October Trash Talk

 I can't believe how fast I'm going through products! I swear I took pictures of this "now" trash (mostly recycling, don't fret) and 2 days later I was adding things to the bin again! I love it. 

 1. Baby Bee Shampoo and Wash was a little delight I enjoyed in the shower. It was extremely soft on my skin and the subtle sweet aroma made me gravitate towards it. I only used it as a wash, knowing that if I washed my hair with it the product would disappear faster. I purchased this on sale when Target closed and would repurchase again if the price was right. It was gentle and lathered nicely. 

2. Another exfoliating brush used and abused. I which I knew about these sooner. I love using mine and miss it what I forget it places (back in NB for example). When I repurchased after leaving it behind, I made sure to grab an extra. They are approximately $2.50 and my favourite so far are the ones from Sally Beauty Supply as they have softer bristles. The size is perfect, allowing you to get around your eyes and the bristles don't tug at your skin. Can't recommend this enough. 

3. Sample of Marc Jacobs Mod Noir was a great little scent that worked in the warmer summer months. With notes of gardenia the scent is lightly floral. I was happy with the fragrance, but the staying power wasn't the best. It comes with a hefty price tag ranging from $34 - $110 and although it was a nice sample it's not worth the money for me. 

4. The Body Shop Vitamin E Aqua Boost Sorbet  was a decent moisturizer for the Spring/Summer.  It was light weight and felt really fresh on my skin. It had a pleasent smell of shea butter and had a interesting cooling effect once on the skin. Very fresh feeling. My only gripe is that if I didn't let it sit long enough (20 minutes) before applying my SPF then little white balls would form. Not sure what that was all about but other than that I will probably repurchase next Spring. 

5. Quo Nail Polish Remover worked as I needed it to. It was probably on sale and I tend to buy bottles like this so that I can refill the bottle that has a pump top. 

6. Finesse shampoo was quite the throw back for me. While walking the isles of Walmart I stumbled upon this shampoo and decided to give it a go for under $3.00. It didn't add anything significant to my hair, or take away for that matter. It lathered nicely and if you can stand the smell (I can in doses) it works and is worth the price. I haven't found a holy grail shampoo product yet. Please let me know if you have suggestions on a volumizing/moisturizing shampoo.

7. LAVANILA healthy deodorant. GOOD LORD, if "huffing" was acceptable, this would be my huff drug of choice. I freaking love the smell of this deodorant! As an aluminum free deodorant, that is 100% natural and safe this deodorant is totally worth the $17 price tag at Sephora ... if you are an inactive human. For me, this just didn't work the way I needed it to. I'm relativity active in my day to day activities and sadly this deodorant just didn't have the lasting power I needed. I sweat and workout and need something that is going to keep me covered and not reeking of rotten onions half way through my day. So sadly, I won't be repurchasing because wearing $17 deodorant to bed isn't in my budget.  I'm sorry LAVANILA, I really am!!!

Damn You LAVANILA, everytime!

8.  Yes To Cucumber Wipes were on sale and I decided to give the wipes a go as I've heard decent things about this brand. I was not a fan of this product at all. Sadly, they hardly did anything to get rid of the little makeup I do wear, and the product burned my eyes. I'm never sensitive to products, but after using them to clean my face a handful of times, I gave up as my eyes would water and sting. Will not repurchase, and quite frankly, I'm turned off trying anything else from the brand. 

9. Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment was a sample size birthday gift I received from Sephora a few years ago. This one is in the tint "rose" and has a faint blend of "rosiness" that shows on your lips. As a balm it is prefect as it enhances the colour of your lips with a pink/red tone. I was literally scooping out the remainder of the product before I tossed it in the bin. I really enjoy these lip treatments, and have been giving them as birthday gifts to friends and family. I have a few shades and find they are a great alternative to use when you don't want to wear lipstick but need a moisturizer with a slight colour. Highly recommend!

10. Secret Deodorant is a necessity in my everyday routine. I'm a fan of all their scents and have a plethora of these deodorants around my house (mostly in bags but the occasional one is found in a drawer). 

11. Another Montagne Jeunesse mask in the bin. I pick these up at Lawtons for $1.00 and while looking them up online I see that they have changed their name to "7th Heaven" because people have a hard time pronouncing Montagne Jeunesse. Funny, but true. 

This particular one, was a peel off and I throughly enjoyed it as it dried quickly and peeled off nicely. I try and use a mask twice a week and enjoy switching it up, so these are fun to try and play around with. I always moisturize really well afterwards and I've never had an sensitivity to this brand.

So there you have it, another "Trash Talk" in the bin on the blog. 

Let me know if you have had any luck with LAVANILA ... if you have, I'm jealous. Not going to lie I really want to retrieve the used product just to smell the lingering bits that might be left. WEIRD, I know... okay, bye!

Trash Talk ~ Summer Edition

These are some of my favourite posts/videos to read/watch. I love seeing what others use, rave about or claim to be busts! (It's like looking into someones house as you pass by! Don't tell me you don't do this, I know you do and you love it like the rest of us!!!) No sneak peek shaming here!

I've been working my way through a number of products this year and I'm taking note and rating them according to their effectiveness, price and value. As much as I love skincare and beauty it can become overwhelming as new products are being launched daily and deals are always popping up in my email. I'm known to hoard my products and I'm looking to cut down on what I own so I've been posting what I've used so I can look back and decided whether or not it is worth the repurchase. 

Read along for mini reviews.

1. Pomelo Granite shower gel by Fruits and Passions was left behind in my shower from my mom visiting. I used the remainder of it up and it had a really nice mint/citrus scent to it. It gave a good lather and was quite gentle on my skin. I'm not going to rush out and look for another as Fruits and Passions can be quite pricey and there are lots of products out there that do the same job for a cheaper price tag.  Rating: 4/5

2. Wild Argan Oil shower gel by The Body Shop was a great product and I'd repurchase again depending if the price was right. This left my skin really soft, smooth and richly moisturized. I'd actually like to try some other products in the line as the smell is a gentle nutty scent and lingers lightly on the skin throughout the day. Rating: 5/5

3. French Lavender and Honey triple body moisturizer by Bath and Body works was a nice simple floral cream. I got this on sale and was happy with the results. Even though it was a thick cream I didn't find it sticky and worked it's way into the skin after 10 minutes or so. The scent didn't linger for too long so if you are looking for a cream to add fragrance this might not be the one for you. Rating: 3.5/5

4. Pistachio Cream with Magnolia scent body wash by Dove is a rich moisturizing creamy wash that I will always have in my shower. I've never paid more than $3 for this. It retails for close to $7, and even though I highly recommend it, it would be silly to pay that price for a Dove body wash. They have some wonderful smelling scents but this is by far my favourite one. It's creamy, lathers up nicely and it quite moisturizing. I use this to shave my legs as well. Rating 5/5 

5. Dove Oxygen Moisture shampoo was a really good product. I remember years back trying Dove shampoo out for the first time and hating it! It left my hair unbelievably flat so I was sceptical to try this newer line but I picked it up on sale for roughly $3.00 and I really enjoyed it. It left my hair with a nice bounce and although lightweight it did a great job of cleansing and I was happy with the natural looking results after my hair dried. *If you follow the link to Dove Canada they currently have a $4.00 off coupon. Rating: 4.5/5

6. Briogeo Don't Despair Repair hair mask was a sample I received in an Ipsy bag a number of months ago. It hung around my shower for a long while until I made myself use it. It was nothing special and felt more like a conditioner than a deep repair mask. I'd never heard of the brand before and probably won't be picking it up if I come across it anywhere as it did not leave a lasting impression. Rating: 2/5

7. L'Oreal Paris healthy shine conditioner. I hate to admit it but I box dyed my hair back in March. I wanted a light brown and lo and behold it went darker. That's karma from my hair dresser basically saying "screw you Erin!" Anyway, it was nothing major, but the good thing that came of this was this conditioner. It was extremely moisturizing! I really liked using it and it felt like a treat for my hair. I will not be repurchasing because I'm swearing off box dye!!! Rating: 4.5/5

8. Pantene Repair and Protect shampoo and conditioner were samples I received in a Shoppers gift bag. And I liked this product. I buy most of my shampoos at the drug store so this was worth the try as it is readily available. It smelled great and left my hair feeling really healthy. I was also satisfied as it gave my hair some "oomph". Win win. Rating: 4/5

9. Secret deodorant is a staple for me. I've been around the block more than once when it comes to taking care of business in the underarm region! I've tried everything from natural products, sprays, liquids, bars, you name it and I always return to Secret. I'm a fan of all the scents and will continue to repurchase as it does the trick of masking smell and wetness protection. Rating 4.5/5

10. Philosophy Falling In Love is an all time favourite scent of mine!!! It was apart of my Finish 5 products by Summers end video and I had no problem doing just that! It is a light mix of flora, vanilla and berries and I love the way it holds it's scent throughout the day. I will repurchase ... again and again. Rating: 5/5

11. Bite Beauty Agave lip mask came in a small test pot from Sephora with a purchase I made. I haven't heard the best reviews about this lip mask so I didn't actually reach for it for a few months. But once I tried it (in the evenings after brushing my teeth and right before bed) I was quiet happy with the results. The product worked really well over night and in the mornings my lips felt plump and moisturized. It carries a $30 price tag in Canada and although I think that is a steep price, the product works for me. They have a maple lip mask and I think when it comes time that I purchase that will be the one I reach for. Rating: 4.5/5
                                    
12. The Collection - Blue Cedar Fig candle was a wonderful scented candle that had a bit of a masculine fragrance to it. It burned nicely however I purchased on clearance at Target and probably won't get my hands on another as Target is no longer in Canada!!! Boooo Rating: 4/5

13. Tarte's Light, Camera, Lashes mascara was delightful!!! I only had a sample size of this and I seriously loved the volume it gave my lashes. When I'm in the need of a new mascara this will be my purchase. It stayed on the lashes all day while holding the curl. It separated and gave my lashes tons of noticeable volume. Rating: 5/5

14. Covergirl Lashblast Volume waterproof mascara is a great drugstore product. One thing for sure is that Covergirl knows their mascaras!!! I prefer a waterproof formula as I like it staying on my lashes while working out. The black streaks running down my face isn't the best look for me! A notable highlight for me was that it combed through my lashes, giving each lash volume. The formula was really wet when I opened it so it got better with time. Rating: 4/5

15. Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant mascara was a gift with purchase at Sephora. This was also just a sample size and I enjoyed this mascara but I wasn't blown away by it. The brush was quite huge and made it a bit difficult to get into the lash line. The formula was nice and it did a good job of seperating the lashes and providing them some volume. Rating: 3/5

16. LUSH Turkish Delight shower smoothie was a really nice product that moisturized your body like a lotion but was a product meant for the shower. The product was rose scented and lingered on my body for hours. A little goes a long way and I will repurchase but might try a different scent next time. Rating: 4/5

17. LUSH Mask of Magnaminty face and body mask is a holy grail product for me. I'm in love with this mask because of the way it feels and conditions my skin. It has a peppermint smell and although intense it is not abrasive or harsh on the skin. I use it weekly and can't like without. Rating: 5/5

18. Up & Up makeup removing wipes are my favourite. These are so gentle on my skin I stocked up when Target was closing as they are apart of their brand. They are quite moist (hate that word) and have a light fresh scent. In the evenings I tend to use them after my makeup removing balm. I've tried a number of brands and in my opinion these are by far the best bang for your buck. Rating 4.5/5

19. Sephora Ginseng eye mask was a nice little treat. I'm a huge fan of their face masks and thought I'd give the eye mask a try and it was equally as pleasing. What I appreciate from these types of masks is the moisture they provide. They provide your under eye area with radiant freshness and take less than 15 minutes to work. Rating: 4.5/5

20. First Aid Beauty face cleanser was a sample size I picked up at Winners. I really wanted to like this product as it has a great following however, the cleanser was just okay for me. Although it says it is a fragrance free formula I found that it had a "soapy" smell and it left my skin feeling a bit tight. It did a good job of cleaning my face but it just wasn't for me. I have another sample size that I might give to a friend to try, hoping they enjoy it a bit more that I did. Rating: 3/5

21. Face brush. I wash my face at least once a day... somedays I do a better job than others but I always use a face brush for one of the cleanings. For me, a face brush is gentle enough that my skin doesn't tug or get irritated but at the same time it does a great job at deep cleaning as it scrubs old makeup, dirt, sweat and grime off my face. It's not abrasive and I really appreciate that. I highly recommend trying a face brush in replacement of a wash cloth. Rating: 5/5

22. Philosophy Purity Foraming 3 in 1 cleanser is a cult favourite but wasn't the best face cleanser I've ever used. To be honest, the product never seemed to end and I was over the moon when it did! It cleaned my face but for the price of the product it did nothing special and I'm glad to say "good bye" to this one! Rating: 3/5

23. Crest Pro Health mouth wash was a product Adam and I used up together. Every evening we use this before bed and both noticed our teeth were always shiner/whiter when we used this on a regular basis. We will repurchase when the price is right. Rating: 4/5

24. Listerine Total Care Zero. I really liked this because there was a lack of intensity which made me want to use it. I hate when you are trying to swish mouthwash around in your mouth and your eyes are watering because of the burning sensation. The "zero" represents no alcohol and I've picked up another one because of this quality. Rating: 4/5

25. Colgate Total toothpaste. I have a number of these in my linen closet. Adam is not a fan of this toothpaste, he claims it makes his mouth numb so I'm stuck finishing them off. I don't have a problem with it though. It does the trick, although nothing special I got it on sale for a great price. Rating: 3.5/5

26. Bath and Body Works foaming hand soap in Jolly Citrus Wreath was a nice fragrant soap. I'm glad I'm finished it as I'd like to move onto something different. Bath and Body works does a great job at matching the scents to the name and this product did not disappoint. It was a " winter holiday" in a bottle. Rating: 4/5

27. Sephora Super Nourishing Lip balm is a go to product for me. And as soon as I finish I had another on the go. I think this is a great balm that nourishes and moisturizes and only cost $7 Cdn. I'm a fan and have been sharing my love since 2013. Rating: 5/5

28. Fresh Lip treatment was the prefect lip balm that I used under or over lipsticks. I've since picked up a few different shades and love them for all year around. The blends are a mix of oils, wax and real sugar providing your lips with protection and moisturizer. Rating: 5/5

*Since writing this post, I've finished even more products. I'll being doing some shorter "Trash Talk" posts in the future, but in the meantime I'd love to hear what you've finished and what you will be repurchasing.

Enjoy,
Erin

Results ~ Finish 5 by summer's end

Just over two months ago, June 25th to be exact, I posted a video showing 5 products I wanted to use up before the end of Summer. I figured I'd try to have them finished by the end of August so here are the results...

2 things to point out first ...
1~ it takes commitment to work away at products knowing you have more you want to use and try.
2~ It feels damn good to finish a product ... note to self to STOP hoarding!!!

CELEBRATE !!!

Falling in Love by Philosophy is one of my scents ever! I will repurchase this over and over as I really enjoy the blend of vanilla, soft floras and ripe berries. It's such a feminine scent that lingers yet it is not over powering. I was happy to use this every few days and although a little sad I finished it I know I will being using it again soon.

Rating: 5/5 and will repurchase
Completed 

Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask by FAB is a great mask if you are looking to restore moisture in your face. When I started this mini challenge I didn't think about the effectiveness and what I needed in the products I choose. This mask was neglected because I was in no need of extra moisture during the summer months. I really like this mask and what it does to smooth and nourish my skin. I highly recommend this First Aid Beauty mask as it is gentle, calming and has a faint vanilla/oatmeal scent.  

Rating: 5/5 and will repurchase
Did not complete

Turkish Delight by LUSH was a really nice in shower moisturizer. It has a present rose smell as it is infused with Turkish rose and other essential oils. The product is quite creamy and left my body feeling extremely soft, moisturized and fragrant. I'd like to try the African Paradise body smoothie next as it has a more tropical scent. 

Rating: 4/5 and will repurchase
Completed

Purity by Philosophy is a simple facial cleanser that took me 2 years to finish!!! No I didn't use it consistently, however I've never been so glad to finish a product as I was when I finished this. It did the job of cleaning my face, never irritated my skin and foamed nicely. I was not a fan of the packaging as the product was a thicker gel consistency and I would have to squeeze with all my might to get the product out. At the end of the day I had a dance party when I finally finished this product. I've been ready to move on 507 days ago!!!

Rating: 3/5 will not repurchase
Completed ... HALLELUJAH 

My reaction when I finished Purity

French Lavender and Honey by BBW is a thick cream that doesn't leave a sticky feeling on your skin for long and is non greasy.  So I was happy with this lotion and was able to find use for it even in the warm weeks of summer. The smell is beautiful and the formula left my body feeling rich with moisture.

Rating: 3.5/5 will repurchase

Completed

So there you have it, I completely finished 4/5 products and when all said and done, it's a satisfying feeling knowing your money wasn't wasted. I have a lot more beauty products to get through so stay turned for my next challenge.

YouTube Video

Empties- Products I've used up

One of my goals for 2015 was to use up the products I had and really evaluate whether or not I'd repurchase them again. Besides house hold items I'm not sure I've EVER actually finished a product!!! How ridiculous is that?  I mean I know I'm not alone when I say I own more then one of a lot of things (candles, creams, mascaras, lip glosses, face cleansers etc). But I'm serious, I don't remember ever finishing beauty related products before they either expire or dry up. Sometimes I get so caught up in loving the product so much that I don't want to use it and end up having to get rid of it for the following reasons. Does this happen to anyone else ??? Please tell me I'm not alone with this irrational thinking. 
Well ... this is the beginning, I've vowed to start using what I have weather I love it or not. So here is a review of my "empties" bin.

1. 3D Crest Whitestrips Adam gave me these in my stocking for Christmas about a year ago. I enjoyed them as they tend to whiten my teeth pretty fast. If I use them two days in a row I achieve the whiteness I'm looking for so they lasted me quite some time. However, I probably wouldn't buy them again because of the price. They are roughly $35.00, and honestly I can receive the same effects by flossing and brushing my teeth 3 times a day. 

2. 3D Crest toothpaste. This one is a goodie, I've used it time and time again and usually pay less than the $3.99 price tag. I'm a fan on the flavour and the product polishes my smile. 

3. Colgate total toothpaste. Take it or leave it. I didn't mind this toothpaste, but my husband hated it. He is big on flavour and said this left his mouth feeling numb. Probably not going to repurchase as it is pricy.

4. Clear Care contact solution. I strayed from this contact solution, and I payed for it. Although it is expensive it certainly does the trick. When I wasn't using it my contacts were not getting cleaned, they always seemed foggy. When I went back my eyes and sight really improved. It is a pain that it takes 7+ hours for the solution to do the job, but it has encouraged me to wear my glasses more, which in turn saves my eyes from all the contact wearing. It is a must have and I've converted some family and friends too. 

5. Bath and Body Works foam soap. This was a nice fragrance and for the price it was worth the buy, but I think I need a break from B&BW. They retail for approx $5.50 but you can always find coupons for much cheaper. They are a great deal when you purchase more than one and at the time it sounds great, but then you are stuck with a ton of soaps and I'm so over these fragrances. I know I will eventually go back to them, but the novelty of Bath and Body Works has worn off for me. I think in the near future I'll be looking for something a bit more natural and simple smelling. 

6. Methond Dish soap. I'm not going to lie, I HATED this. The smell was totally different when I added it to the water and it didn't foam or bubble at all. I was beyond disappointed because I like other products from Method and thought this was a fun concept, but the results were painful. I ended up adding it with other dish soap, just so I didn't waste it. I'm glad it is out of my kitchen!

7. Up and Up makeup remover cleansing towelettes. This is a holy grail product for me. I love these makeup wipes. I find them highly efficient (mind you I don't wear a lot of makeup). The price point is perfect, roughly $3.00 for 30 wipes. The saddest thing is that they are from Target and well we all know where that story ends! I stocked up when they were closing and got them for $2.00. I don't always rely on them to clean my face but lets be honest, some nights I'm to lazy to wash my face and these do the trick of cleaning off my makeup, while adding in a little exfoliation. 

8. Montagne Jeunesse face mask. Funny store about this face mask, I used it while in the bath one night and after application, waiting/relaxing, then removing I was presently surprised with how moisturized my face felt. I thought "well damn, that was $2.00 well spent". I woke up the next morning and my skin still felt amazing, so much so that I did nothing with it, no moisturizer was needed. Well, since these packets usually last me 3 uses, a few days later I went to use it again and to my surprise it was a "two parter". The top portion was a moisturizer, and the bottom part the actually mask. Opps, so here I was relaxing with a thick goopy moisturizer on my face, no wonder my face felt so wonderful! Needless to say I got different results when I actually used the mask. They are a little inexpensive treat that works. The smell, with any of these masks, are wonderful. They are true to the descriptions on the packets, and in this case I had raspberry and blueberry. You can't beat the price and again I get multiple uses out of each mask, so that is a win-win. 

9. Konjac Cleansing Sponge with deep hydrating clay. I've spoken about my fondness for the Boscia konjac sponges here and here. I will repurchase and will probably buy to give as birthday presents... will it be you? 

Comment if you think this is a good present to give as part of a b-day gift.

10. Proactive cleanser. I don't really have any issues with my skin, but I wanted something that exfoliated by face while I washed it and came across a vending machine in the mall that carried Proactive (odd I know). I have had this product for probably close to two years and when I'm in the need for a good scrub I would turn to this. I will probably repurchase in the future, in the meantime I have a good 12 facial cleaners to finish first!!!!!!!! 

Embarrassing I know!

10. Hope in a jar. This has been my moisturizer of choice for a number of years now. I still have a 4 oz on the go and use this product all year around. I find I get enough moisture from it in the Atlantic Canadian winters and in the summer, it doesn't make my face sweat which I appreciate. However, as much as I enjoy this, I'm starting to venture out in "sample sizes" (because I still have a lot left) of moisturizes that provide me with some SPF coverage. 

11. Sephora super nourishing lip balm. Big fan, I own a few of these and this is the first one I ever finished. It must run in the family because my aunt and cousin enjoy them too. Shout out to Leyland and Kelli!!! It provides me some great moisture which my lips are always in need of. I'll repurchase again and again. 

12. Laura Ashley candle. This was a three wick candle and I was happy with the scent payoff. I found this at Winners for approximately $8.00. I had it light in our washroom and enjoyed it while relaxing in the bath (while applying heaps of moisturizer to my face, haha). 

13. Balea exfoliating face wipes. These are a good alternative to the Up and Up ones that I like. I appreciate the exfoliating factor but they don't remove my makeup like the others do. I only purchase these when they are on sale as they run a bit steep for the quality. In a crunch I would repurchase. 

14. The little black bottle is actually a sample size of Aveda's Rosemary Mint body wash. I got a number of these as well as their shampoo and conditioner this past summer while vacationing at the Algonquin Resort in St. Andrews, NB. Anything by Aveda makes me drool. I LOVE the freshness of their products. 

15. Philosophy bath and shower gel in ginger berry frost. I got this in  kit of 3 about two Christmas' ago. I like the bath and shower gels by Philosophy. I would repurchase these again, just not this scent. There was nothing wrong with it, I just prefer others . One thing Philosophy does right, is that they "nail" their scent right on the head. I'm a big fan of their products and every so often I splurge on their fragrances and bath and shower gels. 

Well there is the first round of products I've finished up this year. Am I the only one who has a hard time finishing things? What about not wanting to use a product because you love it to much? Ha ha it sounds so silly but it happens all the time!

Do you have any recommendations besides Bath and Body Works for a good hand soap? I prefer the dispensing kind oppose to a bar. And what about makeup removing towelettes?

I will continue to use up the copious amounts of "products" I own and share them on here.

Thanks for stopping by!

xo ATEL (all things erin leigh)