April Empties | #36

If there's one blog post I can manage to write at least once a month, it's empties. They don't stop coming... and it's an easy way to do a bunch of reviews on lots of different products. So thanks for bearing with me as my posting schedule has been so up in the air! (Blame my growth-spurting, teething, semi-sleep-regressing, cute as a button, near 10-month-old)

Without further ado, here's what I finished up in April. 

• Michael Todd Organic Lemon AHA + DMAE Toner (would repurchase) - I liked this toner. It had a fresh scent, and made my face feel clean without stripping it. Plus it lasted ages. I didn't notice any crazy results, but I enjoyed using it. 

• Human + Kind Wash Off Facial Cleanser (would repurchase) - I purchased this on a whim when Sephora had it on sale, and I really liked it. It's creamy and nourishing but cleanses at the same time. Read more on my past Favorites post.

• Alba Botanica Good & Clean Toxin Release Scrub (would repurchase) - I adored this scrub. It had the perfect amount of scrubbies in it, it wasn't too harsh, and my skin felt so soft and smooth after using it. The ingredients are more natural, which earns points from me. I will definitely be purchasing this again. 

• Weleda Evening Primrose Age Revitalizing Concentrate (would not repurchase) - This was just OK. I think it might have broken me out a bit. If you're looking for a more natural anti-aging serum, give this a shot - it may work better for you than it did for me.

• Keomi Skincare soap in Sea Breeze (would repurchase) - I enjoyed this bar soap. It was hydrating and lathered up nicely. The ingredients are natural, and it smells good. I'd be happy to use this again in the future. See full review here. 

• Zum Bar soap in Frankincense and Myrrh (would repurchase) - Zum is my favorite bar soap brand. Everything smells amazing, it lathers great, it leaves my skin feeling soft, and the ingredients are clean. This scent was so so good, but I think it might be a limited holiday fragrance.

• Hask Greek Yogurt Repairing Deep Conditioner (would repurchase) - This packet of hair treatment got me 2-3 uses, and I enjoyed it. This was on par with a normal conditioner, it didn't seem to have extra treatment properties that I noticed, but I still enjoyed using it. Full review here. 

• Clinique Clearing Gel (would purchase) - This had a strong alcohol scent, but I do think it helped clear up some smaller zits on my face. I'd be interested in keeping a full size of this on hand for when my skin is freaking out.

• Swisspers Cotton Rounds (would repurchase) - You already know, these are  my favorite cotton pads. I use them to apply toner and remove my eye makeup and they work great and don't fall apart.

• Batiste dry shampoo in Blush (would repurchase) - I love Batiste dry shampoo... it's my holy grail. It smells great and actually makes my hair manageable between washes. This mini size was convenient to throw in my purse or keep in my desk at work. 

• Detox Dry Shampoo (would repurchase) - I liked this dry shampoo quite a bit. It gave my hair a bit of volume, it soaked up oil. It'll set you back quite a bit more than a bottle of Batiste, but if you've got the budget, I' recommend trying it.

• Giovanni Wellness System Scalp Serum (would not repurchase) - I didn't notice this doing much for my hair. It was frustrating to use because the serum is so thick the dropper didn't really pick up anything. I couldn't get anything out anymore, and there was easily still half the bottle left, but I was sick of fiddling with it so out it goes.

• Schwarzkopf BC Oil Potion Shampoo (would not repurchase) - There wasn't anything inherently wrong with this shampoo, but I just don't think it kept my hair as fresh between washes. Plus, I think it's discontinued... sooo, there won't be any repurchasing in my future.

• Yes To Carrots Pampering Conditioner (would repurchase) - This is one of my favorite drugstore conditioners. It leaves my hair feeling soft and manageable. It doesn't weigh my thin hair down, yet it leaves it feeling soft and silky. 

• Poshe Treatment Base Coat (would not repurchase) - This is supposed to be a strengthening base coat, but it didn't do anything for my nails. It made any nail polish I put over it bubble, which is a definite no-go.

• Zoya Anchor base coat (would not repurchase) - This is another base coat I can live without. Zoya is my favorite nail polish brand, but this base is sub par. It doesn't do much for me. I did notice, however, that when paired with a Zoya polish on top, the lasting power of my polish was pretty good.

• Derek Lam Crosby Ellipsis perfume (would not purchase) - Upon first sniff, this smells really good. And then I sprayed it on myself and it had this awful rancid undertone that I could not handle. This is a super expensive perfume and I would never ever want a full size. Yuck.

• L'Occitane Relaxing Shower Gel (would repurchase) - This was a lovely shower gel. It had the smell of natural lavender. I don't know if it's a more expensive shower gel, but if it is, I probably wouldn't shell out a ton of money for it... there are plenty of cheaper shower gels I like just as much.

• Jelly Pong Pong Fairy Lashes (would not repurchase) - If you like drier mascaras, this will probably be your new fave. I prefer a wetter formula, so I was not a fan of this. It was hard to build up the volume and length I like, so I used this for a few weeks and then called it quits.

• Sensodyne Pronamel Toothpaste (would repurchase) - This is fine. I use it when my husband has a toothpaste open that has SLS. SLS gives me canker sores, and Pronamel is free of SLS and therefore I'm free of canker sores. It doesn't make my mouth overly fresh, but it cleans my teeth nonetheless.

• Avene Hydrating Serum (would purchase) - This was nice. I had never tried anything by Avene, only heard people rave about it. This did hydrate my skin, felt nice. Nothing overly special, but I'd give a full size a chance.

• Origins Plantscription (would not purchase) - I did not like this moisturizer. It made my face really greasy and shiny. Not a fan.

• Clinique Pep-Start eye cream (would repurchase) - I actually liked this eye cream so much I purchased a full size. This is the first eye cream I've found that actually helps with the fine lines under my eyes. I'm planning to do a blog post soon about the other product I pair with this for the ultimate hydrating under eye duo. Stay tuned. 

• Christie Brinkley Instant Wrinkle Reducer & Treatment (would not repurchase) - This did nothing for me. See full review here.

• Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter (would repurchase) - This isn't my favorite Soap & Glory scent, but like everything they make, it's pleasant. The lotion kept my skin feeling soft and you get a lot of product for the price. 

• Soap & Glory Hand Food in Sugar Crush (would repurchase) - I enjoy Hand Food. It has a yummy sweet scent, and this version has a hint of lime. It's not the most moisturizing hand cream, but it serves its purpose.

• B&BW Candle in Be Daring (would repurchase) - This candle has notes of spiced saffron and redwood. It's more masculine, with hints of "sexy man" which is the technical term obviously. This usually comes out around winter time at B&BW and it's worth grabbing if you like fresh, cologne-like scents that aren't overbearing.

• New Chapter Perfect Postnatal Vitamin (would repurchase) - Since having my son nearly 10 months ago, this has been my vitamin of choice. It has good stuff in there to support breastfeeding, energy, mood, etc. It's a bit spendy, but it's created with nutrients from whole foods which I prefer.

• Britney Spears Hidden Fantasy perfume (would repurchase) - This scent is so nostalgic for me. I've had it for years and it really makes me think of my college days. It's a mix of warm, spicy and fruity all in one. I've got a soft spot for Britney perfumes, and think they're really well done, this being no exception. If you're a fan of scents like Katy Perry Purr, Viva La Juicy, or Hilary Duff With Love... I think you'll like this.

Have you tried any of these products? Let me know in the comments!

March Empties | #35

The empties bin wasn't too full this month, but we all love some mini reviews, am I right? So regardless, here's what I went through this past month and my feelings on each item.

• L'Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation (would repurchase) - This has become a staple foundation in my collection. If you have really dry skin, I wouldn't recommend it. For my normal, combo, or oily peeps, this will be right up your alley. This is the foundation I pull out when I know I've got a long day and need my foundation to hold up. The shade is my perfect pale match, and it costs less than $15. This made my top 10 products of 2016, and I still love it. 

• Rimmel Extra 3D Lash mascara (would not repurchase) - This was a flop for me. It has a flat plastic brush with short bristles. It made my lashes really tube-y and clumpy, and was difficult to work with. It got slightly better as the formula dried out, but not enough to convince me it's worth a repurchase. 

• Anastasia Clear Brow Gel (would repurchase) - This is an excellent clear brow gel. I wish that it didn't cost so much, because it just seems dumb to pay a lot for freakin' brow gel, but every time I use it, I fall in love. The brush is a perfect size, it keeps my brows in check, and it isn't sticky. 

• Clinique Bottom Lash mascara (would repurchase) - I know it's kind of gimmicky to buy a mascara just for the bottom lashes, but I personally like the smaller brush and the fact it doesn't transfer. This only costs $10 and lasts me about 3 months, so I already got myself another tube. 

• Smashbox Photo Finish primer (would repurchase) - I wasn't excited about using this, but I ended up really liking it. It blurred my pores and it did help my makeup last longer. I wouldn't run out and buy a full size, but I'd grab it if I was in a pinch. 

• Clear Total Care Nourishing Shampoo (would repurchase) - I enjoy Clear's hair products. I like the creamy texture, and the soft fragrance, and the way it makes my hair feel. I'd get a full size in the future.

• Chanel Le Lift Firming Anti-Wrinkle Cream (would not purchase) - This was outrageously fragranced for a face cream. It smelled like Chanel products do, which I enjoy, but not in my face creams. No way. 

• Erborian Black Concentrated Mask (would repurchase) - I liked this mask. It made my skin feel refreshed and it smelled nice. Hard to say if it was amazing after just one use, but I'd consider a full size in the future. If I'm recalling correctly, this stuff is stupid expensive? I'm sure it is, because I always end up having expensive taste. 

• Tresemme Dry Shampoo (would not repurchase) - I was not a fan of this. It hardly soaked up oil in my hair, it didn't add any volume... it was pretty worthless. 

• Got2b Dry Conditioner (would not repurchase) - I never noticed this doing anything for my hair. It didn't make it soft or shiny, like you'd expect a conditioner to do. It left a huge cloud of product swarming in the air after you sprayed it which I didn't like. I just didn't see the point in this.

• L'Occitane Amande Hand Cream (would repurchase) - Ohhhh the L'Occitane almond line smells so heavenly. This hand cream is no different. It smells divine, and it smooths on so softly and comfortably. It isn't greasy. It just makes your hands feel instantly soft. 
• Thierry Mugler Alien perfume (would repurchase) - I already have a rollerball size of this, and I enjoy this scent. It isn't something I'd wear in the spring or summer, but it's a perfect cozy warm scent for fall and winter. 

• Ole Henrisken Sheer Transformation (would repurchase) - I've used a sample of this in the past and remember feeling ambivalent about it, but this time around I actually enjoyed it. It's a simple moisturizer. It doesn't smell, doesn't feel heavy on the face, but I appreciate how unnoticeable it is. I'd actually consider getting a full size of this in the future.

• Curel Hydratherapy Wet Skin Moisturizer (would repurchase) - I liked this little sample so much I got myself a full size. It even made a recent favorites post.

• LaVanila  Deodorant in Vanilla Amber (would repurchase) - LaVanila is my favorite deodorant brand. It's free of aluminum and other crappy ingredients that are cancer-causing and hormone-disrupting. I believe this scent was limited edition, but I'd get it again if they bring it back.

• Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Wash (would repurchase) - Every single Soap & Glory scent smells amazing. Sugar Crush smells like candied limes, and it's truly the perfect summer scent. I got anxious and used it before it was even warm outside, but I enjoyed every second.

• StriVectin Advanced Retinol Pore Refiner (would repurchase) - I love this stuff, as you can tell by the fact I cut it open and got every last bit out. This retinol works for my skin without drying it out completely. It smells nice. It's effective. All that good stuff. I still have another bottle to use, thank goodness. See full review here.

• Sibu Beauty Eye Cream (would not repurchase) - I wanted to love this, and maybe it was just my bottle, but this was separated and chunky and gross. I feel like it went bad, even though it was still a few months out from expiration according to the bottle. I ended up getting rid of this before it was completely gone for that reason. If you've tried this, let me know what your thoughts are on it. 

• bareMinerals Vital Power Infusion (would repurchase) - I did not think I'd enjoy this as much as I did. I'm not sure if it transformed my skin, but I liked the feeling of it, and I kind of want to get a full size bottle to see if I do see results after using it for a longer period of time.

• Phyto Specific Thermoperfect 8 (would repurchase) - This was a cream heat protectant. It worked pretty well, and I liked that it did 8 beneficial things to the hair, but I don't typically need a cream heat protectant - I prefer a spray instead.

• Swisspers cotton rounds (would repurchase) - I love these cotton rounds for removing eye makeup and applying toner. I get them in a mega-pack from Costco, and I'll keep on repurchasing them.

• EcoTools Makeup Brush Cleansing Cloths (would not purchase) - This was nothing spectacular. It's a glorified baby wipe, nothing more. I wouldn't bother getting a full size of these in the future. 

• Simple Micellar Cleansing Water (would repurchase) - I used this mainly to freshen my skin up on days I wasn't wearing makeup and it worked nicely. Made my skin feel clean and refreshed. I don't really like micellar waters for removing makeup, but if you do, I'd recommend giving this one a try.

• L'Oreal Miracle Blur Instant Eye Smoother (would repurchase) - I really liked this little sample. I have fine lines under y eyes and I could notice them looking softer and less noticeable when I used this.

• Shea Moisture Raw Shea Chamomile & Argan Oil Baby Wash & Shampoo (would repurchase) -  I dare you to find a baby shampoo that smells this amazing and has clean ingredients. I guarantee you won't find it. This stuff is my absolute favorite, from a brand I adore. Shea Moisture seriously has the best smelling stuff (without being offensively so) that is actually effective. Love love love.

• Yardley soap in Vanilla & Sweet Orchid (would not repurchase) - I did not care for this soap. It didn't smell that nice and the lather was so-so. I let my husband finish it after trying to like it for a few washes myself. I've got enough crap to use up that I won't bother wasting my time on something I don't like.

• B&BW Marshmallow Fireside candle (would repurchase) - This is one of my favorite B&BW candle scents. It is smokey and sweet and I'll burn it any time of the year. 

What did you use up this month? Let me know in the comments! 

December Empties | #32

The end of the year was like an unintentional crunch time, using things up before 2016 was gone - my empties bag was loaded to the top full of things and I hardly even tried to finish stuff up! 

Why show your trash, you say? Because - when you use something up, you know whether or not it was good or worth repurchasing because you actually used the whole thing! You know? If you love empties posts the way I do, check out some of my other posts here and here. 

Here's what I used up in the month of December...

• Everyday Shea Vanilla Mint shampoo (would not repurchase) - I wanted to like this shampoo because the ingredients are pure and I typically love vanilla mint scented things, but this just didn't clean my hair well enough. My husband mostly used this and he didn't hate it, but he didn't love it either.

• Ole Henriksen Aloe Vera Deep Cleanser (would repurchase) - This is a very gentle cleanser. It smells lightly of eucalyptus, and cleanses without stripping the skin of necessary oils. I found this big bottle at TJ Maxx for $10, but if you buy it at Sephora it'll set you back nearly $50!

• Rituals Shanti Shower Oil (would repurchase) - I bought this for the sole purpose of using it as a shaving "cream" ..er ... oil. It worked fabulously. It lathers slightly and kept my legs from feeling like the Sahara before I got out of the shower and applied lotion. I'd totally buy this again in the future. (more on this here)

• Alaffia Skin Recovery Facial Toner (would not repurchase) - I got this on sale, but wouldn't buy it again at full price. It smelled nice and didn't do anything bad to my skin, but I don't like spray toners and I feel like I used this up really fast.

• TonyMoly Cat's Clear Wink compact (would not repurchase) - I was sent this powder from MEMEBOX, and it was fine, but mostly it was cute. It had a tendency to make my skin too matte and my foundation look a tad cakey. There are other powders I prefer to this. (see full review here)

• Wet n Wild Mega Liner (would repurchase) - This is an old love of mine, but if you go looking for it, it's been reformulated and the packaging is way different. I've been told the new formula is not the same, but I have yet to put this to the test.

• Avon Cream Eyeshadow in Frothy Mocha (would repurchase) - I'm so sad this dried out because this shadow is gorgeous and perfect for every day. Unfortunately, I think this is discontinued which breaks my heart! (see it in action here)

• Maybelline Lash Discovery Mascara (would repurchase) - I got this for my bottom lashes because the brush is super small and skinny. It's not the best, it tends to flake off on me a bit, but I'd probably buy it again because it's affordable and widely available. 

• L'Oreal Lash Out Butterfly mascara (would repurchase) - I don't think this exact version of the butterfly mascara is available anymore, but I loved this. It made a favorites post earlier this year, and I'd certainly give other versions a try in the future!

• Simple Micellar Cleansing Water (would repurchase) - If I was a micellar water kind of girl, which I'm not, I'd get this again. I used it to remove some extra traces of eye makeup and it did the job. You can find this easily at the drugstore for a decent price. 
• Hanalei Lip Treatment (would repurchase) - I got this in a past Ipsy bag and I freakin' loved it. It smelled amazing and was perfect to use at night before bed. I definitely want a full size of this in the future. 

• Burt's Bees Lip Balm with Pomegranate (would not repurchase) - I *hated* this stuff. It actually chapped my lips the more I used it, so I didn't even finish this thing. I do not understand the hype that Burt's Bees has - there are way better natural lip balms on the market. 

• CO Bigelow Mentha Lip Shine in Vanilla Mint (would repurchase) - I adore these lip glosses. They're cooling and they always soothe my sore, chapped lips. I love having one of these in my purse at all times. You can find them at Bath & Body Works.

• Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist 24 Eye Cream (would purchase) - I fell in love with this sample. It's super hydrating and actually a tad oily, which is great for someone like me who tends to have dry, crepe-y under eyes. I definitely want to get a full size of this in the future.  

• Swisspers Cotton Rounds (would repurchase) - Still working through my mega Costco sized box of these, and still loving them. 

• TonyMoly Tea Tree Sheet Mask (would not repurchase) - I've got a whole set of these masks from Amazon (the best value if you want to try out these super popular masks) and I had high hopes for this one, but I didn't notice it doing much for my skin. I preferred the Red Wine mask over this one. 

• Aveeno Positively Radiant Makeup Removing Wipes (would not repurchase) - Holy moly, these are so fragranced. Enough to bug me, and enough to make me not want to buy them again. Personally, I'm really over makeup wipes. Once I work through my back stash of them, I'm going the cleansing oil/balm route for makeup removal for good.

• Desert Essence Natural Tea Tree Oil Whitening Plus Toothpaste (would repurchase) - I was pleasantly surprised by this toothpaste. It was super minty and foamed up nicely and the ingredients are good! 

• Tom's Wicked Cool toothpaste (would not repurchase) - This is the worst toothpaste ever. It doesn't make my teeth feel clean, it's barely minty... just yuck.

• Boscia Makeup Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil (would not repurchase) - This stuff gets so much hype, and I don't understand it. I didn't think it was that great of a cleansing oil, and for the price, you can get way better ones for cheaper. 

• First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser (would not purchase) - There's nothing special about this face wash. It was fine, and it's a shimmery red color which is interesting, but I wouldn't spend the money on a full size bottle. 

• LaVanila deodorant in Vanilla Snowberry (would repurchase) - This was part of last year's holiday deo trio, so this scent isn't available anymore. It was nice. LaVanila is my favorite natural deodorant brand, and it made my best of 2016.

• Four Elements Love Infused Body Oil (would repurchase) - I love this brand and this body oil, it's made with amazingly natural ingredients. I used this on my stomach when I was pregnant, and then as an all over  moisturizer even after I had my son. If you don't like the scent of rose, you won't like this, but there are other scents to choose from. 

• Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy perfume (would not repurchase) - God, after a 3.4 oz bottle of this, I am so over this scent. I loved it in my early college years, and now the scent is a bit more juvenile than I'd prefer. 

• Benefit Ooh La Lift (would repurchase) - This is a nice under eye brightener. It isn't amazing, but it did help my undereyes look less crepe-y. 

• Algenist Complete Eye Renewal Balm (would repurchase) - This is a real pricey eye cream, but it's good stuff. It's lightweight but hydrating. (full review here)

• Clinique Turnaround Revitalizing Treatment Oil (would not purchase) - There's nothing special about this face oil. I mixed it in with my moisturizer in the morning for an added boost of hydration. I wouldn't buy this in a full size.

• Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub in Hawaiian Kukui (would repurchase) - Tree Hut scrubs are my favorite body scrubs ever. They're affordable and have lots of scrubbies to get your body feelin' silky soft in no time. They don't leave a residue and they all smell amazing.

• Trader Joe's Pumpkin Body Butter (would repurchase) - This was really nice, but it's seasonal so you won't find it at Trader Joe's again until next fall. It was so good it made a favorites post earlier this year.

• Soap & Glory Butter Yourself Body Cream (would repurchase) - Every single one of Soap & Glory's body creams smell so good, this one is no different. It is lightly moisturizing and smells divine. 

• White Barn candle in Thankful (would repurchase) - This was a really nice, smoky and nutty scent that I enjoyed. I believe it comes out annually, and I'd consider getting it again. 

• Better Homes wax melts in Pure White Woods (would not repurchase) - These wax melts were super strong, musky and fresh. One cube is enough to smell up my entire house. The smell isn't bad, but not my favorite. 

• Trader Joe's Cedar Balsam candle (would repurchase) - I loved this candle from Trader Joe's! I think it was a new release for the holidays. It smelled like Christmas - piney and woodsy. I hope they come out with more candles in the future. 

• Better Homes wax melts in Spiced Apple Wreath (would repurchase) - These smell just like you'd imagine. Fruity with a hint of holiday spice. I liked these and would buy them again if I saw them. 

• Frostbeard Candles candle in Headmaster's Office (would not repurchase) - I wanted to love this, but I was super underwhelmed. It hardly had a scent throw, which was really disappointing. I wouldn't get it again. (see more here) 

What did you use up recently? Let me know in the comments!

May Empties | #26

I'm not kidding you when I say these last few months have been the speediest of my entire life, I think! I can hardly believe that May is over and we're now on our way in to June. Slooooow down, time! The month was fast, but I still managed to use up a good chunk of stuff. Let's take a peek through it  and I'll let you know what's worth your time to try.

• Yes to Coconut Ultra Hydrating Creme Cleanser (would repurchase) - This is a nice, gentle cleanser. It didn't irritate my skin and it kept it soft and smooth. Full review here. 

• Michael Todd Kaolin Clay Detoxifying Facial Mask (would not repurchase) - I've had this for a while now, and it's not gone, but I honestly hate using it because it smells so awful. I have plenty of charcoal masks that work better and don't smell disgusting, so I'll stick to those instead. I typically love everything in the Michael Todd brand family, but this just didn't do it for me. 

• ROC Daily Resurfacing Disks (would not repurchase) - These were just OK. They were super-fragranced, so if you're like me and don't enjoy products with synthetic fragrance up the wazoo, stay away. It cleaned my face fine, but I didn't notice any line reduction in my skin or any fabulous results. 

• Covergirl Full Lash Bloom Mascara (would repurchase) - I loved this mascara so much it made it in to a recent favorites post. It makes my lashes look full without being clumpy or unnatural. I already have backups of this in my stash. 

• Covergirl Clump Crusher water resistant mascara (would repurchase) - Do note, the packaging on this says "water resistant" - it is NOT waterproof. It's a good option, but not what I'd reach for if I need some serious water protection. 

• Benefit Stay Don't Stray Primer (would not repurchase) - This primer is just OK. Most days it couldn't withstand my oily eyelids and I'd be creasy-looking come 5 PM. I used it up, I won't buy it again.

• Benefit Ooh La Lift Under Eye Brightener (would repurchase) - I really like this little brightener. I think it helps my concealer go on better. It's not a miracle product, but I enjoyed using it. 

• Tarte Clean Slate Poreless Primer (would not repurchase) - I wasn't a huge fan of this face primer. It didn't make my skin look flawless like other primers I've tried, and I can't really say it kept my makeup on longer or better. 

• Tree Hut Shea Moisturizing Lotion in Passion Fruit & Guava (would repurchase) - I snagged this on clearance a while back and I really liked it! It had a very subtle fragrance that wouldn't overpower any perfume I wanted to wear. It moisturizes without feeling greasy and the price is quite cheap considering the big bottle size! 

• Soap & Glory Rich & Foamous Body Wash (would repurchase) - Oh my gosh, I LOVED this body wash. It had a creamy consistency and a delicious warm almond scent. This would be a perfect wintertime body wash. I was sad to use it up! 

• Origins Ginger Body Wash & Body Scrub (would repurchase) - I love love love the smell of Origins' Ginger line, and while I enjoyed the body wash, the scrub was just not scrubby enough for me. I'll get the body wash again, but I won't get the scrub again. 

• Yes to Cucumbers Facial Towelettes (would repurchase) - I don't know, I feel like I had these for too long so they were drier and weren't as rave-worthy as I remember them being. I'd still buy them again because I used to love them. I must've just got a bad batch. 

• HASK Purifying Deep Conditioner (would repurchase) - This was nice, smelled great, and made my hair soft. Full review here. 

• Up & Up Cosmetic Wedges (would repurchase) - I love using these wedges to put on my foundation. I always buy latex free because I despise that scent. 

• Swisspers Cotton Rounds (would repurchase) - There's always a pack of these in my monthly empties. I love them, and use them for everything from removing nail polish to applying toner on my face. My Costco carries  them in a mega pack which is the best deal around. 

• Matrix Miracle Extender (would repurchase) - This was a pretty good dry shampoo. It's not cheap, but it did the trick. I can't say I'd spend $16 on it (they sent me this bottle) when I like my $6 bottle of Batiste, but if I found it for cheap, I'd pick it up again. 

• MAC Fix+ (would repurchase) - I love this facial water to set my makeup and give me a little sheen. It helps my makeup look less powdery and more natural and dewy. I already have another bottle ready to go. 

• Covergirl Outlast Stay Luminous Foundation (would not repurchase) - This got a really wonky smell before it was even finished, a tell-tale sign that it's time to let this go. I was not a fan of this foundation as much as I wanted to love it. It made me look way too oily and it didn't last all day on my face the way my beloved Outlast Stay Fabulous foundation does. 

• Desert Essence Blemish Touch Stick (would repurchase) - I picked this up when I found out I was pregnant to help combat hormonal acne without harsh chemicals. It wasn't a miracle but it did help. 

• Nuxe Reve de Miel lip balm (would not repurchase) - I wrote about this in a post about overhyped products. I didn't love this, it felt like it just sat on top of my lips without doing anything. For the price and the less than stellar results, I wouldn't buy this again. 

• Weleda Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion (would repurchase) - This little sample smelled great and moisturized my hands nicely. It's free of nasty ingredients and works well. I just bought a full size of this the other day, I liked it that much. 

• Tom's Propolis & Myrrh Toothpaste in Peppermint (would not repurchase) - This wasn't my favorite, it wasn't the worst. It's definitely a very natural tasting toothpaste, so if you're looking for that fake, overly minty taste, you won't find it here. It didn't make my mouth feel fresh enough, so I probably wouldn't pick it up again. 

• Shir-Organics Pure Avocado Moisturizer & Pure Coconut Oatmeal Cleanser (would repurchase) - I don't want to give too much away, but look for a full post on these products soon! 

• Lush Love and Light hand cream (would repurchase) - This was a nice hand cream! It's a little on the greasy side, but I loved it in the dry winter months. To me, it smelled like herbal fruit loops, which I found pleasant. 

• Maybelline Fit Me powder (would not repurchase) - This was just an OK powder. It's nothing special and there are definitely powders I like far better than this. 

• Chapstick in Pumpkin Pie (would not repurchase) - I was not a big fan of the scent of this. I used it up because I'm like that, but I prefer other lip balms and definitely like to keep it a bit more natural than Chapstick.

• bareMinerals Marvelous lipstick in Moxie (would repurchase) - This little sample got super soft and broke off, and I am not fussing around with applying it anymore. It's got a gorgeous mauve color  that I loved wearing, perfect for everyday, but it's not worth toying with. 

• Earth Mama Angel Baby Organic Third Trimester Tea (would repurchase) - This stuff is delicious. It tastes like a peppermint tea but it's got other great stuff for mamas in their third trimesters like red raspberry leaf, which helps to tone the uterus and get it ready for birth. I've been drinking this very regularly and I'm hoping it'll help my labor. 

Have you tried any of these products? Let me know your thoughts! 

April Empties | #25

You guys... where did April go?? Seriously. And how are we in week 2 of May? Obviously time is flying by too quickly and I can't keep up when my empties post has gotten so late it's being posted mid-way through the next month! YIKES! 

Anyway, let's dig through my trash and I'll let you know whether my empties are worth a repurchase or not. Here we go...

• Yu-Be Foaming Skin Polish (would repurchase) - This was pretty good. It certainly does foam up and it's gritty enough to exfoliate the skin, my only complaint is it doesn't smell nice at all. Full review here. 

• Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray (would repurchase) - I love this setting spray, it's one of the best I've ever used. I definitely notice a difference in the longevity of my makeup when I use it. I've already got another bottle of this on hand!

• LaVanila deodorant in Pure Vanilla (would repurchase) - LaVanila deodorants have no aluminum or nasty ingredients, which I prefer. This brand works really well for me, but keep in mind that natural deodorants seem to work differently from person to person, so it may or may not work for you.

• Origins Soothing Souffle whipped body cream (would not repurchase) - This stuff literally smells like spearmint toothpaste. About half way through the jar, the smell became  sickening and I was so happy when I finally used it up. Even my husband commented on how sickening the scent was, and he's usually pretty indifferent to what lotions I use. Never again.

• Redken All Soft Shampoo (would not repurchase) - There was nothing inherently wrong with this shampoo, but I just wasn't that impressed. I'd rather use Suave, which is significantly cheaper, than buy another bottle of this. My husband ended up using more of it than I actually did, and he thought it wasn't very foamy. Meh, no need to get it again.

• Yes To Blueberries Healthy Hair Repair Conditioner (would repurchase) - I enjoyed this conditioner. It made my hair feel really soft and smelled nice, and as an added bonus it's affordable and made up of good ingredients.

• Swisspers Cotton Rounds (would repurchase) - These are some of the best cotton rounds I've used. I get them in a mega pack from Costco and this certainly won't be the last pack in my future. 

• Vanedo Beauty Friends Rose Mask (would not repurchase) - This mask was just OK. It claims to soothe, moisturize and "converge"(???) the skin, but I didn't notice it doing much at all for me. It felt nice and was relaxing, but I'd rather use a mask that provides visible benefits. 

• Colgate MaxFresh toothpaste (would repurchase) - A boring empty, but this was a good toothpaste and I'd probably buy it again. I tend to stick with more natural toothpastes, but now and then I pick up a random tube of something like Colgate.

• Sensodyne Pronamel (would not repurchase) - I don't really need a toothpaste like Pronamel, but I was given a zillion sample tubes so I'm just using them up. It works fine, but won't make your mouth feel all that fresh and clean. 

• Physicians Formula Multi-Colored blush in Blushing Nude (would repurchase) - You can see it isn't all gone, but it was getting tough to get enough on my brush. I love this blush. It looks natural and blends really well. If I saw it again, I'd pick it up. I'm not even sure they make this anymore, to be honest. See it in action here.

• Sonia Kashuk Hidden Agenda Concealer Palette in Light (would not repurchase) - This concealer palette is awesome, don't get me wrong, but if you are pale like I am, these shades are WAY too dark. But, if you aren't as pale as I am and need some serious coverage, I would highly recommend picking up this palette. It's best used for covering up blemishes, which it does like a champ.

• Soap & Glory Vitamin C Facial Wash (would not repurchase) - This took me AGES to use up, anf my husband even helped me through it. I'm talking a solid 6 months or so. This is nothing special, and unfortunately it has microbeads in it (not cool, Soap & Glory!!) so I definitely won't buy it again.

• Oz Naturals Ocean Minerals Facial Cleanser (would not repurchase) - I didn't finish this up all the way because it burned my eyes so bad if it got in them and I don't like that. Also, the smell started to make me nauseous (thanks, pregnancy) so out it goes. The ingredients are good though, which is a plus! Full review here. 

• Rodan + Fields Pore Minimizing Toner (would repurchase) - This toner was nice. It's highly fragranced (a con in my book), but it did the job of prepping my skin for moisturizer and removing any extra traces of makeup left on my skin. Full review here.

• Rosehip Plus Organic Rosehip Oil (would repurchase) - Rosehip oil has many great benefits for the skin (reduces appearance of scars, wrinkles and more - yay!) and this was a nice option. I found it at TJ Maxx and if I saw it again and needed a night time moisturizer, I'd pick this up again. Full review here. 

• Ole Henriksen Sheer Transformation Oil-Free Perfecting Creme (would not repurchase) - This creme is supposed to have tons of great benefits, but I did not notice it doing anything for me. It's really pricey and I wouldn't shell out the money for it again.

• MAC False Lashes Extreme Black Mascara (would not repurchase) - This mascara requires at least 3 coats to get the volume and length I prefer. For the price, I don't want to work that hard to make my lashes look nice. 

• Wet n Wild H20 Proof liquid eyeliner (would repurchase) - If you want a seriously waterproof eyeliner that won't break the bank, look no further. This stuff is awesome and this little tube lasts ages... I probably used it longer than I should have, but it didn't go bad. I've already got another bottle on back up. 

• Essence I Heart Extreme Waterproof Mascara (would not repurchase) - This stuff was awful. It clumped and flaked and made my lashes look like crap. I used this a couple times and promptly threw it in my empties bin.

• Nivea Kiss of Mint & Minerals lip balm (would not repurchase) - This stuff was okay, but it felt like it just sat on my lips without actually hydrating them. There are better drugstore options if you're in the market for a new lip balm. 

• Veriditas Peppermint essential oil (would repurchase) - Veriditas makes really great quality essential oils, and their peppermint oil was nice. Peppermint is one of my favorite oils to use and I have to admit I'm proud to have used a whole bottle! 

• Lush Santa's Lip Scrub (would repurchase) - As much as I love Lush's lip scrubs, I can never get through a whole jar before they go bad so they end up being a waste of money for me. This one tasted like cola and worked well to get rid of any dry skin on my lips.

• Lush Gorgeous Facial Moisturizer (would repurchase) - This sample was nice. It smells quite herbal, so be warned if you don't like things that smell overly "natural". It didn't break me out and did a good job of hydrating my skin. I'd consider getting this in a full size.

• BeautyBlender (would repurchase) - Mark my words, no other beauty sponges compare to the BeautyBlender. They are worth every penny. All other sponges I've tried end up soaking up more makeup than what they put on my face, but that's not the case with the BeautyBlender. Love it, and already have a new one to use.

• MyKind Organics Prenatal Once Daily (would repurchase) - These are the prenatals I've taken my entire pregnancy. They're made up of whole, organic foods and surprisingly, these once a day pills aren't too huge. They're certainly not the cheapest prenatal on the market, but the ingredients are so good that I'd highly recommend them if you're looking to get pregnant, already are, or just need a good multivitamin. 

• Alive Calcium Gummies (would repurchase) - I got sick of pill taking and opted to get my calcium in gummy form. It's really hard to find vegetarian gummy vitamins, but these are gelatin-free. They don't taste as good as I wish they would, but they do the trick. 

Have you used any of these products? Let me know! 

May Empties (#14)

Another month, another batch of empties. It feels like each month my bag fills up quicker and my sense of accomplishment knows no bounds. Here's what I finished over the last month....

• Tresemme Platinum Strength Shampoo & Conditioner (would repurchase)  - These massive bottles took me ages to go through. They smelled nice and made my hair soft, but I got quite sick of them towards the end. I didn't notice my hair seeming any stronger, but I liked these nonetheless. In the future, I'd buy smaller bottles. 

• eva nyc Freshen Up Dry Shampoo (would not repurchase) - This smelled really great, but it didn't do the best job of keeping me oil free or giving me a boost of volume. I will continue to stick to my tried and true, Batiste. 

• NIP + FAB Yoga Blend Body Wash (would repurchase) - This smelled really good, but I think it's sort of an acquired scent. This bottle took ages to use up, so again, I got a bit sick of it at the end (I like change!) but it was nice and made my skin fresh and clean. 

• Boots Cocoa Butter Body Wash (would repurchase) - This is my last little bottle of Boots body wash, which you've seen sprinkled in many of my empties posts. I love these body washes, they smell amazing and don't dry my skin out. And I'm sure you can imagine just how amazing the cocoa butter scent smells!

• Korres Body Butter in Jasmine (would not repurchase) - The Korres body butters are quite hydrating and nice to use, but I have yet to find a scent I truly adore. Jasmine wasn't for me, but it wasn't bad. It smelled fresh and floral and it kept my skin hydrated.

• Dickinson's Pore Perfecting Toner (would repurchase) - This is a really nice, gentle toner. Witch Hazel has many beneficial properties for the skin, plus it's all natural. I am sure this toner will make a reappearance in my skincare lineup again in the future.

• Michael Todd Charcoal Detox Cleanser (would repurchase) - I did a full review of this product here.

• Hydraluron (would repurchase) - This is a well loved, and mega-hyped skincare product that has a high dosage of hyaluronic acid to plump the skin. I thought this was a nice lightweight serum to use both day and night. See more of my thoughts on this here.

• Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser (would not repurchase) - I know people go apeshit over this cleanser, but I can't say I loved it. It was fine... it removed my makeup and didn't leave any nasty film behind, but I could only massage it so far in to my skin before it sort of stuck and I didn't like that. I just didn't think it was as amazing as I was led to believe it is. 

• Essence All About Matt Powder (would repurchase) - This was a nice translucent powder that performed really well for the cost! This is like $3 at Ulta and it lasted me a long time and did a good job of keeping oil at bay.

• Dolce & Gabana Desire Perfume (would not purchase) - A nice scent, but nothing I absolutely need in my collection.

• Burt's Bees Lip Treatment with Kokum Butter (would not repurchase) - This was the worst lip balm I've tried in a long time. It just sits on the lips and doesn't moisturize at all.

• L'Oreal Voluminous Original Mascara (would repurchase) - I love this mascara. It's a tried and true, buy it again and again mascara. It gives great volume and length and this won't be my last tube. 

• Wet n Wild Color Icon Brow Pencil in Taupe (would repurchase) - This brow pencil is a perfect color match for me. It's just creamy enough and it's super cheap. I've already got a backup of this but I'll buy it again for sure.

• Tarte Maracuja Creasless Concealer (would not repurchase) - I used to love this concealer when I had bad acne because it covers anything. But now that my acne has cleared, this is way too thick for under my eyes (it definitely creases) and I don't need it for spots anymore. I do have one more tube of it, but it'll be a long time before you see that guy in my empties. 

• Molton Brown Pink Peppered Body Wash (would repurchase) - This smells really peppery and nice. I brought this on a couple vacations with me so I have great memories tied to this scent - I'll want it again for sure!

• eos Lip Balm in Honeysuckle Honeydew (would not repurchase) - I feel SO accomplished for using this up. I think the eos lip balms are entirely overrated and not very hydrating so I won't be buying this again. 

• Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Buttercream (would repurchase) - This smells SO amazing, like a key lime pie, and it's really moisturizing. This is a favorite of mine. 

• Benefit Stay Flawless 15-hour Primer (would not repurchase) - This was just a sample, but I got many uses out of it. I didn't notice this doing a whole lot to keep my makeup in tact. It was OK, but not worth the price. 

• LOVE Shampoo by Davines (would not repurchase) - I took this shampoo traveling and got many uses out of this sample size. It smelled nice, but wasn't anything special. It's expensive and I wouldn't shell the cash out for it.

• Up & Up Cosmetic Wedges (would repurchase) - My tried and true favorite way to apply my makeup is a simple latex-free cosmetic wedge. The original beauty blender!

• Karuna Hydrating Treatment Mask (would not repurchase) - Karuna masks are pricey, and this wasn't worth the money. It had a backing to it so the sheet mask stayed in form until I applied it to my face, which I appreciated, but this mask left my face sticky and I think it broke me out a bit, too.

• Swisspers Cotton Rounds (would repurchase) - Still working my way through this massive box of cotton rounds from Costco. It's super economical to buy them from Costco, and these are quite good, so I'll buy these again when I finally run out!

• Yves Rocher Micellar Cleansing Water (would repurchase) - This was my first foray in to the micellar cleansing water world. This worked really well to remove all of my makeup, plus it was affordable, and it didn't break me out. 

• Colgate Optic White Platinum (would repurchase) - It's just toothpaste.... I didn't notice my teeth were any whiter, but they felt clean so I'd buy it again. 

• Suave Moroccan Infusion Body Lotion (would repurchase) - I used this as a hand lotion and it made my hands soft without being greasy. It smelled nice, too. 

• Beauty Secrets Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover (would not repurchase) - This is the Sally beauty brand of nail polish remover. Despite it being way worse for your nails, I much prefer acetone remover and I'll only purchase that from now on.

• Zarbees Naturals Elderberry Gummies (would repurchase) - I like these and I honestly think they keep a cold at bay when I feel one coming on. 

• Chesapeake Bay Candle in Hinoki Bonsai (would not repurchase) - I got this ages ago on sale on Kohl's for next to nothing. It smelled OK but it didn't have great scent throw. 

• Better Homes & Gardens Wax Cubes in French Lilac Flowers (would repurchase) - These smelled just like fresh lilacs and made my home smell great. I love wax cubes and these were really nice.

• B&BW candle in Sparkling Limeade (would repurchase) - How cute is the mini mason jar? This smelled good, but not really like limeade. I don't know what it does smell like, but it's not quite limeade to me.

And that's it! Have you tried any of these products? Let me know!