Skincare Empties: What I Liked, And Were They Worth It?
I recently found myself chatting about how rare it seems for beauty lovers to completely finish their products. It’s easy to doubt when you see influencers with their empties, especially with products that just hit the shelves. We all have our own pace, with some diving into full makeup daily, while others save their best bits for special moments. But honestly, seeing a product used up convinces me it’s truly loved.
I’ll admit, my makeup tends to linger longer than I’d prefer, with my favorite lipsticks often expiring before I get halfway through. However, skincare is a different story for me. It’s something I go through quickly, using every last drop. I feel that you only really get to know a product after you’ve fully used it up. Sharing my finished skincare products feels more authentic, offering a real glimpse into what works and what doesn’t in my routine.
As we step into 2024, it's the perfect time for a fresh start, clearing out the old to make space for new favorites and potential must-haves. Let's embrace the new year with the opportunity to replenish our beloved staples and explore exciting new finds. In the spirit of renewal, perhaps my list of skincare empties could spark some inspiration for what might become your next go-to product.
Moisturizers
Having sensitive and dry skin means finding a moisturizer that soothes without irritation and offers deep, lasting hydration is essential, not just a luxury. It's no shocker, then, that my skincare empties include moisturizers from Laneige, Pili Ani, and Hada Labo. These brands have been game-changers for me, providing that much-needed moisture without any adverse reactions.
LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask EX (P660/25ml). This is hands down one of the easiest moisturizers to use. It’s light, it’s watery, and it has no fragrance. Perfect for layering on top of other skincare products as it won’t add any bulk or heaviness. I use this as a day moisturizer as well as at night because I couldn’t resist the lightweight moisture.
Would I buy this again? Yes!
HADA LABO, Hydrating Light Cream (P850/50g). This one much like the Laneige moisturizer is also lightweight and more watery than creamy. Much like other Hada Labo products this was packed with hyaluronic acid which helps lock in moisture throughout the day. All these perks without adding that sticky or sweaty feeling, perfect for a commuting girlie! Tip: Use this on damp skin to lock in extra moisture.
Would I buy this again? Yes!
Pili Ani Intense Hydrating Facial Cream (P3250/50g). This was a treat to try out! This is a more traditional moisturizer with a creamy formula and light fragrance. Because it has a thicker consistency it works the best in cold weather or aircon offices. Cold air has the tendency to dry us out by reducing moisture in the air and on our skin, but a thicker moisturizer prevents the moisture from evaporating and escaping.
Would I buy this again? Maybe if I return to an office setting.
Serums
Incorporating a moisturizer into your skincare routine is fantastic, but for those looking to elevate their skin health, consider adding a serum or an active into the mix before moisturizing. On my own journey to soothe my sensitive skin and enhance my skin barrier, I've gone through bottles of serums from Kiehl's and Shiseido.
Kiehl’s Vital Skin-Strengthening Super Serum (P3,750/30ml). I bought this on the recommendation of a Kiehl’s sales associate after I had just come back from Singapore and the change in environment had activated my sensitive skin into a raging mess. The main active in this serum is hyaluronic acid and contained a herbal complex of red ginseng root, holy basil and schisandra berry. This serum did work on my skin and calmed down the sensitivity.
Would I buy this again? No, now that I’m older I prefer serums with more active ingredients.
Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Concentrate (P3,250/30ml). This was my very first Kiehl’s product back when I was still starting out with skincare. This immediately set to work on adding moisture into my parched skin. The combination of ginger root, sunflower, and tamanu oils provides long lasting moisture without fragrance or irritation.
Would I buy this again? No, I think there are more affordable facial oils out there.
Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate (4,350/30ml). This was a hard sell for me. For the longest time I could not justify the cost of this product but after trying and emptying a free sample I could not escape the truth. This is an amazing serum and I feel everyone should get to try it out at least once! A little goes a long way and combined with a moisturizer has really improved my skin texture and condition. My skin feels soft and plump, my fine lines and pores have reduced in appearance, and my dry spots have all but disappeared. I’ve received more compliments on my skin since I’ve started using this product and as someone who’s had skin problems for most of my life this really boosted my confidence.
Would I buy this again? Yes, I already have a stockpile! (Editor: Same, Rae, same.)
Eye Cream
The debate on whether eye creams are essential is ongoing, but in my experience, they can really make a difference. Besides having dry skin, I also deal with rhinitis and allergies, which means I often rub my eyes. This can lead to fine lines, dryness, and dark circles. For me, finding the right eye cream has been super helpful in tackling these issues.
Kiehl's Avocado Eye Cream (P2,100/14ml). This was the first eye cream I tried mostly because I already liked Kiehl’s products. It’s a light cream formula that spreads and absorbs easily making a little go a long way. And you can tell I liked it because I emptied out not just one but three tubs of the stuff.
Would I buy this again? No, but only because I’m getting to the age where my eye creams also need to have active ingredients.
I hope my skincare empties have helped you get to know these products, especially if you’ve had your eye on them, I hope my recommendations have helped you make your final decision. In this economy we really need products that we know we’re going to enjoy till the last drop.
What skincare empties do you have and what was your experience with them?