Product Empties | August 2015

A mixed selection of products starting with believe it or not, the rarely seen in empties videos product. This shade is Aspen by Nails Inc and is my 'Christmas red'. It has a bright ruby colour and glistens like a gemstone perfect if you want to distinguish from your usual shades of red.

The next product is Avene's XeraCalm Cream* and is a little bit of a cheat. I didn't actually use this cream myself but a friend did. She recently had a clear out of her beauty stash and shared some things that weren't working for her with me and threw this in as she knows about my empties posts and thought I could include it. As a eczema she found this was a fantastic cream for alleviating symptoms and as you can see it was used in its entirety. Often after days/weeks products which once work begin to do the opposite for her but not with this. If you suffer from any of those itchy types of skin problems definitely check this out.

I recently reviewed the Anatomical mask selection* in full so it's not necessary to go into much detail. In short Anatomical is a company that puts some fun back into beauty as each mask has an amusing description rather than you're usual kind. At just £3 for a pack available these are perfect for girls nights in or to throw in Christmas stockings.

OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo was my holiday shampoo of 2015. It joined me in both Ibiza and Dubai and worked perfectly against the heat. I'm currently working through my shampoo stash but I'm excited to try more from the OGX range.

I wouldn't usually bother adding my toothpaste to the empties pile as it's a fairly dull product but as my first experience with The Breath Co was by way of a press sample it's always worth updating you with my thoughts. I'm not a fan of your typical toothpastes as I hate the taste whereas despite The Breath Co toothpaste being minty it is a faint taste that doesn't stop you from eating for the next hour after brushing. I have gone so far to track this down at specific larger Boots stores, replaced numerous times and am paying more than you would for your Colgates and such. This is definitely a holy grail product for me.

Since I first started using Manuka Doctor CC Cream* in May I've powered through this fantastic CC cream. It's fantastic for no make up days and where I'd sometimes not even bother with any sort of base at all I like to use this for it's lovely sheen it gives to the skin. With SPF 20 it's perfect for sitting in the garden when the sun is shining (not anymore!) and I was sad to add it to my empties bag. This is definitely one I'll look at repurchasing for future holidays in the sun as it's perfect for poolside.

And finally we have the blogger favourite, Collection Long Lasting Concealer. I have two shades 2 Light and 3 Warm Medium and whilst I've pretty much used up these tubes I gave before scrapping the last drops. I too loved this concealer in my early days with it, these are both repurchases so it was certainly so but lately, maybe it's my age but I've just found them too drying under the eyes and it settles into my fine lines. When I have Maybelline Fit Me Concealer that works wonders there's no need for me to fight with the this one.

*This post contains press samples

Products I used up | Ibiza Edition

When I travel that means you get a bonus empties post of all the things I managed to use whilst on holiday. Here's what found it's way into the bins of Ibiza 

Liz Earle Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash
I'm a little annoyed as I have a full size of this body wash and intended to return home with this mini size empty and ready to refill for future trips but unfortunately in my haste of packing it was thrown into the bin. Moving past my frustrations this is a delicious body wash to use and kind to all due to the naturally active ingredients - its even suitable for your babies. Definitely one to try if you have skin that is a little sensitive as it doesn't contain any 'nasties'.

Gillette Venus & Olay Razor
My favourite razors are the Gilette Venus & Olay type which are perfect for leg shaving, especially when doing it almost daily like I have to whilst on holiday. I could probably get a little more than a week out of one head but for ease and packing purposes it worked out for me to take one of the individually packaged heads for the week. You can read my full Gillette Venue & Olay review here.

ESPA Optimal Skin ProCleanser
I received this mini cleanser with my Tatler subscription and thought it perfect to take along as my morning cleanse whilst on holiday. I enjoyed using this although it does contain microbeads which I know can be a bone of contention for some. It lasted almost to the full 7 days I was away.

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Scrub and Body Buttercream
Body Scrub's and Body Buttercreams from Soap and Glory are favourites of mine and these picks were from the Sugar Crush Gift Set I'd received for Christmas and saved for this trip. The zesty scent was perfect for my beachy conditions and I enjoy using a body scrub on holiday to help keep the tan in tip top condition. The body butter creams are perfect to double up as foot creams too.

Riemann P20 Once a Day SPF30*
Ben & I actually purchased P20 at the airport before heading to Dubai and it worked well against their heat. Unfortunately we couldn't get the spray option and relied on the cream so I was pleased when I was sent the spray option. I travelled to Ibiza alone and the only thing I had any concerns with were how I would get sun protection on my back. This P20 spray was perfect as I was able to angle and spray and know that I was protected without having to approach a stranger and ask 'could you rub this in'. I used this particularly on the days I was going to visit my parents on another part of the island and knew we would be walking around the resort  rather than sitting round the pool all day when reapplication was possible.

The Wet Brush, Classic
I am not onto my third Wet Brush, this one being my second. After trips to Dubai and Ibiza as well as some random overnight stays it's safe to say it doesn't travel well. I love this brush but unfortunately when shoved into bags the bristles are not sturdy enough to stand up to conditions and I did notice that it wasn't performing as well towards the end of my trip so it was time to say goodbye.

And of course a trusty Toothbrush found it's way into the bin with a new one waiting at home for my return.

The Girl on the Train, Paula Hawkins
My reading habits have remained slack of late and I'm sure reading isn't the top of everyones Ibiza packing list but for me, travelling alone I wanted to ensure I had something to get my teeth into, especially as I had a two hour train journey before I even got to board a plane. I had read about Girl on the Train being the new Gone Girl (although I haven't read that either) so I thought I'd give it a try. Usually I wouldn't dream of taking a hardback on holiday with me but because I was so intrigued to read the story I purchased a copy. I enjoyed reading this and found it perfect for holidaying because of the way it was designed with easy breaks so you could pick up and put down as necessary. I'm not sure I think it's deserved the amazing reviews as it's not amazing, just good. It felt almost simplistic and I pretty much guessed who the 'guilty one' was early on. Is it worth a read, yes but is it as 'thrilling' as reviews make it? Not in my opinion.

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Wash
I was able to get about four washes out of this body wash and like the other Sugar Crush products enjoyed doing so. More of a cream than a gel it made for quite a luxurious experience. I'd definitely purchase this in full size.

Indeed Labs Hydraluron Moisture Boosting Mask*
Hydraluron sheek masks are my travel must have. I also use one after a flight, even if Ibiza's was a mere two hours. In this instance I used in the middle of my trip after daily exposure to the sun, the air-conditioning of my room and dehydration from heat and one or two drinks. I've said before I'm not a big fan of the serum but these masks work far better for a heavy duty hit when needed.

Tweezerman Pointed Tweezers
I much prefer using pointed tweezers than slanted, I find they are easier to use and more effective. Unfortunately these had suffered some damage so were not meeting at the ends any more. I had since replaced and threw these into my travel bags to use as necessary whilst away.

Diptyque Eau Moheli EDT
As you will see in the photo I had an accident and smashed the bottle of Diptyque's Eau Moheli somewhere in the middle of my trip. Yes there was almost tears. I have had this scent for almost two years, only bringing it out in the Summer and I really enjoy using it. For a floral scent it's surprising as usually I'm not a fan but ylang ylang and spices make for something more pleasing. I'm definitely keen to repurchase this fragrance, and in full size as I do miss it.

OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Conditioner
Purchased for Dubai and still lasting for Ibiza I was able to use up the remaining bottle of the OGX Coconut Milk Conditioner. I've mentioned OGX quite a few times now since my introduction and will definitely buy full size and try other types from the range.

What products do you find you use up on holiday?

*PR Sample

Products I used up in Ibiza

When I travel that means you get a bonus empties post of all the things I managed to use whilst on holiday. Here's what found it's way into the bins of Ibiza 

Liz Earle Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash
I'm a little annoyed as I have a full size of this body wash and intended to return home with this mini size empty and ready to refill for future trips but unfortunately in my haste of packing it was thrown into the bin. Moving past my frustrations this is a delicious body wash to use and kind to all due to the naturally active ingredients - its even suitable for your babies. Definitely one to try if you have skin that is a little sensitive as it doesn't contain any 'nasties'.

Gillette Venus & Olay Razor
My favourite razors are the Gilette Venus & Olay type which are perfect for leg shaving, especially when doing it almost daily like I have to whilst on holiday. I could probably get a little more than a week out of one head but for ease and packing purposes it worked out for me to take one of the individually packaged heads for the week. You can read my full Gillette Venue & Olay review here.

ESPA Optimal Skin ProCleanser
I received this mini cleanser with my Tatler subscription and thought it perfect to take along as my morning cleanse whilst on holiday. I enjoyed using this although it does contain microbeads which I know can be a bone of contention for some. It lasted almost to the full 7 days I was away.

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Scrub and Body Buttercream
Body Scrub's and Body Buttercreams from Soap and Glory are favourites of mine and these picks were from the Sugar Crush Gift Set I'd received for Christmas and saved for this trip. The zesty scent was perfect for my beachy conditions and I enjoy using a body scrub on holiday to help keep the tan in tip top condition. The body butter creams are perfect to double up as foot creams too.

Riemann P20 Once a Day SPF30*
Ben & I actually purchased P20 at the airport before heading to Dubai and it worked well against their heat. Unfortunately we couldn't get the spray option and relied on the cream so I was pleased when I was sent the spray option. I travelled to Ibiza alone and the only thing I had any concerns with were how I would get sun protection on my back. This P20 spray was perfect as I was able to angle and spray and know that I was protected without having to approach a stranger and ask 'could you rub this in'. I used this particularly on the days I was going to visit my parents on another part of the island and knew we would be walking around the resort  rather than sitting round the pool all day when reapplication was possible.

The Wet Brush, Classic
I am not onto my third Wet Brush, this one being my second. After trips to Dubai and Ibiza as well as some random overnight stays it's safe to say it doesn't travel well. I love this brush but unfortunately when shoved into bags the bristles are not sturdy enough to stand up to conditions and I did notice that it wasn't performing as well towards the end of my trip so it was time to say goodbye.

And of course a trusty Toothbrush found it's way into the bin with a new one waiting at home for my return.

The Girl on the Train, Paula Hawkins
My reading habits have remained slack of late and I'm sure reading isn't the top of everyones Ibiza packing list but for me, travelling alone I wanted to ensure I had something to get my teeth into, especially as I had a two hour train journey before I even got to board a plane. I had read about Girl on the Train being the new Gone Girl (although I haven't read that either) so I thought I'd give it a try. Usually I wouldn't dream of taking a hardback on holiday with me but because I was so intrigued to read the story I purchased a copy. I enjoyed reading this and found it perfect for holidaying because of the way it was designed with easy breaks so you could pick up and put down as necessary. I'm not sure I think it's deserved the amazing reviews as it's not amazing, just good. It felt almost simplistic and I pretty much guessed who the 'guilty one' was early on. Is it worth a read, yes but is it as 'thrilling' as reviews make it? Not in my opinion.

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Wash
I was able to get about four washes out of this body wash and like the other Sugar Crush products enjoyed doing so. More of a cream than a gel it made for quite a luxurious experience. I'd definitely purchase this in full size.

Indeed Labs Hydraluron Moisture Boosting Mask*
Hydraluron sheek masks are my travel must have. I also use one after a flight, even if Ibiza's was a mere two hours. In this instance I used in the middle of my trip after daily exposure to the sun, the air-conditioning of my room and dehydration from heat and one or two drinks. I've said before I'm not a big fan of the serum but these masks work far better for a heavy duty hit when needed.

Tweezerman Pointed Tweezers
I much prefer using pointed tweezers than slanted, I find they are easier to use and more effective. Unfortunately these had suffered some damage so were not meeting at the ends any more. I had since replaced and threw these into my travel bags to use as necessary whilst away.

Diptyque Eau Moheli EDT
As you will see in the photo I had an accident and smashed the bottle of Diptyque's Eau Moheli somewhere in the middle of my trip. Yes there was almost tears. I have had this scent for almost two years, only bringing it out in the Summer and I really enjoy using it. For a floral scent it's surprising as usually I'm not a fan but ylang ylang and spices make for something more pleasing. I'm definitely keen to repurchase this fragrance, and in full size as I do miss it.

OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Conditioner
Purchased for Dubai and still lasting for Ibiza I was able to use up the remaining bottle of the OGX Coconut Milk Conditioner. I've mentioned OGX quite a few times now since my introduction and will definitely buy full size and try other types from the range.

What products do you find you use up on holiday?

*PR Sample

Beauty Empties June 2015

June has been another great month for me and empties thanks to my holidays and various travel minis so for those who enjoy these posts you're in for a treat. The first is a miscellaneous collection of beauty items so lets dive in.

Electric Colour Protect Conditioner*
I was lucky enough to try two products from the Electric range and the conditioner was my least favourite. As a conditioner it left hair bouncy and shiny but there was nothing for me that made it stand out from other favourites.

Roger & Gallet Bois d'Orange Invigorating Sorbet Body Lotion*
I'm becoming a great fan of the Roger & Gallet brand having sampled a lot of their products recently. The Sorbet Body Lotion range of body lotions are delicious products to use. Body lotion is the one product I'm trying to increase my use of and this one making its way into an empties post proves that it's happening. I favour a body lotion with a pump as it makes the process seem simpler and easy for some reason and the texture of this product has transferred well into making it ideal for Summer. I highly recommend you give these a try.

Soap & Glory Breakfast Scrub
A much raved about and repurchased product. Soap & Glory body scrubs rule in my eyes and you will see evidence of such in a forthcoming post. The breakfast scrub is more suited to cooler weather but I urge you to resist purchasing if you pick it up in your local Boots and give it a sniff.

OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo
I featured this shampoo in last months holiday haul after seeing it pop up on various YouTube videos and used it whilst in Dubai. I enjoyed using this and with some of the conditioner left over I picked up another to take with me to Ibiza. I'm definitely keen to try more from this range and will purchase in full sizes when the time to stock up arises.

Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque*
I was really excited when I received this hair mask in a goodie bag following an event as I'd heard so many rave reviews. I was also in love with the scent, if you have a chance its another product I'd recommend you try smelling. Unfortunately the love ends there. I didn't find this product did any more than a standard conditioner. I wouldn't repurchase but it was an enjoyable product to use as part of my Sunday night routine but for scent alone that isn't enough.

Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter
The Righteous Butter accompanied me to Dubai and I found it worked well doubling up as a foot cream whilst I was there. I went through this small tub very quickly and it's a thick product with the strong Soap & Glory scents they're famous for. I would repurchase on the basis of the product but for me they have other scents I prefer.

Sure Women Crystal Invisible Aqua Aerosol Deodorant
Its well documented what a fan I am of Sure Maximum Protection I am but unfortunately the other ranges, or more specifically the aerosols just don't do the trick for me. They are satisfactory for travel or a freshen up after work but for everyday I need something a little stronger.

A mixed bag of products, some good, some bad - anything you recognise from your stash?

Haul for holidays

I was quite proud there had been minimum pre-holiday purchasing and then it seemed like the weekend before I had a very blogger/YouTube led purchasing spree as well as one or two regular essentials. 

Wilkinson Sword Quattro Bikini Razor* link
Many of you may switch to a leg and bikini wax before holiday but after my recent waxing disasters you will know I'm sticking to shaving. As I would need to keep up the maintenance on holiday I turned to my Wilkinson Sword Quattro Bikini Razor knowing that it would perform in 'both areas'. You can read my original Wilkinson Sword Quattro Bikini Razor review here.

OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo and Conditioner link
OGX is a brand I knew little of but had seen often. Through the powers of YouTube seeing this shampoo brand spoke highly by the likes of Caroline Hirons it was very much on my radar. When I popped into Superdrug for my toothpaste (see below) and it was three for two I decided that despite not needing any more shampoo's and conditioners these would travel with me to Dubai.

I have used during my trip and it's a thumbs up. So much so I will be buying more, in larger sizes on my return.

Colgate Max White Toothpaste link
Regular readers will know I'm not a 'toothpaste fan' and since discovering The Breath Co have been far happier with teeth brushing duties. I considered decanting but realised that was ridiculous and didn't really want to bring the full sized tube. Instead I picked up the small tube of Colgate thinking I'm sure I can manage for a 10 days with some intense mint tasting toothpaste. In the spirit of first world problems I can't stand it and cannot wait to return home to my favoured brand.

Travel Containers link
I picked up three of the round tubes from Superdrug, again on offer but only ended up using one for my body scrub. As I reach my last day in Dubai I would have benefited more from using two of the tubs so I will make a note for my trip to Ibiza next month.

Seventeen Eyeshadow Monos link
More eyeshadows than necessary and in hindsight many shades to compare to Rose Quartz I still couldn't resist purchasing after watching one of Fleur De Force's videos. I had the full intention of taking advantage of the 'buy one get one half price' and sending one to Rose in America. Then I saw Viva Diva and decided to treat myself instead. Despite also being armed with my two Lorac Pro Palettes and a few Mac Eyeshadows which accompanied I have used both of these shades. Rose Quartz was a disappointment. Not as pigmented nor sparkly as I would like, especially when I have Mac Rose Pigment but Viva Diva. That was possibly my favourite make up look of my trip.

Bourjois Contour Clubbing Eyeliner link
Hoping to get a little experimental on holiday and add some colour I decided to pick up three of the Contour Clubbing Eyeliners from Bourjois. I chose Purple Night, Loving Green and Blue Neon and have used all three since away. I think I still need a little practice to get the wear right but they certainly added a little something to my eye make up looks of an evening.

Finally the most unexciting but the one thing I do every holiday is buy a new toothbrush. I don't take that one on holiday with me. That's the one I will leave at home, taking the old one and leaving it behind. That way I return home to a nice toothbrush that hasn't tackled the 'rigours' of travel .

What have been your last minute holiday purchases?

*PR Sample