Beauty Empties | Products I've Used Up

Are you ready for a bumper Beauty Empties post? It's always the way isn't it; this is about two months' worth of empties as I didn't feel like I had enough to warrant writing a post last month, and now the recycling bin is overflowing. Grab a cuppa and settle down, there's a lot to discuss here!

Bloomtown Natural Deodorant Bar in Lemongrass & Peppermint* (reviewed here)

I've been using natural deodorants for the best part of 10 years now and I haven't looked back. Admittedly, it can take some trial and error at first to find one that works for you, but a long-time favourite of mine is this deodorant bar from Bloomtown. It lasts a good 2-3 months, is plastic-free, I love the scent and it keeps me fresh all day. Repurchase? Yes.

Nip + Fab Purify Salicylic Fix Spot Patches

These were from a Glossybox and sadly, I didn't find them to be very effective. They didn't dry out my skin, but they also didn't do much to reduce the size of blemishes. Repurchase? No. 

Westlab Reviving Epsom Bath Salts & White Willow, Eucalyptus & Arnica Bath Salts* 

Epsom salts are amazing for reviving the muscles after exercise or just to help you to relax after a stressful/busy day. I'm a big fan of the Westlab Bath Salts which are one of the most affordable brands on the market; the Reviving ones are fragrance-free, whilst the other pack is infused with White Willow, Eucalyptus & Arnica. Repurchase? Definitely.

Saach Organics Henna Orange Oil Shampoo* (reviewed here)

If, like me, you use henna to colour your hair, then this is a fantastic shampoo that contains henna orange oil to keep your colour looking vibrant for longer. Highly recommended. Repurchase? Yes.

Aromatherapy Associates De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil* (reviewed here)

It's always a very sad day when you finish up a full-size bottle of Aromatherapy Associates Bath Oil! I adore these so much, and although they are a luxury splurge, a tiny amount goes a long way. This is the De-Stress blend which is amazing for tired and sore muscles. Repurchase? On my wishlist!

This Works Sleep Balm

A cute little pot of scented balm that I like to apply to my pulse points before going to bed. If you have trouble sleeping, I can't recommend the This Works Sleep range enough. Repurchase? Yes.

Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm

Another one that I found in a Glossybox, I originally really liked this, but over time, I began to find the coconut flavour too sickly sweet. Repurchase? No.

Burts Bees Beeswax Lip Balm

This is the classic original formula which has peppermint and Vitamin E in it. You really can't go wrong with these lip balms, I must have gone through loads of them over the years! Repurchase? Yes.

Emma Hardie Brilliance Face Oil* (reviewed here)

An absolutely beautiful product, Emma Hardie's bestselling Brilliance Face Oil is just sublime. I love the blend of natural plant oils and my skin always feels healthier and more glowy whenever I use it. Repurchase? Yes.

Dook X Jupiter Artland Salt Soap

My favourite brand discovery of this year so far has been Dook. Their famous handmade Salt Soaps are not only exquisite and works of art in their own right, but the compact formula means they never go mushy, even after using them every day for the past few months. This one was a special Limited Edition collaboration that they did with the Scottish artist Jupiter Artland. Repurchase? I will buy more from their main range for sure! 

Molton Brown Rhubarb & Rose Bath and Shower Gel (travel size)

I do love a bit of Molton Brown and Rhubarb & Rose is quite possibly my favourite scent from them; it's so fruity with a touch of floral and a little sherberty zing. A lovely touch of luxury for the bath or shower. Repurchase? Yes.

Tisserand Mandarin & May Chang Uplifting Hand Cream* (reviewed here)

Another beautifully scented product is this hand cream from Tisserand which has a lovely oriental floral and spicy fragrance. My top tip is to stock up on these when they're on offer in TKMaxx. Repurchase? Yes.

Ultrasun Extreme SPF 50+ 

An excellent choice for sensitive skin, this sunscreen does the job and doesn't feel sticky or greasy. Repurchase? Yes.

Evolve Organic Beauty Super Berry Bath & Shower Oil* (reviewed here)

Another good option for sensitive skin is this bath & shower oil from Evolve Organic Beauty has a very delicate and gentle formula so I tend to use it a lot when my skin is having an eczema flareup. Repurchase? Yes. 

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water 

I only use micellar water to remove waterproof mascara as I prefer cleansing oils/balms for the rest of my face, so one of these big bottles lasts me around six months or so. It gets the job done and is fragrance-free. Repurchase? Yes.

Neals Yard Remedies Geranium & Orange Hand Cream*

Gorgeous softening formula with a gorgeous cheerful scent, I've been using these for years and always have one in my stash somewhere. Repurchase? Yes.

Naturecan Purify CBD Clay Mask* (reviewed here)

Whilst I enjoyed using this, I did feel like it's a pretty basic clay face mask and there are other brands that I prefer a lot more. Repurchase? No.

ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara in After Midnight (travel size)

One of the best, if not the best, natural mascaras you'll find on the market right now. I love this mascara so much! It lengthens, adds volume and doesn't smudge or budge all day long. Repurchase? Yes.

Tarte Tarteist Brow Gel

As far as clear brow gels go, this works really well and keeps fluffy brows in place. But is it worth the money? Nope; you can find the same kind of product elsewhere for a much more affordable price. Repurchase? No.

Organic Works Bergamot Body Lotion* (reviewed here)

I love fresh scents as you can probably tell from this post and this big bottle of body lotion from Organic Works has served me well! Lovely light non-sticky formula and a lovely fresh fragrance. Repurchase? Yes.

NEOM Perfect Night's Sleep Pillow Mist* 

An essential on my bedside table, I always like to spritz my bedding with a sleepy pillow mist before calling it a night. This one's in my top three favourites but I do feel that the This Works mist performs slightly better. Repurchase? Maybe.

REN Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream (travel size)

Lastly, I've used up a travel size of REN's bestselling Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream which is something that I have recommended countless times to friends and family. If you have sensitive skin, this is definitely one to try. Repurchase? Yes.

What have you used up recently?

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Beauty Empties | Products I've Used Up

The early May Bank Holiday has thrown me off course a little, but here are my latest Beauty Empties, a few days later than planned! Check out what I've finished up recently and which products I'll be repurchasing again.

Westlab Mindful Bath Salts* (featured here)

For affordable, budget-friendly bath salts, you can't go wrong with anything from Westlab and you can buy these in big bags from places like TKMaxx where they are even cheaper! I love these Mindful Bath Salts which are infused with Frankincense, Bergamot, and CBD. Repurchase? Yes.

Naturecan CBD Infused Coconut Conditioner* 

Having tried out some skincare from Naturecan a few years ago, I was curious to see what their haircare was like, but if I'm being honest, I've found it a bit disappointing. This conditioner is meant for dry/damaged hair but it didn't feel particularly moisturising/hydrating in my opinion, and had quite a thin and watery texture. Repurchase? No.

Odylique Coconut Candy Scrub* (featured here)

One of my favourite luxury body scrubs of all time, I've gone through so many tubs of this over the years! It smells incredible; just like what you would imagine coconut candy to smell like, and it's packed full of nourishing ingredients so when all the exfoliation is done, your skin feels silky smooth afterwards. Repurchase? Yes.

This Works Deep Sleep Bath Soak* (featured here)

Another luxury favourite, again because they work so well, are the Deep Sleep bath salts from This Work. Clinically proven to help you sleep better, I'm a huge fan of this range and adore the ultra-relaxing scent of Lavender and Vetivert. Thankfully, they are quite potent so you don't need to use much each time. Repurchase? Definitely.

Evolve Organic Beauty Rainforest Rescue Blemish Serum* (featured here)

A staple in my skincare routine, this Blemish Serum is one of the best that I've tried for calming down breakouts, without irritating sensitive skin. It feels light and gentle on, but is incredibly effective thanks to a blend of spot-busting plant actives such as Willow Bark and Copaiba. Highly recommended. Repurchase? Will do.

Balmonds Intensive Hand Cream* (featured here)

Every now and then, I get flare-ups of pompholyx eczema on my hands, and Balmonds is my go-to brand to help relieve it. Their Intensive Hand Cream is amazing stuff and free from a long list of 'nasties' so it's a fantastic 99% natural formula. In short, it works! Repurchase? Yes.

Dr. Pawpaw Age Renewal Hand Cream*

Another good option for eczema-ridden hands is this fragrance-free formula from Dr. Pawpaw. It's very hydrating and feels very soothing, plus soaks in easily. Repurchase? Would certainly consider it.

Brave New Hair Keratin Mask Concentrate (travel size)

I liked this a lot. It has a lovely thick texture, is super moisturising for dry hair, and smells fresh and coconutty. Repurchase? Maybe!

Skin & Me Soothe + Smooth Light Moisturiser*

For a straight-up, everyday facial moisturiser, this was brilliant and did the job very well. Packed full of Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides, it keeps your skin nicely hydrated without being too much for my oily/combination type to handle. I also love the metallic tube. Repurchase? I'm using REN at the moment but would consider coming back to this in the future.

Mádara Exfoliating Oil-to-Milk Scrub* (travel size)

I've used this many times in the past - it's a good exfoliator that's quite grainy but not too harsh and I love the oil-to-milk formula. Repurchase? Yes.

What have you been using up lately?

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Modern Aromatherapy | This Works Love Sleep Breathe In & Stress Check Breathe Out Rollerballs review

Aromatherapy rollerballs are something that I often carry in my handbag when I'm out and about, and they're equally handy to have in your desk drawer/office space for those times when you need a moment of peace and calm. On the flip side, more of us are turning to aromatherapy use in the bedroom as well, which showcases the versatility of these natural essential oils, and the effects that they can have on our moods and emotions.

There are a number of British brands that specialise in aromatherapy rollerballs as part of their wider well-being ranges, and there's quite fun to make yourself as well (Youtube and TikTok have plenty of how-to's on this for anyone who fancies the DIY route). However, if you'd prefer the easy 'add to basket' option, here are two of my faves from This Works.

For The Bedroom Try: This Works Love Sleep Breathe In Rollerball* (8ml, £21)

Alongside scented candles, aromatherapy rollerballs are fast becoming a discreet must-have in the bedroom for consumers who are looking for an all-natural product to help them switch off and unwind so that they can reset their mood for intimacy. This Works Love Sleep range is certainly leading the way in this area with its unique 'Love Sleep' blend of essential oils which includes Ylang Ylang, Patchouli, and Frankincense. 

Tested on panel members, it's become popular thanks to its ability to help people to relax, unwind and feel more calm, whilst the sensual blend can get you in the mood for sex. Apply to your wrists and breathe in to feel the effects - it's great to incorporate as part of a pre-bedtime ritual.  

For The Office Try: This Works Stress Check Breathe Out Rollerball* (8ml, £19)

Whilst the root causes of major stress need to be addressed by a medical professional such as your GP or a mental health nurse, milder symptoms or 'moments of stress' can be somewhat easier to deal with, especially if they are related to an important meeting at work or an approaching project deadline. For these times, This Works Stress Check Breathe Out Rollerball may be able to give you a little bit of aromatherapy support so that you can get back in control of these stressful times that arise.

I'm a natural worrier as well, so I find this range to be very useful. The expert blend of Ylang Ylang, Neroli, and Lavender is wonderfully calming, and there's something about just taking a moment out of your busy schedule to apply this to your pulse points and focus on your breathing for 5-10 minutes, which really helps to calm the mind. 

Discover these products and more at thisworks.com

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Beauty Empties | Products I've Used Up

Another month has flown by which means it's time yet again for another Beauty Empties round-up! This is something of a bumper collection as I've been on a bit of a No-Buy challenge recently so I've finished up quite a lot of products. Grab a cuppa and let's get stuck in.

Naobay Hyaluronic & Hemp Recharge Splash Facial Mist* (travel size)

I really enjoyed using this - it was super light and refreshing and also doubled up nicely as a setting spray too. Repurchase? I've gone back to using the Evolve Daily Defence Moisture Mist, but I would be happy to buy this again in the future.

Balance Me BHA Exfoliating Concentrate (travel size)

If you have oily/combination skin that's prone to blemishes and breakouts, then I highly recommend this liquid exfoliant. It's brilliant for unclogging pores and getting rid of dead skin/congestion. Repurchase? Yes.

Nourish London Probiotic Multi-Mineral Repair Mask* (reviewed here)

This is one of the best face masks that I've ever tried for helping to repair the skin barrier. It has so many beneficial ingredients like Magnesium and Zinc in it that you really do see a noticeable difference in your skin after the first use. Genius stuff. Repurchase? Already have :)

This Works Morning Expert Hyaluronic Serum* (reviewed here)

A hugely popular serum for a reason, this one combines Hyaluronic Acid with Vitamin C in a slow-release formula to really plump up and brighten your complexion. Very impressed by this and will be most definitely cutting open the tube to get the last bits out! Repurchase? Yes.

Bloomtown The Rose Garden Salt Soak* (reviewed here)

I recently featured this in my top four relaxing bath salts post so it should come as no surprise to see it here. These are gorgeous, fresh rose-scented Himalayan salts that are very relaxing and spa-like. Repurchase? Yes. 

Puur Ingrid Ultra Body Oil* (featured here)

This is a luxury Canadian natural brand that I was introduced to when I was judging the Cert Clean Beauty Awards. A delightfully silky body oil with a heavenly scent of Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Bergamot. Repurchase? I'm not sure if they have a UK stockist but I'll certainly be checking!

Greenfrog Botanic Shampoo Bar Argan & Rose Oil*

One of my favourite shampoo bars as it produces a nice thick lather and feels very hydrating. Vegan and SLS-free, these bars last forever, I'm sure I've been using it for at least 3 months. Repurchase? Yes.

Dr. Pawpaw Shea Butter Balm* (reviewed here)

Another product that's lasted for a long time has been this tube of Dr. Pawpaw Shea Butter Balm which I'm sure I opened around Christmas time to put it into perspective! Amazing for any dry skin bits like lips and cuticles, it's fragrance-free so ideal for sensitive skin. Repurchase? Definitely.

Organii Almond & Avocado Cream Soap* (reviewed here)

If you have dry hands, you must try these Organii Cream Soaps. Not only are they packed full of natural moisturising ingredients like Shea Butter and Avocado Oil, but they're an absolute steal at only £3.50. I like to use them mainly as hand soaps to cut down on my plastic waste, though they are brilliant to use in the bath and shower as well as they retain their shape and don't go mushy.

This Works In Transit Camera Close-Up (travel size)

One of the best multi-purpose beauty products to throw into your travel bag. This little gem triples up as a hydrating face mask, everyday moisturiser, and makeup primer. I particularly like it using it as a primer as it completely smooths out my face in prep for makeup and keeps everything looking fresh. Repurchase? Yes.

Fruu Watermelon Lip Balm*

Can you tell I'm getting better at using up my never-ending stash of lip balms?! I'm a huge fan of these Fruu ones which come in a range of different flavours - Watermelon is so fruity and delicious. The hydration that these lip balms offer and the curved end make me keep buying them over and over. Repurchase? Definitely. 

Vapour Mesmerize Mascara (reviewed here)

It was certainly bittersweet to finish off this mascara as Vapour Beauty is sadly no more and I'll miss several of their products including this as it was a bloody good mascara. Repurchase? Discontinued :(

Alexandra Kay Time To Relax Essential Oil* (reviewed here)

I've used this for about 2-3 years now and still love it; I'm not sure why, but it's one of the most relaxing essential oil blends that I've come across. Repurchase? Yes.

Alteya Organics Eucalyptus Essential Oil*

When it comes to single essential oils, you can't go wrong with the purity and quality of Alteya Organics. I use Eucalutpus a lot throughout winter to help with itchy scalps/dandruff (add a drop or two to your shampoo), and clearing blocked sinuses when I've had a cold (great for water steam inhalation). Repurchase? Most definitely!

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Top 4 Bath Salts To Help You Relax & Sleep | featuring This Works, M&S Apothecary, Westlab & Bloomtown

Once only used by women of a 'certain age', bath salts are enjoying a long-awaited revival thanks to the self-care movement and I'm totally here for it! There are so many different blends and compositions to choose from these days that it can be a little overwhelming knowing what to buy. To point you in the right direction, I've put together my top four favourite bath salts post to help you to relax after a long day, and get a good night's sleep.

If You Love Floral Scents Try: Bloomtown Pink Himalayan Salt Soak in The Rose Garden* (285g, £10, link)

Most bath salt products on the market are generally made up of Epsom salts, Magnesium flakes, or Dead Sea salts (or even a mix of these), so I wanted to feature a Pink Himalayan Salt product as they are also becoming much more popular. Not only does it look pretty, but Pink Himalayan Salt is famed for containing over 80 trace minerals including magnesium, potassium, iron, and calcium. This gives the salt a unique composition which is great for drawing out toxins and rejuvenating the skin. Just make sure to really stir these salts around the bath as they are harder to fully dissolve if you don't.

I'm a big fan of the Bloomtown Pink Himalayan Salt Soak in The Rose Garden scent which smells incredible; if you love heady floral fragrances mixed with musk, this is the one for you. It's also a good alternative for those who aren't keen on lavender scents, but still want something that's relaxing.

If You Want A Good Night's Sleep Try: This Works Deep Sleep Bath Soak* (200g, £24, link)

For my fellow insomniacs, you must try This Works Deep Sleep Bath Soak. In fact, the entire Deep Sleep range is incredible for those of us who really struggle to get to sleep, however, the Bath Soak is something special. Infused with the brand's signature Deep Sleep natural fragrance, these sea salts are saturated with an expert and clinically proven mix of Lavender, Vetivert, Patchouli, Ho Wood, and Wild Chamomile essential oils. 

A truly relaxing and luxurious bath is sure to follow when these magical salts are added to the water and This Works recommend that you use them about two hours before you want to go to bed for the very best results. They are expensive, but it's worth pointing out that you only need to use a spoonful for each bath as they are so potent.

If You're On A Budget Try: Westlab Mindful Bath Salts with Frankincense, Bergamot & CBD* (1kg, £3.79, link)

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly alternative, you absolutely can't go wrong with anything from Westlab. I have used their products regularly for years, and the quality is always wonderfully consistent, with excellent results. It was difficult to choose just one product from them as they have such a good range, but their Mindful Bath Salts are brilliant and they're something that I've recommended countless times to family and friends.

Here we have a mix of both Epsom and Himalayan mineral salts, along with the addition of CBD oil to promote a feeling of tranquility and essential oils of Cedarwood, Orange, Geranium, Frankincense, and Bergamot. You can pick up Westlab Bath Salts from a wide variety of stockists including many budget-friendly stores such as B&M and Saver's where you'll usually find a big 1kg bag for around £3.50 - £3.79, which is such a bargain!

If You Want Your Bathroom To Feel Like A Spa Try: M&S Apothecary Sleep Bath Salts* (300g, £7.50, link)

OK, so all of the bath salts in this post will make your bathroom smell amazing, but if you're looking for one that's going to go the extra mile and make it feel like a proper spa experience, M&S Apothecary is the range to look into. They have a couple of different blends available, and the Sleep Bath Salts are a clear winner in my humble opinion.

Housed in a beautiful smoked grey glass bottle with a classic apothecary style vibe, these sea salts instantly hit you with a really strong and heady fragrance of Lavender, Eucalyptus, Vetiver, and Jasmine. This fragrance will quickly fill your whole bathroom, evoking a sense of calm and relaxation. Best of all, you can purchase refills which not only help to cut down on your packaging waste, but also make these bath salts more affordable in the long run.

Are you a fan of bath salts?

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Beauty Empties: Products I've Used Up

It's time for a Beauty Empties post don't you think? Come and rummage through the recycling bin with me and discover which products I'll be repurchasing again, and which, if any, will be staying in the bin!

Skin & Me Purify + Prep Hydrating Cleanser* (featured here)

I'm all about using creamy hydrating cleansers during the winter months and this little gem from Skin & Me has served me well. It's brilliant as a quick morning cleanser to prep my skin for my makeup and I love the recyclable aluminum squeezy tube. Repurchase? I've switched back to the REN Evercalm Cleansing Milk at the moment, but I'll definitely pick this up again.

Nourish Balance Refining Toning Mist* (travel size)

I love a refreshing spritz and Nourish Balance Refining Toning Mist is perfect for balancing excess sebum and keeping pores clear. If you have oily/combination skin, you should try it! Repurchase? Yes.

Aurelia Miracle Cleanser (travel size)

If you're a fan of thick cream cleansers that also double up as makeup removers, this bestseller Miracle Cleanser from Aurelia is amazing stuff. Removes all traces of makeup and leaves my skin so wonderfully fresh and clean. Repurchase? Yes.

Jacqueline Organic Honey Hydrating Lip Balm* 

Despite the name 'honey', this lip balm is suitable for vegans and has a 'honey-ish' natural scent to it which is really lovely. Keeps chapped lips at bay and is another product that I've enjoyed using this winter. Repurchase? I have a lot of lip balms in my stash to use up, but yes, I would repurchase!

Mádara Hyaluronic Acid Micellar Water (travel size)  

You can definitely spot a hydrating theme in this Empties round-up can't you?! I sometimes find that my eyes get very dry and scratchy when the central heating is on, so for days when I've been wearing mascara, I've been using Mádara Hyaluronic Acid Micellar Water to remove it. It's certainly one of the more hydrating/moisturising micellar waters that I've tried, no doubt due to the Hyaluronic Acid in the formula. Repurchase? Yes.

Westlab Reviving Epsom Bath Salts

Epsom Bath Salts are just amazing and I always, always have a bag or two in my bathroom. I've gotten into the habit of using them more often this winter, and my everyday aches and pains have been reduced as a result. Magical stuff! These ones are straight-up 100% natural mineral salts so I'll usually add a little bath/essential oil for some fragrance. Repurchase? Already have!

Wildheart Organics Revive Shower Oil*

Wildheart Organics is a beautiful natural luxury brand and I loved every single drop of their Revive Shower Oil. Incidentally, I used this purely as a bath oil and adored the blend of eucalyptus, lemongrass, and rosemary essential oils. Repurchase? Yes.

Skin & Tonic Slow Down Bath Soak* (featured here)

Very similar to the bath oil above, this Skin & Tonic Slow Down Bath Soak has a similar blend of essential oils which are infused into the bath salts, along with some CBD. This results in a very relaxing bath which is perfect to use after a long, stressful week. Repurchase? Yes.

This Works Stress Check Kind Hands

No winter empties post would be complete without at least one tube of hand cream and my go-to has been the bestselling Stress Check Kind Hands from This Works which I picked up for a bargain in TK Maxx. If you haven't smelt the Stress Check fragrance, you must! It's so calming and the hand cream itself is ultra-moisturising without being sticky or greasy. Repurchase? Already have.

Laidbare Butter Me Up Body Butter* (reviewed here)

Oh wow, this product has been a long-time favourite of mine, having first reviewed it back in 2012! Sadly, this amazing body butter has been discontinued and this was my very last tube of it so you better believe that I'll be cutting open the tube to get every last bit out! Repurchase? Discontinued :(

This Works Love Sleep Pillow Spray (travel size)

Lastly, I finished up a travel mini of the This Works Love Sleep Pillow Spray. This is the first that I've tried from the Love Sleep range and it's such a beautiful and highly addictive blend of Ylang Ylang and Patchouli. Repurchase? Very tempted to pick up the full size.

What beauty products have you finished up lately?

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Beauty Empties Round Up: Products I've Used Up

 

My oh my, how time flies! Another month has flown past so it's time for another Beauty Empties round-up. Here are all of the products that I've managed to use up recently and my thoughts on which ones I'll be repurchasing in the future.

Infuse My Colour Treat Conditioner* (reviewed here)

I've not been dyeing my hair much this year (or since Covid began to be honest!), but whenever I do, I like to keep a bottle of this Infuse My Colour Treat Conditioner in the bathroom. I've gone through several of these over the years and I just love the protection that it provides, without weighing down my fine hair. Repurchase? Will do the next time I colour my hair!

Good Bubble Bubble Bath in Cloudberry* (reviewed here)

For an affordable, family-favourite bubble bath option that's 98% natural and has a gentle formula for sensitive skin, you can't go wrong with Good Bubble. Their bubble baths are only a few quid and Cloudberry in particular has such a lovely sweet scent. Repurchase? Definitely.

Dr. Hauschka Rose Nurturing Bath Essence* (reviewed here)

On the opposite side of the bathing price spectrum and for those times when you just want to really pamper yourself and indulge in a beautiful, hot bath for two hours, Dr. Hauschka comes highly recommended. This bath milk is seriously rich and creamy; you won't need to use a moisturiser afterwards as it leaves your skin feeling like silk and smelling of fresh roses. Pure heaven. Repurchase? On my wishlist for when I see it on offer!

Green People Age Defy+ Pure Luxe Body Oil

Another luxury favourite, this time from Green People's founder, Cha Vohtz's range, the Age Defy+ Pure Luxe Body Oil really is pure luxury in a bottle. Super nourishing, it softens and smoothes, leaving a delicate, fresh Neroli-based natural fragrance on the body. Repurchase? It might already be on my Christmas wants list...

Skin + Me Daily Doser*

Moving onto some skincare, I've enjoyed using the prescribed Skin + Me Daily Doser for the past three months, and the plastic-free recyclable aluminium twist-up tubes are brilliant. My custom formula had lots of beneficial ingredients such as Niacinamide and Azelaic Acid in it and when I was sticking to using it regularly, I did see an improvement in some of my problem areas such as getting rid of stubborn blackheads. Repurchase? Although it's a great formula, I do love trying new things and I have to admit that I got a little bored of this, but I'm sure I'll come back to it in the near future again.

Aurelia Refine & Polish Miracle Balm (travel size)

For dull and congested skin, this exfoliator from Aurelia is fantastic stuff, especially when used as a quick five-minute treatment once a week. It smells very similar to Liz Earle's Cleanse & Polish as it also has Eucalyptus in it, but it feels more luxurious for a lovely pampering treat. Repurchase? Tempted to pop this on my Christmas list as well...

Terre Verdi Yoga & Sports Body Oil* (travel size - reviewed here)

I seem to have accumulated a few of these mini bottles from various beauty boxes and GWPs, but I'm certainly not complaining as this Body Oil is so pleasant to use and works a treat after a hot yoga session. Great for soothing tired muscles. Repurchase? I'm pretty stocked up at the mo!

Gallinée Eye Contour Cream* 

Gallinée's skincare is quite underrated in my opinion and I urge you to check out this natural French brand if you want to add some prebiotics and probiotics into your skincare routine. I've been using this tube of Eye Contour Cream for months and it's a lovely lightweight moisturiser that sinks straight in so you can apply your concealer on top right away - perfect for those busy mornings. Repurchase? I've gone back to my beloved Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream as I always need something a bit richer for the winter months, but it's another product I'd happily buy again in the future.

This Works Stress Check Roll-On (travel size)

You guys know how much I love my aromatherapy products and of course, This Works has an amazing Sleep and Stress range. Their Roll-ons are perfect for popping into your handbag or having next to your laptop for those times when you need a moment of calm. Simply apply to your pulse points, breathe in and relax. Repurchase? Yes.

Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner (travel size)

A long-time favourite of mine for nearly 10 years, Eyeko's Skinny Liquid Eyeliner is a must-have for anyone who wants an eyeliner that stays put all day (and night) without fading or smudging. Highly recommended. Repurchase? Definitely.

What beauty products have you used up recently?

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The Seasonal Beauty Edit: 5 Autumn Must-Haves

 

With that Autumnal chill finally due to arrive this weekend, now's the time to give your beauty routine a seasonal refresh. Take five with Skin & Me, Aveda, Everlasting Brows, This Works, and Butterwhips.

Skin + Me Purify + Prep Hydrating Cleanser* (80ml, link)

One of the first things that I switch up in my skincare routine is my cleanser. Typically, I like to use gel-based cleansers during the warmer summer months, but as the season changes, I find myself gravitating towards creamier cleansers. This year, I'm loving everything about Skin + Me Purifying + Prep Hydrating Cleanser. From the squeezy recyclable aluminum tube to the gentle hydrating formula, this simple cleanser ticks all the right boxes for me and keeps my skin nicely moisturised and prepped for the colder weather outside. 

Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Leave-In Treatment* (100ml, £26.78, link)

Your hair feels the change of season just like your skin does, and if yours has started to feel a little drier, a little bit of leave-in conditioner often does the trick. I've used various hair treatments from Aveda over the years and they really do make some of the best on the market. I particularly enjoy using their Botanical Repair Strengthening Leave-In Treatment which is an award-winning leave-in conditioner that repairs damage, reduces frizz, prevents breakages, and actually makes your hair feel stronger with regular use. A teeny amount is all you need.

Everlasting Brows Highlighter & Concealer Duo* (£7.95, link)

For an affordable quick fix that makes your whole eye area look instantly brighter and more awake, you can't go wrong with one of these beauties in your makeup bag. Perfect for makeup beginners and cosmetics junkies alike, Everlasting Brows Highlighter & Concealer Duo is a super convenient dual-ended chunky pencil that features a gorgeous gold-shimmer highlighter and a creamy concealer. I like to add the highlighter to the inner corner of my eyes to open them up, as well as underneath the brow bone to make it pop, and the concealer is brilliant for touching up any little imperfections. 

This Works Morning Expert Hyaluronic Serum* (30ml, £37, link)

Changing up your facial serum is an easy way to incorporate a must-have ingredient into your daily skincare routine and at this time of the year, everyone's skin can start to look a little dull. Add some glow back in with This Works Morning Expert Hyaluronic Serum. This is one of my favourite Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid-based serums that I've been using on and off for years. One of the key ingredients is a slow-release form of Vitamin C which visibly helps to brighten the complexion, whilst 2% Hyaluronic Acid plumps the skin and smoothes fine lines and wrinkles. A lovely youth boost!

Butterwhips Warmly Relaxing Body Butter* (75g, £18, link)

Whilst some people are lucky enough to say that they don't need a body moisturiser at any time of the year, my terribly dry skin never lets me skip this step, and as soon as the temperature starts to drop, it's calling out for some TLC. Help is on hand with an array of decadently rich body butters, and my skin is currently loving this recyclable tin of Butterwhips Warmly Relaxing Body Butter. Handmade in small batches in the UK, this lovely indie brand is cruelty-free and their body butters are made from 97% organic natural ingredients. This particular one has extracts of Lavender, Bergamot, and Vitamin E, blended into a thick, whipped Shea Butter base. Just gorgeous.

What's on your seasonal beauty shakeup list?

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Recent Beauty Empties: Products I've Used Up

 

A long overdue post - here are about four month's worth of beauty empties! The growing pile of empty beauty containers has been piling up in my bathroom, so it's time for me to share my final thoughts on these, and discuss which ones I'll be repurchasing in the future.

There's quite a lot to go through here so let's jump straight in, shall we?

Original Source Hydrating Water Infusions Raspberry & Rosewater Shower Gel

I tend to have a couple of different body washes/shower gels on the go in my bathroom (hey, I'm a beauty blogger, OK?!), but the one that I've used the most this summer has been the wonderfully cheap and cheerful Original Source Shower Gel. This smells so fruity and summery, you just can't go wrong with it. Repurchase? Yes.

Paul Yacomine Huile de Parfum Body Oil (travel size)

A gorgeous discovery from a beauty box, this luxury body oil from Paul Yacomine has the most beautiful silky texture and heady tropical floral notes. Highly recommended if you love Bergamot and Ylang Ylang scents - it's heavenly stuff. Repurchase? Out of my budget at the mo sadly!

Ben & Anna White Fluoride Natural Toothpaste* (reviewed here)

If you're looking for a plastic-free toothpaste and you're not keen on those solid tooth tabs, this is a brilliant alternative as feels much more like a regular toothpaste but is packaged in a glass jar instead. I've used up quite a lot of these over the past few years and find that a jar lasts a good couple of months for me. Repurchase? Yes.

Sunday Riley Blue Moon Clean-Rinse Cleansing Balm

Oh, it was a sad day when I came to the end of this beauty! I've loved this cleansing balm for such a long time and still regard it as one of the best that I've ever used. The texture is spot on for me as it's not too heavy or greasy, and is easy to rinse off with a warm flannel. I love using it in the evening as part of a double-cleanse. Repurchase? On my wishlist!

Absolute Aromas Detox Epsom Salts* (reviewed here)

Regular readers will know how much I adore Epsom Salts, and indeed, one usually pops up every time I write an empties post. One of my new faves, these Detox Epsom Salts from Absolute Aromas are brilliant for aching muscles and joint pain. Repurchase? Yes.

Lavera Gloss & Shine Gloss Conditioner* (reviewed here)

For an affordable green beauty conditioner that ticks a lot of the right boxes, you can't go wrong with Lavera's haircare, particularly their Gloss & Shine range. This is a really good conditioner for fine, dry, and dull hair types, and gives lovely swish-worthy results. I think this is my third or fourth bottle. Repurchase? Yes.

Natura Siberica Taiga Daily Protection Hand Cream* (travel size)

I can't fault this hand cream - it's 99% natural, smells great, and moisturises my hands. What's not to love?! Repurchase? Yes.

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray*

A bestseller and one that I've used for the good part of at least 10 years. Whenever I use this before going to bed, I always find that I can sleep better, which for someone with insomnia/sleep disorder problems, is a real bonus. I feel that this is worth every penny! Repurchase? Definitely.

Evolve Organic Beauty Daily Defence Moisture Mist* (reviewed here)

I've lost count of how many times I've used this or for how long it's been a staple in my skincare routine - it's truly one of those products that I just always come back to time and time again. A fantastic toner mist packed full of skin-friendly ingredients such as Prebiotics, Hyaluronic Acid, and Prickly Pear. Repurchase? Yes.

Dr. Hauschka Lemongrass Vitalising Body Milk* (travel size)

If you love fresh and uplifting lemony scents, you'll absolutely fall in love with Dr. Hauschka's Lemongrass Vitalising Body Milk. In fact, you'll probably fall in love with the whole range! The lightweight silky texture instantly absorbs into the skin and the natural fragrance puts you in a good mood for the whole day. Repurchase? Definitely.

Green People Nordic Roots Hyaluronic Booster Serum* (reviewed here)

My skin drinks up Hyaluronic Acid based serums like this booster from Green People, and I've recommended this particular formula to so many people as it's fragrance-free and easily tolerated by most skin types. I prefer to use this in the evening to plump up my skin overnight as you really do see a noticeable difference come the morning. Repurchase? Yes.

Eyeko Lash Alert Mascara*

I've been rubbish at using up makeup this year as you can tell, but I always try to remember to change out my mascaras every few months to prevent any eye issues like conjunctivitis - ditch those old mascaras! I enjoyed using this one from Eyeko as the curved brush added lots of volume and it didn't clump or smudge. Repurchase? Yes.

Lush Catastrophe Cosmetic Face Mask

I finally took back some old Lush pots to trade them in for a free face mask (their recycling scheme is seriously awesome!), and picked up a fond favourite from back in the day - the amazing Catastrophe Cosmetic. As the name suggests, this is the face mask for troublesome skin and it's brilliant for soothing and calming everything down. Repurchase? Definitely.

Have you used up any beauty products lately?

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May Empties: Products I've Used Up

Ready for another Empties round-up? Here's a basketful of products that I've used up recently, plus my thoughts on the ones that I'll be repurchasing again and which ones will be staying permanently in the recycling bin.

This Works Light Time Cleanse & Glow (travel size)

Given the current lockdown situation, I've been going through my minis stash and unearthing some forgotten gems such as this gorgeous Vitamin C infused treatment from This Works. Ideal for to use whenever your skin needs a brightening pick me up, Light Time Cleanse & Glow gets to work in just one minute to deliver an instant result. Repurchase? I have a few more of these minis to use but will definitely purchase the full-size when they're all gone!

REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask (travel size)

If you're looking for another active ingredient to include in your skincare routine to bring more radiance and glow to your skin, definitely try Glycolic Acid. It's easy to find as the superstar ingredient in REN's Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask and I've been using this for years (check out one of my reviews from back in 2015 here). Repurchase? Absolutely.

Trilogy Pure Plant Body Oil* 

Whenever my eczema flares up, I swap over whichever body moisturiser I'm using to a fragrance-free one and I love this Trilogy Pure Plant Body Oil which has a simple blend of beneficial natural ingredients such as Rosehip, Sweet Almond and Apricot Oils. Absorbs quickly and is great for massage. Repurchase? Yes.

PHB Lavender Natural Soap*

Lovely 100% natural soap bar that's made without Palm Oil. Creates a gentle and soothing lather without any SLS so I've been using this in the shower. If you like Lavender scents, this is the soap for you! Repurchase? I have some other soaps to use up first but I'll happily buy from PHB again.

Merci Handy Hand Cleansing Gel in Coco Rico

Pretty self-explanatory right? I'm a big fan of these Merci Handy Hand Gels because they don't dry out my hands as much as other hand sanitisers do and they smell incredible. Coco Rico is basically summer in a bottle! Repurchase? I bought a multi-pack so I have a few other scents to try out.

Odacité BI + C Serum Concentrate* 

My skin has been a little fussy during the lockdown but this serum treatment from Odacité has managed to keep blemishes and breakouts under control. You can either add a few drops to your day or night moisturiser or apply it directly onto spots and problem areas for a more intensive treatment which is generally how I prefer to use it. Repurchase? Yes.

CHOBS Aloe Face Mask*

I don't tend to use a lot of sheet masks these days, however, I did thoroughly enjoy the soothing benefits of this CHOBS Aloe Face Mask which felt amazing on my skin after a long day in the sun. I kept it in the fridge beforehand and it was literally heaven when I applied it! Repurchase? Tempted.

Organii Facial Sun Cream SPF 15*

This is a bit of a weird one as I used it mainly over the Winter months (I feel that SPF 15 isn't enough during Summer) and although I initially liked it, I've found the texture to be much too thick and greasy to use in the warmer weather so I'm glad it's been used up. Repurchase? I've since found other sunscreens that I prefer over this so I wouldn't buy it again.

A'kin Organic Rosehip Oil*

One of the best Rosehip Oils out there, I've gone through so many bottles of these over the years and always have one on the go somewhere! I tend to use it once or twice a week in the evenings and find that it works particularly well when rotated with other facial oils and treatments. Repurchase? Yes.

Origins VitaZing SPF 15

My last Empty for this round-up is another long-time favourite of mine - the much loved and hyped Origins VitaZing SPF 15. It's a brilliant tinted moisturiser which I use all-year-round when I don't fancy wearing a full face of foundation and the coverage is actually much better than what you might think from a typical tinted moisturiser. Repurchase? I'm using one from Tropic at the moment so we'll see if that's better or not!

P.S - How To Recycle Your Beauty Empties!

All of the glass and easy-to-recycle plastic PET empties will be put into my council's blue bin kerbside recycling scheme, but for the harder-to-recycle stuff, I will be:-

• Recycling the pumps, atomisers and face mask sachets with Neal's Yard Remedies - more info at the bottom of their website here.
• Recycling any other products that my local council doesn't accept, such as flexible plastic tubes at The Body Shop, L'Occitane or with Garnier's Terracycle partnership - more info here.

What have you used up recently?

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