Empties #5 | Things I've Used Up

As a self-diagnosed make-up and skincare addict, it can be incredibly hard (and I mean really dang hard) to resist the urge to buy new products just about every second day of the week - most of you would know the feels! With so many incredible new releases it is difficult to not get swept up in the hype. However, I've recently put myself on a spending ban and a bit of a declutter of my make-up stash (more on that one later) in the effort to use up all the make-up and skincare products that I have lying around 3 quarters finished or just about empty. I have this horrible habit of becoming really obsessed with certain products, use them day in and day out, then suddenly abandon them halfway through when something brand new and sparkly comes along, never touching them again. Now that we have hit April (how, I wouldn't have a clue!) and I have collected a small amount of empties that I have FINALLY polished off and can bid goodbye to - hello restraint, I am now a goddamn pro. Let's talk trashy!


1. Dermalogica Charcoal Rescue Masque* -  I have mentioned this face mask numerous times since I received it (you could say I am a tad obsessed), including this post on 5 of the Best Face Masks for Oily and Congested Skin, so I honestly don't know how I have managed to make this last so long! Definitely one of my favourite face masks for 2016, this charcoal number works a treat on congested and clogged up pores, to really get in there and clear things out. An added bonus is that when you remove this mask, it becomes a bit of an exfoliator too! This is perfect for when your skin is looking and feeling a little bit more drab than fab and is in need of a heavy duty pick me up.

Would I repurchase? Definitely once I have used up my sizable face mask stash!

2. Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Bronzer - Despite being on a spending ban, I am incredibly happy that I have managed to use up every last ounce of this bronzer as I can't wait to get my hands on the Lite formula. I really liked this and it is definitely up there with Laguna as one of my fave bronzers for pale skin especially as it is a matte finish, but sometimes I found it to be a bit too muddy and dark for my complexion - particularly when I wasn't paying attention and went in a bit heavy handed. Now that we are moving into winter, I definitely feel that this may be a bit too dark for me now!

Would I repurchase? I would like to try the Hoola Lite first to see how it compares

3. NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla - When I first purchased this concealer, I must admit, I was a bit underwhelmed and confused as to why this is such a 'Holy Grail' product. I mean, my Maybelline concealer (for half the price might I add) was just as good, if not better. But after using this a few times, I finally understood what the hype was about and this is now easily one of my favourite concealers. I am sad to see this go as it isn't exactly cheap but for how good it is, the price is almost justifiable. This blends well, sits nicely on the skin and lasts all throughout the day. You can read more on my thoughts about this concealer here.

Would I repurchase? It is definitely on the repurchase list! 

4. Lush Cosmetics Cosmetic Warrior Fresh Face Mask* - I was really excited to try out this face mask, not only because I am face mask obsessed (guilty), but also because I had never tried a Lush face mask before and I had heard such great things about this particular one. I must say, I am not a fan - AT ALL. Made with garlic, I was guessing I wouldn't like the smell very much, but in all honestly I hated it. I could have excused the smell for an amazing performance but that wasn't too great either.

Would I repurchase? No, I have tried and have much better face masks

5. Benefit Cosmetics They're Real Lengthening Mascara - This is my 2nd or 3rd tube of this mascara and it is definitely a long term favourite of mine! It gives a gorgeous wet look to the my lashes, doesn't clump and lasts a full work day and gym session without giving me panda eyes. This does however have a retail price of approx $42 AUD and for a product that you are supposed to throw out every 3 months, is very pricey! I have an extensive comparison review of the mascara here.

Would I repurchase? Yes, if the budget allowed it or if it ever were on sale! 

6. NIP+FAB Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads - Anyone who regularly reads my blog would know that I am obsessed with facial acids, especially glycolic acid. I've made it my personal mission to try out as many Glycolic Acid products that I can get my hands on and of course, name the best of the best. I bought this one after I couldn't locate the First Aid Beauty Pads. Call me picky or maybe my skin is now resistant to glycolic acid but I wasn't too impressed with these and didn't see much of a difference in my skin. The scent is slightly synthetic and a little overbearing and found them to feel slightly soapy. I much prefer the FAB ones but these make an okay replacement.

Would I repurchase? Probably not 

7. Pixi by Petra Make Up Fixing Mist - I am HUGE fan of the Pixi by Petra Glow Tonic and I purchased this after running out of my usual setting spray and I thought it would be a great opportunity to try out more Pixi products. This mist was nice, but not overly fabulous. As a make up setting spray it did virtually nothing to put it bluntly, but was really great at refreshing make-up throughout the day or when my skin needed a bit of hydration boost. I opted to use this before priming to prep my skin before applying make-up. I would compare this to being really similar to the Mario Badescu Rose Water Facial Spray.

Would I repurchase? At the moment no, as I have a whole heap of facial mists but maybe in future

8. Boscia Purifying Cleansing Gel - Boscia is easily one of my favourite skincare brands and it's such a shame that it isn't more readily available in Australia. This is a gentle cleanser that can be used to remove make-up, but I prefer to use it as my second cleanse after oil cleansing. It leaves my skin feeling refreshed and deeply cleansed yet still hydrated - plus, it works swell with acne prone skin.

Would I repurchase? Yes, can never have too many Boscia products! 

9. La Roche Posay Serozinc - To say I was an eager beaver to try this mist out would be the understatement of the century. I can't say that it really made a difference with my blemishes, but it was a great mist for keeping oiliness at bay and keeping skin looking and feeling mattified.

Would I repurchase? For the price, for sure 

Have you tried any of these products before? What are your thoughts? Let me know below!

Chantalle 

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*These products were provided for consideration of a review, but it does not impact my thoughts or opinions. For more information please read my disclaimer policy here.