February 2014 Empties!

Oh ya baby, I'm killing these empties posts! I have been making a big huge dent in my stash and am beyond excited about it.

Deep Steep Repairing Shampoo - review here - I really did enjoy this shampoo at first, but I noticed it starting to irritate my scalp with continued use. I began using it only once a week for a "deep clean" and must admit that most of it ended up spilling in my tub because of the water-like texture. Won't repurchase.

Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap in Eucalyptus - review here - I love this soap for cleaning my bathroom. The eucalyptus scent is uplifting and one of my faves. Repurchased in peppermint (my other fave scent).

Batch Naturals Lemongrass & Sweet Basil Soap - review here - While the scent wasn't something that I'd normally go for, I REALLY enjoyed it. This soap contains clay, which worked wonderful for my bacne. The disappointing part is that it didn't last too long. With regular use, and me being the only one using it, it lasted about 3 weeks. Will likely not repurchase because of how quickly it gets used.

Pretty Goat Milk & Honey Soap - no review coming - This soap was not as awesome as I was hoping, seeing as it's from one of my fave brands. It's creamy and moisturizing, but I didn't feel like it really cleaned me. Not that it left me stinky, I just didn't feel clean. I think it would be amazing for someone with super dry skin or babies. Also, it contains palm oil. Won't repurchase.

On A Branch Soap in Monday Morning - review here - Great company and great soap. The coffee grinds were a little too sharp for my liking but I still enjoyed it, especially the cinnamon scent of Monday Morning. Will repurchase in another scent.

Pretty Ginger & Cypress Soothing Mask - review here - Hands down my favourite clay mask ever. I always come back to it, even though trying to DIY it would be much cheaper. It works at pulling out impurities and calming my skin all at the same time. Will repurchase at some point, but I'm currently debating on splurging on a La Bella Figura mask.

*Shamanuti Pumpkin Enzyme Masque - review here - As my skin was freaking out this month (with acne) and not as sensitive as usual, I was able to use this mask more frequently. I really enjoyed how it left my skin soft  and helped to get rid of pimples quicker. May repurchase at some point.

*Therapi Honey Skincare Orange Blossom No. 3 Moisturizer - review here - This is a fab UK brand. They use honey (obviously) in their products, along with other great ingredients. I loved using this morning and night, the scent, and how it left my skin so soft. I do have to note that since running out of this moisturizer, probably about a week and a half ago, my skin hasn't been breaking out as much. So I'm not sure if this is what was causing my skin to freak out, along with hormones, but that's why I haven't written a review yet.

*Sweet Leaf Bath Co. Adzuki Bean Rice Bran Face Polish - review here - Even though this scrub smelled like grass, it worked really well at exfoliating my skin. I especially loved mixing it with honey and using it as a mask. I did end up using it this last month on my face, chest, shoulders, and back regularly. Since I'm not a big fan of physical/mechanical exfoliants, I will likely not repurchase this.

*Thayers Peach Witch Hazel Toner - I used to love Thayers and even got my boyfriend hooked on using it after shaving. This one smelled like fuzzy peaches, which I loveeeeeed, but it contained alcohol. I don't like to use anything too astringent on my sensitive facial skin, so I opted to use it on my chest, shoulders, and back. It did help dry out some of the acne spots I was getting. Won't be picking up the full size.

Pretty Roman Chamomile Floral Water - review here - This is my favourite floral water and I've raved about it enough. I've repurchased in rose.

*PurelyGreat Citrus Cream Deodorant - review here - Aside from the irritation this gave me, it worked amazingly well at keeping me stink free ALL day long. I started applying a water/apple cider vinegar mix to my underarms about 20 minutes before applying this deodorant and it kept the irritation (mostly) away. The most annoying part about this deodorant, was constantly having to mix it prior to use. Because of that, I will not be repurchasing.

*Weleda Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion Mini - This sample came with their Sea Buckthorn Hand Cream that I have already reviewed. The scent was light and fresh, same as the other products in the sea buckthorn range. I was really surprised by this product! It moisturized really well and absorbed nicely. I may pick up a full size once I use up some other body lotions.

Pai Fragonia & Sea Buckthorn Instant Hand Therapy Cream - review here - Lovveeeed this hand cream! It was super hydrating and absorbed ridiculously well. The packaging is too big to carry around with me, which is one of the biggest downsides..along with the price..but I think I'm going to repurchase it soon.

S.W. Basics Cream - review here - I took this picture on Tuesday and have since finished off what was left in the jar. This was deeply moisturizing and an absolute pleasure to use. I loved applying it all over, especially on my knees, feet, and elbows. Will repurchase next Fall/Winter.

First Aid Beauty, Niora & Aromatherapy Associates were sent to me by Cori (Well Beauty Blog). The two unmarked jars in the middle were sent to me by Sabrina and Mayah (Call It Vanity)

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream (sample) - Not entirely natural but it did work well to moisturize my super dry hands.

Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask (sample) - This mask didn't burn or tingle at all, and left my skin brighter and softer. Since it was a one time use, I'm can't tell if it's worth the splurge.

Raw Gaia MSM Beauty Scrub (sample) - I didn't understand this exfoliant because I didn't feel it exfoliating. It felt more like a cleansing balm.

Aurelia Miracle Cleanser (sample) - I loved the invigorating eucalyptus scent of this rich cream cleanser. It left my skin soft, cleansed, and more even toned. I see myself purchasing the full size at some point.

Niora Alpha Clear Cleanser (sample) - This cleanser is designed for adult acne, which is pretty cool. It cleansed my skin well (didn't remove makeup though) all while leaving it well hydrated. Not sure the sample was large enough to notice a different in my acne though.

Aromatherapy Associates Soothing Treatment Mask (sample) - I didn't find this mask to be anything special although I only had enough for one use. It did moisturize my skin, and calm the redness on my cheeks a bit. I also enjoyed the fact that it was scentless.

*SBT Soothing Salve for Stretch Marks/Scars (sample) - I got this in a sample pack back in October and have been using it for several months now. The smell is really nice, almost like a herbal apple, but might be a little much for some. Did I notice a change in the appearance of my stretch marks? No.

Benecos Natural Multi Effect Mascara - no review coming - This mascara was a major flop for me. I loved the large natural bristle brush but hated that it smudged and flaked within minutes of application. When I wore this to work, I'd have to constantly check the mirror to make sure that it didn't look like I went straight to work after a night of partying. On a positive note, it didn't irritate my eyes. Cheeky Cosmetics Eye Shadows in Pebble & Truffle (samples) - review here - I really love the Cheeky eye shadows. They are beautiful and so pigmented. These two taupes were stunning all over the lids, outer corners, and in the crease. I'm extremely tempted to pick up full sizes, however, I don't use eye shadow often enough to justify adding more to my already (kinda) large collection.
W3LL People Universalist Multi-Use Stick in #7 Creamy Peony (sample) - This cool toned vibrant pink is stunning, stunning, stunning! My boyfriend already purchased the full size for me.
Zuzu Luxe Brow Pencil in Russet - review here - The most perfect shade for my brows. I just wish there was a way to use ALL of the product. Already repurchased.
What have you finished up this month? *PR SAMPLES

August 2013 Empties!

I've been pretty MIA this month, mainly because my weekends have been jam packed + I've been working + I've been trying a bunch of new products that I needed to actually try before reviewing. The point is, sorry for being MIA and look out for some reviews :)

Now, let's talk trash. Woohoo!

Nature's Gate Pomegranate Conditioner - review here - This really didn't work for me. Didn't work as a conditioner or shave cream, but I managed to use it up somehow. Definitely won't be repurchasing.

Dr. Bronner's Eucalyptus Liquid Soap - review here - LOVE this scent so much. I use this to clean my stinky bits, tub, and sink. I already have another bottle.

Mont Echo Sea Buckthorn Cleansing Cream - review here - This was a really great cream cleanser. It cleaned off most of my makeup, calmed my skin, and left it hydrated. I wish that it was in a pump so that when the water (in it) separated from the cleanser, I could just shake. Having to stir prior to each use is a little inconvenient. I also don't think I would have gone through it as quickly had it been in a pump. Won't be repurchasing right now.

Pangea Organics Egyptian Calendula & Blood Orange Cleanser - review here - This has been my holy grail cleanser for a long while. I'm sad to say that it is no longer holy grail status. My skin craves something creamier, thicker, more moisturizing and this cleanser has fallen short now. I will not be repurchasing.

Weleda Baby Calendula Face Cream - review here - I.LOVE.THIS.STUFF.SO.MUCH! I use this as a hand cream now, since my hands are constantly being washed and I have a little eczema, and it works like a damn dream. I have already repurchased.

Olie Biologique 004 Huile Moderne Hydrating Oil - review here - I can't use argan oil on my skin, like many of you lucky bit....umm, like many of you lucky people out there. I CAN, however, use it to smooth out my hair. I really loved this small, travel sized, argan sample. It smelled gorgeous and worked beautifully on my end. Unfortunately, it's a tad expensive to just use on my ends, I won't be purchasing the full size.

ilike St. John's Wort Eye Cream Sample - no review - This eye cream is really great for hydrating the eye area. I noticed a slight plumping effect, upon application, and loved how my concealer looked over it. It lasted me a long time and I'm ready to try something new. I won't be purchasing the full size.

Physicians Formula Fake Out Mascara - review here - LOVE! It darkens, is buildable, lengthens, kind of thickens, makes my lashes look great, affordable, etc etc. I went through it REALLY quickly though. Mind you, I apply it every single day whether I wear a full face or not. I bought a duo pack, so I have another one already otherwise I would have repurchased.

Pukka Chamomile & Vanilla Tea - review here - Best.tea.ever. I've gone through several boxes of this stuff and it's the only tea I always have on hand. I love it before bed and when I have an upset stomach. Already repurchased.

Sunflower Seed Butter - no review - I'm really new to seed butters, I usually stick to almond and peanut butter. This was surprisingly tasty, despite the fact that it tasted a little like oil (if you don't know what I mean, I can't even explain it). I ate it on toast, with a little organic jam for sweetness. I'd probably repurchase. - Has anyone tried pumpkin seed butter? Any good?

New Chapter Probiotic Florall - no review - I'm pretty sure I've had a probiotic empty the last few months. They really help, or at least I think they help, keep my tummy feeling good. I don't find it keeps me regular, just feeling way less bloated. These are great, already repurchased.

That's all I finished this month. Wasn't too much right?

What have you finished up this month? Link it below if you have a blog or YT video :) xo

Dr. Bronner's Shikakai Soap in Lavender Review

I love Dr. Bronner's castile soaps and when I won this little gem from a Noah's facebook contest, along with a Dr. Bronner's bar soap, I was over the moon excited! Up until I won this, I was using Bath & Body Works antibacterial hand soap. I know *hangs head in shame*, naughty girl!  I was actually using that and the Bronner's castile liquid soap, depended on what was nearest to me really. I'm in love, love, loveee!

Description: Certified by the same National Organic Program that certifies food our pump soaps are smooth and luxurious with no synthetic detergents or preservatives. Organic Shikakai comes from the seed pods of the small South Asian tree Acadia Concinna and has been used for millennia in India as a gentle conditioning cleanser for both skin and hair. We extract the Shikakai in organic sugar and grape juice and combine with Dr. Bronner's unsurpassed castile soap base for rich emollient lather and moisturizing after feel.


This hand soap is as expected being a Dr. Bronner's product, awesome! The soap comes in a purple (for lavender, get it? *winks*) plastic bottle with the fun to read label. It's a pretty runny formula, but lathers well and smells beautiful. For the record, my boyfriend is all about the BBW scented hand soaps, but really enjoys using this one and enjoys the scent. It's not an overpowering or overwhelming lavender, but it's a definite lavender. Lavender, lavender, lavender, lavender, how many times can I say that in a sentence? It leaves my hands sooooo soft, clean and smelling like lavender. I couldn't figure out how to avoid using that word again. The only thing that I don't like about this soap, is that it leaves an oily film in my sink which means I have to clean it every couple of days instead of weekly. I love having a clean bathroom but hate actually cleaning it, anyone else feel the same? I would still definitely repurchase though.

Retails on the Dr. Bronner's website for $9.99 USD for 12 oz or $16.99 USD for 24 oz. I'm sure prices will vary depending on where you purchase it. This soap comes in 5 scents; Lavender, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Unscented & Lemongrass Lime.

Which scent would you (or have you) tried?

Ingredients: Organic White Grape Juice, Organic Sucrose*, Organic Coconut Oil*, Potassium Hydroxide**, Organic Olive Oil*, Organic Shikakai Powder, Organic Hemp Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Lavender Oil, Citric Acid, Tocopherol

Green Beauty Collab #1: Products I'd Repurchase!

The lovely Brianna came up with and coordinated a fun Green Bloggers collab. To see a list of who participated and read their post, click here. I absolutely love posts and videos that involve talking about products, whether it be a tag or not, because it allows me to see what others are enjoying and introduces me to brands/products I wouldn't have otherwise tried. For this specific collab, I needed to pick only 10-15 products that I basically couldn't live without. There are several products that I'd repurchase, but only a few that I actually do. After days of deliberating, hair pulling and cursing, I've finally decided on the products that I'd absolutely repurchase without hesitation. For the record, I could have been way more dramatic than that :P.

Body/Hair Care

Coconut Oil - I use coconut oil regularly. I use it to deep condition my hair, remove makeup, cook, hydrate my skin and just sniff because it smells delicious! It is, without a doubt, an oil that I will always have on hand.

Hugo & Debora Naturals Handcrafted Soap - I have raved about these soaps time and time again. I love how hydrating they are, the scents available, ingredient list and how available they are to me. I have tried other soaps and I have yet to find one I like better. I usually always have a couple of bars on hand, right now I have 3.

Dr. Bronner's Liquid Castile Soap - This brand is just amazing. I love that they use organic and fair trade ingredients, they're available everywhere, they offer great scents (including unscented), they lather well and can be used for a million and one things. I personally enjoy the citrus, eucalyptus and peppermint scents because of how uplifting and invigorating they are. I use this soap to wash my stinky bits, makeup brushes, bathroom sink and tub, and as a hand wash. I find that it can be a bit drying, so that's why I don't use it as a body wash. I pretty much always have a bottle on hand.

Kiss My Face Whenever Shampoo - This is a new love for me and one of the first shampoos that I have actually repurchased immediately after finishing up it up. It has a citrusy lime scent, lathers nicely, deep cleans and works amazingly well for removing hair oil treatments. As long as I do oil treatments, this will be in my shower.

Weleda Skin Food - Do I even need to explain why I love this? It's a cult favourite. I use it as a hand cream but also apply it to dry areas of my body when they need some TLC.

Skin Care

Pangea Egyptian Calendula & Blood Orange Cleanser (not shown above) - This is the cleanser that I keep going back to. I have repurchased time and time again, and just reordered yesterday. It's the only cleanser that I can use on lazy days to remove my makeup (instead of using an oil first), smells nice, keeps acne at bay, doesn't dry out my skin and lasts a very long time. I absolutely love it.

DeVita Solar SPF 30 for Face - I never thought that I'd find an SPF that doesn't break me out, but I did! It doesn't smell like anything, is so light, hydrating, doesn't leave a white case and works. It's pretty expensive here, around $35 CAN but it's well worth it.

Thayer's Cucumber Witch Hazel Toner - This toner is so affordable, gentle and hydrating. It removes all traces of dirt, oil and cleanser. It's a great pick me up and makeup setting spray. I've gone through several bottles of this stuff and it's always on hand. I actually stopped using it for about a year, probably to try other toners, but I'm so glad that I decided to buy it again.

Weleda Baby Calendula Face Cream - Two Weleda products? Geez. This is a brand new love and one I see myself keeping around. It is so moisturizing but never leaves me greasy. It helps soothe the skin and, I think, control acne as well. The smell does linger but it's not overwhelming. I really like using it on my arms and anywhere that tends to get red or irritated. Love, love, love.

Sea Buckthorn Oil - I don't enjoy the bottle of the New Roots one, so I wouldn't repurchase this particular brand but I love sea buckthorn oil in general. It has a tea, almost rosehip, type smell. It absorbs beautifully into the skin, hydrated, softens and just feels wonderful. I love trying new oils but I think this one will be in my permanent collection for a while.

Tamanu Oil - This is a miracle oil! I'm still on my first bottle of this (and sea buckthorn) but I love the combination of the two on my skin. Tamanu has fantastic healing properties which makes it ideal for using on acne (which I get), as well as cuts and bruises (I'm clumsy). The smell is a bit strong but I've gotten used to it.

Makeup & Misc.

Badger Cocoa Butter Lip Balm - These lip balms are my absolute faves. I have 3 on the go right now and reach for them all the time. They're so moisturizing, big and affordable.

Pure+Simple Blush in Glow - The most perfect raspberry colour I've ever found. The formula is a little soft, as you can see above, so it's slowly cracking but I LOVE this blush so much. I wear it alone or over top of a cream blush.

Pacifica Indian Coconut Nectar Solid Perfume - I was on the fence about this solid perfume because it doesn't last very long but I've fallen in love. It's a multi use product really. I use it to freshen up, tame brows and tame frizz. I love the entire Indian Coconut Nectar line.

The All Natural Face Cream Blush - These blushes are amazing! They do vary in texture and the colours online are different but if you end up loving the colour you get, these are a total win. They're super affordable, blendable, natural looking, dewy, moisturizing and last a while on the skin.

That's it! Have you tried any of the products mentioned or have any must haves yourself? Let me know!