Empties Post Volume XVI: November & December 2013 Edition

I decided to see how many empties I would amass in a two month period- so I decided to post November and December in a single post. I actually did not set out to use piles of samples, but it just ended up happening. As it turned out it was a rather easy task given that many of the samples were shampoos, conditioners, and bath and shower gels.

The colder weather encouraged greater use of body lotions and creams-- which accounts for using up several full sized products.

Full sized products used: The Dr. Loretta Rainforest Mist (reviewed here) is an antioxidant rich moisturizing spray that offers skin immediate hydration. I found myself layering it under heavier creams to keep dry winter body skin at bay. The Reviva Labs Elastin & Collagen Body Firming Lotion (reviewed here) is a firming body lotion, but I used it because it was moisturizing and just made my skin feel good. Remedy with Phytoplex Hydraguard & Nourishing Skin Cream (both reviewed here) were perfect for my dry legs and feet. While my skin does not tend to be dry, I have found that the cold winter air is making my arms and legs uncharacteristically dry this season. The Eucerin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Sensitive Skin Creme (reviewed here) was another winner during the cold weather. I primarily used it on my neck and décolleté to give added moisture and protection against the dry cold air (and it worked wonders). My Prime Skincare Weightless Eye Cream (reviewed here) is a wonderful luxury eye cream that moisturizes, lightens dark circles, reduces puffiness, and reduces the appearance of fine lines. It is a really wonderful eye cream, and I whimpered when I used the last bit! Kai Deodorant (reviewed here) remains my very favorite deodorant! It smells delightful without being overpowering, and for me the protection lasts all day long.

The sample standouts are: The Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel (reviewed here) is such a wonderful cleanser that my full-size bottle lives in my shower and gets used all of the time (even with my Clarisonic). Mario Badescu Seaweed Cleansing Lotion (reviewed here) is far and away my favorite toner-- it is gentle and alcohol-free. I have a big bottle that I reach for frequently! Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Eye Cream (reviewed here) is a wonderfully lightweight hydrating eye cream that sinks right in and makes the sensitive eye area look and feel great! Mario Badescu Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 17 (reviewed here) is a really nice oil free lotion, but I prefer their Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 30 (reviewed here) because then I don't need to use an additional sunscreen. Both versions are very emollient and moisturizing, but the higher SPF version is antioxidant rich-- making it the obvious choice for me. The one sample that resulted in a mega full-size purchase is the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Extra Strength Peel-- this two step maintenance program (overview here) is just phenomenal. This system is so effective that I actually purchased the largest box that they make!!!!

What products did you use up, toss, return, or give away? Did any samples result in purchasing the full sized products?

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