Empties & New Products

1 In 1 Out

It’s been a while since I’ve done an empties post; I’ve accumulated plenty since I started my Project Pan, and I’ve been featuring them over on my Instagram stories. Recently, I decided that along with my Project Pan I would establish a ‘1 in 1 out’ rule. It’s a wonderful way to use up what I have, and only purchase new products when needed.

It’s an interesting way to talk about empties. I’m able to give you mini reviews and tell whether or not I would repurchase, and at the same time give you my thoughts on the new items that will take their place. Let’s do this!

Face Oil

I used up my Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil. This is a lovely face oil; there’s a full review if you like to know more. I warn you if you don’t like fragrance in skincare, you will not like this. It has a strong scent which personally I find pleasant. Most importantly it made my skin smooth and supple, and it improved the texture of my skin. I don’t plan on repurchasing it for now. There are a few other face oils I would like to try, the first one being Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil.

Le Prunier kindly sent me their Plum Beauty Oil to try, and I really been enjoying it. It’s not as expensive as the Guerlain oil, but it’s just as luxurious. Rarely is an item gifted to me, but I read an article on the benefits of plum oil and was so intrigued that I had to say yes when they contacted me. Plum seed oil is more powerful than Marula oil and Argan oil; it’s rich in Vitamin A and E which helps nourish the skin and protect it from damage. It’s also safe for sensitive skin, and you only need a tiny amount.

I find it doesn’t absorb quickly on me so if you have oily skin proceed with caution. I adore the scent, and prefer it to the Guerlain. It’s light and fruity, kind of like Marzipan fruit, but it’s not overpowering and fades quickly. So far I’m very pleased with the results. And unlike the Guerlain oil, I can use it in a multitude of ways, and it’s less pricey. Full review coming soon!

Moisturizer

Another Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Hydrator bites the dust. I’m forever talking about it; it’s my all time favorite moisturizer. There’s nothing special about it except it hydrates my skin perfectly. It has a gorgeous velvet consistency; works beautifully under makeup. I can go on and on. In its place, for the time being, will be the Crème de la Mer Moisturizing Cream.

Crème de la Mer was the first luxury skincare item that I purchased. I was 22, and I remember saving all my pennies for it. There was no way I could afford to continue to buy it. And I didn’t need an expensive moisturizer at the time. Do I need one now? No, not really. Thankfully, I’m able to afford it, and I want to give it a go again.

I’m curious see if their famous Miracle Broth will make a real difference in my skin. At 40 I want a moisturizer that not only provides intense hydration, but will regenerate and improve the elasticity of my skin. Right off the bat, I remember how much I loved the consistency of this cream. It’s ultra thick and rich; it feels glorious on the skin.

Concealer

Used up my Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer. It’s a marvelous concealer; it goes on beautifully under the eyes without looking dry or cakey. It brightens the eye area, so it’s brilliant for dark circles. I plan on repurchasing it, in the meantime, I picked up a new NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in the shade Macadamia.

I’ve always been a fan of the Nars creamy concealer. It has amazing coverage; I mainly use it around my nose to cover up any broken capillaries, and around my mouth where I have some pigmentation. It’s nice to have it on permanent rotation again.

Mascara

And Finally, I finished the Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara. This mascara will give you insanely thick lashes; it’s incredible. If you’re looking for a volumizing masacara look no further. I will definitely repurchase it. My replacement for now is the Glossier Lash Slick Mascara.

After long deliberation, I decided to give Lash Slick a try. When it first came out I wasn’t enthused, but I’m pleasantly surprised. It gives great length and separation; I have full lashes to begin so that’s all I need. It fans them out nicely, and there are no clumps or little black specks at then end of the day. It’s a great everyday mascara.

Overall, I’m happy with my current empty/newbie rule. I don’t want to go crazy buying tons of products. It’s more about curating the perfect beauty arsenal if you will, and focusing on what’s most effective and suits me the best. I think I’ve done that with my skincare; there aren’t too many products anymore. It’s definitely quality over quantity. The makeup portion is going to take a little more time. Hey, baby steps. 😉 

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