From everyday staples to products I finished purely out of determination, here are my October and November beauty empties - slightly delayed, but still delivering my honest thoughts. And as always, I’ve included a little surprise at the end of this post as a way to say thank you for the support ❤️

Facial Skincare Empties

Elemis Pro Collagen Skin Protection SPF 50

Price: $72 for 1.3oz

I have to admit, I super picky with my sunscreens, so its not very often I can say I love a sunscreen vs just a simple like. The Elemis Pro-Collagen SPF 50 was definitely on my love list, but with such a high price tag it made me steer away from heavily promoting it.

The sunscreen had a very fluid like consistency that felt very light on the skin. At the same time the sunscreen provided the perfect amount of moisture for my normal – oily skin. The sunscreen easily and quickly blended into my skin, which is why I was constantly reaching for it. As with most Elemis products, they’re known for including great ingredients in their products. The Pro-Collagen sunscreen contains Padina Pavonica, Lithops Stem Cell, and Carthamus Tinctorius Oleosomes, which are ingredients that are known for their moisturizing properties, support the skin’s production of vitamin D, and offers spectrum protection. But does this justify the price point? I can’t say that it does. I can’t see myself my willingly paying this much a sunscreen, especially with so many affordable options on the market.

Byroe Red Quinoa Cleansing Sorbet

Price: $34 for 1.69oz

The Red Quinoa Cleansing Sorbet has a balm texture that quickly transforms to a milky consistency when introduced to water. The cleansing balm is formulated with upcycled red quinoa extract, which is known for its antioxidant properties along with wheat germ oil, and vitamin E. I really love the consistency of the balm and how quickly it melted my makeup off and how gentle it was on the eye area. I also appreciate that the formula was not heavily scented. Based on the quality of the product and the performance, I can say this is well worth the price tag! When Byroe initially launched a few years ago, their products were priced very high. In the past year or so it looks like they’ve lowered their prices to make their products more competitive and I’m so happy they did!

Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water

Price: $20.99 for 16.9 oz

The Biodema Micellar Water has been my favorite for so many years. Over the years I’ve tried so many different brands and formulas of micellar waters, but the Bioderma is at the top of my list! The Sensibio formula is effective at removing the most stubborn makeup all without irritating the skin! I particularly loved using the micellar water for my morning routines when I only needed a light cleanse for my face.

Previously Reviewed: August & September Empties 2020

Tenzero Cica Hydrogel Eye Patches

Price: $7.99 for 60ct.

Tenzero is a brand that is new to me, but I was happy to give them a try by trying out their cica hydrogel eye patches. I love how cooling the eye patches feel and how well they worked to depuff my under eyes. I found that the eye patches nicely adhered to my under eyes and I didn’t have any issues with them slipping or moving around. I would definitely repurchase these again in the future!

Beekman 1802 Micellar Milk Froth Cleansing Gel

Price: $12 for 1oz. | Code TONI20 to save 20% on your orders

The Micellar Milk Froth cleanser is described as a 2-in-1 formula that removes makeup and impurities from the skin in one step. As with many of the Beekman products, this also contain Goat Milk, which is known for its nourishing properties.

This mini size was perfect for one of my past trips. This was a cleanser that I used during my night routines as my second step cleanser. It did a great job at cleansing my skin without stripping. I know I have a full size in my beauty stash and I’m looking forward to opening it up soon!

Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser

Price: $39 for 8oz

A staple in my skincare routine! I’ve gone through countless bottles over the years! I love everything about it from how it works to even the scent! It truly is a cleanser I could use every day for both my morning and evening routines without having to worry if my skin will feel stripped or sensitive afterwards. I have normal to oily skin, and the formula is great with balancing my skin! Since my initial review, I do think they’ve updated the packaging as I haven’t had any issues with water seeping into the pump area.

Previously Reviewed: April’21 Empties

Tower 28 Daily Balancing Gel Cleanser

Price: $20 for 5oz

The Balancing Gel Cleanser is described as a gentle cleanser, that’s low foaming, which is formulated to easily remove makeup, sunscreen and oil. Gel cleansers are often known for having a high level of suds along with stripping the skin.

I solely used this cleanser in my evening routine as my second cleanser, since I double cleanse every night. I noticed that the cleanser doesn’t have an artificial or standout fragrance to it and I liked that. I think this cleanser worked well for my skin during the summer & fall months, but as the weather moved into the winter months, I found it to be a bit drying. I’m not too surprised by this as the cleanser is labeled as a balancing cleanser, so that’s almost to be expected. With that being said, this is a cleanser I feel is more geared towards normal to oily skin types. Overall, I would describe that as a good cleanser. I can say the pump can be a little tricky. The first push of the pump is usually fine, but with ant consecutive pumps I would have to wait a few seconds for the pump to almost reset itself as it would tend to get stuck.

Bodycare Empties

Bath and Body Works Amber Blush Shower Gel

Price: $16.95 for 10oz

I received this as a gift for my birthday along with the matching room spray and body splash. The way this scent has a hold on me is almost crazy. I really tried my best to use the shower gel sparingly because I didn’t want it to end! The Amber Blush scent is known for its warm, fruity, and floral blend. As for the shower gel, it’s fine. With BBW, I generally purchase their products based on scents. I believe this version may be from their retired collection and I’ve heard mixed reviews regarding the newer version.

Top notes are Raspberry, Champagne, Mandarin Orange and Bergamot

Middle notes are Apricot, Star Anise, Gardenia, Magnolia and Jasmine

Base notes are Crystal Amber, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Musk and Suede.

L’Occitane Cleansing and Softening Refillable Shower Oil with Almond Oil

Price: $29 for 8.4oz

The L’Occitane shower oil is easily my favorite products from the brand! It’s a body cleanser that has the consistency of an oil but quickly transforms into a sudsy milky lather when introduced to water. It smells heavenly and it does a great job to cleanse the body along with moisturizing at the same time! It’s formulated with Sweet Almond Oil and Grapeseed Oil to help soften and nourish the skin. For the ultimate experience, I would encourage you to follow up with the L’Occitane Body Oil after using the Shower Oil.

Previously Reviewed – Top 10 Products of 2023

Innbeauty Project Bright & Smooth Body Serum

Price: [product has been discontinued]

I'm always on the hunt for body care products that targets KP (Keratosis Pilaris], so I was eager to try out the Bright & Smooth body serum from Innbeauty. The serums is a 7% AHA + BHA body serum that aimed to visibly reduce hyperpigmentation and bumpy textured skin. I really liked that I could use this instead of using a physical scrub. The serum worked well when used consistently. I think it fully lived up to its claims all whilst not being too harsh on the skin. Unfortunately, it appears that the product has now been discontinued. I hope this is only temporary though.

Saltair Santal Bloom 5% AHA Serum Deodorant

Price: $13 for 1.7oz

I’ve been a long time fan of the Saltair deodorants - but only the serum formula is my favorite! For a natural deodorant, this formula performs very well. I’ve worn the Saltair deodorants year around and they truly pass the test for all seasons! Scent wise, I like their Santal Bloom scent, but it’s not my favorite. But there’s something about this deodorant being in the Santa bloom scent that I loved!

Previously Reviewed: Top Products of 2024

First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA

Price: $30 for 8oz

Still one of my favorite body scrubs – hence how it made it too one of my previous yearly Top 10 posts! The Fresh Peach scent is new to me, and it smells good. Scent wise, I think the strawberry one is the best.

Previously Reviewed: Top 10 Products of 2021

Trader Joe’s Cacay Oil Body Butter

Price: $6.99 for 8oz

The Trader Joe’s body butters have been known to be great for very good reasons! I stumbled upon the Cacay Oil body butter and purchased it without even smelling it first. I’m pretty sure I’ve tried all of the TJ’s body butters with the exception of the peppermint one and I think this one is the best one! I found the formula of the Cacay Oil version to be thicker than others. It’s formulated with coconut oil, shea butter, and vegan collagen supporting peptides. It moisturized well without making my skin feel greasy. As for the scent of pink dragonfruit and jasmine, I would say this is a dupe for Sol de Janeiro – Beija Flor scent, which is one of my favorites. This is one of the occasions where I can say that the dupe is actually better than the original formula and it’s only a fraction of the cost! I believe this scent is Spring/Summer release and I really hope they bring it back and expand on the collection!

L’Ooccitane Smoothing and Firming Almond Supple Skin Body Oil

Price: $53 for 3.3oz

Everything about this is so luxe – including the price! The oil is formulated with 50% sweet almond oil and is housed in a glass bottle with a spray applicator. As with everything in the Amande/Almond line from L’Occitane, this one smells amazing! I really appreciate the fact that is has a spray applicator and how well is keeps my skin moisturized. As with most body oils, they are intended to be applied to damp skin. Applying the body oil in this matter helped to really lock in the moisture and also helped with longevity of the scent. I know this is very much in the splurge category, but I’ve seen it go on sale at Ulta a few times!

Josie Maran Body Butter Topless Tangerine

Price: $16 for 2oz

The Josie Maran body butters have an air whipped consistency to them. They feel really light consistency wise, but deeply moisture the skin. I love that they’re now making these body butters in mini size, which makes them great for travel. Based on the packaging, I know these are meant to be used to refill jars, but I find it so convenient. I’ve travelled with many of these mini body butters, and I love that the packaging takes up less space! As for the scent, Topless Tangerine, I’m not usually big on citrus scents, but I find this one to be on the warmer side and smells really good.

Top Notes: Tangerine, Yuzu, Pink Grapefruit.

Middle Notes: Black Currant, Melon, Pineapple.

Base Note: Brown Sugar.

Previously Reviewed: April ’22 Empties

Hair Care Empties

Gisou Honey Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hydrating Hair Mask

Price: $42 for 7.8oz

I’ve been very iffy when it comes to the Gisou haircare line, but I’m happy to say I was pleased with their Honey Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hydrating Hair Mask. The hair mask is formulated with honey and ceramides to add hydration, strengthen the hair, and add a level of shine. For me, the first sign that I had that this was going to be a good mask was how thick the formula was. Being that the mask was on the thicker side, I was able to get many uses out of this jar. I typically used the mask 1-2x per month and with that amount of usage along with being heavy handed with the product, it lasted me for several months! With every use of the hair mask it did a good job to keep my hair feeling nourished and hydrated! The mask is very pricey, but if you imagine yourself using it in the same manner as I did, then it would last you for a while.

Olaplex No.0 Intensive Bond Building Hair Treatment for Deep Repair & Strengthening

Price: $30 for 5.2oz

Over the years I’ve gone through a few bottles of the years. I think of #0 as more of a primer to be used with the No.3. I feel like it works well when paired with the No.3, but I can’t say if it really works on its own. For what it is, I do think the product is a little overpriced. I like the idea of the spray nozzle, but I do think it could use some improvement in terms of how it sprays out.

Previously Reviewed: Olaplex Review - No. 0, 3, 4, 5

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector Pre-Shampoo Hair Repair Treatment

Price: $$30 for 3.3oz

Another product that has been in my routine for years! I think Olaplex No.3 has helped my years, especially the occasions when I was dealing with excessive shedding and when my hair was color treated. With that being said, I do not think this is a product that shouldn’t be used frequently as I think it could actually have an adverse reaction. I know the No.3 is recommended to be used weekly, but personally I had the best experience when I used it 1-2x per month. Perhaps if you’re hair is chemically treated or you’re someone who dyes their hair often, then maybe using it more often would work for you. But I think for the average person, you probably would only need to use this 1-2x per month max. Being that my hair is in a better state now, I’ve only been using the No. 3 about 1x per month.

Previously Reviewed: Olaplex Review - No. 0, 3, 4, 5

Fable and Mane MahaMane Detangling Leave in Conditioner

Price: $30 for 4.7oz

The MahaMane is leave-in conditioner that has a spray applicator. The product aids with moisturizing and detangling the hair in one step. The formula also functions as a heat protectant, which I wasn’t aware of! It’s enriched with Amla, Red Hibiscus, and Aloe Vera, which makes for a great combination hydrate the hair, provide UV protection, and help to restore the hair’s natural radiance. Overall, the leave-in smells amazing! I think it’s a great light weight formula, but still a very hydrating leave-in. As for the packaging, the pump broke early in my usage, which made it very annoying when it was time to use it. I liked the product very much and I would possibly repurchase it in the future.

Eco Styler Black Castor & Flaxseed Gel

Price: $5.89 for 16oz

There’s been so much backlash regarding the Eco styler gels, but I think once people can decipher the different formula versions, they would have a better appreciation for the product. Over the years I’ve tried many of the different versions. I appreciate the olive oil and argan versions if I want a stronger hold along with some moisturizing ingredients. The formula that I will always come back to the Black Castor & Flaxseed Gel. I find this formula to be super moisturizing, I never have any issues with the product flaking, and it does a good job to help accentuate my curls. This particular formula is not one I would recommend if you’re looking for a gel that’s going to be provide an extreme hold, but that’s actually why I like it!

Previously Reviewed: September + October ’24 Empties

Makeup Empties

Lancome Lash Idôle Flutter Extension Lengthening Mascara

Price: $30

Hands down, this is one of my favorite mascaras that I’ve tried this year. It’s described as an instant lash boosting mascara that helps to provide 75% visible results. The formula is described as having an airy wax-in-water emulsion, which aims to visibly elongate lashes to have a weightless feel and the look of lash extensions. I had a feeling that I would love this one just based on the mascara wand. The wand has over 480 nano-bristles and I find that wands like this do a great job at defining lashes. I also really like wands like this because I feel that bigger wands tend to distribute too much product at one time, but I feel like this one gives a perfect amount for each application. I can honestly say I love this mascara so much. My only con, which may something very temporary and minor, is that the mascara is only available in black. I hope in the future they decide to release this mascara in a brown shade.

If you’re curious at how the Lash Idole and the Lash Idôle Flutter differs from one another, I would say the Lash Idole provides more volume and more of a lift. Lash Idôle Flutter offers more length and it’s one I would likely recommend to someone who has lashes similar to mine, which is more on the medium length side that has a natural curl.

Essence Volume Booster Lash Primer

Price: $4.99

My favorite lash primer. At this point, I buy it in two’s because I would hate to be without it. After trying so many different lash primer formulas – especially those from luxury beauty brands, I still stand by this one! It’s also one of the most affordable lash primers that I’ve tried. I can’t recommend this one enough, just try it!!

Previously Reviewed: Top 10 Beauty Products of 2021

Beauty Blender Solid Lavender Cleanser

Price: $20 for 1 oz

I love using solid cleanser bars and the is one from Beauty Blender is really nice. It does a really good job at thoroughly cleansing my brushes and I feel like this 1 oz size lasts for a decent amount of time. I only issue is paying this much for a solid cleanser, so I tend to only purchase this cleanser when it’s on sale.

Previously Reviewed: SUMMER [JUNE & JULY] EMPTIES '22

Essence Lash Princess Mascara Primer Extra Length & Volume

Price: $4.99

I bought this lash primer for testing purposes to see how it stacks up against my beloved Volume Booster Lash Primer, and there was no comparison. I honestly hated this one. This one gave off a more blue-ish hue. I found the formula to be thicker than the Volume Lash Booster and I think this made it harder to cover up. When using this one I often had to use more coats than usual to cover up the blue-ish hue. I also wasn’t a big fan of the wand too and how it distributed the product.

Candle Empties

Bath and Body Works; Autumn Chai Candle

Price: $24.95 for 14.5oz

I was on such a hunt to try this candle last year, but I missed the window. So, I was happy I was able to secure one this year during the fall season. The candle is known for its blend of cinnamon chai, French vanilla froth, and smooth caramel. I’m a big chai lover and I literally drink one everyday. The candle has a nice throw when burning. I found the scent to give such comforting vibes.

Sand and Fog Olive Lemon Candle

Price: $22 for 17.5 oz

I have to admit I often buy candles based on the vessels they’re housed in. This Sand & Fog candle was housed in such a lovely vessel that almost resembles a cookie jar and it even had a tag that encouraged people to reuse it! As for the Olive Lemon scent, I really enjoyed it. I found the scent to be perfect to burn all throughout my home - especially in the kitchen. The scent was more on the fresh side, but I also found it to be slightly sweet.

Empties Value Estimate: $615.74

Holiday Giveaway

Included in the Giveaway:

Caudalie Firm & Lift Holiday Giftset (Resveratrol Line)

Tower 28 Shineon Lip Jelly in Pistachio

Natasha Denona Hot Taupic Palette

Toy Factory Serum Lip Mask

What’s up Beauty Matte Liquid Blush in Heirloom

Glogirl Lip Oil in Literally

HOW TO ENTER:

Subscribe to my Newsletter ( don’t forget to add in your Instagram name so I can contact you). If you’ve subscribed in the past, there’s no need to do this again.
Leave a Comment Under this post telling me about a product that you recently finished including your Instagram handle (so I can contact you if you win!)
Head Over to my Instagram and follow me @beautyetcblog | I usually pick winners from the group of folks who organically engage, so get involved to boost your chances.

Rules:

The Giveaway is open from now until Friday 12/26/2025
The Giveaway is open to residents of the US
The winner will be announced via my IG stories
The Giveaway is not affiliated with Instagram or any of the brands featured…

October & November '25 Empties