skincare empties – Makeup and Skincare Reviews

Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin: My 5 Top Picks from Make Beauty, Rephr, Farmacy, Prequel, and Bloomeffects

I’m now 36 weeks into pregnancy and couldn’t be more excited, but my skin even drier and itchier than when I posted at 30 weeks. I have a bunch of friends who are going through super dry skin issues (pregnant or otherwise) so I wanted to put together this list of what’s been working really well for me for my face. As far as I know, these are all pregnancy-safe as well! Thank you so much for being here, and it would mean so much to me if you subscribe here for new posts. All links in this post are affiliate links, and if you choose to shop through them, thanks for supporting the blog!

Make Beauty Moisturizing Reverse Emulsion – This is still my favorite hydrating serum (and if you’ve been to this blog before, you know I’ve tried so, so many serums and moisturizers as I have incredibly dry skin). I’ve used this as a moisturizer and primer, mixed with other primers, mixed with foundations, after a shower, during my nighttime routine – it works so well no matter what I do with it. It leaves a dewy but not wet or sticky finish and makes everything look better if I’m using it before makeup. It just feels so nice and is actually hydrating. I also have a bottle of this in the fridge, and it feels so great to throw on when I’m overheated and my skin is getting super dry and itchy.

Rephr Light Hydration Cream – I was grabbing a bunch of Rephr brushes to try out and review (coming soon!), and this moisturizer was added as a free gift. I didn’t know anything about it, but I figured I’d try it out because the ingredients looked great. I’m now obsessed with this moisturizer – I already bought another tube and bought the intense version to try. It’s so hydrating while being incredibly lightweight so I can use it any time of day. It really calms down my skin when it’s feeling particularly irritated (thank you pregnancy skin issues!). When I’m feeling extremely tired and want just one thing to use, I’ll almost always grab this especially because I can just squeeze it out of the tube and don’t have to fuss with a jar (I know that sounds silly, but it makes a difference to me). At the time of writing this, it’s on sale for $9 but even at the usual $28 price point, I would happily repurchase this over and over again.

Farmacy Honey Halo Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer – This is the one of the best moisturizers I’ve tried for my super dry skin. It’s incredibly thick but still absorbs super quickly and plays well with my other night time skincare products. Usually by this time of year, my skin starts to get flaky and itchy because it’s so dry, but I’ve had no issues since I’ve been using this. I find that I need so little of this that it lasts me way longer than I expect, which is good because it’s one of the moisturizers I don’t want to be without in my routine. The only thing I don’t love about this is that it’s hard to get the last bits out of the jar, but I will definitely put up with that for how well this works for my skin.

Prequel Skin Utility Ointment – This is a multi-purpose ointment hydrates dry, cracked, chapped, and chafed skin that I use on my face but also my cuticles, lips, and sometimes even places like my elbows. This feels so much better as a last layer on my skin than an oil or something like vaseline but works so well to keep moisture in overnight. It’s not sticky or heavy at all, and I can tell a huge difference between when I’ve been home using it vs not having it with me while travelling. It somehow even works for my super dry skin to help with my moisture barrier even if I only use one moisturizer (which I almost never do but sometimes I’m just so tired).

Royal Tulip Moisturizing Nectar – As much as I love all these products, this one is hands down my favorite (although I do really love having both this and the Prequel Ointment to switch between). This is the most tenacious slugging product I’ve ever used – seriously, it will absolutely still be on your face the next morning, and you will notice it if you don’t wash it off. If I need extreme moisturization or know it will be particularly dry overnight, this is my go to last step. It starts out the texture of thick honey and turns into more of a serum texture as it warms up on your skin (and so doesn’t stay sticky). My skin feels so much softer and hydrated in the morning!

Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to see here on LiftBakeLove, and thanks for reading! As always, some links may be affiliate links that support the blog, but all reviews/opinions are completely my own and unsponsored.

Best Body Moisturizers for Dry Skin During Pregnancy

Featuredby liftbakeloveLeave a Comment

I’m already 30 weeks into pregnancy and couldn’t be more excited, but my skin is drier and itchier than ever. I have a bunch of friends who are going through super dry skin issues (pregnant or otherwise) so I wanted to put together this list of what’s been working really well for me. As far as I know, these are all pregnancy-safe as well! Thank you so much for being here, and it would mean so much to me if you subscribe here for new posts. All links in this post are affiliate links, and if you choose to shop through them, thanks for supporting the blog!

My go to body lotions and oils:

Osea Undaria Algae Body Butter and Saltair Body Lotion in Exotic Pulp– I’m pairing these (and the next two) together because they are almost interchangeable. I’m so glad I have both, but one of them is definitely the luxury version and the other is the budget version. The Osea body butter is the most luxurious, thick, and effective body butter I’ve ever tried. It’s next level moisturizing, and if I could, I’d use it everywhere every day. The Saltair Body Lotion is slightly less moisturizing despite being a fantastic body lotion. I can definitely notice a difference between the body butter texture and lotion texture. That said, both sink in really quickly, apply easily, and provide lasting dry skin relief. They also both have an amazing citrus scent that I love and that makes me want to use them. My husband and I both agree that the Saltair scent is definitely better, and I absolutely love that it comes in a huge pump bottle. The Osea is about $8 per ounce and the Saltair is about $1 per ounce, so when I run out of the Osea, I think I’ll be relying on the Saltair for my citrus scented body lotion needs.

Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil and Saltair Nourishing Body Oil in Exotic Pulp – These two are even more similar than the lotions. If I didn’t love the Saltair scent so much, I don’t think I’d be able to notice a difference if I used these with my eyes closed. These are both incredibly nourishing body oils that absorb easily and make my skin feel amazing. I’ve noticed a huge difference since using the lotion and oil combo on my skin. If I just use the lotions, I have to apply a few times a day, but when I use the oils on top, I can get away with a once a day body moisturizing session. And with my incredibly dry skin now, that’s a huge deal. The Osea is about $10 per ounce and the Saltair is about $5 an ounce. The packaging is equally lovely between the two, although the Saltair is better for travel. If you want to treat yourself, the Osea oil is fantastic, but I’m truly so happy with the Saltair.

What I’ve added to my shower routine so I don’t walk out of the shower with super dry and itchy skin:

Saltair Body Wash in Exotic Pulp – My skin has felt so much better post-shower since I started using this body wash. It smells exactly the same as the lotion and oil which is amazing, but what I love most about this body wash is its gentle and hydrating formula. It lathers up beautifully and leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft and refreshed, without any dryness or irritation. I noticed an improvement in the overall texture and hydration of my skin after just a few uses which is really impressive considering how dry and itchy my skin has gotten. I also love the packaging with the pump – it’s so easy to use in the shower. Of course, it’s also affordable at $15 for a huge bottle.

Frida Mom In Shower Lotion – Obviously this was made exactly for my use case, but it really does do exactly what I need. I don’t have to apply lotion right after I shower with the body wash and this, which is awesome because I really need a nap now after I shower. You apply this directly on wet skin, rinse, and then you’re good to go. It doesn’t have a strong fragrance so it doesn’t counteract the Saltair, and the packaging is really easy to use. This isn’t very expensive, and I would pay a lot more for it because of how effective it is. I honestly think I’ll continue to use this even after pregnancy so I don’t have to think about putting on lotion right after the shower (which I never do anyway even if I really should).

When I want something fragrance free and need a break from the Osea and Saltair products (I love the scents but they are quite strong), this is the quick but effective routine I use instead:

Good Molecules B5 Hydrating Body Serum – I love how incredibly lightweight and fast absorbing this is. Of all the products on this list, this is the one I notice the least. If I need an extra boost of hydration before the other lotions or oils, this is now my go to. Not only is it really affordable, it really does help with hydration and helping with how dry and itchy my skin is right now. It’s not greasy or sticky, and I love that it comes in a pump. I didn’t notice any fragrance or have any issues with this. It does look like a bunch of people had a reaction to this product when I reach the reviews, so if you’re going to get this, I recommend patch testing first just in case.

Prequel Barrier Therapy – This is a huge bottle (10oz) for only $18, and you can use it on both your face and body (which I do). This is one of my favorite moisturizers to use literally all over. It makes my skin feel so great, helps with itchiness, doesn’t irritate my skin at all, and is just super soothing. When I’m having a particularly bad skin day, this is always what I reach for. I surprisingly haven’t had an eczema flare ups since using this, which has been really surprising given how wonky my skin has been otherwise. If I had to pick one thing from this list to recommend to anyone, it would be the Barrier Therapy. This product does sell out quite often but I find it comes back quickly – just make sure you sign up for the waitlist!

What’s your best dry skin products for particularly dry and irritated skin? Thanks for reading, and let me know what you’d like to see next in the comments!

2022 EMPTIES (WILL I REPURCHASE?) – PART 18

December 1, 2022by liftbakeloveLeave a Comment

Back again with another 5 empties (fully finished products)! I have a bunch of empties this month, but, as usual, I am keeping these posts to 5 products to keep them short. As always, I’m super excited to take a good look at what I thought of the products I’ve finished and whether or not I’d buy them again. And, of course, thank you so much for being here, and it would mean so much to me if you subscribe here or on Instagram @liftbakelove for new posts.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Eye Primer – I really liked this eyeshadow primer for a long time, but for some reason, it just totally stopped working for me. I felt like eyeshadow lasted less well when I was using it, and the color started to feel off too. I switched back to using my Mac Paint Pots, and I’m so much happier with them. I won’t be repurchasing this and am glad I already had a better option in my collection.

Josie Maran Skin Dope Argan Oil + 100 mg CBD (repeat empty) – I’ve written about this oil in almost every empties post that included a facial oil I finished because it is my true HG and the one I always miss when I’m not using it. Most facial oils I’ve tried have been equally moisturizing and glow-giving, and they all provide an occlusive layer as my last step in my skincare routine. The thing I love most about the Josie Maran oil is that it sinks in so quickly so I don’t end up with a oil slick on my face when I’m getting into bed. I can also see a big difference in my skin’s brightness and firmness when I use this vs when I don’t. That said, I have a few oils I’m working through right now, so I haven’t repurchased this yet.

Glossier Future Dew (repeat empty) – This continues to be one of my favorite products, and I already had another back-up to start using once this ran out. It’s one of the only things I consistently use every day in my makeup routine. It continues to be the most amazing glossy, hydrating base that makes me look like I drank enough water (and if you know me, you know I have never had enough water). It works beautifully with any foundation, concealer, and powder combo I put on top of it and makes them look way better on my skin – no dry patches, no clinging, no flatness. I got another back-up during Glossier’s 20% off sale recently because I know I’ll continue to go through Future Dew and want another one.

NBM Cuticle Buddy – My nails have never been healthier or stronger since I starting using these (someone actually thought my nails were fake at the gym because they looked so nice!). I don’t freak out about nail breaks anymore because they grow back so fast now that I’m using this. They also all smell amazing! This was the Sweet Orange and Tangerine scent, and it’s still one of my favorites. I will definitely get more once I get through some of my many, many cuticle buddies. As always, you can use my affiliate code with Shop NBM to get 10% off sitewide: LIFT10.

Clarins SOS Primer – I know it’s a lot, but I used this on top of the Glossier Future Dew as an extra primer step. I have super dry skin, so I appreciated the extra moisture and the color correction this provides. It makes it so I can use just a touch of concealer vs covering my face with foundation and makes my skin look really even and healthy. I actually already had a backup that a family member had gifted to me that I’m enjoying using, but I am planning on switching to the green version after I finish that one since that really helps bring my skin closer to the tone of my neck.

I’d love to know – what have you finished lately? Like I mentioned, I have a ton more empties that I will be posting about, and I’ll be sharing empties posts every other Friday all year. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to see here on LiftBakeLove, and thanks for reading! As always, some links may be affiliate links that support the blog, but all reviews/opinions are completely my own and unsponsored.

2022 EMPTIES (WILL I REPURCHASE?) – PART 17

October 15, 2022April 1, 2025by liftbakeloveLeave a Comment

Dieux Instant Angel Skin Restoring Moisturizer – The product page says that “this nourishing face cream supports and repairs skin while giving an ethereal glow,” and that is incredibly accurate. This has helped me get rid of any dry, flaky patches on my skin, and it really has makes a huge difference in hydrating my skin closer to normal. It’s also gentle enough that I can use it on my currently dry, flaky eyelids with no issues, and it soothes and moisturizing them so well and so fast. It also sits perfectly under makeup because of how fast it melts into the skin and because it imparts a bit of a glow. I definitely miss having tis even though it’s a little lightweight since my skin just needs all the moisture it can get (a theme you’ll see in all these empties).

Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream (repeat empty) – I can’t count how many times I’ve repurchased this, and I find that when I’m trying something else, I can really tell the difference. I find that this helps much more with skin dehydration than just dryness, which is very important for my skin. I also find that it’s a really good prep step before makeup to make sure everything goes on smoothly without catching on any dry patches. I recommend getting this during Sephora’s holiday sales as you can usually get them super on sale (like 50% off). I’ve noticed my skin feeling dryer without this, so I will likely pick some up when sales come around this year.

First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser – This cleanser is totally fine for dry skin, and I have no issues with it. It’s also incredibly non-stripping and hydrating while still being effective at cleansing. It’s my go-to when I’m travelling and need to grab something from a store like Ulta because it’s fairly cost effective and I know won’t do any damage. That said, I have a bunch of cleansers I’m testing right now that I need to get through before deciding which one I’ll buy when I finally run through them all. Will maybe repurchase but will likely be one of the others (I’m testing some really good ones right now)!

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter (repeat empty) – I have yet to find another body butter I like more than this one. It is incredibly moisturizing while still being fast absorbing and super lightweight. I love all the scents, but this unscented one is my favorite to mix with any body oils so there’s no competing fragrances. I’ve been using this a ton now that we’re really into winter, and my skin is drier than ever. It’s been so helpful to keep my skin from getting to that “so dry it’s unbearable and itchy” state. I am currently on a backup of this and then have a bunch of other body lotion to get through, but I’m planning on repurchasing this when those all run out.

Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Dream Night Cream – My friend Vera recommended this to me when I was looking to replace the reformulated Clinique Moisture Surge (which I had used for ten years!). I’m so happy she did because it’s been a staple of mine ever since I started using it. It’s incredibly moisturizing without being oily or heavy, and it smells amazing. I notice a huge difference in my skin when I stop using this to try other moisturizers, and I’ve found that this and the Farmacy Honey Halo Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer make my perfect dry skin nighttime dream team. I definitely need to grab more of this during sales this winter.

2022 EMPTIES (WILL I REPURCHASE?) – PART 16

September 16, 2022April 1, 2025by liftbakelove4 Comments

Shiseido Benefiance Wrinkle Smoothing Eye Cream (repeat empty) – This eye cream was sent to me to try and review, and I thought at the time “there’s no way I’m going to fall in love with a $70 eye cream.” And now, I’ve repurchased it at least five or six times! This is the only eye cream I’ve found that actually works to reduce wrinkles around my eyes without irritation. I’ve been able to continually find it on sale, which is awesome, so I usually spend about $40 on average for it. I already have another one going, and I will keep repurchasing this until something even better comes along.

Alterna My Hair My Canvas New Beginnings Exfoliating Cleanser – I was pleasantly surprised that this works just like a scalp scrub in that it gets out any residue or product build up that I have in my hair. It doesn’t have anything is it that is actually scrubby so it doesn’t irritate my already super dry scalp while still doing its job. It’s also pretty hydrating so it makes my hair feel so much cleaner but without drying anything out. Once I get through my other hair scrubs/exfoliators/similar products, this is definitely one I’m considering repurchasing.

Ulta Under Eye Brightener – I have super dark undereye and can’t get away without a corrector, and I’m so happy to have discovered this one. It’s about $10 and a very effective dupe of my beloved Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector. Just like the Becca one, this corrector works so well for correcting my super dark circles and helps hydrate my super dry under eyes for whatever concealer goes on top without any heaviness. It blends like a dream and the color is perfect for me. And it’s in stick form which is so much easier to use than the pot, especially when traveling! I already have a backup of this, and I will definitely keep repurchasing this instead of the more expensive versions.

Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner (repeat backup) – This toner was my favorite skincare discovery of 2019, and I’ve been using it every single morning ever since. It has continued to make my skin clearer, brighter, and less dry. This is probably the only product I’ve been using nonstop for almost 3 years, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. It’s also $14 for a huge bottle, and it’s my most cost-effective skincare product in my routine. My husband loves it too, and it’s one of the only skincare products he consistently uses. I have a ton of backup bottles so I won’t be repurchasing this any time soon, but I absolutely will when I run out.

Zoya 3-in-1 Formula Remove + Nail Polish Remover – I love how effective yet gentle this is for removing nail polish. It’s really important to me to keep my cuticles, nails, and hands healthy and hydrated because they get really dry and crack super easily. This has been so non-irritating compared to other nail polish removers. Plus, I love the way it dispenses onto a cotton round instead of having to tip the bottle over so I found this lasted way longer than other bottles of nail polish remover I’ve had. I already bought a replacement for this and will likely continue to use this one over any other nail polish remover.

2022 EMPTIES (WILL I REPURCHASE?) – PART 15

September 10, 2022April 1, 2025by liftbakeloveLeave a Comment

Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer SPF 47 (repeat empty) – This has been my sunscreen of choice for a couple years now since I first tried it. It’s both moisturizing and lightweight and doesn’t leave a white cast despite being an all-mineral sunscreen. I love that the formula doesn’t dry out my skin or have a tint that leaves my face looking a strange color like a lot of mineral sunscreens tend to do. It doesn’t pill, it great under makeup, and also smells amazing – every time I put it on, it just cheers me up and helps me get ready to face the day. This was a mini I used while travelling, and luckily, I already have another one that I can throw in my travel bag.

Caudalie Premier Cru The Eye Cream (sample) – I am testing so many eye creams right now that they’re all starting to blend together a bit. That said, this one didn’t cause milia, worked really well under makeup in the morning, and was very moisturizing. I didn’t have enough of it to see if it held up to its claims to naturally reduce the look of lines, dark circles, and puffiness and it’s expensive enough that it didn’t do enough to make me want to invest in a full size.

Matrix Total Results Miracle Creator (repeat empty) – This is a “totally fine but nothing special” product. I have tried so many other leave in conditioner/pre-styling treatments (let me know if you’d like a rundown of them), and compared to those, this feels like it does nothing. Somehow I ended up with 3 or 4 of these minis, so if you see it in my empties again, it’s because I don’t want them to go to waste so will still use them. I don’t think it’s anything you need to run out and get, and I will not be buying more of it.

PSA Skin the Most – I hardly ever do this, but I feel like the brand’s description is so spot on that I’m just going to paste it in here: “This nutrient-packed hydrating serum is like an island oasis for stressed out, hungover, dull, and dehydrated skin. It provides essential hydration immediately while helping skin cells better retain moisture overall for plump and supple skin.” My skin absolutely loves this serum, and I’m already on my backup. It’s amazing for dehydrated and dull skin, and I will probably buy it again once I get through all my other serums that I have lying around.

Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer – This is so much more effective and unique than the Miracle Creator mentioned above. This whole line, including the primer, are magic for my hair. It keeps my hair looking shiny, soft, and frizz-free without weighing it down. Plus, it smells amazing and compliments all the perfumes I own vs overpowering them (like DryBar products can do). Once I get through all of my heat protectants/leave-in conditioners, this is likely the one I’ll repurchase.

2022 EMPTIES (WILL I REPURCHASE?) – PART 14

August 12, 2022April 1, 2025by liftbakelove2 Comments

Allies of Skin Molecular Silk Amino Hydrating Cleanser (repeat empty)– If you’re a regular reader, you know how much I love Allies of Skin products, and this cleanser is one of my favorites. This cleanser creates such a luxurious cleansing experience – you can even use it as a quick, hydrating mask if you leave it on for 5 minutes before washing it off. And while it really does clean, it also leaves your skin feeling hydrated like you used a moisturizer. This is the only cleanser I’ve used that actually helps with any extra dryness and irritation, and I really notice a difference when I’m not using it. I have already started with the backup I had and will likely be repurchasing eventually once I get through some other cleansers I’ve ended up with in my collection.

Beauty Blender Solid Unscented Sponge & Brush Cleaner – This is honestly just a bar of soap, and I have no issues with it – it works to clean brushes. That said, given how expensive it is, I will probably switch to unscented bar soap in the future or look into some other alternative for brush cleaning. Let me know in the comments if you have suggestions!

Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder Foundation in 2 Fair – This is a “your skin but better” foundation – it’s incredibly light weight and feels like a moisturizer. It looks incredibly seamless and natural and blends in so quickly. It’s slightly dewy and is low to medium coverage, which are both things I look for in base products. Even though I loved this foundation, I won’t repurchasing because I have so many other foundation favorites that are less expensive like the Glossier Skin Tint, Fenty Eaze Drop, Tower 28 Sunny Days, and the Typology Tinted Serum that I could purchase instead.

Trader Joe’s Marula Facial Oil – This is honestly one of my favorite facial oils, and it doesn’t hurt that it’s so inexpensive. It’s incredibly moisturizing while still being lightweight, and a great last step for my nighttime routine. The packaging is also a really pretty glass bottle, which I know doesn’t really matter, but does make me happy. This oil is only $6.99 which makes it an incredible deal compared to something like the Drunk Elephant version which is $68). I will definitely consider repurchasing once I get through some of my other oils.

Cover FX Dewy Finish Setting Spray (repeat empty) – This was my HG setting spray that I’ve been using for years since at least 2018. It’s alcohol-free, it really does add dewiness which I can never get enough with, and it’s so much less drying than other setting sprays I’ve tried. Now that I’ve had a chance to try some other setting sprays that have launched in the last few years, I’ve moved on from this one and won’t be repurchasing. It’s still a really great option especially for dry skin!

2022 EMPTIES (WILL I REPURCHASE?) – PART 13

July 22, 2022April 1, 2025by liftbakeloveLeave a Comment

Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator (repeat empty) – This continues to be my favorite facial mist of all time. I’ve tried a few others for testing, but I always end up missing this one. It’s so hydrating, it helps my other products sink in better and faster, and it smells amazing too. I’ve used it alone with nothing else if I’m in a pinch and somehow it actually moisturizes my skin enough even with my incredibly dry skin. I have been through so many bottles of this and will definitely grab more when the next Credo/Ulta sale comes around. I’m planning on repurchasing this forever unless something really amazing launches that knocks it out of its HG spot in my routine.

Fitglow Beauty Eye C Firm Eye Cream (sample) – I am testing so many eye creams right now that they’re all starting to blend together a bit. That said, this one didn’t cause milia, worked really well under makeup in the morning, and was very moisturizing. I didn’t have enough of it to see if it held up to its claims to naturally reduce the look of lines, dark circles, and puffiness but I would absolutely consider repurchasing the full size during a sale next time I need more eye cream.

Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel (repeat empty) – This was really great while I used it, but the 1oz size that comes with the starter set lasts such a short period of time that it’s really more of a trial size. It does everything you’d expect from a shave gel and otherwise was pretty unremarkable. I’m now testing out the Honey Mango Shave Cream from Trader Joe’s because it has such great reviews, and so far, I’m really liking it! I’m hoping that will pan out for my new favorite, but I will update here.

Farmacy Honey Halo Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer (repeat empty) – This is the best moisturizer I’ve tried for my super dry skin. It’s incredibly thick but still absorbs super quickly and plays well with my other night time skincare products. Usually by this time of year, my skin starts to get flaky and itchy because it’s so dry, but I’ve had no issues since I’ve been using this. It’s honestly been saving my dry skin from totally losing all its hydration overnight. I have a few backups of the jumbo version, so I won’t be buying this gain for a long time, but I will absolutely repurchase again when I’m out.

Farmacy Honey Drop Lightweight Moisturizer (repeat empty) – I’m still surprised by how much I love this given how incredibly lightweight it is. It’s still very moisturizing but has the benefit of sinking into my skin so fast. I really appreciate that for a morning moisturizer because I tend to start my makeup pretty quickly after my morning skincare routine. It also layers incredibly well with my other morning skincare without causing pilling. I already am working through my back up of this and will likely keep repurchasing it.

2022 EMPTIES (WILL I REPURCHASE?) – PART 12

July 11, 2022April 1, 2025by liftbakeloveLeave a Comment

Kiehl’s Creme de Corps – I used to love this so much I even had a giant bottle of it, but it just doesn’t hold a candle to my favorite body lotions anymore. My current favorite is the Josie Maran Intensive Daily Repair Body Butter which feels so much more nourishing and hydrating. It also lasts way longer on the skin than the Kiehl’s does. That said, I have a bunch of these minis floating around, and I will definitely use them up because it works just fine as a body lotion – I just won’t be buying more.

Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask – I know everyone loves this hair mask, but I just find it so unremarkable. It doesn’t really seem to do anything for my hair vs some other hair masks I love. It might do a tiny bit of moisturizing, and the good news is that it doesn’t weigh my hair down or cause any problems. I get this as a free sample all the time, and I’ll keep using them, but I wouldn’t buy this with my own money especially because it’s pretty expensive.

Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara in Brynn (repeat empty) – This continues to be the best mascara I’ve ever used. I’ve moved on to one of the four minis I have, and I still love it. It makes my lashes look amazing, doesn’t smudge, and actually holds a curl. The best part is that it washes off so easily and quickly. I still have more minis to get through after this and will definitely repurchase until an amazing tubing formula comes out that’s better than this one.

2022 EMPTIES (WILL I REPURCHASE?) – PART 10

June 13, 2022April 1, 2025by liftbakelove2 Comments

Nécessaire The Body Exfoliator – While I love Necessaire products and especially love the eucalyptus scent, I wouldn’t buy this again. The exfoliating particles were way too small to be effective for me vs something like the KBShimmer scrub. It also is much less moisturizing than other scrubs I’ve tried. If you’re looking for a body exfoliator that is super gentle though, I think you’d really like this! It definitely does something and it’s not irritating at all so it’s perfect for someone with sensitive skin or if you’re not used to body exfoliating.

Amika The Kure Multi-Task Repair Treatment – My hair had been feeling incredibly dry and lifeless lately, but when I added this into my routine, it’s like my hair went right back to normal and then some. It makes my hair feel so soft, so much less frizzy, and way shinier. It also has more volume and movement without me doing anything to it, which I love. I’ve only been using it once a week, and that’s been plenty to see results. I will absolutely buy more from this line once I get through all of my similar hair products (I have a ton), and I would definitely recommend this.

Krave Beauty Kale-lalu-yAHA – I really liked this product while I was using it, and I’ve had it since at least 2020 so it lasted forever. For only twice a week, it made a huge difference for my skin and has kept it from being congested. I noticed a difference when I wasn’t using it, and it didn’t irritate my skin. That said, I much prefer the REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Toner. It’s more powerful in terms of the results I get without being any less gentle. It is just as hydrating and provides that same glowy complexion. It doesn’t hurt that Ren is much more available from major retailers than Krave, and the bottle I’m sure will last just as long. I will be using my Ren toner and likely repurchase that unless something even better comes along.

Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask (repeat empty) – I’ve talked about this in at least 3 favorites posts now because I love it so much. My last jar lasted me from before January 2020 until now, so for me, it’s 100% worth the $34 price for the jar (especially if I can get it on sale). I only use this mask twice a week when I use my AHA toner, and it really helps with any potential irritation that comes with using an exfoliator. It also makes a huge difference in taming the redness in my skin that I really don’t have any anymore. I already had a replacement because this is one of the only products I know I can’t be without, but I will absolutely get another jar in 2023 when I finally run out again.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Energizing Marine Cleanser – I only had a sample of this, and I’m so glad I got to try it. I loved using it while I had it – it’s so gentle and hydrating while cleansing super well, and it smells great. It didn’t irritate or dry out my skin, and I felt like I could wait quite a bit longer than usual without needing to put on moisturizer after using it. All that said, it’s $64 for 5oz so I’m not sure if I will ever invest in it because there are so many other cleansers on that market that are amazing and so much less expensive.

Tag: skincare empties