Shopping from November to December

I've been so busy, I can't even remember if this is all I've purchased! Probably. I did build sooo many carts online during black friday but managed to talk myself out of them. So I am kind of proud despite shopping a thing like Dior foundation that I did not need and so far it hasn't even performed as well as I thought it would based on the sample. 

Altogether I spent about 155 €. This year I have spent 1262 €. During 2023 I spent 1092 €. What a bleh realization but I don't have to time to cry about that now.

Dior Forever No-Transfer 24h Wear Matte Foundation 1W Warm

45e, from Kicks, I used a sale coupon. Impulse purchase. I must say that the shade is perfect for me. Neutral yellow. Better than 1W in Face and Body. The foundation initially applies so beautifully. Looks matte but not dry matte. Easy to sheer out and layer. I used a wet sponge to apply. 

But... during the day the foundation seems to wear off my nose etc. Almost like it just slips off and looks splotchy. And during those days I hadn't even sweat much and it wasn't hot day. I tried primer as well and it didn't work either. I will keep experimenting, but I'm surprised that this is maybe more dry skin friendly foundation? The sample I tried before lasted very well on my skin even during a run so I'm puzzled.

So far, before I find a solution to my problem, I must say I recommend Estee Lauder Double Wear for 24h wear. Not sure if that one has been reformulated as well though. My shade is 1W1 Bone.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream 125 ml

Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara Cosmic Black

Olaplex Hair Perfector No.3 100 ml

Avene Antirougeurs Rosamed

Medik8 Pore Refining Scrub

Vichy Dercos Anti-dandruff shampoo

Probably around 100 €, bought from various places, Lyko, pharmacy, Kicks.

Kiehl's was half price and so worth it. Mascara and shampoo are repurchases. 

I've also tried Olaplex before but wasn't too convinced. But I want to use again a bond builder for my weak hair. And Olaplex treatment at hairdresser does work. K18 was so much more expensive... but I'll buy that later on, I think I liked that one better than Olaplex home treatment. 

Also got Avene Rosamed, I used a sample of it before and liked it. 

Medik8 scrub was slightly impulse purchase. But I also do want to use scrubs again. I tried it a couple of times and not sure how I like it yet. But I can say I do like Exuviance Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish more. It's just so expensive I haven't dared to repurchase.

Masque Me Hemp Foot Peeling Mask

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Gel Wash

I wanted to pamper my feet again and I've used these foot masks before. They are good for the price. No crazy peeling at all.

As far as affordable, gentle but effective makeup cleansers go, Garnier's Micellar Gel Wash is a front runner for me. 

Current Favorites Galore!

I figured that for the end of the year it's nice to share a bunch of current/yearly favorites. I have found pretty amazing products! But as always, I choose my current favorites however I like. 

I go back and forth between many products because my stash is still bigger than I'd like. Soon I'll probably share some favorites I didn't remember to include here :')

Currently my skin condition is ok, maybe 7/10 by my standards? Obviously nice products and finally some consistency with my skincare work wonders. 

But, I also started drinking one cup of spearmint tea almost every day about a month or two ago. I suspect it might have had a positive impact on my skin by balancing my hormones. Of course I can't know for sure (there is some science behind it) but I'll keep drinking it because there's no harm and it's not too expensive. I read that green tea or zinc or many other things might help balancing hormones as well when you have too much androgens but are all natural remedies just nonsense? I don't have enough knowledge on this subject.

Face

Medik8 Press&Glow

Very nice, gentle everyday acid toner. Would recommend for sensitive skin.

Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Intense

Actually a hydrating and calming serum that doesn't meddle with other products, doesn't pill, I can notice how it helps when I have applied lots of retinoids/acids, also it doesn't break me out (I seem to have that problem with serums...).

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Cleansing Oil

The best cleansing oil I have used. Just right amount of oiliness and rinses off clean.

Avene Cicalfate+ Repairing Protective Cream

Just perfect thick calming night cream.

A-Derma Dermalibour+ Soothing Barrier Cream

The same, just perfect thick calming night cream.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

Perfect day cream especially for winter. Doesn't smell, doesn't pill, not too heavy or too light. Doesn't break me out!

Differin Adapalene Gel

Classic for acne treatment. A bit drying for winter time.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6

Expensive, but I do really like it. Very nice calming formula, not as drying as Differin. Nice to alternate between these two. No pilling, no irritation.

Institytutum Resurfacing Glow Toner

I keep saying that my skin can't tolerate glycolic acid but finally was brave enough to try Glow Toner! (Got it from Advent Calendar some year.) It is actually really nice. I had to up my moisturizing game a little but I can definitely appreciate the results. Been using it once a week or every other week and my skin is glowy everytime. 

Make Up

Missha Perfect BB Cream 23

A classic, neutral shadeBB cream. Good for winter, a bit too "oily" for summer use. Mine is expired btw by several years but I have kept using it... Soon I'll have to repurchase.

Dior Face and Body W1

Good light foundation for oily skin. I seem to have the old formula, people are saying the new one isn't as good. Stays on very well all day even if I sweat. 

Got2Be Gel

My go-to, best for my oily skin and stubborn hair.

Maybelline Sky High Cosmic Black

Great mascara. Stays on, doesn't smudge, easy to apply. Easy to wash off. Haven't tested in extreme weather conditions though. Sky High Waterproof is amazing but impossible to wash off as well!

Dior Lip Glow Oil Mahogany

Perfect nourishing every day lip oil. Doesn't taste of anything, no scent. If Dior would release a brown lip oil I would definitely purchase that one as well.

Dior Lip Maximizer Mahogany

Perfect shade, I love it. Great lip gloss, obviously not as nourishing as the oil.

Body and Hair

Dior Blooming Bouquet EdT

My everyday scent. Light and feminine. Doesn't last very long on my skin though. 

Moroccanoil Hair Treatment Oil Light

Smells so nice. Feels nice as well, doesn't weigh down my thin hair.

L'Oreal Elvital Glycolic Gloss Serum

Great serum, smooths my hair immediately and doesn't weight them down. Don't like the sweet scent though but can live with it. I do like the shimmer in the serum :)

Vichy Dercos Anti Dandruff Shampoo

My favorite shampoo currently. Contains sulphur derivate. Doesn't even dry my hair. No other shampoo keeps the scalp itchiness away like this one (for now at least). Definitely recommend for oily scalp!

Rexona Maximum Protection Antiperspirant Sport Strength

My staple and currently the only antiperspirant that works for me.

Empties from September to October

Not too many things this time either... but my skin thanks me for not using anything and everything at the same time.

Face

Differin Adapalene Gel 0,1%

Still using my expired tubes of Differin but they are effective so I guess it's fine!

By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water

Really nice gentle acid toner. I will repurchase at some point.

Dermalogica Stress Positive Eye Lift

Ok eye cream, no scent, absorbs nicely but didn't notice any bigger effects.

Sample: Avene Antirougeurs Rosamed Chronic Redness Concentrate

Had enough for 2-3 uses. White unscented light cream. Might purchase the full bottle. I think it was calming. 

Body

Rexona Maximum Protection Antiperspirant Sport Strength

My basics!

Masque Me Up Foot Mask Socks

Felt really nice and moisturizing. Good for the price. From Normal. Will repurhase.

Masque Me Up Hemp Foot Peeling x2

Felt effective enough, easy to use. Good for the price. From Normal. Will repurchase.

Palmolive Sparkling Bloom Midnight Rose&Iced Peony Scent

Nice shower soap! Might repurchase if it is still available. Scent was ok, not sophisticated rose but still not too loud.

Plantheque The Bright Future Mask

Used this face mask for my body in the end. Not bad, not super good either. Ok. I think Plantheque has been discontinued already. This was from Skincity Advent Calendar. I think Skincity is not doing very well. They didn't release a calendar this year and their website is losing brands all the time.

Hair

Nothing!

Shopping from September to October

I'm actually not sure if this is all I've purchased from September to October, I've been so busy with work that I haven't cared about other things. But it also means that I haven't had time to shop! Altogether I spent about 114 €. 

However I did go to hair stylist and spent about 180 € as well.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6

I finished Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 and just decided to bite the bullet and order the one step stronger version because they were on sale. It is a great product. Overpriced, maybe. But I can trust it to calm my skin. Very pleasant to use as well.

Cult Beauty The Skintellectual Edit including:

Medik8 Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil

Shani Darden Moisture Boost Plumping Serum

Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo+M Anti-Blemish Corrective Gel Moisturiser

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Advanced Firming Daily Treatment

Avene Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

Fig-1 Beauty Retinol Night Cream No. 1

True Botanicals At Home Facialist Peel 

Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF50 

Incredible value at 53,50 €! Rarely the sets are this good, I believe I can use everything. I haven't bought any advent calendars this year because nothing just spoke to me and I don't want unnecessary clutter. 

I already know I like Avene Cicalfate and Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream (my basics). I have high hopes for Medik8 Cleansing Oil and Paula's Choice Hydrating Fluid SPF50 because generally I have liked everything from those brands before.

Maybe I need to start following Cult Beauty and SpaceNK more for these deal sets.

Empties from July to August

I actually threw away some super expired products this month! Not even going to include them all here because they were sooo old and tested maybe a couple of times back in the day. Anyway, I am proud. The waste saddens me but it also pushes me to accept the realities - what I actually use and how fast.

Face

Avene Cicalfate+ Repairing Protective Cream

I have repurchased. A good basic. I use it as a night moisturizer.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3

I really liked this expensive retinal product. I also have already repurchased Crystal Retinal 6, one step more effective one. Didn't irritate my skin and seemed to calm it down overnight. I did have a huge inner debate before repurchasing though - I think the tube cost about 68 € on sale. Finally I gave in, thought that it might be more expensive to try to find another one that is this pleasant, doesn't break me out, doesn't dry me out, works as well.

Medik8 Daily Radiance Vitamin C Mini

Not going to repurchase. Ok product, citrus scent I think? A bit oily feel.

Clinique Lash Power Mascara

Not going to repurchase. Maybe I got a dud because the mascara felt dry so fast and crumbled on me. In the beginning, I did like it a lot! Even though it never was completely crumble proof. But it is smudge proof which was great. Didn't irritate my eyes either and easy to apply. But I've moved to Maybelline Sky High.

Evolve Organic Beauty Bio-Retinol Gold Mask

Not for me, came from Advent Calendar. Felt like it made me break out. No wonder because it includes so much different oils. But for dry skin, I do believe it can work and that's why it's a praised product. Didn't like the scent either (but it was not strong). The golden color of the mask was interesting though, maybe a bit messy to wash off.

The Ordinary Plant Derived Squalane

Squalane is always ok! But I've been using a lot less than when I found out about it. Maybe because nowadays I use thicker moisturizers instead of light gels.

Lumene Light Glow Lumenessence

So old, finally decided to just throw the bottle out. Never really got into using it, felt like it did nothing, smelt too strong or maybe even broke me out. Didn't calm, cleanse of hydrate. Also includes betula alba juice (birch) and I think my skin doesn't like that. This product has been discontinued already so maybe it didn't suit other people's skins either.

Body

Rexona Maximum Protection Sport Strength Antiperspirant x2

My basics. Still effective for me.

Rexona Maximum Protection Sensitive Dry Antiperspirant

Rexona Maximum Protection Stress Control Antiperspirant

Both of these scents smelt on me like fish, or spoiled, or dill. Weird! So to trash they go. Weird how some products and scents just don't work on me despite the formula being the same (I think) for all these Maximum Protections.

Aco Intimate Care Cleansing Wash

Very gentle. I have repurchased.

Caudalie Fleur de Vigne Shower Gel 

Nice scent, not overpowering at all, but I did get bored of it towards the end. Cleanses ok but I wouldn't say it's my favorite, maybe too gentle. Would not go out of my way to repurchase but wouldn't mind using again.

The Chemistry Brand Retin-Oil

Deciem brand that doesn't exist anymore. I tried using this body oil but just couldn't get past the scent. It was too strong and lingered all day on my skin. Good thing I bought it on sale. But anyway, now it's sooo expired and ready for trash. Otherwise I don't mind body oils.

Hair

Schwarzkopf Gliss Hair Repair Oil Nutritive Conditioner

Not very amazing but was cheap (2-3€ ?). Ok when used between other more effective treatments. Notice, my hair is currently quite brittle, dyed and I'm losing a lot because of hormonal reasons. Otherwise I would just buy normal affordable things like this conditioner.

Schwarzkopf Instant Volume Powder

Never really learned to use it or liked it. Always felt it made my hair more greasy and flat. Strange! Very old bottle so time to throw out.

L'Oreal Elvital Bond Repair Conditioner

Ok, but didn't leave such an impression that I would have repurchased already. Might purchase in the future but this did not noticeably leave hair smoother or make my hair loss any better. Didn't notice much difference at all but bond repairs do not work like silicone conditioners that immediately make hair silkier, of course. Did work better than Schwarzkopf Gliss Hair Repair Oil Nutritive Conditioner however.

Shopping from July to August

From July to August I spent about 294 € and so far this year I've spent 993 €. 

I did buy some some things I didn't need, but mostly it seems I've bought things I need but chosen expensive alternatives instead of budget ones. Most are repurchases as well. 

I am dreading the holiday season. But I already took a look at the released advent calendars, and while it seems they are generally good this year, they still include a lot of things I am not interested in so might skip. Looking forward to seeing Skincity calendar this year though. But it must be amazing for me to actually go for it.

Moroccanoil Treatment Light 125 ml

WE CARE ICON Flawless Cleansing & Blending Sponge Set

Redken Extreme Conditioner 500 ml

About 75€.

I've had Morocconoil Treatment before, the normal one and light are similar enough. (This one was on sale.) Really like it and the scent. 

I've had some Redken products before and liked everything. I also like this conditioner, but not sure if it's a favorite or repurchase yet (used maybe 1/3?).

The sponge set is good for the price, but I'm not too picky. It cost 10 € or so.

Uriage Bariéderm Cica-Cream

Avène Cicalfate + Repairing Protective Cream

A-Derma Dermalibour+ Barrier Soothing Barrier Cream

Rexona Maximum Protection Sport Strength x2

Chloé Chloé Eau de Parfum 20 ml

From Notino, about 77€.

Uriage cream and Chloe parfum are new, others are repurchases. I do have sample of Chloe that I had with me while travelling and liked it so much that I wanted more. Now, that the weather has changed into autumn, I don't like it as much. For me it is definitely a summer fragrance.

MEDIK8 CLARIFYING FOAM

ACO INTIMATE CARE CLEANSING WASH

NIZOEXPERT DAILY CARE SHAMPOO

From pharmacy, about 47€.

Everything is repurchase. No complaints.

Discovery Sample Set: Avene Antirougeurs Rosamed, Narciso Eau de Parfum Cristal, Issey Miyake L'Eau D'Issey Solar Violet, Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal, Cacharel Yes I Am Bloom Up

Rexona Maximum Protection Sport Strength x4

Rexona Men Maximum Protection Cobalt Dry (Freebie)

From Notino, 45€. 

I actually ordered some things for my family, so just chucked some basics for me too. Plus a few fragrance samples I did not need... But did already fall in love with Narciso Cristal! 

Also, I'm on a fence if I should buy a full bottle of Avene Antirougeurs Rosamed. The sample had enough for 2-3 uses, so can't say I had results yet. But it was pleasant, quite light, absorbed well, no scent. Not enough on its own for night, after retinoids. But sandwiched well between Differin and Avene Cicalfate+. I reckon it could work well under makeup for daytime. Maybe had a calming effect, definitely did not irritate my skin. Let's see!

Masque Me Up Hemp Foot Peeling Mask x2

Masque Me Up Foot Mask Socks

Schwarzkopf Gliss Split Hair Miracle

L'Oreal Elvital Glycolic Gloss Serum 

L'Oreal Elvital Oil Erasing Scalp Serum

Got2be For Brows&Edges

Head&Shoulders Classic Clean Shampoo

From Normal and other basic stores. Maybe about 50€?

I did need peeling/moisturizing socks (my feet are in terrible condition... haven't taken care of them much), a cheaper shampoo so that I do not power through expensive ones all the time, some hair serums for my dry hair/oily scalp and a new brow gel. 

Got2b brow gel is a repurchase, I've had the old one for maybe 1,5 years? Feels like it's not performing as good as new, could be my imagination as well though. But I'll use the new one for brows, old one for stray hairs now.

L'Oreal Elvital Glycolic Gloss Serum is actually really good! My hair felt smoother and silkier after a few uses.

L'Oreal Elvital Oil Erasing Scalp Serum is good as well. The nozzle works really well for applying the serum. The consistency is like thick liquid, easy to massage in but will not drip off. I apply generously so the bottle lasts likely 6-7 uses. The results are not "miraculous", but they are there (scalp feels cleaner longer), a good addition every 2-3 weeks!

Current Favorites

I choose my current favorites however and whenever I like! 

Medik8 Clarifying Foam

Just works for my skin. This is a repurchase. Smells herbal, like tea tree oil. Also includes tea tree oil, salicylic acid and mandelic acid. Not for makeup removal but good after cleansing oil, currently I use it on its own in mornings. Usually I am not into expensive cleansers (this is 31€/150 ml) but I believe there was a difference everytime I stopped using Clarifying Foam.

L'Oreal Glycolic Gloss Leave In Serum

Just bought the serum and used it a couple of times, but my hair does feel silkier immediately. I also like the glitter (doesn't show when applied to hair) and the pink bottle. Quite strong sweet scent that lingers for a long time. Not sure I'm into that but it's ok.

Avene Cicalfate Repairing Protective Cream

Such a nice versatile cream. I use it on my face for the night after some retinoid product (Medik8 Crystal Retinal or Differin Adapalene) or anywhere else on the body when I need something gentle. No scent. Quite thick.

Medik8 Press&Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Toner

Nice, gentle exfoliator. Noticed a difference immediately when started using, my skin was so soft and smooth. Obviously can't notice it anymore after some weeks of using. But this product actually can be used daily and it is effective, not drying at all. No scent. Actually works really well in combination with Crystal Retinal (... I better not fall in love with Medik8 too much. Bad for my wallet.)

Dior Lip Glow Oil in Mahogany

Just perfect for daily use. Happy I've found something I like so much.

Narciso Eau de Parfum Cristal Sample

Just soft, feminine. Fell in love immediately after sampling. Pleasant! Doesn't trigger headache like some similar (clean, powdery...) fragrances. Exactly what I've been looking for, will definitely get a bottle later on.

Current Favorites

I choose my favorites however and whenever I like! 

Avene Cicalfate+ Repairing Protective Cream

Calming evening moisturizer after acids/retinoids etc. Feels protecting, doesn't clog my skin. Unscented. Not for day time use because it is quite heavy and leaves whitecast (due to zinc). 

Really trying to lean on to classic skincare that will not be discontinued in a year or two. I have already repurchased!

Btw the cult classic La Roche Posay Cicaplast didn't work for me, so I almost wrote off all protective creams. But this Avene and also A-Derma Barrier Cream are great. I just also bought Uriage Bariederm Cica Cream, looks like a very similar product (zinc, copper, mineral oil based, magnesium sulfate...).

Dr Levy r3 Cell Matrix Mask

I am not a mask person because you have to dedicate time for them. But I do admit, that Dr Levy mask really calms my skin. I usually try to keep it on for half an hour. But I have forgotten and had it on for an hour as well and there's no harm. It is white thick cream so it stays on well, no dripping or mess, I can comfortably do other things.

I got this mask from Skincity Advent Calendar. I never would have bought it myself - 80 € for 50 ml! But it is a great mask and I'll do my best to finish it before it expires.

Maybelline Sky High Mascara Cosmic Black

A great mascara. This is actually all I wanted Clinique's Lash Power to be. Easy to apply for natural or fuller lashes, doesn't flake or smudge and easy to wash off. 

Waterproof Sky High Mascara is also amazing, super waterproof, super smudge proof (tested in snow storm). But it just won't budge when you try to actually remove it! So the normal Sky High is better for everyday wear.

Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water

Finally got around to testing this toner/essence/whatever! Very nice, very gentle, yet I feel it is effective. I use it on a cotton pad in the morning. I think I'll repurchase the bigger bottle. This mini came from Skincity Advent Calendar.

Because I don't need this product to perform any serious exfoliation action, 5% mandelic acid is better for me than, let's say, 10% from The Ordinary. Wishtrend is such a no-brainer and easy to use, no fear of overdoing it.

Morocconoil Treatment Light Oil

Would have bought the original oil instead of light but that value bottle was already sold out! But no fear, the light version feels and smells the same. It has the same ingredients as well, probably just in different amounts. I do think it doesn't quite perform the same as OG for dry hair, but for me this works great.

I really like how Morocconoil Treatments apply and smell. It doesn't feel too oily, absorbs nicely to hair, also the scent is not overpowering, it is just nice and warm. For the most damaged hair, this hair oil is not enough (like when I had a curl permanent) but for my current situation it is a great addition!

Empties Since May

Two months of empties (and trash)! I really did try. I just noticed that I'm not really finishing any toners or serums.

Face

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Cleansing Oil

I have repurchased, great cleansing oil. 

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil

Great cleansing oil but I feel not as effective and doesn't rinse off quite as clean as Elizabeth Arden. Less oily feel if you prefer that. Could repurchase though.

Cerave Blemish Control Cleanser

I used this for both face and body and I think it is a good cleanser, felt effective enough. I will repurchase at some point.

Medik8 Clarifying Foam Cleanser

My skin really liked this one. Will repurchase at some point. Herbal tea tree smell. 

Medik8 Micellar Mousse Cleanser

Good cleanser, smells slightly citrusy but not too strong. But results are the same as with Garnier Micellar Gel which is so much cheaper.

Exuviance Overnight Transformation Complex

I have repurchased. Great gentle exfoliating and calming cream for both day and night. Very light yet still moisturizing. (Not enough on its own during winter though.)

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10%

Good exfoliator! Gentle but effective. Still, next I would purchase the 5% one so it's even more gentle and carefree to use.

Ultra Violette Clean Screen Fragrance Free Gel SPF30

I am considering repurchasing for winter. Maybe a bit too heavy for summer. Some white cast but not too bad under makeup.

Body

Rexona Maximum Protection Antiperspirant Sport Strength x4

My staples. Ugh, so annoying to sweat so much. But this is a good antiperspirant.

Vaseline Advanced Repair Unscented Hand Cream

Unscented, moisturizes ok, not enough during the winter though on its own. Well priced, I think 2 euros. Might repurchase!

Neal's Yard Wild Rose Hand Cream 

From some advent calendar. Moisturizes well but smells so strongly of rose! The scent doesn't fade at all. So in the end could use maybe half because it was making me feel slightly sick.

Hair

Nizoexpert Daily Care Shampoo

Good shampoo from pharmacy. I have repurchased. Feels effective enough, doesn't destroy hair. Still maybe a bit more drying than the Vichy sulphur shampoo I just bought.

Shopping from May to June

Overall, not too bad two months, from May to June. Mainly necessities. Except Primavista powders. Haven't got time to browse new releases or research anything. And this is a good situation. Plus I just bought a trip to Prague (been there once before during winter, now I want to see what the summer is like!).

I spent altogether 165e. But this year I've already spent 699 € on cosmetics/beauty products, yikes.

Primavista Long-Lasting Primer UV Beige SPF 50 PA+++

Primavista Bright Charge Powder SPF16 PA+++ in 01 Beige Ochre (refill)

Primavista Ex Matte Powder For Very Oily Skin

About 50 €, from Amazon JP. I had a mini of Primavista primer before and liked it! Works well under makeup and good for summer, doesn't melt on my face. Slight whitecast.

The powders are new to me but they seem nice, silky. I have liked all Japanese powders I've tried before. The shade 01 Beige Ochre is just right, light warm yellow. I often buy only refills for powders because they are cheaper without the case. If I like the powder, I will consider the case as well (like with Jane Iredale).

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Cleansing Oil

Rexona Maximum Protection Antiperspirant Sport Strength x4

Moroccanoil Treatment 25 ml

From Notino, 62 €. All are repurchases, or well, my first mini of Moroccanoil hair oil was from Lookfantastic Advent Calendar many years ago. My hair has felt a bit dry lately so I wanted an oil and I liked how this one felt and smelled so got another mini. But it is half used already so maybe should've gotten a bigger bottle! But it is expensive.

Elizabeth Arden Cleansing Oil is just so good. I hope they never discontinue it. 

Aco Intimate Care Cleansing Wash

Lactacyd Flytande Tvål Soap

Vichy Dercos Anti Dandruff DS Shampoo

Some necessities from pharmacy, about 53 €! I read lots of people recommend Lactacyd as gentle all over body soap so I'll try it, also Aco is a repurchase, I do like it, it's unscented and really gentle.

Vichy Dercos Anti Dandruff is actually a great shampoo and fell in love with from the first use! It has sulphur derivate and salicylic acid. The fragrance masks the sulphur smell well to me, but my partner sometimes says he gets a whiff of sulphur that lingers on my hair after washing. But, I've been using sulphur on my acne before so I've gotten a bit nose blind to it (it smells so bad I have no idea how it's possible).

Vichy shampoo doesn't dry my hair, it is easy to apply because of the slippy consistency, easy to wash off, my scalp feels better afterwards, less oily, maybe? Or maybe my scalp is in better condition during summer anyway? Maybe hormones? Who knows. I usually work the shampoo into my scalp and let it sit for about 3 mins and rinse off.

I also started to wash my armpits with Vichy shampoo (again, let it sit like a mask for about 3 mins) and it actually works like a miracle... Definitely helps with the constant sweating during summer.

Current Favorites

I choose my current favorites however and whenever I like!

Kérastase Résistance Ciment Thermique 

I am impressed! My hair definitely looks and feels better when I use this heat protection cream before drying my hair. I don't need other products. It is not sticky or too heavy or oily, spreads well, has some scent but I find it ok. Ugh, so good but so expensive.

Medik8 Blemish Clarifying Foam

I think my skin got clearer immediately when I started using Clarifying Foam daily, sometimes two times a day, even. Smells like tea tree oil. I must say I am impressed, just like with Dermalogica's Clearing Skin Wash, but mayyybe I like Medik8 more for results but I think Dermalogica was better at cleansing/removing makeup as well.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream + LA Girl HD Pro Conceal Green Corrector

I found out that I get a custom green-ish moisturizer by mixing a bit of green concealer to my facial cream. These formulas work together nicely! Just a tiny bit correcting on skin but not noticeable at all.

Contact lenses

Not a cosmetic product but! Finally I had the courage to try contact lenses. Took 3 appointments to the optician. I am definitely not a natural when it comes to touching my eyes. Also I am afraid of eye infections, I've never had them and I'd like to keep it that way.

Currently I am using Alcon Dailies Total 1 and so far I am happy with them! 

Empties Since April

Unbelievable. Here is yet another 2 months of empties. I thought I would have had more time to go through things. 

Actually, I am starting to think it is not about time anymore, it is because I don't want to admit how much I've wasted money and cluttered my place. So I rather close my eyes and let things expire. And let expired things rot in my drawer. Such good adulting. I have to get a grip!

Face

Differin Gel Adapalene 0.1%

Good stuff! Was old tube but still effective. Still have a backup.

The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5

Very hydrating. For me better than hyaluronic acid serum from The Ordinary, this doesn't pill. But the last drops were definitely expired, they smelled funky already. I might repurchase at some point if I need extra hydration.

Doctor Babor Clean Performance Hemp Fiber Sheet Mask

This mask burned my face! I have no idea why! It started immediately I put it on and continued for the 10 minutes I had it on. My other cheek was especially red and raised afterwards - I shouldn't have continued to use the mask but I was stupid. The mask had a herbal scent. Maybe I am allergic to something in it or my skin was very sensitive at the moment.

Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening and Debuffing Eye Contour Cream

I actually really liked this eye cream. Absorbed well, felt moisturizing, quite light. No scent. Nice pump bottle. I could, maybe would repurchase but it is sooo expensive at 67 €/15ml!

Essence You Better Work Gym Proof Fixing Spray

I wanted to try a fixing spray so I bought this one. But I felt it just sprayed unevenly big blobs on my face. I tried this also by wetting brush before using eyeshadow etc, but it didn't make a big difference, eye shadow primer works better alone. Now this is so old that I'll just chuck it and accept that I need a very very fine mist if I want to use fixing/setting spray again!

Clinique Moisture Surge Pop Triple Lip Balm in 05 Black Honey

I really liked this lip balm! Even though it didn't have much color. Felt moisturizing and long lasting on lips. No scent. But expensive for what it is, essentially a clear lip balm with a bit of shimmer.

Colourpop Ultra Blotted Lip Halo Effect

I really liked this shade. It is dried up now and old so time to let go. I think the formula wasn't for me, it didn't fade evenly and wasn't very long lasting.

Body

Bepanthen Balm

A basic balm for everything, irritated skin, scratches... more for medical cabinet than skincare drawer! Best for chapped lips (lanolin is as good maybe too?).

Rexona Maximum Protection Antiperspirant Sport Strength x3

My basic antiperspirant. Summer is coming so I am a bit worried about my sweating situation already...

Exuviance Retexturing Treatment Mini

Very nice body cream, actually! I could repurchase. The behinds of my arms were smooth the next day of application. I am usually too lazy to apply body products because I feel they do nothing or so little that it is not worth the hassle!

Shopping from March to April

I spent about 177 € and I also went to hairdresser, about 140 €. I did have a gift card and got some gifts as well. Otherwise Dior's Blooming Bouquet would have cost me over 60 € alone... Overall I am happy with my purchases even though I've already spent so much this year considering it is only the end of April... In total I've spent 534 € on products!!! 

Dior Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet EdT 30 ml

Samples: Clarins Hydra Essentiel [HA²] Night Cream x2

I had a gift card that I wanted to use and top up my favorite perfume during the sale! So it cost me about 11 € of my own money. So rarely I actually repurchase fragrances! Blooming Bouquet is really safe, soft, complimentary feminine perfume, not interesting for true perfume addicts, but excellent for everyday wear for me.

Dior Rosy Glow Blush 020 Mahogany

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer in 05 Hot Chocolit

Soon I have completed my Dior Mahogany collection (just a joke). This blush in Mahogany has received a lot of critique for being patchy compared to other Rosy Glows and being such a weird color that could look like a bruise, someone complained it being just cool brown and not enough red... 

Anyway! I am glad I trusted my instinct. The color is perfect. It does look a lot more red on me than on the pan. Actually, on my face it looks nothing like the pan. It looks more red, doesn't look cool, doesn't look purple, just enough brown. But it certainly doesn't swatch well, looks quite weird and even on cheeks it looks slightly patchy if you look close. It hasn't bothered me yet though but I am not a make up nerd.

Also, Fenty's Hot Chocolit is such a perfect shade as well! I'm really into brown right now! It has slight sweet scent but I really seem to dislike it the more I use it. It's also sheer enough to be versatile and actually not very brown unless you layer it. Just enough shimmer but I'm not sure how I feel about the pink flecks. My partner said that my lips look very kissable, I feel the gloss doesn't look very good in photos. The compact feels nice. Gloss Bomb is my first product from Fenty Beauty.

Schwarzkopf Gliss Supreme Length Balsamspray

Palmolive Sparkling Bloom Shower Gel

Double Lift Comb

From Normal. Maybe, slightly, impulse purchases. But I needed a new hydrating hair spray and the shower gel with peony and rose scent is just calling my name! I hope it's not too good because it is limited edition! The comb is actually great for short hair. About 9 €.

Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadow Quad Palette Space Rider

Caudalie Fleur de Vigne Shower Gel

From Cult Beauty, about 55 €.

The Moondust palette is unbelievably beautiful! I thought they would never release it in Europe! All four shades look great on me. They are very sparkly. I am so happy I bought the palette despite trying to adhere to my no-buy... I do understand the cult reputation Space Cowboy has.

I've never owned any UD Moondust singles so I can't compare the palette to those. But I just bought Bobbi Brown's Luxe Eye Shadow Rich Sparkle in Moonstone. It is drier, a bit scratchier than Urban Decay Moondusts. Maybe a bit more fall out due to that. But Moonstone is incredibly sparkly and beautiful too, and luckily completely different shade from Moondust Spade Rider palette shades!

I just really like glitter! A few years back I was all about matte, can't believe it!

I bought Caudalie's shower gel to get free shipping. But I do constantly use up shower gels and I like Caudalie.

Dermosil Panthenol Cream 5%

Dermosil Lanolin Cream

Wella Color Fresh Mask Pearl Blonde

All gifts! My mom always orders basics from Dermosil. Lanolin is a great basic for lips, nails... The panthenol cream seems to work great as a hand cream. It's nourishing but not heavy. Got the color mask from hair stylist as I got a part of my hair bleached.

Bepanthen Balm

Nizoexpert Daily Care Shampoo

Aco Intimate Care Cleansing Wash

Avene Cicalfate Repairing Protective Cream

Can you tell I did a bit of pharmacy shopping?! Bepanthen is repurchase, multipurpose product for scratches, irritated skin... wounds... Nizoexpert is repurchase as well. I think it is an okay shampoo and I made my life easier by buying the same again. 

I've heard good things about Aco&Avene products so decided to try them.

Nivea Creme Mini

L'Oreal Elvital Bond Repair Conditioner

I've never tried the classic Nivea Creme before. Only reason I actually bought it this time, was the cute holiday mini tin! Also, needed a new conditioner for hair so why not try this new one.

Current Favorites

Lancome Miracle EdP

For some reason Miracle has become my go-to perfume to put on just after shower. The opening can be a little sharp for such a girly soapy fragrance but I think it is a nice change from softness of Dior's Blooming Bouquet that is my usual day time scent right now! I am considering getting a full size bottle.

Dior Lip Glow Oil Mahogany

Dior Lip Maximizer Mahogany

What can I say... Dior's Mahogany has become my go-to shade. Both oil and maximizer are beautiful despite being different colors and they are comfortable and wear well. The oil is more nourishing and the maximizer has a slight tingle on lips, also it is a more brown, the oil is clearly red. Both can be applied either very sheer or packed on.

Primavista Long Lasting Primer UV Beige SPF50 PA+++

This is a Japanese brand and I gather rather popular product as well? It is mainly a tinted chemical sunscreen with alcohol high up on the list. But it makes it dry fast and stay on well. Slightly blurring, works well with makeup, maybe some white cast but I haven't applied generously. Definitely light beige tint. I do want another bottle for summer, this is a mini tester bottle.

Ultra Violette Clean Screen SPF30

This was a gift with purchase long time ago... from SpaceNK maybe? Clean Screen is a tinted hybrid sunscreen. Even though it is tinted light beige, it still leaves a white cast on me. The finish is also slightly tacky. But it works very well under makeup, then you can't tell it is too light either. Finish is satin, slightly blurring. Actually I wouldn't mind using another bottle during winter!

Empties Since January

Empties from January to February. A bit late but just been so busy and tired! Must keep going through my stash though! Yet another spring cleaning, yada yada, you know...

Face

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

This is already a repurchase and I have repurchased the big jar! Good moisturizer, works well with my other products.

Fresh Floral Recovery Calming Mask Mini

Smells nice, like clover flowers to me. Soft and creamy, pleasant to use, but I think this broke me out or otherwise my skin didn't like it.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Good basic moisturizer, always a repurchase. Quite light and is not enough on its own during winter.

A-Derma Dermalibour+ Repairing Cream

Thick treatment cream/balm. Discontinued, or reformulated, I believe. Would have repurchased! Very calming on irritated skin.

Clinique Moisture Surge Overnight Mask Mini

Very nice nourishing texture, no scent, pleasant, calming. But when used too many nights/days in a row definitely started to clog my pores! Once in a while a great overnight mask. Probably not going to purchase, but if I got another mini for free, I would use it.

Oilixia Australian Kakadu Plum Gummy Facial Cleanser

The consistency is like thick snot. But felt nice on skin and was a decent first cleanser. Not for heavy makeup. Needs another cleanser because it doesn't rinse clean. Smelled of oil. You know, a bit natural grassy, lightly like rosehip seed oil.

Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Purifying Mini

Clean It Zeros are good cleansing balms. Especially for stubborn mascara. But I do prefer cleansing oils.

Innisfree My Real Squeeze Mask Rice

I think Rice is my favorite My Real Squeeze sheet mask! But I believe it has been discontinued. Calming and hydrating.

Dr Ceuracle Royal Vita Propolis Anti-Oxidant Mask

Dr Ceuracle Hyal Reyouth Lifting Mask

The propolis sheet mask was more moisturizing and thicker and stayed wet longer. Hyal Reyouth seemed to dry up on my skin very fast, in 10-15 minutes. Regardless, both were ok hydrating masks, I think my skin did not like Propolis one though. Even though it was more moisturizing. Who knows!

Samples Dr Ceuracle Pro Balance Biotics Clear UP Sun SPF 50+ PA++++

Actually I think my skin really did like this sunscreen. It got remarkably better when I used this sample for a few days. It really leaves a white cast though. Even when very little is used.

Body

Essence The Nail Care Oil

Cheap, ok nail oil. Sweet fragrance, but it's not too strong and doesn't bother me. I have repurchased.

Cerave Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser

Not bad cleanser at all. No scent, very liquidy before lathering. Foams ok, nothing amazing. Difficult to get the last bits out of the bottle. Very gentle, actually too gentle I feel, I would like to have something more purifying. But I bet this is very nice for dry skin!

SVR Xerial 10 Lait Corps

Good moisturizer. The bottle last me a bit over 3 years! As you can see I'm not big on moisturizing my body... I would have rebought this one but SVR has reformulated it to include coconut oil I think. So I'll go with some other body moisturizer, maybe Aveeno or Cerave.

Rexona Maximum Protection Antiperspirant Sport Strength x3

Good antiperspirant! Have been using these for a while.

Hair

Nizoral Shampoo (Ketoconazol)

Good for oily, itchy dandruff and scalp. It is a treatment shampoo and I use it every few weeks or when I have flare ups. I also wash my face with Nizoral when I have similar flare ups on my forehead.

Ducray Kertyol PSO Kerato Reducing Shampoo

Actually, a bit too harsh for my hair (not for scalp itself). I felt I lost a lot of hair. But excellent cleanser for my body during summer! Felt very purifying for feet and armpits. Smells bad due to sulfur.

Shopping from January to February

I was supposed to be on a no-buy but... Some things I bought were definitely justified e.g. antiperspirants, nail oils, Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream (so good for winter), new hair clip/ties (but I went overboard with those too).

Anyway... altogether I spent about 357 € which is A LOT. Also, crappy photos because there is rarely any light during winter!

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream 125 ml

Exuviance Overnight Transformation Complex

From Kicks (82 €) because they were on sale and I had run out of my Kiehls mini jar and my Exuviance moisturizer is at the very end as well. They both are really, really good products for my combination skin. I bet the 125 ml jar will last me a year because a little goes a long way and my last Exuviance also has lasted me a year (haven't used it daily).

Rexona Maximum Protection Sport Strength x7

NEONAIL Cotton Pads

Essence The Nail Care Oil

Essie apricot nail & cuticle oil 

Sample Discovery Box: RedkenAll Soft, BULGARIOmnia Crystalline, Hugo BossBOSS The Scent Magnetic, KérastaseSymbiose Micro-Peeling Cellulaire, Coach Dreams

No wonder Essie's Apricot Nail Oil is such a classic and bestseller. It is really good! It feels oilier than Essence The Nail Care Oil but absorbs as well. It has quite a strong fruity scent. I bought both because I just finished Essence bottle (took 8 months) and it is so cheap that I can apply it whenever&carry it with me without a fear of losing it.

These Neonail cotton pads look perfect for doing my home gel nails. A bit of an impulse purchase. Winter has made my nails very brittle at the moment so been just babying them, no gel nails for me until spring comes I guess...

I also love sample sets. Especially perfume samples. I had been dying to try Omnia Crystalline and while it is nice (a bit like Versace Versence mixed with Tiffany&Co Sheer??) it's not a must buy. Also really didn't like The Scent Magnetic, so medicinal on me. Didn't like the other Scent perfume either that I sampled earlier. I like Coach Dreams but it is not necessarily something I would like to wear and smell of. Too sweet, overpowering somehow?

From Notino: 70 €.

NYX Professional Makeup Glitter Primer 

Bobbi Brown Luxe Eye Shadow Rich Sparkle 1,3 g – Moonstone

Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Blush 3,2 g ─ Flawless

Jane Iredale Dusty Gold Case

Kérastase Blond Absolu Cicaflash 15 ml

Definitely impulse purchases! Oi the horror, about 76 € from Cocopanda. 

Actually, Jane Iredale Blush in Flawless is the color I kinda wanted Dior's Blush Charnelle to be. Charnelle is a superbly pretty color and different from what I already had but it is more red than I thought, people kept describing it brown but it definitely is not - Flawless is brown without being brown on face and I like such a natural everyday look.

Btw Jane Iredale compacts feel so nice. They have magnets and they feel sturdy. Too bad the brand seems to have pulled out of most retailers - not sure if I can purchase more stuff more them anymore...

I had been pining after Bobbi Brown's Moonstone single for a long time! It is a perfect shade. Very sparkly. I need to work on my technique how to apply it without fall out. Not sure why it is so expensive though, this was definitely an unnecessary splurge!

Kérastase Résistance Ciment Thermique

Brushworks Nail Clipper

Invisibobble Wrapstar Snake It Off

Invisibobble Barrette – Havana Mama

Invisibobble Barrette Too Glam to Give A Damn

Kérastase Genesis Fondant Renforçateur Conditioner 10 ml

Invisibobble Clipstar Clawdia

Invisibobble Everclaw Leo Love

Invisibobble Power Crystal Clear

Invisibobble Slim Bronze Me Pretty

Invisibobble Sprunchie Magnificent Leo

Again from Cocopanda, 92 €. Was so unhappy with my hair clip/hair tie situation that I went a little overboard, also I want to style my hair more sometimes so I got Kerastase heat protectant. Haven't used it before but I do like Kerastase products that I've tried so... it can't be bad?

Invisibobble's hair tie spirals are very good and I've been using them now for several years. I did try some cheaper no-name spirals as well but did not like them. The wrapstar is actually very nice! Can't lose the ribbon when it is attached to the spiral. I wanted some hair barrettes without metal to protect my hair as well. I feel I am a little bored with my hair, defaulting to ponytail almost every day.

Aveeno Dermexa Daily Emollient Cream

Eucerin Shower Oil pH5 Unscented

Nizoexpert Daily Care Shampoo

Some basics from pharmacy, about 37 €. Haven't used Nizoexpert Shampoo before but I am curious. Probably not any different than Head&Shoulders (I should buy a new H&S bottle as well). I've used the scented Eucerin shower oil before and liked it. Aveeno cream feels really nice! Leaves skin soft, not slimy at all. No scent. I thought it would have been thicker based on ingredients but it spreads and absorbs well.