Empties February (& January)

The last two months have been in the line of winter survival. 

I don't know about you guys, but somewhat the fun in cosmetics gets out of it and everything is more about necessity. Shortly, I'm looking forward for a warm spring so my skin can behave normal again, and I can have fun with my cosmetic goodies again.

Again, I'll have quite some used-ups and hygienic bye-bye's to show...

I'm gonna start with two of my favourites:

• The NIOD Copper Amino Insulate Serum 1.00 % has been that wonderfully blue liquid that smells so neutral and layers on like a calming liquid. You mix the 2 bottles up and store it in the fridge: how fresh is that? I saw an improve in the quality of my skin: repurchased already!
• May Lindstrom The Blue Cocoon has been a nicely soothing balm, but too expensive and not entirely healing on disturbed skin so I've been looking for alternatives (see here).

• Alterna Caviar repair Fill & Fix treatment Mask is a staple, abeit a pricy one. It packs up proteins for damaged hairs which has an instant effect, but also improves hairs in the long run
• Fountain The Monecule in Happiness: I already shared my like for Fountain's hyaluronacid infused liquid concoctions and I could use some more positive feelings last months.
• Glonaturals Bodylotion: It smells like chemical coconut but it packs in a good amount of moisture into winterskin. I mixed it with pure oils like St. Johnsworth to get extra hydration.
• OlivineLove + Roses hydrating mist: Lovely and so natural smelling rose water infusion.

• Aromantic Camellia Seed Oil: Aka Japanese Tsusaki oil works wonders on hair and is lovely on skin as well
• De Tuinen Prickly Seed Oil: Prickly seed oil is a powerhouse that often sells really expensive, think La Bella Figura's version. I loved this affordable version.
• Andalou Naturals Luminous Eye Serum: I order this in one of my Vitacost hauls and it moisturizes wonderfully without too much fragrance. As for anti-ageing? I'd prefer Pai.
• Alterna Re-texturizing Protein Cream: This is such a favourite of mine! It smoothes in frizzies wonderfully and builds up hair in the long run.
• Givenchy Eclat Matissime: This one is still full: it was not suitable for my sensitive skin.

• Bliss FatGirlSlim has been a freebie in some box. I like it, but I'm a firm (pun intended) fan of my French line of anti-cellulite treatments (see a heap of mentions here). 
• Mario Badescu Super Collagen Mask was another freebie. I feel nostalgic for anything Mario Badescu as it reminds me of my 1st couple of online cosmetic purchases around 2000. Then again, it only adds some moisture so I would not repurchase.
• Givenchy Acti'mine Wake up skin Base: another full tube I have to abandon as I am too oversensitive for it.
• Andalou Naturals Argan Stem Cells Scalp intensive Lotion is targetted for hairgrowth. I have not seen dramatic results but it might have helped.
• Kinvaria 24hr Rosehip Face Serum was a serum I bought on a rave review being best thing ever for sensitive skin. Another case of not liking the fragance: household cleaning stuff. Blerg.

•  Cinema Secret makes some awesome makeup for professional use. Their concealer palette has been fab for covering imperfections, but I have this palette for many years so bye bye!
• Fasio Eyebrow Gel has been perfect for colouring the hairs of my eyebrow when they lightened in the sun. 
• Jadilla J BB Concealer still originates from my Gmarket Haul days. Funnily, now everyone seems to go K-beauty I find it soo 2008! The colour is too light for me these days but coverage was wonderful.
• Another hygiene/older concealer I had to bin is Models Prefer concealer duo. Somewhat it did not blend wonderfully either (green and a beigy colour) so I haven't used it much.
• This Le Metier the Beaute eyebrow pencil in blonde has been a perfect colour, but the pigment-hold was not spectacular on skin. Now it dried out...
• Clarins Eclat Minute...yes, fab coverage for under eyes but hygiene disposal again.

• Tigi BedHead After Party is one of those raved about haircreams that make your blowdry last beautifully. I liked it but prefer my organics and Alterna ranges over this one.
• Tatcha Indigo Soothing cream is another staple. Must-have for me.
• Trevarno Eye cream smelled like herbs gone wild...Also, a bit too thick for eyes.
• Nails Inc make some fab 3free nailpolishes that last and look superb. I loved this neutral pink.
• NVey Eco compact foundation was the most unblendable foundation ever. No likey.
•  I already discussed my Herbivore Lapis oil over here and I liked it a lot. 

• WLL3People Expressionist bio Extreme Mascara is one of the mascaras the natural bloggers rave about. Nice, but they have not reached similar hold/volume over the chemical mascaras.
• Bourjois Rouge Velvet in Fuschia has a gorgeous hold and superb matte appearance before this matte-lip thingy has been going on. 
• Marc Jacobs Enamored Hi-Shine Gloss Lip Lacquer Lipgloss in Love Drunk has been a sample I have been scraping the last bit out. Perfect mauvy shimmer! Adore...
• Another Marc Jacobs winner has been his O!Mega Lash Volumizing Mascara I bought in Marseille, France. I would like to try his newer version but the reviews have been mixed.
• Benefit Tinted Primer Hey, They're Real does not live up to my beloved Kate Kanebo version (here).
• Oh, and the tiny oil on the left has been Kiss the Moon Midnight oil. Soo, gorgeous...on par with my new fascination with Herbivore oils.

• Grow Gorgeous End split ends Leave in Serum in from that Deciem line again. Ok, me and my sensitive nose but this is sooo masculine and overpowering I cannot use it.
• Arcona Chamomile balm smells amazingly soft, but it also brings in a good amount of soothing softness on par with May Lindstrom the Blue Cocoon, for a fraction the price: staple!
• Wella Colour Fresh in Silver 10/81 has been a end-of-holiday toner for my then blonde hair. This one tones gorgeously and only needs one bottle without mixing. More about it soon.
• Another case of the ageing makeup product: My gorgeous YSL palette...awww...
• Another staple is my Collistar Face Magic Drops for self-tan. Although I don't use it in winter, I use it to match my face to my body on beachy holidays.

  I have been using up a lot of staples that are suitable to calm my oversensitive skin during the winter period. I have also ventured on some new products which has been a mixed bag of winners and not-so-successful for me. And I have been able to let go of some expensive brands that will not work for me (aww Givenchy)...

So for next month I hope to cleaned out my makeup-drawer a bit more, and be as diligent as ever to finish up products that I like : )

Last minute Empties B4 2015 is over and done with...(part I)

Ohhh. look at the Used-up bag...It's totally full!

Ok, these are actually from the last two months, but fact is...that's a lot. And I feel slightly ashamed for not having reviewed anything in a full post yet. So that will be an after-idea but first I'll post the shorter reviews...

1st batch: Skincare & Co

• Sunday Riley Good Genes: I personally found this exfoliating treatment too strong for my sensitive skin. I used it for hands, and they gotten better texture. However, that's a bit too expensive for hands for repurchase.
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• Acorelle Skin Gel Sunblock SPF 30: This oil-in-gel felt too greasy on my skin.
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• Olivine Love + Roses Tonic: I really liked the freshness of this product and the fact it is made from organically grown roses. The glass bottle will be reused to decant other toners.
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• Grown Alchemist Antioxidant+3 Detox Serum: I was looking for a detoxing serum. It feels like a Essence, very watery. I think it helps a bit: the harder work is detoxing from the inside...
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• Arcona Chamomile Balm: Soooo REPURCHASE for wintertimes. This is a sensitive skin staple that I import from skinstore.com and often have to pay duties...still worth it.

-bottom part-

• Skin & Blossom Age Resist Daycream: This is a gorgeously neutral, organic daycream that is packed with good pro-youth ingredients. It needs a full review. Already Repurchased.
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• Aurelia Revitalise and Glow Serum: This baby has passed on my blog frequently (see here). Another Winter/seasonal change product I keep on repurchasing.
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• Tarte Maracula Oil: I like the light but nourishing feel of this oil. Does it have to be from Tarte? Meh, I like other brands as well but the freebie has been wonderful.
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• Tatcha Soothing Indigo Renewing Treatment: STAPLE for my problematic skin. It soothes upcoming psoriasis spots like no other and it costs me a fortune but worth it.

Next batch of skincare:

•  Algenist Gentle Rejuvenating Cleanser: Nice and foamy. Not the most advanced or organic but it does the job and is soft.
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• Sanoflore Floral Water in Camomile & Cornflower: The Camille is so soft and retexturizes skin so gently...Just got my new French repurchase today! The Cornflower water is ideal for post-cleaning the oil & water mascara removing products-that-always-leave-this-filter-on.
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• La Roche Posay Serozinc: Everyone seems to love this one and me too. Repurchase.
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• The Body Shop Camomile Waterproof eye makeup remover: Lovely. I think Yves Rocher or cheaper brands do a similar job. On the other hand, it feels absolutely like a breeze on my eyes and I do not need to use Cornflower water to soothe afterwards. Repurchase. 

Random Hair & Body Batch

• Elancyl Cellu-slim Nuit (night): I would not be Birkinbagbeauty if I did not test out the occasional anti-cellulite lotion. It's fine but I prefer a tube formula over a pot as active ingredients do not vaporize so quickly.
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• Phylia [de M] Connect: another frequent flyer on my blog (here). My love is cooling down as I do not see that much results anymore. Oversaturated maybe?
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• Lush Marilyn: I sound like a broken record but I often use this one to both moisturize and freshen my blondes in a natural, non-chemical way.
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• Shwarzkopf Blond Me Cool Ice Anti-Yellow-Effect Spray Conditioner: Ohhh, I cannot believe I reviewed it yet. It is the ideal holiday swim anti-brassy easy toner spray. 
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• Mediceuticals x-folate anti dandruff shampoo: Well, it does a bit of exfoliating but once going organic shampoo, you will find the chemicals still affecting your scalp negatively.

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Tomorrow I'll post the remaining Empties. Probably nobody will read it as everyone is too busy, but perhaps on your booze-fueled, hangover 1 January as some distraction for yer poor head ;)

Last Month's Empties

Did you even notice that the word 'February' seems quite weird after typing it in different fonts? 

Anyway, here's my selection of the products I've used up during that month with 28 days (mostly):

1. Hada Labo Retinol Lifting and Firming Lotion: I have a rule when it comes to skincare: if it does not work on the face, try it on the body. This Vitamin A was slightly too potent on my face, but how effective it has been on my hands & cleavage. 

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2. Taaj Himalaya Micellar water: a lovely piece from my fave French webshop. It removes light makeup, but heavy makeup needs something extra.

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3. Aphogee 2 Step Protein system: One tag: #hairdressersmessup. Answer: Aphogee is one of the most potent reconstructors out there, but it needs some work and a strong (or weak) nose.

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4. Lush Marilyn: A fresh pre-shampoo mask that perks up a moody blonde hue: a regular in my stash.

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5. Phyto Phytodensium anti-ageing tonic for hair. It smelled like berries on speed and I did not think it helped that much.

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Much better is their:

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6. Phyto Phytocyane against hairloss: Oh, how vintage are these glass vials you have to break the top off, perhaps slightly dangerous. But they are scentless and I think my scalp really digs them. 

1. Kanebo Kate Lash Maximizer in Black: another staple...like a friendly superglue for lashes.

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2. Life Extension Skin Restoring Phytoceramides

I think it really helped to calm my flare-ups.

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3. De Tuinen St. Johnsworth Oil:

I liked this one as a body-moisturizer. 

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4. YSL Gloss Volupte Lipgloss in 204 Corail Trapeze

A sweet peachy pink with a fab gloss & luxe factor. I wish they did not smell like tween lipgloss.

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5. Darphin Accents d'Aromes

I wondered why it smelled unisex but it's actually a fresh men's perfum

1. Omorovzica Illuminating Moisturizer: Quite gentle when skin is acting up. As for the illuminating properties: subtle enough for some radiance without becoming a glitterball.

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2. Arcona Chamomile Balm: LIFESAVER! I absolutely adored this one when my skin was worst. So soothing by the perfect hybrid between balm & fluid. I found it better than May Lindstrom Blue Cocoon.

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3. Nourish Radiance Rejuvenating Peptide Serum:

A gentle and effective serum, even/especially with flare ups.

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4. La Mer Foundation in no 2:

The saleslady matched me up too dark, but I used it as a (fake) tan foundation. It has high coverage but smells so chemical IMO. I will not repurchase.

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5. Murad Oil Free Sunblock SPF 15 Sheer tint:

I had this one a while: you can notice that because nobody would call a SPF 15 a sunblock these days. I have used it sporadically and thought it was quite ok when I started it.

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6. Tatcha Indigo Soothing Reneval Treatment:

I was severely in love first because it cleared up my lightly dry spots. When my skin really gotten bizarre I found it soothing, but not supercuring anymore. I'd still repurchase.

Random act of Sampling:

Clockwise:

The Rodial STEMCELL Superfood Glam Lipbalm has quite the impressive name and was actually really good.

Hourglass Illusion Foundation in Ivory was a shade too light, but the texture is quite nice.

Tata Harper Regenerative Moisturizer is one of those freebies I always request at Naturisimo. It works like a dream on citytrips.

I kind of like the Absolution samples from Naturisimo as well. The Serum Anti-Soif really packs the skin with a good dose of friendy moisture.

I tried the Clarins BB but I have strayed too far from the chemical high-end brands to like it anymore. Too-Much-Fragance.

On the organic front, I did not like Gressa Foundation Serum either. The shade was too light, but even in a darker colour (4 comes in a weird orangy hue) it is way too watery.

Weleda Calendula Baby shampoo & body wash is that nice neutral multitasker. 

I tried both the Algenist Concentrated Reconstructing Serum as the Regenerative Anti-ageing Moisturizer. It's like, but not love.

I like a lot of Davines Haircare products. The Love line comes in both straight hair as curly and I tried the curl version (having pokerstraight hair). It's still very moisturizing and I did not get instant curls ;)

The John Masters Organics Scalp Spearmint & Meadowsweet Scalp Stimulating Shampoo is so fresh indeed. However, it is quite pricy and I think Giovanni Triple Treat shampoo does something similar for a better price.

The Earthen Insta-peel is the most funny experience. The subtance becomes an eraser! As the one on the end of a pencil!! The gummy effect does give a good peel when removing it off the skin.

Hair like Jennifer Aniston? Not sure but Living Proof Prime Style Extender does feel gentle on hair. Still, I'm not a fan of overlayering hairproducts: how much does one need, right?

Pjew, I'm out of words right now...

Last Empties 2014!

Before I'm gonna wish you all a wonderful 2015, I'm gonna share some of the last Empties of 2014:

1.  Yarok Feed Your Roots Mousse for hair: This mousse is absolute love for me. I have a mild psoriasis condition and every bit of chemical on my hair can trigger my skin into producing more. This mousse is totally natural, but works even better than any chemical I tried so far. #repurchase in bulk!
2. Lierac Body-slim Destock Nuit: ahhh, those French and their thin thighs. So if you question me if/whether their anti-cellulite works, I would say: Yes, but...The but(t) is always the problem (area) about: so I think it gets the extra results with the training, the green juices and the lack of alcohol. Mind you, I'm still taking my sugar too much and I'm certainly not a skinny thighs. However, it will help with some millimeters and sometimes that's all a woman needs. This particular version is for the night: it helps, but it smells a bit funky. I will  have already repurchased the daytime version with my famous 10% caffeine.
3. Rituals Heavenly Hamman Bathoil: This brand from Holland sure gotten far and popular. I love the combination of fresh & mild of this blend.
4. Rouge Bunny Rouge Metamorphosis Mattifying primer: I really like this one, however, it's pricy and I found a lovely dupe. Btw, I'm gonna try to find an organic primer that functions well.
5. FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5: This retinol potion really is gentle for the skin and I can still see a good result when using it: smoother, more decongested skin.

I had more things I've used up, but I couldn't be bothered photographing a zillion of samples that were simply nice, but not earth-shockingly special.

Sooo, Happy 2015:

November Empties

"And so we're finished"

(but we might meet again...)

 

 I haven't been that empty-tastic like last month, but I did my share.

Clockwise:

• Aurelia Revitalise Glow Serum is a repeat serum I crack open before winter starts: it's potent enough with anti-agers but soothes for skin-that-doesn't-like-cold. I've repeated before, and will repurchase next transition.
• Ciate Amazing Gracy has been from the 2013 Advent set and it started to thicken up. I wanted to buy this year's set but I had the most craptastic saleslady so I passed at the counter. :( Perhaps I'll get it online anyway.
• SWELL Volumizing condition travel size has been such a gorgeous organic conditioner that doesn't compromize on smoothness nor volume. I need the full size but I still have tons of other conditioners to use.
• I've been liking this Keep Calm & Spray On ThemeFragance perfume since 2009 and it still smells as good as then, but it's almost finished. They don't have this lable anymore so I'll keep the bottle!
• (leftcorner) This Kose Fasio Smart Curl Mascara curl has been a lovely mascara holding up my curl and giving a nice amount of volume. I won't repurchase as I'm adoring my Kate Base + MakeupForever mascara combo so much. 

• I'd ranted about Revitalash stinging my eyes but I guess it had been something else. Fact is, it has given me a wonderful grow and some dainty lashes. 
• Becca Resurfacing Primer has been a GWP but has begon to smell wiffy. It's slightly silicony.
• Koh nailpolishes are from a Dutch company with a Japanese aesthetic. Their nailproducts are brilliant, but expensive. I gotten this colour in the Bijenkorf beautybox from last year's GWP.
• This Bourjois Docteur Glamour lippy had been in my collection for too long. It still smells fresh but I had to make some space. This gorgeous colour is 15 Fuschia o Boho.
• Similar with this NYX Pumpkin Pie: I'm not that fond of nude lipsticks anyway.

 

•  Odacite Ac + R (Acai & Rose Youthful Glow) Oil has been the most gorgeous & glowifying serum on my holidays: a perfect after-sun antioxidant & moisturizing blend. Alas, it's only 5 ml so the price per use holds me back.
• I've already bought & used Bella Freud J'Adore Jane candle and I was curious for Ginsberg is God. I prefer Jane as I'm not too fond of fig as a home-fragance. It's still really nice, though.
• I guess everyone knows about Manuka honey so I won't elaborate on it.
• Normally I go French with my anti-cellulite but L'Oreal (I consider it American instead of French) had a BOGO. It's nice, but I prefer my French for celllutite blasting.
• Tatcha Indigo Bodycream (travelsize) will gets its own feature on the blog: it's THAT good and I already purchased full-size.

 

• Rotho Lychee eyedrops are a staple of mine. I'll repurchase for sure.
• The black tube next to it is Kjaer Weiss Mascara refill. Nice, but so far the chemicals and chemical primers have given me a better result.
• The sample next to it is Tammy Fender Intensive Repair cream. I like it, I use to have full-size, and it's rather expensive.
• The Caudalie Polyphenol C15 eye & lip serum is also nice. I always use the excess of eyecream for the contour of my lips as well but I like the marketing of including both.
• Clean Fresh is like its name, and Frederic Malle's Fleur the Cassis is almost it's florally heady opposite. I like both but not enough for going full-size.
• Suki Balancing Day Lotion has been better than I expected. It's thin but moisturizing enough and it kept my blemishes at bay. Potential repurchase.
• Tatcha Luminious Deep Hydration Firming Serum feels quite neutral and soothing on. I might upgrade to the 10ml travel size.
• Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint is a wonderful hybrid between a tinted daycream and a luminizer: on some days you just need a bit of extra [faux] glow.
• The 2 Ole Hendrikson's are from Sephora's 7 day 'transforming' set. Ugh, the more they come with 'transforming'/'flawless' terms, the more wary I get (they never work for me!). The Truth Serum is a mild Vitamin C based serum: I used to like this one but I feel there are more diverse serums around these days. Similar with the Moisturizer: nicely bland but I'd pick the Suki one over it.
  
  
  In general, my November was not so spectacular on a social level, but I found some really effective products. I'm gonna discuss some of the likes of #Team-anti-irritation soon. And I'm so delighted that my Tom Ford Lipstick & Boys arrived minutes ago. Thus, I'll be getting lippy and report soon ;).

October Empties

My fave finished-up for this month has been my travel sized Water Calligraphy by Killian. It's one of the three fragances I got it during my 'spoiled Christmas '13'.

Aquatic fragances will always be a bit 1990s for me. This version is feminine without being obtrusive, fresh during summer & uplifting when colder.

The empty at the background is Jill Stuart CC foundation: unfortunately too fragancy for me.

More Foundations:

I had some testing this month & the-one-that-got-away: my Giorgio Armani Maestro fluid foundation is still half-full but it turned a bit after 1 1/2 year. It was a favourite in the beginning: excellent cover with my-skin-but-so-much-better finish. Then I found it silicony compared to my newer foundations.

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Amazing Cosmetics Concealer has been excellent in offering high-cover, thin enough without irritating skin. It could be a future purchase.

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BE Creative Makeup is the house-brand of beautystore ICIParis (only in the Netherlands & Belgium). Their Photo Perfecting Primer has been a supernice surprise that had similar qualities like my niche Rouge Bunny Rouge Metamorphosis. Their foundation was ok, scentless and high coverage but I have to test it in a lighter colour range.

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 Hourglass Immaculate Foundation has been Allure's 2014 winner, and actually well-deserved. Scentless, weightless & a gorgeous finish on skin. Or another wishlist foundation for the future.

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The Essence Ticket to Paradise creamy eyeshadow has dried out. I still like Essence line for experimenting with colours within a good pricerange.

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The Boscia BB cream has this fresh texture on the skin: like a water-bubble feeling. I sorta stepped away from BB-cream when they gotten popular but this one is quite nice

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Jouer Matte foundation is a bliss in *oily climate zones*: I'd say Barcelona during summer or similar smog-zone cities. It zaps up un-necessary oilies without dulling skin

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Oh, I already discussed the craptastic-ness of this eyecream over here: case closed.

Oh wait, I'm not totally done complaining because I had some weird experience with two(!) Therapi creams this month.I had bought both the no 3 Honey Moisturizing  as the Rose Otto Ultra Radiance cream a couple of months ago. I had stored them in my cool storage that totally agrees with my other skincare. Result:

weird shifting of cream/oil in both creams

I know there is a risk with natural skincare with having a shorter lifespan but this one:
1. did not have an expiry date
2. I had it for just 2 months, unopened!

My Nailpolishes, on the other hand, had a good couple of years before drying up.

Some Essies, Color Club & a Brazillian one on the right

Then my skincare:

Bioderma HydroBio Legere has been the equivalent of Nivea to me: nicely moisturizing but not much else. I've only used it twice.

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Soap & Glory Scrub Your Nose in it is such a versatile mask/cleanser hybrid. I'd picked it up in the UK. 

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A smaller La Roche Posay thermospray always comes in handy for a dewier complexion.

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Macademia oil is a nice fatty moisturizer to use on hair: I smells wonderfully nutty.

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MU London White Chocolate Moisturizer smelled similar to Palmer's Cocoa butter. This is a organically friendlier version and I really liked this travel size.

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I didn't like the oily residue after using Live Nature Exfoliating cleanser. I felt like washing my face a couple of times again which shouldn't be necessary.

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I really liked the Algenist Renewing Balm eyecream and I might repurchase in a bigger size.  The Algenist Reparative Anti-ageing Moisturizer has this kind of neutral/lab scent and aura that would be perfect for sensitive days. 

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Continuing on Algenist, I totally liked this sample of the Brightening Mask. It's another hybrid product of exfoliating & cleansing, resulting in clearer, more radiant skin.

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My Chelle Supreme Polypeptide cream has been nice introduction to the formula.

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I've used the S5 brightening serum before, but this time I really needed it. I previous long-weekend left me with a sunburn (lousy sunscreen's fault). I think this generous sample did lighten me a bit.

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First Aid Beauty Total Repair cream is so incredibly neutral and moisturizing at the same time. I think it would be bliss when you really need it.

Last but not least:

Lyonsleaf Beauty Balm is a firm favourite among Organic oriented beautybloggers. That's for a good reason because this is an amazing multitasker being able to cleanse, moisturize lizardy cuticles and other dry areas. It smells gorgeously herbally.

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I've been so curious for Living Proof Full Shampoo. Obviously, because it's co-owned by hair of the 1990s (and still) Jennifer Aniston. Reviews were mixed and I get that: it leaves a residue behind that curly/dryer types will love and the thinner strands won't. I liked the result, but I didn't like the green tea scent.

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My 1st Vine-ed item on this blog: The Balmain Hair perfume [here]. Something did leak out but I'm sure I'd finished it with much enthousiasm anyway. Basically, LOVE: a fab hairglosser and a gorgeous fragance in one.

Ok, I've lied about it being the last. There are still some lip-products:

 

The Aube Frutina Gloss EX03 so amped and it probably one of my glossies glosses. I had it for too long so time to let go *sheds tear*

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Ah, a Mascara. I really love Kanebo Kate eye-primers but this mascara is just average.
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The Pixi Lipgloss (right corner) has been discontinued and I totally worn off the name. This gloss is your-nude-but-better. I wonder if their newer glosses have a similar grip on lips like this one.
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To finish with a mystery lipstick:
the lipstick on the bottom is Korean but I cannot say which brand. I did so many Gmarket orders in the past #goodtimes. It just has Korean signs & PK 002 at the bottom.

Now after writing this down I feel nostalgic for ordering from Gmarket again: the effort, the hassle, the decifering Korean signs, but most...that awesomely big package that's the equivalent of a Russian doll:

past Gmarket haul

Yes, such box-i-ness can only be Gmarket!

September Empties

Woooot, a whole box of empties!

It's almost that I compensated for the fewer empties the months before: not so true. I had plenty that was almost empty, and I checked out the makeup drawesr for some possible expired products.

It's a lot so I'll keep it short still talk too much because I love explaining stuff

Makeup:

•  the Illamasqua lipquad is more than 5 years old (original haul here). The formula was already on the dryer side but now it gotten desert-like. 
• the Kiehl lipgloss in Golden Berry is from the same period. It still smells good and the formula has not gotten weird but I'm not taking my chances. I really like this one, colour & formula.
• The Scott Barnes pan is a concealer: also not empty but also older and a formula that gotten dryer. The original is quite good and has a high coverage. 
• another concealer from Senna cosmetics -> actually quite stellar, especially undereye. I think they change the packaging (here) but it's really one I'd repurchase
• I bought NARS Larger Than Life Lip Gloss Paris Follies in Sevilla. It had fun souvenir value and the inoffensive peachy hue makes it easy for every look. I used it up after a year which is unique knowing I have tons of lipglosses.
• These 3 lipsticks are from Silknaturals. They are bargain and sometimes dupe the popular colours in natural/veganfriendly formulas. However, I had them for ages so its time to let go of them.
• Rimmel London has this lovely & light eyebrow colour in Hazel. It changed texture and is probably expired.
• Rouge Bunny Rouge Nocturnal Ink eyeliner is a blogger's favourite. I like it but it's not the best ever. Also, it dried out after 7 months: my Kanebo Kate from 3 years old is still quite fresh so I think it due to RBR formula.
• Another eyeliner, Hourglass Script. Also dried out after a year. I haven't used it that much during that time.
• I've featured Diorshow Lash Maximizer (lash primer) over here and I bin it because it doesn't perform. Contrary to this, I adore Kanebo Kate Lash Base old formula but I have to bin it for hygienic reasons.
• Also recently featured is Illamasqua Disobey shader (here). It's been one of my 1st real shader-colours.
• Lunasol Water Cream Foundation in OC2 has been my favourite winterfoundation in 2010 & somewhat in 2011. I prefer newer formulas these days as it can show of slightly glittery on photographs.
  

  Body:

• It's not my 1st time exploring on Llerac anti-cellulite lotion (see here) but this Ultra Body Lift 10 has a PIIIINK gel. I wanted to try it for the higher dose of caffeine: 10%. It feels fresh and smells slightly fruitier than the average cellulite lotion. Effective? My rear feels tighter but I'm never really sure.

• Weleda Birch Oil is another anti-cellulite treatment based on natural (essential) oils. I used it with proper massage techniques but I didn't feel it worked for me. Also, the bottle was empty within 2 weeks which makes it €€ considering it costs me about €18. 
• Boswelia supplements are supposed to work anti-inflammatory (see here). I tried it because I am eczema-prone -> inflamed condition -> so it works on different levels. I think it did diminish some dimples...see above about being 'not sure'.
• Kris d'Amour Soothing Body Butter has such a wonderful natural scent with a hint of lavendel. The butter texture is amazing on lizard-prone legs, which makes them soft and 'eligible' (blame this word on too many George Clooney wedding propaganda)
• Fushi Really Good Sportoil has been a GWP. I really like this British healthcare brand and this oil has a good dose of arnica to soothe those sport-strained muscles.

Hair, shower & Perfume

• Alterna Caviar RepairX Fill & Fix Treatment needs a review on its own! It's terribly expensive for a hairmask though slightly more affordable here. I like it when my hair needs a good treatment
• Yummy, Bond no.9 Little Italy has been my fave orangy perfume for more than 5 years. Now I officially spritzed the last bit out. The bottle is worthy keeping.
• Swell is a newer line in organic haircare that focuses on volume. I don't think the Advanced Formula Shampoo really gives me volume but it's not making it puffy either. Just nice.
• I've been praising the L'Oreal Professional line frequently on this blog. The Lisse Ultime Mask is totally effective on wavy hair: I've used in on extensions and it smoothes the heck out of them...
• Cottage Showergel in Caramel is a souvenir from a Paris Supermarket. Yum, it's totally caramelly without the irritating chemicals. Nice, but difficult to repurchase when not in France.

Face:

• Erica Orangeblossom water is an amazing budgetfind for people liking the effects of Orange Blossom but don't wanna spend €36 on synergetically complicated blends. It smells amazing: claims to protect dry & sensitive skin.
• this Yves Rocher Pur Bleuet eyemakeup-remover has been a gwp with a Spanish Magazine. I've already repurchased it: it removes the most stubborn mascara in just a moment.
• the Caudalie Polyphenol c15 also need a full review: it's my 2nd bottle and I love it's firming properties.

• Tammy Fender Cleansing Milk with Lavendel is probably the closest to smelling a real lavendel field in France. Truly a soft milk for removing light makeup. Expensive though.  
• Living Nature the firming Flax serum smells delightfully neutral with just a hint of earthiness. I cannot tell anything about it being efficient on longterm base but it hydrates and tightens a bit without irritating.

• This Eyeliner from Makeupstudio is basically #craptastic. The good thing is that a brush in included on top but the formula is too dry and flakes within no time.
• Nuxe Reve de Miel Lipbalm is probably one of the most mentioned lipbalms in magazines. I really like the natural feel & tiny buttery lumps in it. But do I think it's the best? I like other lipbalms too for different reasons.
• This Marie Veronique Organics Sunscreen sample is a darker colour than the large bottle I have. I liked it first, but it's not completely perfect.
• Holland recently sells Algenist Skincare; this sample is their nightcream. It reminds me of Clinique only more exclusive and balmy.

Random Samples:

•  Everybody's raving about YSL Fusion Foundation but I think it was like spraying perfume on my face: OTT fragance and a stingy feeling. I didn't think I looked like the glossier self I normally am with my fave foundations -> huge miss
• Hourglass Veil primer is nice but I'm not too fond of the slippery silicony feel. Guess I'm too spoiled with Rouge Bunny Rouge (here)
• Absolution is a newer natural brand. This  Soin Repulpant (plumping) mask felt like a creamy dream. After 10 minutes my skin did look more plum. I'd like to have more samples or a large size of this one.
• L'oreal Professional Absolute repair Cleansing Balm is a Cleansing conditioner with lactic acid.  I would consider more samples of these on holidays when you have to wash your hair oftenly.
• Shiseido Ibiku daycream is thin and smells light. It didn't irritate but I'm not sure if I need a full size.
• Frederic Malle is a niche perfumer who tried to embody the essence of designer Dries van Noten. I'm sure the team of designers agreed on the outcome, but I think the fragance smells too mature lady to me. I sort of miss the playful vibe that has been going on by Dries van Noten's recent designs:
• 

I mean, any 40+ wearing this is a funky chick at heart so she must smell a bit fresher than the sniff I gotten from the sample.

• Caudalie Polyphenol c spf 20 anti wrinkle daycream is nice but did not wow me.
• John Masters Bearberry skin balancing face serum is packed with some good ingredients. The problem with samples is that you cannot tell long term results, but I still like them to know if I agree with them 'at first sight'. I do with this one.

Crikey, what a list! If someone on the street would have to make a guess how many different products have used, they'd probably underestimate me...hahaha. Not sure if I'd top this list for the next month but I'll keep on empting and tossing away expired thingies :)

April's Empties

This month has been a normal empties month:

• Pai daycream in Macademia & Rose has not been finished yet, but it reached the expiry date. I quite like the neutral texture but I opened it too late 

•  De Mamiel Spring oil is nice, but I'm not too fond of it's lemony, home-cleansing scent. I added some neroli & geranium to perk it up: that worked 

•  Nourish Revital-eye made it to my Best of 2013 List. I've emptied my 2nd tube & keep on loving its effect on my eyes.

• Avene eau Thermale had been on my wishlist for a while. I got the samplesize and like it, but I cannot really distinguish between this one and La Roche Posay: I just like both types.
•  Ren Evercalm cleanser is lovely, but these days I'm more partial to either cleansing oils or micellar waters. But it's nice to try
• Kris dAmour makes some lovely oils. The soothing faceoil, is everything it promises, delightfully soo
• Estelle & Child lifting Eyecream was a bit of a miss for me. It gave me an irritation: the saleswoman told me it was because the eyec  re am contained too many actives but I don, t have yhis promblem with either Pai Echium nor Nourish Revital-Eyes. It's just not working for me.

Both of my pot eyeliners dried out.  

I really liked RMS Unpowder which explained why I finished in 4 months

• Nexxus Emergencee changed into Polymedic: the formula is still similarly brilliant and givesmhair a good dose of protein.
• Trilogy Refresh and Shine is an excellent, organic conditioner with light but effective detangling properties
• Less is MORE Lindengloss shampoo smells amazing and cleanses light but effectively. I want themfull size now!
• Ila Nourish body lotion is light and has that hwrbal scent. Lovely, but the full size would be a tad too pricy for me
• Last but not least has been Timothy Dunn Mille Fleurs candle: so good that it should become a perfume.