I've been holding onto my empties for over a year now so to justify my hoarding, I've decided to write about them. As I write this, it's Valentine's Day and what better way to end the night with some blogging about what I loved and what I didn't?
MAKEUP
e.l.f. Translucent Pressed Powder (CF) -- The name is misleading because it definitely has a tint, even on my light skin tone, especially when used in conjunction with the included puff. It's very mattifying, to the point of looking powdery and chalky. However, used with a fluffy brush, I don't have a tint and I'm not overly mattified. The compact is convenient with a slim case and big mirror. Pricewise, it's $3 USD for 0.13 oz ($23 USD per oz), which makes it on the affordable side of drugstore powders. I'm keeping the compact so I can repress other powders into it.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix (not CF) -- I don't think setting spray makes my makeup last all day but it does help it wear better throughout the day. Definitely not sweat proof or rub resistant in my case. This one didn't dry out my skin and left it looking dewy, which helped immensely during the dry winter months. The mist was a fine spray that I didn't appreciate until I tried a different one. Will keep the bottle to put other sprays into.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray (CF) -- I can't remember whether it's this one or the Oil Slick one that I prefer. I think I have a full size of this laying around somewhere so I should break that one out.
Bottom Line: Already have a full size.
Innisfree Ampoule Intense Cushion (unknown) -- I've forgotten how much I like the ease of cushion foundations. This one was quite pale for me but I got it to work by using a very sheer layer. This one was really hydrating to the point that my face looked wet. The packaging was limited edition but hopefully I can clean it out and make my own cushion!
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Laura Mercier Long Lash Mascara (not CF) -- In terms of mascara, I don't expect miracles. I have short and fine lashes so mascaras don't do much. This one made them more noticeable and wasn't clumpy. But the one I'm using now makes it clear that this is meant more for people who already have nice lashes and want to give a tiny boost. Not water resistant whatsoever nor is it smudge-proof. 1 have yet to come across a waterproof and smudge-proof mascara that isn't hard to take off (other than a Lancome one but that's not cruelty-free).
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Tarte Cashmere Waterproof Gliding Eyeliner in Black Brown and Bronze (CF) -- These were one of the first high-end liners I ever had. While I liked that I didn't need a sharpener, these dried out so quickly. I don't think they even make these anymore which is good--I wouldn't recommend these to anybody!
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase
FRESH Sugar Lip Treatment in Rose (not CF) -- Loved this as it is one of the few lip products that actually help with my dry lips instead of exacerbating them. A little bit goes a long way. The color added a hint of flush to my dead zombie lips. SPF is an added bonus especially since I never apply my face sunscreen on my lips.Only problem is, they are not cruelty free and I can't reconcile bunnies being harmed for my lips. I could just drink more water but of course, I have to do everything the hard way. I have another mini in a clear tint and a full size in Honey so I'll be sad to see them go.
Bottom Line: Would repurchase in a heartbeat if they became cruelty-free.
L'Oreal True Match Powder in W3 (not CF) -- In my opinion, powder is powder. I've tried high end powders but this one by L'Oreal works just as well. The color was a good match for me and applied well with a brush or a sponge. With a brush, it sets my makeup without looking cakey. Using a sponge, it gives a matte finish and fills in my pores.
Bottom Line: Would repurchase if L'Oreal goes CF.
Benefit the POREfessional (not CF) -- I used it all up and have not missed it so I'm guessing it was just okay. I know Youtubers used to rave about but I can't remember the last time someone used it. I remember it smoothing over my pores and having a slight mattifying effect without drying out my skin. Good but not good enought for me to regret seeing it go.
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix (not CF) -- I don't think setting spray makes my makeup last all day but it does help it wear better throughout the day. Definitely not sweat proof or rub resistant in my case. This one didn't dry out my skin and left it looking dewy, which helped immensely during the dry winter months. The mist was a fine spray that I didn't appreciate until I tried a different one. Will keep the bottle to put other sprays into.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray (CF) -- I can't remember whether it's this one or the Oil Slick one that I prefer. I think I have a full size of this laying around somewhere so I should break that one out.
Bottom Line: Already have a full size.
Innisfree Ampoule Intense Cushion (unknown) -- I've forgotten how much I like the ease of cushion foundations. This one was quite pale for me but I got it to work by using a very sheer layer. This one was really hydrating to the point that my face looked wet. The packaging was limited edition but hopefully I can clean it out and make my own cushion!
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Laura Mercier Long Lash Mascara (not CF) -- In terms of mascara, I don't expect miracles. I have short and fine lashes so mascaras don't do much. This one made them more noticeable and wasn't clumpy. But the one I'm using now makes it clear that this is meant more for people who already have nice lashes and want to give a tiny boost. Not water resistant whatsoever nor is it smudge-proof. 1 have yet to come across a waterproof and smudge-proof mascara that isn't hard to take off (other than a Lancome one but that's not cruelty-free).
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Tarte Cashmere Waterproof Gliding Eyeliner in Black Brown and Bronze (CF) -- These were one of the first high-end liners I ever had. While I liked that I didn't need a sharpener, these dried out so quickly. I don't think they even make these anymore which is good--I wouldn't recommend these to anybody!
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase
FRESH Sugar Lip Treatment in Rose (not CF) -- Loved this as it is one of the few lip products that actually help with my dry lips instead of exacerbating them. A little bit goes a long way. The color added a hint of flush to my dead zombie lips. SPF is an added bonus especially since I never apply my face sunscreen on my lips.Only problem is, they are not cruelty free and I can't reconcile bunnies being harmed for my lips. I could just drink more water but of course, I have to do everything the hard way. I have another mini in a clear tint and a full size in Honey so I'll be sad to see them go.
Bottom Line: Would repurchase in a heartbeat if they became cruelty-free.
L'Oreal True Match Powder in W3 (not CF) -- In my opinion, powder is powder. I've tried high end powders but this one by L'Oreal works just as well. The color was a good match for me and applied well with a brush or a sponge. With a brush, it sets my makeup without looking cakey. Using a sponge, it gives a matte finish and fills in my pores.
Bottom Line: Would repurchase if L'Oreal goes CF.
Benefit the POREfessional (not CF) -- I used it all up and have not missed it so I'm guessing it was just okay. I know Youtubers used to rave about but I can't remember the last time someone used it. I remember it smoothing over my pores and having a slight mattifying effect without drying out my skin. Good but not good enought for me to regret seeing it go.
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
SKINCARE
Paula's Choice CLEAR Extra Strength Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid (CF) -- While I love the Regular Strength, this one was not good for my skin. It was dry and peeling and I continued to break out. This taught me that stronger doesn't mean better, especially when it comes to skincare. I did use it all up and my skin is so much better than when I was using it. Definitely going back to the Regular Strength.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Paula's Choice CLEAR Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide (CF) -- I'm on my second full size tube so this is doing wonders for me. Don't be fooled by the amount of BP because trust me, it is effective without being drying. I put this one when I notice a volcano getting ready to erupt. This works better on the monsters before they become massive and not so good on my tiny ones. I think that's better targeted by the salicylic acid. I'm sorry for the improper terms but since I'm not an esthetician nor a dermatologist, it's hard for me to describe what's going on with my skin. Maybe I can take pictures to better describe what's going on. Let me know if you're interested since having my blemished face on the internet doesn't sound like a good idea to me lol.
Bottom Line: Will continue to repurchase!
Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 (CF) -- I got this in a set and while I used it all the way up, I don't miss it. It was slightly hydrating and sat well under makeup. Did not cure my dry skin last winter but was better than nothing. The pump dispensed a good amount without leaking. It can be used alone if you don't need much moisture but make sure you get a decent amount to provide adequate sun protection.
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Skinfood Aloe Sun Mist SPF50+ PA +++ (unknown) -- I swear, Koreans are so great at skincare innovation. I first tried this years ago and stopped because they spray was intense and made me super greasy. However, the trend these days is all about the glow and when my skin was going through that weird dry phase, this helped smooth and calm it down before and after makeup. Would recommend if you like that glowy/greasy look but be warned, it is slightly sticky.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Caudalie Moisturizing Sorbet (not CF) -- This sample had enough for maybe two uses so it would be highly irresponsible for me to make definitive claims about this product. It's supposed to help with dryness, dullness, uneven texture, fine lines, and wrinkles. It definitely did help with dryness and dullness but I don't have two of the latter problems so I can't speak on that. Though it had a lightweight whipped texture, it really helped my dry skin as I woke up with plump and radiant skin. Hella expensive for what it is ($39 usd for 1.3oz/ $30 usd per oz) so I would go with my favorite First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration ($36 usd for 8 oz/$4.50 usd per oz).
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Tom's of Maine Botanically Bright Whitening Toothpaste (unclear) -- At one time, I thought it was my toothpaste that was causing my chin pimples so I decided to try one without fluoride. While I still don't know what's causing them, this one didn't seem to cause more. I used up all three and I don't think I noticed a difference in my skin.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase
Josie Maran Pure Argan Milk Intensive Hydrating Treatment (CF) -- I liked this serum for the hydration properties. But it definitely doesn't fix dry flakey skin as well as my FAB Cream. It felt more like an added step than like it completely cured my skin. It's also exorbitant ($56usd for 1 oz) for what it does. I don't think I'm the target audience either because I don't need help getting youthful skin since I am relatively young. The packaging has changed to an opaque white dropper bottle and Stephanie Nicole mentioned in one of her videos that it's not the same formula anymore even though they claim it is. Since I have only tried the previous formula, I can't attest to that but she is a reputable source.
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase
The Face Shop Phyto Powder in Cleansing Foam (unknown) -- My skin was so bad this time last year (late December - early February) that my sister bought this cleanser for me. It was definitely drying but it did remove every trace of leftover makeup. Smells nice and didn't leave my skin with black bits. However, it felt way too drying for me so I'm glad it's gone.
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase
BODYCARE & HAIRCARE
The Body Shop Fijian Water Lotus Body Cream (CF) -- The Body Shop body butters are my favorite for my weirdly dry and itchy thigh. It's only on one leg and nothing seems to calm it down other than Aveeno, which is not cruelty-free. Some of the formulas are straight up buttery and others are weirdly thick yet extremely wet and not moisturizing. This was the latter, unfortunately, but it didn't stain my clothes and smelled nice. I actually used it all up without getting sick of the scent.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase this scent but will in other formulas.
Anis Double Act Curling Essence (unknown) -- Never heard of this brand but it was one of my favorite hair products. I liked putting it in damp hair and it kept me from getting second day greasy hair. It also added slight body and wave to my pin straight hair. Smells really nice as well.
Bottom Line: Would repurchase if it was CF.
The Body Shop Honeymania Hand Cream (CF) -- This was nice for hand creams. I don't like sticky hand creams but I also need it to moisturize my skin. This had a watery gel texture but kept my hands from peeling. Definitely like it but the scent did get tiring for me.
Bottom Line: Would repurchase in another scent.
Batiste Sweet & Seductive Dry Shampoo (CF) -- Cannot remember if I liked this scent or not but it must've not been offensive like the Blush scent. They do the job well but since I go through these so quickly and it's hard to dispose of aerosols properly where I live, I have a hard time justifying purchasing these.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase if the baby powder trick works for me.
Bath & Body Works Ultra Shea Body Cream in Beautiful Day (not CF) -- I had a bad relationship with pretty much all BBW products but their shower gels but they have improved their formulas immensely since my high school days. This one had a lovely apple scent that wasn't sugary sweet. My brother got this for me but he didn't know I was CF. It's the thought that counts, y'all. Not sticky yet moisturizing.
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Secret Outlast Gel Deodorant/Antiperspirant in Completely Clean (not CF) -- I have a ton of these as back ups so it'll be a while before all of these are gone from my stash. I like that it doesn't stain my clothes and covers up any smelly sweat. BUT the scent is strong and I wish they still made these in unscented. Also these don't really stop me from sweating...The wet feeling of a gel was unpleasant at first but I've gotten used to it. Will have to find a CF alternative because I really don't want to smell bad...
Bottom Line: Would not repurchase.
Marc Jacobs Daisy EDT (not CF) -- I can understand why everyone loves this scent. It's a celebration of girliness without the saccharine sweet. Honestly, one of my favorite scents because it makes me feel things, and not many things makes me feel, yah know? Gutted that this isn't CF since their makeup is but that is life. I will have to keep looking for one that is.
Bottom Line: Not buying :(
Coach Poppy EDP (not CF) -- Can't remember what it smells like but it's described as sweet, which I don't fully agree with. Didn't think it was long lasting on my skin even though its an EDP.
Bottom Line: Will not purchase.
Versace Bright Crystal EDT (not CF) -- This is my one of my best friend's signature scent so whenever I smell this, I think of her. I love this fresh floral and I know lots of people do as well. It is long lasting on me even though it's an EDT.
Bottom Line: Will not purchase :(
NEST Passiflora (unknown) -- I didn't think I would like this but I did. It's a very green scent, very different from my preferred florals. They don't have a FAQ and I cannot find a definitive answer so I'm not going to buy anymore until I find out.
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Calvin Klein Euphoria EDP (not CF) -- An okay scent for me. Lasted a really long time but smells too mature and sophisticated for my personality.
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Dolce & Gabbana Pour Femme EDP (not CF) -- Cannot remember for the life of me what this smelled like but it was nothing special.
Bottom Line: Will not repurchase.
Woooo that was a doozy. Took me almost two hours to write and an insane amount of time to photograph and edit. I tend to have more no-repurchases than repurchases but it's my nature to use up things I don't like than not. Also, can more brands be up front about their cruelty-free status?? It would help me decide where my money is well spent! While they're at it, could non-CF just be CF so I can spend my money there? It's hard for me to not spend money there when it's the only thing that works for my skin but I won't compromise my morals for beauty.
What non-CF brands do you wish were CF?
Does it matter to you if brands are CF?
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