Empties #8: Early 2016

Apparently I don't like to post about my empties, even though I accumulate them in my basement and they pretty much stare at me every day. I have finished a lot more in 2016, but these photos were finished quite a while ago and I guess they got a little lost in my files. These are probably from the first half of 2016 (I know, it's sad this hasn't gotten up until now).

I do like to do round-ups of my empties though, so I think I will be aiming to do them 2-3 times a year from now on. I don't actually finish a lot of products often because I always end up saving products that I like, while testing something new. AND then I don't ever want to use the product that I liked because I have like 1/4 of it left and it's $40 or something ridiculous to repurchase, haha.

So here's a little round-up of the products I finished up from early 2016 and whether or not I would repurchase.

Swisspers Organic Cotton Rounds: I always repurchase these. Just plain affordable cotton pads from Walmart.
Purchase: Yes

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse: Always repurchasing this one too. One of the best self-tanners on the market and so easy to find.
Purchase: Yes

L'Oreal Elnett Satin Hairspray Deluxe Sample: I actually already repurchased this one on sale at a warehouse sale, but I don't ever really use hairspray often so in the future I probably wouldn't buy again.
Purchase: No

Yves Rocher Express Cleanser for Sensitive Eyes: Favouriteee oil-based makeup remover. Doesn't sting eyes and I use it daily. It removes everything.
Purchase: Yes

Kiss My Face Pomegranate Acai Moisturizer*: I really liked this at first, specifically for the scent and whipped texture, it absorbed so quickly into my skin. I wouldn't repurchase this solely for the fact that it went bad on me a lot quicker than expected. I was using it daily and it just started to smell bad. I was sad I had to waste product! If it would last a teeny bit longer it'd definitely make it onto my 'to buy' list.
Purchase: No

Bath And Body Works Snow Kissed Citrus & Maple Sugar Kiss Foaming Soap: Forever repurchasing these too. Best scented soaps and so worth it (when they're on sale).
Purchase: Yes

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Serum: I really like this eye serum but every time I go looking for it, it's crazy expensive. I do still have other eye creams I'm finishing up but I would definitely consider this when I'm done all of them.
Purchase: Yes

Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster: I bought this because I wanted something to add to my moisturizer but would give me a glow/gradual tan. Does exactly what it says and it lasts quite a while because you are only using drops at a time.
Purchase: Yes

Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner Sample: I did like this, but I wasn't sure exactly what it was doing to my skin. It feels nice and refreshing, but I didn't notice it did anything special to my pores. Not sure I would repurchase, I do have a full-size and will continue trying it out.
Purchase: Unsure

Maybelline Master Conceal Camoflaging Concealer in Light: I do really like this concealer, I wouldn't use it for night's out but for a daily basis it works well.
Purchase: Yes

Stila Brush (that's probably fake): I don't remember how I got this..I feel like I traded it or got it in a swap. I really don't think it's real because it is kind of crappy. I don't really see any good use for it so I'd rather just toss it or see if I can give it to anyone.
Purchase: No

Replica Mac 187: Replica...don't remember how I got this but it's broken now. Didn't ever work well and I'd never suggest buying fake mac brushes because they suck apparently.
Purchase: No

Tony Moly Intense Care Snail Hydro-gel Mask: I don't really have an opinion on this because I can't remember if it was good or not. I do have more and will definitely try them again.
Purchase: Unsure

Masque Bar Anti Blemish-Prone Mud Mask: I like these Masque Bar masks. This is a clay masque but I really wish they came packaging in a tub or something. I find that I can use one of these pouches for 3 different sessions. Not sure if they sell them anymore but I'd definitely pick some up again.
Purchase: Yes

Downy Unstopables Scent Booster Samples: I know not a beauty product, but I had to include these because I'm proud of myself when I finish laundry detergents and stuff. These smell so good and they really make my clothes smell awesome for weeks. It's like I never knew what fresh laundry smelt like until now.
Purchase: Yes

Laniege Water Bank Moisture Cream Sample: Purchase: Unsure
Softsoap Fresh Glow Body Wash Sample: Purchase: Unsure
Klorane Shampoo Sample: Purchase: Unsure
L'Occitane Repairing Shampoo Sample: Purchase: Unsure

Don't think I had enough product to try to make decisions on whether or not I would repurchase any of these samples above, unfortunately. I always hate that about packet samples!

What have you finished lately?

 (*) Indicating I received the product for review.

Empties #7: October 2015

Yves Rocher Express Cleanser for Sensitive Eyes: Best eye makeup remover ever! Oil-based formula removes waterproof mascara, eyelashes, etc with just a bit of patience. 

Purchase: Yes ✓

Kaia Naturals 24hr. Booster Serum: I did enjoy this serum and thought it was amazing but got a little weary of it when I heard it was discontinued.

Purchase: No ✕

Kiehl's Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub: I bought this basically thinking it was amazing and you could see your dead skin rolling off when using it (as told by the salesperson). Turns out that was just the formula of the scrub.. This is about 5 years old so I think I'm just going to toss it.. a little overpriced imo.

Purchase: No ✕

Vichy ProEven Daily Dark Spot Corrector*: Loved this, I used every last bit. Worked well as a moisturizer or spot treatment. Review here.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Elizabeth Arden All Gone Eye & Lip Makeup Remover Sample: This was almost as good as my trusty Yves Rocher, but I don't think I could justify the higher price of this one!

Purchase: Neutral

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Sample: Think I got this from a Naked palette or something.. great eye primer, I've already gone through a few full sizes.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Gel Foundation: Great foundation I use every day. The coverage is medium and with a concealer it can definitely look full. Review here.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Tony Moly Coloring Browcara in Gray Brown: Best brow gel to use if you want to slightly alter the colour of your brows! I've already got my replacement. Review here.

Purchase: Yes ✓

eos Lip Balm: I think this is the flavour blueberry from the Alice in Wonderland collection. Only eos I've finished so far.. these last so long! Review here.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Avon Big Colour Eye Pencil Anitque Lilac & Surf: These are so old I can't remember how they performed. I do remember loving them back in high school though.

Purchase: Neutral

Annabelle Pop Stix Pink Parfait & Mint A La Mode: Also loved these back at the beginning of high school. They were quite pigmented for drug store and I'm not sure if they make them anymore.

Purchase: Neutral

St. Ives Smoothing Apricot & Energizing Citrus Body Wash: Similar scents! I would definitely repurchase because I love St. Ives, their availability and price point ($3-4 at Walmart) for the huge 709ml bottle is awesome.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Pantene Damage Detox Daily Revitalizing Shampoo (*): A minty fresh scent (contains mosa mint oil) and a fresh feeling on the hair. My hair doesn't feel any less damaged but a lot cleaner after using this.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Avon Tranquil Moments Bath & Shower Gel: Really wasn't a fan of this overpowering lavender scent. I would not purchase but it was useable.

Purchase: No ✕

Swisspers Organic Cotton Rounds (x2): My favourite affordable cotton pads for removing my eye makeup.

Purchase: Yes ✓

The Body Shop Mango Shower Gel: Omg amazing mango scent! I love it but the soap formula was a little thin for my liking.

Purchase: Neutral

Molton Brown Heavenly Gingerlily & Orange and Bergamont Body Wash: Both are great scents, and feel sort of luxurious on the skin. I definitely prefer the fruity Orange and Bergamont scent for sure.

Purchase: No ✕

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse: Favourite self tanner so far! I use this about twice a week or so. It really helps to add some colour to my skin

Purchase: Yes ✓

Secret Scent Expressions Antiperspirant/Deodorant in Lavender*: The lavender scent is very neutral for me and I love the gel formula. I don't think I'd ever purchase a stick deodorant after this.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Bath and Body Works Cherry Almond Shortbread & Maui Mango Mai Tai Foaming Soap: These foaming soaps speak for themselves.. I am so addicted to fruity and sweet dessert scents.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Dove Oxygen Moisture Shampoo/Conditioner: Purchase: Yes ✓

Klorane Shampooing: Purchase: Neutral

Montagne Jeunesse Dead Sea Mud Spa Mask: Purchase: Yes ✓

Vitabath Bleach Blossom Body Wash: Purchase: No ✕

L'Occitane Repairing Shampoo (x2): Purchase: Neutral

The Laundress Delicate Wash: This was a sample sent for review.. sadly turned out to be a packed sample, but I do like the wash for washing bras. Purchase: Yes ✓

John Frieda Tone-Correcting Shampoo (x3): Purchase: Neutral

Clean & Clear Oil-Absorbing Sheets: Purchase: Yes ✓

The Body Shop Tea Tree Blotting Tissues: Purchase: Neutral. I have before, previously really liked them. I prefer the Clean & Clear ones now. 

Kiehl's Blue Herbal Gel Cleanser: Purchase: No ✕

Philosophy Hope in A Jar Eye: Purchase: Would need more testing.

Proclaim Argan Oil Intense Hydrating Masque: Purchase: Yes ✓

Phyto Phytokeratine Reparing Conditioner Treatment: Purchase: Yes ✓

Phew, so there's my hoard of empties since February! I clearly don't finish too much, I think I have a problem with hoarding stuff once I see that it's almost done, and then I never want to use the last bit up! What did you finish over the summer?

(*) Indicating I received the product for review.

Empties #6: February 2015

Can you believe I haven't done an empties post in almost a year? I think I'm one of the most environmentally friendly beauty bloggers because I never have anything to throw out..

But seriously how did this happen? I think it's because I can never continuously use one thing as I'm always testing things out, but here are some things I did end up finishing. Ps. these have been accumulated for the last half year or so.

Dial Nutri Skin Goji Berry & Orchid Body Wash: I got tired of this scent and the bursting beads after a while, and didn't find the body wash moisturizing enough but I wouldn't mind using it again if I had to.

Purchase: No ✕

Dove Purely Pampering Nourishing Body Wash Pistachio Cream with Magnolia: Lovely scent and definitely moisturizing.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Live Clean Apple Cider Clarifying Shampoo: I don't have other clarifying shampoos to compare this to but this is super affordable, pretty natural and I did find that it worked although leaving my hair a bit dry.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Batiste Dry Shampoo: My best drugstore dry shampoo. I do hate how fast it runs out though. I think I've repurchased this 5 times already.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Herbal Essences Naked Dry Shampoo: I found this to be a pretty decent dry shampoo for the drugstore… for the 2 times I could use it. It clogged afterwards and I haven't been able to salvage it. I've heard of this happening quite a bit and was disappointed to see it happen to me too!

Purchase: No unless I knew this issue was fixed. ✕

Yves Rocher Express Eye Makeup Remover: An affordable oil-based eye makeup remover that I have been using for years and I find removes makeup instantly and can remove waterproof a well.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Bioderma Sensibio Micelle Solution: I don't think I need to say much about this, it is generously talked about!

Purchase: Yes ✓

Garnier Damage Eraser Shampoo & Conditioner Samples: I have the full size so I wouldn't repurchase right now, but it is a light shampoo/conditioner that I don't have any complaints about.

Purchase: No ✕

Dove Oxygen Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner Samples: I found these to be a bit volumizing and overall pleasant to use.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Dove Go Sleeveless Beauty Finish Anti-Perspirant Mini: I think this stained my white top to a bit of a blue colour and was pretty upset about it, so I stopped using this. The scent is lovely though.

Purchase: No ✕

Dove Go Fresh Cool Essentials Anti-Perspirant Mini: A decent anti-perspirant that isn't crazily priced, I already have 2 full sizes to be used!

Purchase: Yes ✓

Consonant Ultra Moisturizing Organic Face Cream: This smelt bad after a month of having it. I was so disappointed and spent so much on it. It is a lovely idea but if it won't last long enough, I definitely will not repurchase.

Purchase: No ✕

Clark's Botanicals Intense Radiance Mask Mini: The full size is super expensive and in my opinion not worth it, I didn't see any difference in my skin. 

Purchase: No ✕

Villainess Dulces en Fuego Whipped! Mini: I am so in love with this scent! I didn't like the whipped texture of this cream but the scent is so unique, yummy and natural. I just might have to purchase the full-size when I run out of lotion.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Cream Sample: Lovely cream and I do actually have the newer version of this in a full size, it's pretty much the cream I fall back on after I've tested out other products because I know it does not break me out.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Vichy Idealia Life Serum Sample: I have the full size of this already and love using it under my foundation because it adds a bit of a glow and is good for your skin. It does need time to dry however.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Dark Circle Roller: Nothing special about this and I didn't see any noticeable results.

Purchase: No ✕

Swisspers Organic Cotton Pads (x3): These are my go-to makeup removing pads although they are not the softest, they do not break easily and are only $2 at Walmart.

Purchase: Yes ✓

GlamGlow SuperMud Clearing Treatment: This was a bit too strong for my skin and felt as if it broke me out :(

Purchase: No ✕

VitaBath Sulfate & Paraben Free Body Wash Samples: Holy crap these body wash scents are amazing and I would totally repurchase if they go on sale (they are a bit pricey).

Purchase: Yes ✓

Phyto Reparative Conditioning Treatment Sample: This was very thick and felt moisturizing on the hair. I'm not sure I would repurchase but I'd definitely keep it in mind.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Pure + Simple Restorative Eye Mask: I didn't notice any difference under the eyes and I'm sure this natural formula would work much better as an actual eye cream rather than a quick mask.

Purchase: No ✕

Montagne Jeunesse Dead Sea Mud Spa Mask: I love this mask and have repurchased this particular one a countless number of times.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Jean Pierre Oil-Absorbing Facial Tissues: Pretty standard oil blotting sheets. Unfortunately, I don't know where I'd find them in Canada but there are likely many alternatives.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Maybelline Baby Lips: I didn't like this and am not particularly a fan of the line. Didn't moisturize or benefit my lips at all.

Purchase: No ✕

Maybelline Rocket Volum Waterproof Mascara: This mascara holds my curl very well and adds thickness and volume. I've purchased it numerous times. It is quite difficult to take off though.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Beauty Blender: It was time to part ways after 1.5 years. I prefer the black Pro Beauty Blender to this one anyways and have already repurchased 2.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Klorane Volume Shampoo Sample: Yeah I've had this for so long I don't even remember if it even worked..

Purchase: No ✕

Yaby Concealer in Buff: This concealer has been rotating in all of my purses for the past 2 years. I think it was time to let it go, especially considering I picked up a new one. It matches me perfectly and is only about $3-5!

Purchase: Yes ✓

Lush Angels On Bare Skin Cleanser Sample: I got this as a sample from Lush and although it is a unique and well liked product, I really disliked the texture.

Purchase: No ✕

Benefit Push-Up Liner Sample: If the real thing is as hard to use as this sample.. I am so glad I did not buy it. This thing was so dry and I could barely apply it.

Purchase: No ✕

Check out my last empties post (which is really old btws): Empties #5.

Empties #5: May 2014

The Face Shop Masks: These masks were a disappointment. They didn't fit my face well at all and didn't really do anything to my skin besides making it feel moisturized. I'd rather just buy a moisturizer..

Purchase: No ✕

Balea Detoxifying Face Mask with French Clay: I love clay masks, and this detoxifying mask definitely seemed to work. My skin felt cleansed afterwards.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Masque Bar Anti-Blemish Prone Mud Mask: I've been liking this anti-blemish mud mask so far, although I really wish it came in a tub. I was able to use all the product in this pouch for 3 different mask sessions!

Purchase: Yes ✓

The Kit Warming Mask with Sauna Clay: I was super disappointed with this mask. I didn't find the ingredients to be good for your skin at all, and it smelt like melted plastic and felt irritating on my skin.

Purchase: No ✕

Montagne Jeunesse Masks: Love these masks! I've been buying them over and over again. I only bought the Glacial Clay because I couldn't find the Dead Sea Mud version, but frankly they both seem t work the same!

Purchase: Yes ✓

Maybelline Define-A-Brow Liner in Dark Blonde: One of my favourite brow products I've discovered at the drugstore :) the shade may be a bit too light for me, but I love it for filling in the inner parts of my brows.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Pure + Simple Calming Cucumber Mask: I never felt right about this mask every time I used it, so I wasn't sure if it was breaking me out or not. It did smell great, and I know there are some good reviews on it, maybe it just wasn't for me.

Purchase: No ✕

Revolution Organics Freedom Glow Beauty Balm in Bronzed: I thought this product was fun and I love that it only contains natural organic ingredients. Although, I received it over a year ago and I think I've had it for too long. Not sure if I'd repurchase it in the future; possibly for review purposes!

Purchase: Unsure

Maybelline Mineral Power Concealer in Ivory: I loved this concealer but I can no longer find it anywhere, so I assume it was discontinued. It covered well and didn't break me out.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Maybelline Rocket Volum Waterproof Mascara: I've been obsessed with this mascara lately, I think this is my 3rd tube? I don't even know!

Purchase: Yes ✓

Sponge Applicator: I purchased this at Winners for about $6, but it doesn't perform nearly as well as my Beauty Blender or Real Techniques Sponge does.
Purchase: No ✕

Bare Minerals Kabuki Brush: This brush was rough from the start, and just got rougher as time went on and I continued washing it. Was time to go.
Purchase: No ✕

Styli-Style Liquid Metals Chrome Liner: An old chrome/silver liner that I bought because I thought it was cool back then.. time for the trash!

Purchase: No ✕

Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes Black Liner: This is a pricey liner that is smooth and gentle, but I have a more affordable holy grail.

Purchase: No ✕

Rimmel Eye Twist Duo Liner & Shadow: A super old product I never use and decided to throw away. Shadow side was smooth but the liner side was difficult to apply.

Purchase: No ✕

Racinne Ultimate Aqua Blanc - Concentrate, Brightening Cream, & Boost: These packets were so small I wasn't sure what to think of the actual product unfortunately.

Purchase: No, too small of a sample ✕

Nuxe 24hr Soothing & Moisturizing Concentrate: This was a nice cream during the night, but it is too thick for daytime use. Again, I wish I had a bigger sample.

Purchase: No, too small of a sample ✕

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye: I have a larger version of this eye cream and it feels so hydrating and moisturizing on my skin. I would definitely consider repurchasing once I finish it up.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Indeed Labs Hydaluron Moisture Booster: I like the idea around my skin being able to absorb my moisturizer better, but I'm not so sure if it really works! But I did like using this product and I purchased a full-size for further testing!

Purchase: Yes ✓

Gud Body Lotion Pearanormal Activity: Love the scent of this body lotion and it absorbed quickly into my skin. I would think about repurchasing once I run out of all my moisturizers!

Purchase: Unsure

Kiehl's Rosa Artica Eye Youth Regenerating Eye Balm: This eye cream felt hydrating under my eyes, was thick and great for the night time. I'm not sure if they discontinued it but I would definitely repurchase in the future.

Purchase: In the future, if it is still sold! ✓

Sampar Ultra Hydrating Fluid: This didn't come across to me as anything special but I wouldn't know where to find it to repurchase it..

Purchase: No, too small of a sample ✕

Vichy Aqualia Thermal 48hr Hydration Light Moisturizer: I did initially like this moisturizer but it was not hydrating enough for me during the colder months and didn't work the best underneath my makeup.

Purchase: I did! But probably not again. ✕

The Emu Oil Well Moisturising Eye Cream: I heard so many great things about this moisturizer but my skin was going through a bad time when I bought this. It has natural ingredients and no preservatives and has been sitting so long so I think it was time for the trash.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Lise Watier 3D Hydration Gel-Creme: I got this in a Topbox so long ago and I did like it because it was alcohol and paraben free, however I wish it was unscented. It was basically finished so I decided to toss it!

Purchase: No ✕

Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes: Another package of these wipes are done. I said I would re-purchase previously, but this time, I think I'd like to try shopping for wipes from other brands.
Purchase: No ✕

Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micelle Solution Mini: I've grown to love this makeup remover. Doesn't break me out and is gentle enough, if you use the right cotton pads!
Purchase: Yes ✓

St. Ives Oatmeal & Shea Butter Body Wash: This body wash was hydrating, had a light and pleasant scent, and the bottle was huge for $3 or 4 bucks.
Purchase: Yes ✓

Naturally Upper Canada Hydrating Shower Gel: I was so in love with the scent of this shower gel (Cranberry Moro Orange), but it was wayy too watery and hard to use and lather in the shower. I do appreciate the all natural ingredients but it was pricey for such a small product.
Purchase: No ✕

Caudalie Crushed Cabernet Scrub: This smelt so strong and weird.. it took me so long to finish! I would definitely not repurchase just because it seems bad for the drain (the scrub and pumice was so thick), but it was very exfoliating.

Purchase: No ✕

Osis+ Refresh Dust Bodyfying Dry Shampoo Mini: Not the best dry shampoo but it worked decently.. I would not rely on it to completely save greasy hair, however.

Purchase: No ✕

Batiste Original Dry Shampoo: I love this dry shampoo and have continuously bought it since discovering it. Just please, use it sparingly!

 Purchase: Yes ✓

Yves Rocher Express Cleaner for Sensitive Eyes: My HG eye makeup remover! It is oil based but takes off waterproof mascara quickly, and eyeshadow instantly.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Yves Rocher Cotton Pads: These pads came with my makeup remover as a special... I personally don't like them and they are rough, but they do the job.

Purchase: No ✕

See my previous empties posts, here :)

Empties #4: January 2014

I've finally finished up enough products to justify for an empties post! I haven't done an empties post in a long long time.. to be specific, since June. I'm going to begin to number these posts as I've seen a ton of other bloggers do because it is not making sense for me to try and do them monthly anymore. So with that being said, here are a bunch of empties!

Swisspers Organic Cotton Rounds: Picked these up for $2 at Walmart and I use them to remove my eye makeup. They work fine, I have no complaints, especially for the price!
Purchase: Yes ✓

Neutrogena All-in-One Make-up Removing Cleansing Wipes: Can't even remember how well/bad these worked, but I didn't re-purchase after this sample. I may try them again someday.
Purchase: Not for now ✕

Shu Uemura Anti-Oxi Cleansing Oil: I wouldn't repurchase because this cleanser is very pricey and didn't do anything much differently than other cleansing oils.
Purchase: No ✕

Sisley Gentle Make-up Remover (Face & Eyes): This removed my facial makeup well, but could only begin to remove the eyeshadow on my eyes. Would re-purchase if it was affordable.
Purchase: No, too expensive ✕

Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes: Love these wipes, they aren't the softest but they do the job, are moist, and do not break me out. It does however, give my face a warm feeling after I've used it. I've repurchased already, but hope to find something more gentle in the future.
Purchase: Yes ✓

LA Fresh Travel-lite Makeup Remover Wipe: I'm not a fan of these wipes due to the fact that they have mineral oil as the second ingredient.
Purchase: No ✕

Yves Rocher Pur Bleuet Express Eye Makeup Remover: I've been using this oil-based eye makeup remover daily my entire life. It works quick to remove my mascara and instantly removes my eyeshadow.
Purchase: Yes ✓

Pure + Simple Sensitive Skin Face Wash: Reviewed this before and I loved it. Pure + Simple is a natural based company, and this removed my makeup without breaking me out. However, now that I've moved onto other skincare products, my face is doing better and I don't feel the need to repurchase this as it is an expensive facial wash that doesn't have skin-beneficial results.
Purchase: No ✕

Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Treatment Mask: I didn't have enough of these to notice a difference, so I think I will pick up a full box to actually put them to the test.
Purchase: Yes, to further test them out ✓

Montagne Jeunesse Masks: Love how affordable these masks are! I wish I could find the Red Earth Clay Mask as it was my favourite, but I find the Dead Sea Mud Mask to do a great job of deep-cleaning my pores.
Purchase: Yes ✓

Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque: I was quite satisfied with the results of this mask sample, and I also find it fun to apply because it is not a boring sheet mask. Although, Kiehl's has been sold out of this full-size for months, and I hope to see it in stock soon.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich: This is a thick, hydrating, facial cream and I haven't seen it clogging my pores or breaking me out. I actually purchased the full-size in 'Light' because I found it easier to wear in the daytime under makeup.
Purchase: Yes ✓

Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Oil: This was way too strong for my skin, even when deluded with the right amount of water. I don't think it actually helped my acne, as my skin has been fine, probably better, since I stopped using this.
Purchase: No ✕

bareMinerals Prime Time Foundation Primer: I hated this primer, it smelt plasticky and like silicone, and there were no skin benefits.
Purchase: No ✕

Algenist Pore Corrector Anti-Aging Primer: I didn't have enough of this to determine whether I really would like to use it or not, however, it does claim to have many skin benefits!

Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Primer: I enjoyed trying out this primer, and I like that it is water based and doesn't smell silicone-y. It felt cool on the skin, however, I'd like to try out a few more samples before purchasing.

Fresh Umbrian Clay Mattifying Serum: I don't remember liking this, and I don't remember it doing anything beneficial to my skin. In fact, I didn't even finish the sample.
Purchase: No ✕

Nivea Mattifying Day Care: Light, but not sure if it was hydrating enough. Not enough product to determine whether I'd purchase, but didn't seem like anything special.

To be honest, I cannot usually determine whether or not I like a shampoo after using a packet sample, not to mention I used these so long ago... but I can say that I didn't go out and buy any of these products afterwards. I did like the Redken Color Extend, but wasn't sure if it was really working. I had higher hopes for the Matrix Keratindose and Bumble and Bumble, and was ultimately a little dissapointed with them. And the Vidal Sassoon seemed like a typical shampoo to me. 

Bare Escentuals Full Flawless Face Brush (x2): These brushes were so scratchy and too rough for me. I held onto them for so long but realized it's time to throw them out since they aren't doing me any good sitting there. I did use them a lot for mineral foundation in the past but realize there are much softer brushes out there.

Purchase: No ✕

Bare Escentuals Max Coverage Concealer Brush: I tried to clean this brush with a product that was mainly composed of mineral oil, and I feel like I completely ruined the brush! It is nearing the end of it's life anyway from being used so often. 

Purchase: No ✕

Quo Crease Blender Brush: This brush is too scratchy and rough for my delicate eyes. It was one of my first ever brushes, and it's time for it to retire!

Purchase: No ✕

Maybelline Rocket Volum' Waterproof Mascara: At first I was iffy about it, but I learnt how to apply it correctly on myself and have been happy with the results! I now use this daily and have repurchased already.
Purchase: Yes ✓

Palty Eyebrow Tint/Mascara: Lightened my eyebrows nicely, and I wanted to repurchase but couldn't find it anywhere! Although, there are a ton of asian brands that carry a similar product.
Purchase: Yes, but it might be discontinued! I cannot find it anywhere ✓

Softsoap Body Butter Heavenly Vanilla Hydrating Wash: I remember this body wash making me quite itchy. I think it was a bit drying for me so I won't repurchase.
Purchase: No ✕

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub in Coconut Lime: This scrub smells amazing, and I love that the beads are sugar and therefore are harmless when washed down the drain. It is gentle and fun to use.
Purchase: Yes ✓

LA Fresh Instant Body Smoother: I really don't know what the purpose of this is, and I don't think I felt the cooling sensation or relaxing aromas. It would be cool if this was an anti-bacterial or body cleansing wipe instead.
Purchase: Yes ✓

Bath & Body Works Anti-Bacterial Sanitizer: I carry at least one of these with me 24/7. I will never...stop...using them.. *evil laugh*
Purchase: Yes ✓

Caudalie Fleur De Vigne Shower Gel: Smelt like fresh plants, I really didn't like the scent. I couldn't even use it anymore. I don't like that it doesn't lather.
Purchase: No ✕

Life Anti-Bacterial Wet Wipes: Great to have for cleaning or using on yourself when you need a bit of freshening up.

Purchase: Yes ✓

Summer's Eve Deodorant Spray: I do tend to get a bit sweaty down there and this works great to control and mask any odour!

Purchase: Yes ✓

Lady Speed Stick StainGuard: I don't find this to prevent stains on black clothing any better than my regular deodorants do. In fact, I actually like this deodorant the least. Am glad I have finished it but I unfortunately still have one more to go.

Purchase: No ✕

Empties #3: May 2013

These aren't actually only my MAY empties.. but they've been accumulated from the past few months since my last empties post.. (which was February, oopsies)

All of my empties since March! Should I be embarrassed?

Bath & Body Works Stress Relief Eucalyptus Body & Shine Shampoo: Okay I can admit I did notice a bit of volume with this! Nothing drastic though. I love the smell of eucalyptus, it helps me relax. I would buy again as a body wash or something, because I didn't really like my hair smelling minty :p
Purchase? Maybe, as a body wash?

Pantene Aqua Light Silicone Free Shampoo: This definitely wasn't anything special for me and and didn't feel very weightless like it claims to be. It was just a regular shampoo to me.
Purchase? No

Pantene Aqua Light Conditioner: Nothing special either, I am just pretty neutral about it. 

Purchase? No

Coolway Boost: Smells like sweet tart flavoured medicine.. I don't really know what this is suppose to do besides condition. I think it is suppose to make blow drying and flat ironing easier on your hair. Regardless it didn't do anything for me, didn't make my hair smooth or soft, is pricey, and I had to apply a lot of it. 

Purchase? No

Tresemme Split Remedy Shampoo/Conditioner: Claims reduces up to 80% of split ends after 3 uses. Okay, I'm not sure but maybe I did notice my ends looking a little better? Regardless I didn't get any volume from this product which is what I am more concerned about, so I wouldn't buy it.
Purchase? No

La Coupe Volume Shampoo/Conditioner: I really like this, and I have tried it before and it does give me much needed volume. It is affordable as well. I will definitely buy this and see if it works for me in the long run!
Purchase? Yes

Free Your Mane Sulfate Free Shampoo/Detangling Conditioner: I would definitely need to try this more to see if I liked it. I don't normally use sulfate-free products so I wasn't sure what to think of this. It wasn't amazing though, but there are a lot of oil type ingredients and protein in both the shampoo and conditioner!

Purchase? No, would need to try a bigger sample. 

Nude Perfect Cleansing Oil for Face & Eyes: I love the scent and texture of this. I also like the lack of too many ingredients. If they took out the fragrance, it would be even better for my skin! But I don't know if I can justify spending almost $50 on a bottle of this. It did take off all my makeup and eyeshadow, except not so much my waterproof eyeliner!
Purchase? Not likely.

Pure + Simple Sensitive Skin Face Wash: I got this in my SwagBag from the Beauty Board Event that I went to at the beginning of May. I didn't think it would work but I really like it! It does remove my makeup, although it takes 2 tries to completely get it off. The scent is lemony and a lot of the ingredients are pretty natural (or so they seem!). It hasn't broken me out, but hasn't prevented my regular breakouts either. I don't blame it though, because it isn't medicated. Anyway, I will make my way downtown to their store to purchase this asap!
Purchase? Yes!

Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator: I didn't like this before and thought it broke me out, but gave it another try. Haven't noticed any major breakouts from it this time. I do notice it feels a bit rough on my skin and I have to be gentle when using it.
Purchase? Maybe in the future, if I still don't get any breakouts and when I finish up some of my other exfoliant samples.

Yves Rocher Express Eye Makeup Remover: This is like my HG eye makeup remover. It is very oily but quick. I still have a hard time removing waterproof mascara but I haven't found anything better yet! Especially for the $5ish price tag!
Purchase? Yes! I stockpile on these.

Simply Delicate Feminine Cleansing Cloths 24 wipes: My aunt got me these through Avon. Uhm.. not sure if they still have them!? But I assume these are a bit old heh.. probably shouldn't have been using them.. but they are pH balanced, gynecologist-tested, and hypoallergenic!
Purchase? Yes! If they still sell them. 

Ahava DeadSea Water Mineral Hand Cream: I thought this smelt a little too mature for me, it is thick and I don't really like it. I pretty much had friends finish it for me! The tiny sample tube did last forever though.
Purchase? No

Dove Go Fresh Burst Body Wash, Nectarine & White Ginger Scent: I really liked the scent at first, but then I started to dislike how creamy it was, and the scent started to seem artificial to me. I don't know. I don't really favour it, and it is a little pricey when it isn't on sale.
Purchase? No

Clearly I have an issue with using up full sized products.. but that's ok! I need to shop my sample stash for a while as I have way too many small samples to use up right now. 

Link me to your empties in the comments! 

Empties #2: February 2013

Most of these empties are actually travel sized or samples, but I am trying to use those up right now! Honestly  I don't know how others can finish huge bottles of empties in a month! I like to hoard the 1/4 of product I have left for some reason and start using something else.

Aveda invati Solutions for Thinning Hair Shampoo & Conditioner: So I can't say I like these. I love the idea of preventing thinning hair but their samples are just to small to realize whether it is working or not. Personally, my hair is thin and weak, breaks easily, and I didn't notice any difference with this. The smell is strong and very herbal/hemp-like, doesn't bother me but may bother others. Formula is very liquidly and runny, hard to lather and I needed to use the full 10ml samples for both shampooing and conditioning my long hair.
Purchase Again? No

Evolvh UltraShine Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner: I don't see all the hype about these. To me, they smelt like bleach, especially the conditioner.. I hated it. Shampoo did not lather well, I don't know if this is it due to being sulfate-free? I like that the product claims to be sulfate/paraben/sodium chloride free but I just wasn't fond of the texture and the way it felt on my hair in the shower. It did feel soft and detangled afterwards though.
Purchase Again? No

Pssssst! InstantDry Shampoo: I originally got this in Buffalo at UO for $1! It was marked down from $5. It lasted me quite a while, I don't use much product because otherwise it will make my hair greasier.  This one is an on-the-go size, air travel friendly, and claims to build volume and preserve colour. It doesn't spray too overpoweringly strong. It does add a little bit of volume and I find it to be better than Tresemme and Batiste Volume xxl on my thin, oily hair.
Purchase Again? Yes!

Fresh Soy Face Cleanser: Was recommended at Sephora when I wanted something natural for sensitive skin. I mentioned break outs and was told this would help too. It didn't do anything, I broke out a lot while using this. It isn't very natural at all either, and too expensive for how much product is given. It takes off my makeup but not as easily as I would have expected.
Purchase Again? No

Crystal All Natural Body Deodorant: This is super old, I honestly felt like it did nothing to help stop me perspiring, but then I realized it isn't suppose to do that, just eliminate odor. There are only 2 ingredients; aqua (water), & potassium alum. It seems to have some good claims on the bottle but I didn't think it was anything special. I bought it for my back and I didn't find it helped in any noticeable way. I didn't finish the bottle completely, but the spray nozzle stopped working, so I decided to put it to rest anyway!
Purchase Again? Maybe, to properly review and test it out again.

Diesel Loverdose Eau De Parfum: I love this scent! Smells just like a strong vanilla-licorice to me. It settles down to smell like candy. I adore it but couldn't find myself wearing this everyday. It's a fun scent and I am thinking of picking it up one day but not for the retail price.
Purchase Again? Yes, but only at a discounted price!

Fresh Picked Strawberries Hand Sanitizer (Bath & Body Works): I love all BNBW hand gels/sanitizers! They always come out with new ones so I doubt they'd have this one. But I buy these all the time and they do last me a decent amount of time if I use them sparingly!
Purchase Again? Yes!

Everyday Minerals Finishing Dust: I got this a while ago, it has 1g of product, they don't give out samples like this, they come in packets now. This honestly lasted me a while, it worked well as a finishing powder. I don't think it really stopped or hid how much oil my face produced.
Purchase Again? Yes!

Dead Sea Mud Spa Mask by Montagne Jeunesse: This mask was super cold and cooling on the face. I left it for 5 minutes too long so it dried up before I could massage it in. When I washed it off my skin was literally cold to the touch, even after 10 minutes of washing it off! It didn't burn my skin or cause redness. But it did feel very moisturized afterwards. I'd have to try it again to see if it helped or caused breakouts.
Purchase Again? Yes!

KT Tape: Honestly I don't understand this product. It is suppose to help soothe the muscle with targeted pain relief. All it is is a stretchy tape you use to tighten the skin which tightens the muscle. Followed the instructions properly and it actually hurt my wrist and was making the muscle crack. Tried it on my bicep and it wouldn't stick on, I think this is just a waste of money and it comes off quite easily.
Purchase Again? No

Burt's Bees Nourishing Milk & Honey Body Lotion: Supposedly 99% natural.. this smells terrible though. I couldn't stand it. Smelt like expired milk + flowers. I don't know if the sample was old or Burt's Bees just wasn't thinking. My bf has to finish this for me, he didn't seem to mind it.
Purchase Again? No never!

Cuccio Naturale Butter Blend in Pomegranate & Fig: I loved this cream. It goes on very light and absorbs into the skin so quickly. The only issue I found is that it doesn't seem so natural, the entire back of the tiny sample is full of ingredients. I would purchase again if they came in small sizes like this, but I have too many creams right now I need to use up before thinking about purchasing any more.
Purchase Again? Not right now! But I would recommend.

Pure'n Gentle All Purpose Wipes Travel Pack: These wipes are alcohol free, hypoallergenic. The ingredients seem safe enough to use for the face but I haven't risked it for that. I just used this for freshening up. I like that it's a travel pack, but the downside is it dries up pretty quickly.
Purchase Again? Yes

If you have done an empties post for February, I wouldn't mind you linking it in the comments! I love discovering new products!