Some Empties – January

I have so many different empties – both full size and samples – but to keep this post manageable, I’ll mention five full or deluxe sized products for now. There are some more samples that I used up recently and those will be mentioned in a separate post. Some of us are also participating in #GreenSurvivor Instagram challenge by Tamara – this is guaranteed to produce some more empties and I’ll do a separate post on that once the competition ends.

Shea Terra Organics Rose Water Ester-C Collagen Regenerating Facial Mist (4 oz/$18) – That product name is quite a mouthful. Not really sure about collagen boosting properties, but the product works well as a facial mist. This rose water is actually a rose hydrosol and not distilled water + rose essential oil (which is what Heritage Products Rose Petal Water is); it’s always preferable to use a hydrosol because it’s much more gentle on the skin (especially for those who are sensitive to essential oils) and produced by an authentic distillation method. Please note this toner does have potassium sorbate listed as a preservative. I love using Rose Water as a hydrating toner right before the application of face oils/serums. I used up this toner pretty quick because I like to mix rose water with my various powder clay masks. Overall, good rose water, but nothing superbly spectacular. I have some unopened bottles of Sanoflore Rose Water that I purchased last year during my trip to Paris and will try those next.

Dr. Alkaitis Organic Soothing Gel (4 oz/$65) – I used up a 1 oz deluxe sized bottle of this that comes in the Travel Kit. The green beauty bloggers are so mesmerized by this unique acne-busting, skin soothing gel that I had to give it a try. To be honest, this didn’t really wow me. My typical method of application involved spreading 1-2 pumps on my face after my Vitamin C serum, but before the application of face oil. I really didn’t notice any significant improvement in skin texture or existing acne while using this product. Now that I’ve run out of the bottle, my skin is doing just fine/not freaking out. I do really like the herbal fragrance and just the experience of applying this gel, but I don’t think I’ll be purchasing a full sized bottle. I’m glad that some of you really find this indispensable, but not really sure why this was not an outstanding product for me. If you have sensitive/acne prone skin, probably doesn’t hurt to get a sample first.

Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask (1 oz/$55) – Simply the best exfoliating mask I’ve tried so far. It’s super gentle, 100% natural, and very effective in gently resurfacing the skin and bringing back that glow. This mask is such a multi-tasker and can be used before a night out, or as a weekly treatment, or as a spot treatment to handle blemishes. I’ve already repurchased a jar, of course. I cannot be without this, ever. Read more details in my review post.

La Roche Posay Serozinc (5 oz) – I have no idea what this product might cost in the US BECAUSE LRP doesn’t sell it here. Dammit. I stocked up on these during my Paris trip (bought 5 for about EUR5 ea. without even trying just based on the various reviews online – hoarder). One bottle lasted me about 3 months as a facial toner with twice daily application. I am quite heavy handed when it comes to toners (I literally drench my face in this stuff) – for a normal person, I could imagine this 5 oz can lasting anywhere between 4-6 months. Technically not a “green” product, but the ingredients are green and very simple: Aqua, Sodium Chloride and Zinc Sulphate solution.The zinc solution really does help keep the skin calm. It has a watery consistency, and honestly, sometimes I thought I was just spraying on expensive water, but believe me, this really works. I would suggest spraying it on directly on your face post cleansing, and then wiping it off with a cotton wool to remove any left over impurities. Compared to many high end toners, this is a GREAT deal! Would this replace my Yuli Skincare toners? Absolutely Not, but this is great for a quick swipe and extremely budget friendly for those looking for something simple and cheap.

Marvis Toothpaste in Jasmine Mint (75 ml/$10.80) – Birchbox introduced me to Marvis; so when I saw Marvis toothpaste during my Paris trip (there I go again…), I had to pick one up! I decided to opt for Jasmine Mint because I love everything Jasmine, and also, seriously curious how the flavor would work out in a toothpaste. I am not really particular about the type of toothpaste I use, as long as its natural, but I have to say I really loved the flavor of this product. My husband (who cares even less about toothpaste), noticed it too, and in fact, demanded another tube. Obviously I wouldn’t buy it again because the ingredients are not really green (has parabens, SLS, and the likes), but it was fun to use it just for the novelty of it. Anyone knows of a natural replacement for this?