Shopping My Stash: Samples

I think I'm right when I say that I'm not the only girl who feels uneasy about buying an expensive full-sized product without giving it a test or two. Luckily, that's where samples come in. I've decided to do a mini review/first impression for each sample that I have recently tried out :).

1) Aussie 3 Minute Miracle: Given the massive praise and hype this hair product receives, obviously I couldn't resist giving it a go. However, when I saw that you could purchase samples as well as the full sized bottle, I decided to opt for samples instead. I bought two and have finished both. Conclusion: It made my hair feel very soft, though only for a few hours. Did it actually repair it? No. Will I purchase the full-size? Probably not. Though I might try out their normal conditioner.

2) Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense: I love this! I had 5 samples of this (generous counter lady) and I can say that this is one of the best facial sunscreens that I've ever tried. Didn't break me out, felt incredibly light on the skin, and protected me from the sun. I even went back to purchase the full-size but sadly it was sold out. The only complaint I have is that it does make your face look shiny (but not oily), so a powder is definitely needed.

3) Kiehl's Midnight Night Recovery Concentrate: I really wanted this to be the holy grail product that everyone praised it to be. Sadly, it just sat on my face and never got absorbed. Needless to say, I was quite disappointed. I was also quite skeptical about it because it contains Lavender Oil, which is a known natural skin irritant.

4) Origins Make a Difference Plus +: I had hoped this might be a nice moisturizer, but sadly after I put it on, my skin felt very tight and dry. Had to wash it off and put on my regular moisturizer instead.

5) Origins GinZing Eye Cream: I have a love-hate relationship with this eye cream. I love it for the brightening effect it has! Oh my god, you don't even need concealer after using this. Though, this is only the case because the cream itself is actually tinted. However, it doesn't moisturize my eyes and actually made the area feel quite tight and uncomfortable. I can't make up my mind if I'll get the full size or not. If I did, I'd probably still have to use a different cream to retain moisture in the area.

And those are my mini reviews on some very well known products :). Hope this has been helpful! Let me know if you've tried any of these products or anything from the Origins or Kiehl's that you particularly like or dislike :).

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Review: Origins - VitaZing SPF 15 Energy Boosting Moisturizer

This has been my number one staple during the hot weather and I just had to rave about it to you guys. It's also the first Origins product that I have ever tried, so definitely a good first impression of the brand!

Essentially it's a sheer tinted moisturizer that also contains SPF 15. Ever since I became obsessed with Caroline Hiron's blog, I've been trying to follow her tips when choosing skin care products. However, because of her ground rules on what ingredients to avoid, it all of a sudden became impossible to find a good summer moisturizer that didn't contain mineral oil! And that's where Origins came in. No mineral oil, parabens, or any other nasty stuff!

I'm amazed that it smells so amazing (like oranges), but doesn't contain any added fragrances, which is great for those with sensitive skin.

The tint was a pleasant surprise for me. It evens out my skin to the point where I only need foundation in the places I need a bit more coverage, which are my rosy cheeks. However, I do see why some people think it makes them look orange  This can only happen for 2 reasons: Either you are as pale as a ghost, or you used too much. The key with this moisturizer is to use only a little bit and blend it in really well with your fingers. I think a lot of people simply don't apply it properly. Also, this is best suited for those with a yellow-undertone, not pink.

This moisturizer is also best suited for those with slightly dehydrated skin, normal skin, or combination. If your skin type is combination or oily (like mine), then you must use a good powder (eg. Rimmel Stay Matte) to keep your skin from becoming too oily during the day. I don't think I would recommend it to someone with extremely oily skin though. The moisturizer itself is very hydrating, but not too rich. It feels nice and light on the skin.

The best bit about this moisturizer is that it didn't break me out and it also kept me safe from the sun. However, I must note that SPF 15 is not strong enough to keep you from tanning, but it will prevent you from getting sun burns. I also have to mention that for those who think you break out from SPF, it's more likely you're simply not removing it properly. Anytime you wear SPF, you need to double cleanse  to thoroughly remove it all. SPF is designed to stick to your face so you do need to put in extra effort to remove it.

My only complaint is the price. €37 euros/ 50ml is very steep, even for Origins usually pricing. But I love it to bits, so I have no regrets! :). I can't wait to try out more from Origins!

What are your Origins favorites? :)

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