2014 Empties

I'm not good when it comes to empties, I've just got too many wonderful products to choose from that I never really get stuck on a product that I completely use up. Nevertheless, I've decided to post an empties for 2014 because I actually used up some makeup products and I'm hoping it will encourage me to get through some more in 2015!

Garnier BB cream 
I loved the Garnier BB cream when it first came out and then when the oily skin version came out (the one pictured above) I couldn't believe that they had made the formulation even better! This is a product that I literally use every single day and I've already repurchased it.

Rimmel Recover Anti-Fatigue Concealer
This was the first concealer I ever bought and I don't even know if they even sell it anymore, but it was pretty good. As the name suggests, it was more for under the eyes but being the unexperienced, new to makeup kind of girl, I just used it on whatever I felt like! I won't be repurchasing this again (if it is even still being sold) because there are better ones out there.

Face of Australia Concealer in Neutral
I really, really like this concealer and I've already picked up another one because it's affordable, a good colour match (despite there only being three shades available) and it does the job well. Face of Australia is one of my favourite brands too!

Essence Clear Brow and Lash Gel
This is my annual empty, I've used up a tube of these every year for a while now I just love it so much. Even when I'm having a no makeup day (and I mean not a scrap of concealer or mascara or anything) I still use this because I have nice thick brows that look amazing as long as they are tamed! I've already got a back up or three of this!

Covergirl Lashblast Length Mascara
I loved this mascara to death and continued using it wayyy beyond its use-by date (don't do it!). Having discovered so many other mascaras I've now realised that this wasn't quite as incredible as I thought it was, however it still is relatively good and served its purpose well.

Face of Australia Pressed Powder in Beige
Technically I only hit pan on this one but I am going to count it as an empty because that's a big achievement for me! This powder was okay but I wouldn't buy it again because I've tried others that are superior (although admittedly more expensive).







Girlz Only Dry Shampoo in Party Nights
Though this isn't the best dry shampoo in the world, it's $2 and it works just fine for me! Dry shampoo has made me the laziest person and I just love it. I've already repurchased a couple more of these.

Batiste Dry Shampoo in Fresh
Well what do you know, another dry shampoo! Batiste make really good dry shampoos so if you're willing to spend a little more then definitely go for their products. I've not repurchased because I'm stingy and find the Girlz Only ones work well enough for me.

Dove Deodorant 
I used up way more than one deodorant this year but I only showed this one because they were all Dove roll ons. I don't know why I tend to purchase Dove ones, I guess it's just habit!

Herbal Essences Split Ends Protector Mask
I quite enjoyed this product although it was by no means a huge favourite or anything. I think it did improve the state of my hair, but I've used other intensive conditioners since and I feel as though they all do pretty much the same thing.

Michika Complete Synergist Cloth Masks
This was the first time I'd ever tried one of these masks and I really enjoyed the experience! They were richly moisturising and left my skin feeling amazing. I'm not sure I'd buy these again, or any mask for that matter, because I just don't ever get around to using them.

So there are my empties, probably a dismal amount compared to others but not bad for me!

Michika Complexion Synergist Rejuvenating Anti-Fatigue Facial Mask

Facial mud masks are not something I enjoy. In fact, I dislike them so much that they made it on to my well received "Beauty things I hate" post. As much as I hate to admit it, they do work remarkably well though, hence why I continue to use them.

Cloth masks, however, are something that I have never tried, so when I received an email about the opportunity to review the Michika cloth masks I was really excited! I couldn't wait to see how a cloth mask compared to their horrid mud mask cousins.

For my first cloth mask experience, I am impressed. I do not have the same hatred for these that I do with mud masks, in fact I am willing to go as far to say that I...enjoyed using it! Incredible!

Within this lovely box of goodies can be found 5 cloth masks, sealed in little silver bags soaking in magic - or at least a whole assortment of vitamins and antioxidants that equate to magic.

According to the back of the box, "Complexion Synergist is a one step easy treatment that rejuvinates, rehydrates and refreshes even the driest and most dull skin. Complexion Synergist works as 3 in 1: a moisturiser, toner, boosting serum and protecting the skin with a powerful shield of antioxidants."

I am a huge fan of this, because it worked like an absolute charm for me.

Basically what you do is you take it out of the little packet and enjoy how beautifully cold it is as you slap it on and meld the edges to the curves of your face. Try and get every bit of your skin covered, and if you are lucky and have a spare twenty minutes to spare, lie down and just relax with it on. If you are like me and have a backlog of blog posts to write, just put the eye flaps down and carry on with your work (although I wouldn't recommend putting yourself in situations where others might see you, it could be a frightening sight!). Wait a blissful 20 minutes then peel the mask off, rubbing in the excess serum and marvelling at how amazing your skin feels. This does have a strong scent, a fresh 'plant' based kind of smell, and I liked it.

I applied this on a Saturday morning and I am glad I did because I found that it is so super duper moisturising that it feels quite heavy on the skin, even after having rubbed it in. I suggest that although it may be a little inconvenient, use this on a day where you aren't planning on wearing makeup because you can avoid washing it off and let it spend the whole day soaking in and giving your face the most intense moisture refill it will ever have. I have been struggling with dry and flaky skin, but after this it was so plump and refreshed.

A week later and my skin was in pristine condition. Though I can't give 100% of the credit to these masks, I know they contributed to my blemish free, soothed and moisturised skin.

If you are a fellow mud mask hater or just looking for a darn good face mask, then I would suggest giving this a try. Yes, you can look a little silly and it does go on for longer than most of my 10 minute masks, but it feels so good and works a charm.

For $7.90 (the current special!) there is no reason not to give these a try! If you are interested check out their website here.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway here!