash because it might be just the kind of thing I'll love even more! Anyone try that one yet? What about the scrub? (Maybe I need to just buy every product! haha. I feel like I've reviewed about half of them by now!)

10. Comodynes Urban Cosmetics Self-Tanning Intensive & Uniform Color Towelette

I got this (along with a second one that I have not used yet) in my June birchbox and was excited to try it because I've never used a tanning towelette before. I gotta say, I really like the concept of it! The only thing holding me back from loving it is the fact that it had that faux-tan smell the next day, and I did have one issue of blotchiness but I do think that that was my own dang fault, haha. I found this to be super even, and it did actually last a good long time! Even as it was fading I didn't have issues with streaking or anything. The blotch that I had was from washing my hands after application and I think I had dripped some water on my leg or something. Also, I love that it said to moisturized before application because I really think that is what happened it too look so great and natural on me! The one toweltte covered both of my legs evenly. At first glance I thought one leg tanned less than the other, but once it fully set they were exactly the same! I totally understand the hype of these now! I would love if this brand made a less "intensive" version. Then I would want to do my whole body!

11. Mario Badescu Skin Care Drying Mask Sample

I quite liked this mask! I loved the weird drying feeling it has after you wash it off. I smells weird though so definitely not something for prior to date night, etc. Buy the full size? Not sure given the price. Loved the sample though! Mario Badescu is awesome about samples. I got six for free just for filling out a survey thing. You should try it out!

12. Mario Badescu Skin Care Strawberry Face Scrub

LOVED! This scrub! I loved that it wasn't that scrubby. All that makes it scrubby is strawberry seeds which is a nice light scrubbing feeling. The smell is amazing too. I think I really will buy this in the full size! Or maybe try out the Kiwi one!

Gigundo Empties Post

I am SO proud of this empties post because it is so well rounded, and because I found a lot of things that I loved. Hope you enjoy! :)

1. Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash
I used up this body wash because it was sitting around my parents house not being used since it used to be my sisters but she moved out and moved far away, never to return to use this body wash, haha. So, I figured I should give it a good home in my loofa and see whats up with it since my sister ALWAYS gets this body wash. The verdict? It's ok. I didn't notice anything spectacular about it moisturizing and soothing itchy skin, but I think that is because I don't really suffer from that problem like my sister does. It smells kinda funky, but I didn't hate it so much that if I did need to use this for itchiness reasons, I could deal with it. Would I buy it? Probably not, unless my sister convinced me I needed it for hypothetical dry skin of the future.

2. Revlon Colorstay Whipped Creme Makeup Sample in Nude.
I got this little sample at CVS when this makeup first came out. I always love a free sample, and have always wanted to try a Colorstay line foundation. While this sample was suuuper tiny and only really covered my cheeks (and just barely that, haha), I did find myself liking it. It didn't break me out, and I like the way it felt when I put it on. I didn't notice anything about my cheeks looking different later in the day than the rest of my face where I had used the Vitalumere Aqua, which is good! While this is a pricier drug store foundation, around $12 I think, I am considering buying it after I run out of my Chanel, because they felt so similar going on. I just hope I can get a good color match in the lighter shades below nude!

3. Kat Von D Autograph Liner in Love Metal
I honestly bought this in like 2008 or something, and because of that fact I think it is time to toss it. While it still applies nicely, it burns like I-don't-know-what if you get it in your eyes, which is probably due to its age. I am pretty sure it was this product that got me really into gunmetal as my favorite color, so it is bittersweet to see this go, especially since it is still about half full. Buy again? Perhaps if I really had a need for a colored liquid liner like this. I honestly have no idea how I used up as much as I did since I hardly wore it haha. Def love the Kat Von D line, and will be checking out more of her stuff in the future :)


4. Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Liner in Distortion
Same story with this as the Kat Von D, though this one was purchased after the Kat Von D, just still ancient, haha. I love love LOVE the color and the way it applies, and I never really had much of a eye-burning problem with this liner as the other one, but sometimes it could get a little itchy in its old age. Buy again? I think I would if I could snag it at a bargain. While I never used it enough to really justify buying it again, I wouldn't mind having it again because I always found that it came in handy for costume events or a glitzy going out look. Hautelook I'm look at you to bring this back into my life! Haha.

5. Sun Bum Chapstick
So sad to see this go! You might remember my mini haul of this back when I was on vacation in December. I have been using it off and on since then, so that's probably why this lasted me so long. I LOVE this chapstick, and will definitely be buying it again when I get the chance! Whats not to love? The formula is light and greasy in a good way, it has 30+ SPF, so perfect for sun worshiping, it tastes and smells like juicy fruit... it has an awesome money head on the top of the cap; it really is perfection, haha. The only down side is that the label that goes around the tube gets easily scuffed up (but the monkey on the top is quite safe, secure, and un-scuffed, which is the important thing, obviously).

6. Pure Coconut Oil
I bought this giant thing last summer at a vitamin store and have never regretted the purchase. I love the stuff, and it has so many uses! My personal favorite use is to add a dollop to your bubble bath to turn it into a moisturizing bath! But it is also great for hair masks (though can be a little messy so be careful), and body moisturizing. Buy it again? I might if I come across a smaller container, because this thing just looked crazy on my counter, haha, but definitely will still be seeking out products that contain coconut oil.

7. Aveeno Positivey Smooth Shave Gel
I bought this slightly on a whim when I just wanted to try a new shave gel because I had gotten bored with all the other choices that are out there. For some reason the idea of it letting me shave less often just hooked me, and once I smelled it I was definitely sold; it smells kinda like play-doh in all the best ways :P I don't think it actually did anything to let me shave less often though. It did perform well in all its shaving gel duties, and it never stung, or gave me razor burn. I also love the packaging because its matte and just has a nice feel to it. It also has a rust proof bottom, which is definitely true because it never rusted even in the slightest during the time ti lived in my shower. Buy it again? Yep definitely, just gonna try out a fun summer scented one next I think.

8. Tresemme Heat Tamer Spray
It's the classic heat tamer spray. It does its job, it sprays nicely (though I always pour it in a small travel sprayer when I use it because I just find that is easier), and it smells nice. I have nothing too passionate to say about it either way though. This was my second bottle I have used up in my life so I think I am going to try out a new brand's heat protector next just to try something new, but this will always be a go to steady in my life. Plus its super cheap! Always a bonus!

9. Redkin Nature's Rescue Radient Sea Spray
I bought this back in Janurary after remembering that a Youtube guru I watch loved it last summer so I decided to give it ago. I do love the scent that it gives your hair, and I do think it can last quite a bit in your hair. My favorite is when I spray it in my hair after a shower before bed, and then when I ruffle my hair in the morning it smells super fresh. I do think it is pretty expensive for a product that is a hair perfume. It was fun while it lasted but I don't think I would ever buy it again. I would love getting it as a gift or something though. I wonder if I can dupe it with a cheaper body spray or something and just spray that in my hair? Suggestions? Comment below, haha. :P

10. ELF Makeup Mist & Set
I honestly can't remember why I bought this, but I remember being on a mission to get it at Target and felt very victorious when I got it, haha. I don't think it really makes your makeup last longer but it was great for what I used it for: to spray on after applying power to get ride of that "powdery" look since I tend to use too much power just to use up the powder on my Kill It Quest faster, haha. It has a strange smell but it doesn't last after it dries, so it's a whatever point. At $3 this is fabulous, and I love the size of it. Buy it again? Definitely will at that price, especially if I have more "powdery"ness issues in the future.

11. L'Oreal EverCreme Intense Nourishing Shampoo
I bought this with low expectations because I had heard mixed reviews about it on the internet but was feeling compelled to try it for myself, and I also needed a few dollars for a CVS bonusbuck deal if I recall and this was the perfect amount to reach the threshold, haha. I am glad I did it though because I learned that I quite like this shampoo. While it does have some derrivative sulfate-like ingredients, and you can tell by how it does lather up a bit, I do think it is better for your hair because it doesn't really strip it of much, but in a good way. Some people have complained that their hair didn't feel clean after using this, but I always shampooed twice, and didn't use the accompanying conditioner, so maybe that was a key to my success? It also has a nice kind of cinnamon-y smell. Buy it again? Yep, I think I would, just have other things to explore first.

12. Dove Nourishing Oil Care Daily Treatment Conditioner
When I bought this I wanted to try out the Dove Daily Treatment Conditioner, as well as their new Nourishing Oil line so when I saw that both things were put together in one product I was sold, and I loved every second of this conditioner! Firstly, I never knew Dove smelled this fantastic! Where has Dove been all my life!? No more wasting my time with Herbal Essences, the smell of Dove is just so divine in comparison! Secondly, I think this performed rather well! While my hair wasn't magically changed, I think it did improve my hair, and it was always a pleasant experience to use. Buy again? Definitely. I think I might try the non-nourishing oil version of the daily treatment, as well as just the Nourishing Oil line actual oil and see how that works for my hair. If that isn't as good, that I am definitely returning this baby!

13. Ojon Damage Reverse Restorative Conditioner
I was STOKED when I got this in my May Birchbox because I have been stalking this line for years at Sephora but just never had tried it til now. It always sounded like a product I would love, but I learned that I'm glad I didn't buy the full size all those times I considered it. The smell of this product is just something I can't work with. I can't even describe the scent, but I just know that I don't like it, and I don't care how magical the results might be. I used this twice (though really one and a half), because that's how many uses I could get out of it, and didn't notice any magical difference. I wouldn't doubt that maybe longer use of this product could convince me of its great ways, but the smell... I just wouldn't be able to get past it to use up a whole full sized bottle (kind of very similar to the issue I had with the equally hyped Joico conditioner I tried). Buy full sized? Obviously not.