October Empties 2020
During the month of October my aim was to finish a lot of the products I already had opened for a while. I really enjoy finishing products as it makes me feel better about opening new products. As with my other Empties Posts, the items that have been reviewed in the past will be marked as such.
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Face
Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Serum
Price: $98 for 1oz
The PTR Potent C vitamin C serum is a 20% serum that is formulated with one of the most stable forms, THD, Tetrahexydecyl Ascorbate. I really like that this formula also contains Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid. This serum is described as being powerful and potent and I agree with that claim. Vitamin C is a staple in my routine and finding a routine that fits my exact needs has been difficult.
I have to say I really enjoy the texture and the consistency of this serum. The consistency is a light weight serum. I found that it absorbed into the skin very well and once it did my skin didn’t feel oily or greasy. With this being a 20% potent formula, I wasn’t sure how my skin would react. My skin loved this serum and while using it I my face appeared brighter with a great glow. The only CON I would say is the price. $100 for a 1 oz is very expensive that lasted me a little over 2 months. I only used this serum in my morning routine. I’m not opposed to revisiting this in the future, but it would have to be on sale.
Price: $14 for 1.7oz
This cleanser was in a Caudalie gift set that I received several months ago. It’s described as being a natural soap-free daily cleanser that is formulated with antioxidants. I really enjoyed the texture of the foam and found using it to be more of an experience for me.
But ultimately, I had some mixed emotions about using it. I typically used in in my morning routine and afterwards my skin felt clean. But overall, I felt that it was too drying for my skin. I think this may have to do with my Tretinoin, which is known to causing drying to the skin too. I can definitely say I won’t be purchasing this one.
First Aid Beauty Radiance Pads
Price $17 for 28 pads
The FAB Radiance Pads is a product that seems to be well loved in the online beauty community. After using them I can clearly understand why. The pads are said to be a daily treatment that is formulated with lactic and glycolic acids. They are aimed to exfoliate, tone and brighten the skin. One side of the pad is texture and the other side is smooth. I found that 1 pad was sufficient per face application. So, this mini size could definitely last you about a month if used daily.
I know these pads are meant for the face, but I use them all over. They’re my go to for my neck, chest and bikini line. I find that them to be very gentle and have never experienced any type of stinging while using them either. For the price and quality, I would definitely repurchase them.
The Inkey List Polyglutamic Acid Hydrating Serum
Price: $14.99
PGA is a serum that works by smoothing and plumping the skin. I enjoyed using this in my morning routine. In one of my previous posts about the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Serum, I recommended this serum in place of the Magic Serum as this one performs well and is only a fraction of the price.
Further Reading: The Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Serum Crystal Elixir Review
Herbivore Bakuchiol Alternative Retinol Serum
Price: $54 for 1oz
The Bakuchiol Serum is a natural anti-aging serum that is aimed to be an alternative to Retinol. It’s aimed for all skin types – especially for those with sensitive skin types. While using the serum I really didn’t notice a difference with my skin. For me this serum provided an extra level of hydration, but that was about it. Towards the end of my usage of it, I used it on my neck and chest.
I typical go for more potent formulas and I feel like this wasn’t suited for the needs of my skin. I feel like this may be a nice starter option for someone who is just starting out with retinol. I’ve also read that Bakuchiol is a great alternative for those that are pregnant. I’m not sure how true that is, but I would advise consulting with a physician prior to doing so.
Amore Pacific Treatment Enzyme Exfoliating Powder Cleanser
Price: $22 for 0.5oz
The Amore Pacific Enzyme Powder is described as a daily exfoliating cleanser that goes from a powder form to a foam. The formula is made with Green Tea derived Probiotic Enzyme, which helps to remove dead skin and Papaya Enzyme, which helps cell turnover.
I used this in my routine at night as a second step cleanser 1-2 times a week. I found the texture to be very smooth and not abrasive. While using this I never worried that this would be too rough or cause any irritation. After using the cleansing powder my skin felt smooth and not dry at all. The full size of this is pretty pricey, but I think the mini size of 0.5 oz would last a decent amount of time. My tiny trial size of 0.1oz lasted me many months.
Dr. Brandt. Oxygen Facial Flash Recovery Mask
Price: $70 for 1.4 oz
Described as a pick me up mask that helps against environmental stressors. The mask starts off as a cream and within a few minutes it transforms into a foaming texture. The mask is aimed to mimic a professional pressurized oxygen facial. The oxygen facial mask is applied to damp skin and is suggested to be left on for 3-5 minutes and then rinsed off. Being that the mask is so fast acting, I found myself using this at least 1x a week –sometimes a little less. After removing it my face felt toned. It didn’t feel dry or overly moisturized. I do think this is pretty price for the size, but if you’re able to purchase it on sale, it could be worth it.
Primera 7-Seed Nourishing Cleansing Oil
Price: $30
The Primera Cleansing Oil is first step cleansing oil aimed to break down dirt, sunscreen and makeup. I usually go for cleansing balms over cleansing oils, but I really enjoyed using this one. I really like how well the oil emulsified with water. I found that it removed my make-up and spf well. After rinsing it off my face feels soft and the cleansing oil doesn’t leave behind a film. I would definitely purchase this in the future.
Body Care
Josie Maran Skin Dope Ultra Nourishing Daily Body Wash
Price: $34 for 12oz (online only at Ulta)
This Skin Dope Body Wash is a sulfate-free nourishing body wash that is aimed to sooth, refresh and cleanse the skin. As with the majority of the Josie Maran line, this is formulated with 100% Pure Argan oil. It also contains Hemp Seed Oil and the combination of the two help to provide a gentle cleanse along with protecting the moisture barrier of the skin. The texture of the body cleanser was almost jelly like. It doesn’t contain fragrance or have a scent. I typically had to use 2-3 pumps to get a lather of my liking. Even with this being said, the body wash lasted me about 5 months. I think the unique formula of Argan Oil, Hemp Seed Oil and AHA (Lactic Acid) and White Willow Bark is definitely a step up from the traditional body washes that are on the market now. I have a backup of this and then that I’m going to hold off on opening until the summer.
Price: $12
Sk+nMuse is Black Owned Business that creates a luxurious feeling skincare that is still very much affordable. In the past several months I’ve purchased a few of their products. The quality and the packaging make it such an experience to use.
Think Body Balm but on the go. The Sk+n Muse Body Balm is packaged in what looks like a push pop container. The size made it great for on-the-go. The body balm was so moisturizing and I typically used it on the dryer areas of my body like my feet, knees and elbows. For the size and price, I will definitely repurchase.
Price: $3.99
Oyin Handmade is Black owned brand from the Baltimore, Maryland area. I’ve been purchasing their products for over 8 years now. Their Sugar Pomade and
Honey Water is described as being perfect for those that dislike the feeling of heavy oils and butters. It’s an oil-free hydrating spray that is formulated with simple, but great ingredients like water, aloe vera juice honey and more. The Honey Water moisturizes the skin well and when absorbed my skin felt moisturized but without an oily feeling. This was my go to use during the summer and at night when I didn’t want to do the whole lotion routine. I will definitely be repurchasing the full size.
Price: $25 for 6.8 oz
The Necessaire brand is known for having a clean esthetic when it comes to the ingredients in their products and overall visual representation. This is also what caught my attention of the brand. The lotion is formulated with Niacinamide, vitamins A,C, and E along with Omegas 6 and 9. The body lotion is marketed as being suitable for all skin types and is pH balanced. I purchased this lotion and started using it towards the beginning of this year. I typically used it on and off within my routine. In the past I really enjoyed and even seek out scented body lotion, but there was something about this one being unscented that I loved!
The texture of the lotion is a cream formulation that is not very thick, but also not very thin. I really enjoy this consistency. After applied to the skin, it absorbs well and doesn’t leave behind a film like most heavy creams do. I do plan on repurchasing this. I appreciate that the squeeze tube really allows you to get just about every bit of the lotion out.
Misc Candles & Scents
Price: $36 for 8oz
At the end of summer, I won a Candle Giveaway on Instagram. The Otherland Candles are made with a coconut and soy wax blend and a cotton wick. I tend to go for bigger candles, but I noticed that this 8oz candle burned so well. The first scent that I was automatically drawn to from their summer collection was StoneFruit. The scent was sweet and fresh. I typically burned the candle for 2-3 hours at a time and after the first hour the scent filled the room it was burning in well.
Otherland is now sold at Sephora and if you’re someone like me that hoards their points or looks for great sales, purchasing at Sephora is a great option. I have a few other Otherland Candles and I’m looking forward to burning each and every one.
Bath and Body Works Palo Santo Scent
Price: $24.50 for 14.5oz
The Palo Santo scent blend is Palo Santo Wood, Warm Amber and Soft Musk. I purchased this scent off of recommendation that I saw on Instagram and I’m so happy I did. I really love this scent and I think it can work for all areas of the home along with being suitable for all seasons. I’ve only seen this scent in the candle, but I am hoping that it gets expanded to the wall flower collection or room sprays. I will definitely be repurchasing this scent at the next candle sale- which is projected for the beginning of December.
Price: $22 for 100ml
I used this diffuser in the Cherry Blossom scent in my bathroom and I absolutely loved it! I loved how fragrant the smell was and how long it lasted. Based on the price and performance I would definitely repurchase!
Previously Reviewed
Drunk Elephant Slaai Cleansing Balm- Price $34 (Previous Review)
Curls Control Paste- Price: $7.99 - I use this for my slick buns in-place of gel. It gives my hair a nice level of shine, a soft hold, it doesn’t flake and it smells great. For all of these reasons I continue and will continue to repurchase. (Previous Review- Hair Care Favorites)
Fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask Price: $35 for 1oz- The Fresh Black Tea Mask is a hydrating mask that is formulated with antioxidants that works instantly. The texture of the mask is a whipped consistency and within the first couple of minutes of it being applied there is a light cooling sensation. Immediately after using it my face feels super smooth. I really like how quickly the mask works. This is not a mask I would typically purchase on its own, but I see that Fresh often includes this mask in many of their sets.
Olaplex Mini- Price Per Mini: $15-I have many reviews on the Olaplex No.3. This is a forever purchase for me and has been for the past several years. My only qualm about this mini is the fact that it is only 1 ounce. I have shoulder length hair that is of medium density and this mini only gives me 1 application. If you’re thinking of purchasing this, I would advise to just go straight to the full size of 3 oz. (Previous Review- Hair Care Favorites)
Paula’s Choice Youth Extend SPF- Price: $33- This is one of my favorite hybrid/spf sunscreens. I have combo skin and I loved using this during the warmer months. I’m in the process of finishing up some of my other SPF’s, but I do plan on purchasing this in the future. (Previous Review- Sunscreens For Combo Skin)