I don't know if you know this, but I SERIOUSLY hoard samples. I don't know why, since I really just ought to use them... So now I'm trying! I'm making myself use up all sample packets of moisturizers first, without using any of mine. Then it will be cleansers and fragrance! (And then deluxe sizes after that - this seems hopeless!) I am also committing (again) to share samples with you weekly!Ren Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask This mask has been very popular on the blogs this year, so I've wanted to try it for a long time. The mask itself is a very creamy, almost clear substance that smells like citrus. (If you read Vivianna Does Makeup, she describes it as marmalade, and I'd say this would be a bit lighter than a conventional marmalade, but otherwise a perfect description!) This sample packet lasted me 2 uses, and I didn't see any noticeable change in my skin, aside from maybe a nice glow. Since this is pricey and doesn't really do anything for pores, I'm not rushing out to purchase it. In the future, especially when my skin needs change, I will give it another go!
Shu Uemera Art of Hair Cleansing Oil Shampoo This shampoo was very well reviewed on blogs earlier this year, and I do have to agree that it is just amazing. The scent of the shampoo is SO good, I would even just use it for that alone. I wish I could describe the scent, but I am quite terrible at that in general. The shampoo itself really gives my hair some body, and makes it feel super clean, soft and shiny. This is definitely on my list as a product to invest in, when there's budget for it or when I'm desperate for luxurious haircare.
Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream I haven't really tried any Bobbi Brown skincare, so this was a fun thing for me to try. I love the concept of her line and her messages around beauty and empowerment. This eye cream is hydrating, but it sort of just felt like a regular moisturizer to me. Obviously I can't see any long term effects from a packet like this, but nothing about the product texture or feel was unique either. Since I want to find a really special eye cream, I won't be purchasing this one.Amore Pacific Natural Protector SPF 30/PA+++ This cream has a light floral scent, which must be typical of the Amore Pacific range. It is your typical white, creamy moisturizer, and I like that it has SPF 30. It was sufficiently moisturizing for a cold Chicago fall day, which is great. It was a bit heavy initially, but absorbs quickly and feels great.
Nuxe Creme Prodigieuse Anti-Fatigue Moisturizing Cream This cream has a floral scent that may be overpowering for some - my boyfriend's initial reaction was "woah, that is strong," whereas I thought it was manageable. The scent does wear off with time, so that may work for you. This is a bit of a thick cream as well, and I prefer moisturizers that feel light and absorb quickly.
Dior HydraLife Sorbet Eye Cream I've gotten multiple uses out of this eye cream, and like it's silky texture. The boyfriend says it is "nice" but we both find that it takes some time to absorb and feels a bit tacky. Not a bad product, but again not life changing.
Dior HydraAction Deep Hydrating Radical Serum (not pictured) Why does this have alcohol in it?! Now that I think about it, the eye cream above has it too I believe... Alcohol aside, this serum is clear and light and applies smoothly. I found that it provided me with enough moisturizer for daytime as well. I think I'll skip this because of the alcohol though...
Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel & Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Vitalizing Complex I don't know if I could pick between the two. Both have a pleasant floral scent that I really like, and have a nice light texture. Both gave me the proper amount of moisture and just felt nice and luxurious on my skin. I would probably wear the hydra-gel in the daytime, and the vitalizing complex at night!
All in all, I've had fun testing out these samples this past week. I definitely want to splurge on that Shu Uemera shampoo, and I'm very interested in trying out more Amore Pacific. (Argh, why didn't I grab that Sephora 500 point perk this summer while I had the chance? But now I'm contemplating a deluxe sample on sephora.com with code APCREME) Have you tried out any of these products? If so, I'd love to hear how they were for you! :)