By Empties videos and posts are always my favorite because you can get a glimpse of what products beauty bloggers really enjoy and why. Although I love to try a variation of beauty products, there are some favorites that will always stick with me. Here are some of the products I used up this month that you absolutely should try out.
Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Wear Hydrating Foundation: I cannot say enough great things about the Smashbox foundation! I picked this up at Ulta on a whim because I was still in the market of finding foundations that actually fit my olive brown complexion (believe me it has been a struggle). However, I looked took a chance and matched myself in store. I was definitely hesitant at first, but to my surprise, the foundation matched my skin beautifully and had a lot of lasting power! The Smashbox Foundation pretty much met a large part of my criteria for what women should look for in their own foundation. The price point is definitely not on the low end, but well worth the price. I will say that I finished this foundation a lot sooner than I expected to. I definitely wouldn’t mind reaching out to professionals at Smashbox or advanced makeup artist for tips on applying the makeup. Perhaps I’m using the wrong cosmetic brush or application technique. But I absolutely love this foundation and will definitely purchase it again.
Manuka Doctor Facial Moisturizing Lotion: This has become my go-to moisturizer for the day time. I discovered this moisturizer at TJ Maxx and was more than surprised by the quality and longevity of the product. My experience with the Manuka Doctor brand actually began when I purchased a jar of Manuka honey from Fresh Market. I loved the honey so much (it’s marvelous for homemade remedies), that I was excited to see other products in the line. The Manuka Doctor facial moisturizing lotion leaves dry skin feeling so quenched. I love that for me, it serves as a primer too. It took me quite a while to finish this, so that is a plus as well.
The Body Shop Tea Tree Clearing Toner: I received this toner in a skincare kit that also included tea tree moisturizer, cleanser, and tea tree oil. I didn’t like any of the other products, but the toner definitely stood out as a winner to me. The combination of washing my face and applying the toner before bed had tremendous effects on my skin. I wake up looking absolutely refreshed and I feel like the Body Shop Tea Tree Clearing Toner is a big part of that equation. The magic if you will. This toner definitely burns and stings a little, but it is well worth it. You can find this at Ulta and the price point is very reasonable. The toner will has lasting power, so you would be very pleased.
LA Girl HD Pro Concealer: I consider myself a concealer connoisseur. As a person with dark circles and pigmentation, color correcting and concealer is a must for my makeup application process. I’ve tried low-end and high-end – all around and all types of brands. But the LA Girl Pro Concealer steals my heart and wows me every time. I use orange and almond to color correct and fawn or toffee for my highlighted concealer. I’m out of both, but luckily I can visit my nearest Ulta or Beauty Supply to find more pick up a few more tubes. You also can’t beat the price. This concealer also lasts quite a few months and I have been nothing but pleased with this brand.
NEST Citrine: I picked up the NEST fragrance while I had extra money on a Sephora giftcard gifted to me by a friend. Citrine is a scent that stood out because it smells both fresh and exotic at the same time. The fragrance last all day and I like to actually dab the roll-on on my clothes (I have sensitive skin). Oddly enough, there is lasting power in doing this versus on the skin. Same effect. I believe the steam from our body heat and transferred to the clothes gives off the full essence of a fragrance. The roll-on is less than $30 if you fancy trying it out before purchasing a full bottle. Overall, I have nothing but good things to say about the NEST brand.
Those are my empties for the month thus far. I love showcasing brands who really get it right. What products are you loving so much that it’s time to purchase them again?
What do you think?