February Empties | Bioderma, The Ordinary, MAC
It's been a while since I've done an empties video, so I have a quick one for you guys today going through some of the skincare that I've recently used up. There were some hits (like the Pixi Glow Tonic) and some misses (like the Bioderma Hydrabio Serum). I go into more detail in the video and also have a few notes on all the products below.https://youtu.be/PHXVnmH8RRo
Subscribe To My YouTube Channel
Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic
You all probably remember this from my Five Minute Morning Skincare Routine video and post. The Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic uses glycolic acid to remove dead skin. Using a chemical exfoliant like this can help clear up acne and also improve the skin's texture. It also can help make your skin all glowy. I love this product and will likely re-purchase it again (once I get through some of my other skincare).
Bioderma Hydrabio Serum*
I received this serum from the brand (along with several Bioderma micellar waters and serums that I reviewed in this post). I've finally finished the bottle and my initial thoughts remain the same. The Bioderma Hydrabio Serum is light and moisturizing, but it's extremely fragranced. Despite it working well on my skin, I really had a problem with the strong scent, so I won't be repurchasing.
MAC Cosmetics Strobe Cream
This is a cult classic for a reason. It's lightly moisturizing and has a very wearable pearlescent sheen to it. It's subtle and makes a great base/primer for foundation. When worn alone it adds a pretty glow to the skin. I'd recommend this if you think that adding oils to the skin is too much but you still want to add a little glow to the skin. I see myself eventually buying this again (or maybe checking out the new strobe creams that have a bit of a pink or peach sheen), but I won't be running to a MAC counter right away to replace this.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary is almost like the Forever 21 of skincare. There are tons of options at startlingly low prices, and it's easy to get overwhelmed at the selection. Sometimes you walk away with an amazing deal, but you're just as likely to walk away with something that's just not quite right. The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc serum is one of those things that's just slightly off. Yes, these ingredients help clear breakouts and redness for me. But there's something about this formula that doesn't sit right on my skin. It tends to ball up on my skin when I layer other products over top. For this reason, I won't repurchase. I'd recommend these other products with these ingredients instead: Sephora Clarifying Booster (reviewed in this post) and Glossier Super Pure (reviewed in this post).
Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel
Before Glossier Boy Brow came out, this was my go to. This brow gel is super popular for good reason - it keeps your brows in place. However, I notice a bit of crunchiness when I use it (blame it on the thick brows), so I probably won't repurchase.
Glossier Invisible Shield
You guys already know this is a forever favorite and I will continue to repurchase this one. It's actually invisible which seems so basic but is actually hard to come by. It doesn't irritate my skin and wears nicely under makeup. I've already re-purchased and will continue to do so. Also, shop with my link to get 20% off your first purchase.
I have the video showing up top, but in case you're having trouble, here's a link to the video.
So that's it for this latest empties post. Now it's your turn - what have you used up lately? Let me know in the comments!