I’ve been on a mission to clear out my drawers and cabinets, using up all the products I have before buying anything new. I’m not one to stockpile a ton of beauty items, and honestly, if something works, I like to stick with it. But recently, I’ve received quite a few samples and products to try, so I’ve slowly been working through them.
Now that I’ve finally finished some of them, I thought I’d share my beauty empties and what I think of them!
Clarins Hand Cream
This hand cream has become one of my all-time favorites, and I’ve mentioned it here before. It’s one of those under $35 luxury items I treat myself to every quarter, and I always go for the gift set that includes a full-sized bottle and two mini versions. The minis are perfect for keeping at work or in my purses.
The texture is silky smooth and absorbs right into my skin without leaving any greasy residue. The fragrance fades within 30 seconds, which I actually appreciate, though I low-key enjoy the scent while it lasts. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and practicality—definitely a must-have in my self-care routine!
Clarins Moisturizer
I’ve been using Clarins Moisture for about seven years, and I’ve always loved it—until now. The new formula they released this year just doesn’t do it for me. The previous version was amazing; it felt light and absorbed into my skin without any greasy residue. This new one, however, feels like it just sits on top of my skin and doesn’t absorb as well. I’m planning to try another night moisturizer from Clarins to see if it’s a better fit. If not, I’ll be exploring other brands.
Vitamin C Body Scrub
Nothing fancy, just a normal body scrub that’s affordable and does the job.
Clarins One Step Exfoliator
I’ve been using this exact Clarins exfoliator since I was 21 when I first discovered the brand, and it’s still my absolute favorite for my face. I use it daily, usually in the mornings, and it’s the best I’ve found for gently yet thoroughly exfoliating and cleaning my skin. No other face exfoliator has matched up in terms of effectiveness and how gentle it feels. The bottle lasts a while since I only use it once a day, which makes it totally worth it!
Systne Night Gel
This is a monthly repurchase for me—I go through these like hotcakes since I put two eye drops in each eye every night. My optometrist recommended them after I had my Lasik eye surgery, and they’ve been a must-have ever since.
Clinique Balm
This makeup remover isn’t bad, but I’ve used better. Other balms on the market perform better, and for the price point, I don’t think it’s worth repurchasing.
AHAVA Moisturizer
Honestly, I didn’t hate the moisturizer, but I didn’t love it either. I received it in the mail to review, and while I didn’t reach for it often, I wanted to finish it since I’d already opened it. It did moisturize my skin well and didn’t have a weird lingering smell. It absorbs really quickly, which I liked. But it’s not one of those products I’m obsessed with or would repurchase over and over again.