I'm sure I'm not alone when I say I have a ridiculous number of sample and mini size products taking up a great big space in my bedside cabinet! I've been using quite a few recently, so here's 5 mini reviews of a mixture of beauty products and whether I'd buy the full size.
DHC Cleansing Oil
"This makeup remover completely dissolves all trace of dirt and cosmetics - even waterproof mascara and eyeliner - while nourishing your complexion with anti-oxidant rich Olive Oil."
This mini came from a You Beauty Discovery Box and boy, did I discover a good 'un! This is only the second cleansing oil I've tried but it is so far my favourite (the other being The Body Shop Silky Camomile Cleansing Oil). As it is Olive Oil based, the formula is much richer and thicker than The Body Shop's offering, however it isn't greasy and is much more hydrating and softening on the skin. As promised, it dissolves eye makeup effortlessly and does not cause any irritation to my sensitive eyes. To remove the DHC Cleansing Oil you simply add water to emulsify it into a milky liquid and then rinse.
Verdict: Will definitely buy the bigger size when this runs out - thankfully it has a pump so will be much easier to dispense than the mini.
This mini came from a You Beauty Discovery Box and boy, did I discover a good 'un! This is only the second cleansing oil I've tried but it is so far my favourite (the other being The Body Shop Silky Camomile Cleansing Oil). As it is Olive Oil based, the formula is much richer and thicker than The Body Shop's offering, however it isn't greasy and is much more hydrating and softening on the skin. As promised, it dissolves eye makeup effortlessly and does not cause any irritation to my sensitive eyes. To remove the DHC Cleansing Oil you simply add water to emulsify it into a milky liquid and then rinse.
Verdict: Will definitely buy the bigger size when this runs out - thankfully it has a pump so will be much easier to dispense than the mini.
"Nail Repair has been specially developed for soft and brittle nails. Its unique effect is based on the restoration of the protein molecules in the corneal layer."
MicroCell claim that after 2-3 weeks of using their Nail Repair treatment nails will become stronger and more resistant. The original looks like a clear, shiny polish on the nails and can also be used as a base coat. The Raspberry shade is a coloured treatment that protects and strengthens while adding a pretty deep pink hue. I used the original Nail Repair after removing the gel nails I had applied for my wedding, which really weakened my nails. Unfortunately this didn't work as well as I hoped; it strengthened them enough to stop breakage but not splitting. However overall I do really like it and now use it as a base coat to continue the effects. The Coloured Nail Repair is a brilliant concept and when I wear it I love the fact that it also continues to improve the condition of my nails.
Verdict: I will consider buying the full size of the original Nail Repair when it runs out.
Verdict: I will consider buying the full size of the original Nail Repair when it runs out.
Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer SPF15
"A mineral based, water resistant primer with SPF15 that creates an impossibly smooth canvas and seamless look."
Space NK offer the best samples with online orders! I've managed to get about 4 or 5 uses out of this little sachet surprisingly, however a little goes a very long way. Formula wise this primer looks like a moisturiser but has a very thin consistency that is a cream-silicone gel hybrid. It's not so silicone based that it feels slippy but not so creamy that you feel like you're putting on something too heavy after moisturiser. The Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer absorbs quickly and leaves the skin super smooth. Now onto what you really want to know - in terms of keeping foundation in place, how good is it... Well this is good. Ok, better than good, it's frickin' FANTASTIC. Honestly this primer is something else. What I love about this is the fact that I could go without looking in a mirror all day and my foundation would still look as good as when I applied it first thing.
Verdict: I want this soooooo bad. However the 30ml is a whopping £52.00 so I'm going to pick up the 10ml for £20.00 instead for now. This size seems to be out of stock everywhere online at the moment, so it's an (impatient) waiting game.
"A mineral based, water resistant primer with SPF15 that creates an impossibly smooth canvas and seamless look."
Space NK offer the best samples with online orders! I've managed to get about 4 or 5 uses out of this little sachet surprisingly, however a little goes a very long way. Formula wise this primer looks like a moisturiser but has a very thin consistency that is a cream-silicone gel hybrid. It's not so silicone based that it feels slippy but not so creamy that you feel like you're putting on something too heavy after moisturiser. The Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer absorbs quickly and leaves the skin super smooth. Now onto what you really want to know - in terms of keeping foundation in place, how good is it... Well this is good. Ok, better than good, it's frickin' FANTASTIC. Honestly this primer is something else. What I love about this is the fact that I could go without looking in a mirror all day and my foundation would still look as good as when I applied it first thing.
Verdict: I want this soooooo bad. However the 30ml is a whopping £52.00 so I'm going to pick up the 10ml for £20.00 instead for now. This size seems to be out of stock everywhere online at the moment, so it's an (impatient) waiting game.
![]() |
HealGel Intensive
"A scientifically designed, multi-purpose skin rescue gel to restore, soothe and protect the areas where it is most needed."
This is another fab Space NK sample with order. I've tried both HealGel Face and Eye before, so I was excited to try the Intensive version from the range. It contains many active ingredients including Arnica and Madecassoside, however it is mainly silicone based, making it feel very much like a gel primer. I've been using it primarily to treat the dry, flaky skin I've been experiencing around my nose recently and it works very well. I use it after serum and before moisturiser and find that it's more of a long term fix for problem areas. HealGel Intensive does make an initial improvement but it took quite a few more days of use thereafter to completely eliminate the dryness that I was experiencing, however it was the only thing I tried that actually got rid of it!
Verdict: I think this is one of those didn't-know-you-needed-it-in-your-life-until-you-tried-it products, though I'm not sure I'd get quite enough use out of it for the full size price tag of £37.50. I think I'd rather spend a bit more and re-purchase HealGel Face.
"A scientifically designed, multi-purpose skin rescue gel to restore, soothe and protect the areas where it is most needed."
This is another fab Space NK sample with order. I've tried both HealGel Face and Eye before, so I was excited to try the Intensive version from the range. It contains many active ingredients including Arnica and Madecassoside, however it is mainly silicone based, making it feel very much like a gel primer. I've been using it primarily to treat the dry, flaky skin I've been experiencing around my nose recently and it works very well. I use it after serum and before moisturiser and find that it's more of a long term fix for problem areas. HealGel Intensive does make an initial improvement but it took quite a few more days of use thereafter to completely eliminate the dryness that I was experiencing, however it was the only thing I tried that actually got rid of it!
Verdict: I think this is one of those didn't-know-you-needed-it-in-your-life-until-you-tried-it products, though I'm not sure I'd get quite enough use out of it for the full size price tag of £37.50. I think I'd rather spend a bit more and re-purchase HealGel Face.
Antipodes Vanilla Pod Hydrating Day Cream
"A light but intensive hydrating cream that feels beautifully fresh and alive on your face. Notes of vanilla and citrus marry to form a fragrance that is exotically fresh."
Antipodes is definitely one of my favourite skincare brands and I've not been disappointed by one of their products yet. The lovely Ana from Ana Goes Green and I did a product swap quite awhile back and this was one of the items she sent me. This moisturiser is bursting to the seams with gorgeous, natural ingredients like Shea Butter, Manuka Honey, Squalane, Avocado Oil and Vanilla Oil, as well as Vitamins A, B, C and E and Omegas 3, 6 and 9. This a moisturiser that is perfect for the transition between the seasons as the formula is of a medium consistency and is creamy and rich, but doesn't sit too heavily on the skin and absorbs fairly quickly. The Antipodes Vanilla Pod Hydrating Day cream is nourishing, softening and gives the skin a healthy glow, plus like all other Antipodes products, the scent is absolutely divine.
Verdict: It's not one I'd purchase the full size of now with summer approaching, but have added it to my wishlist for later in the year.
Have you tried any of the above products? Would you recommend buying the full size?
Beauty Bird xx
"A light but intensive hydrating cream that feels beautifully fresh and alive on your face. Notes of vanilla and citrus marry to form a fragrance that is exotically fresh."
Antipodes is definitely one of my favourite skincare brands and I've not been disappointed by one of their products yet. The lovely Ana from Ana Goes Green and I did a product swap quite awhile back and this was one of the items she sent me. This moisturiser is bursting to the seams with gorgeous, natural ingredients like Shea Butter, Manuka Honey, Squalane, Avocado Oil and Vanilla Oil, as well as Vitamins A, B, C and E and Omegas 3, 6 and 9. This a moisturiser that is perfect for the transition between the seasons as the formula is of a medium consistency and is creamy and rich, but doesn't sit too heavily on the skin and absorbs fairly quickly. The Antipodes Vanilla Pod Hydrating Day cream is nourishing, softening and gives the skin a healthy glow, plus like all other Antipodes products, the scent is absolutely divine.
Verdict: It's not one I'd purchase the full size of now with summer approaching, but have added it to my wishlist for later in the year.
Have you tried any of the above products? Would you recommend buying the full size?
Beauty Bird xx
I must try this deep cleansing oil, sounds incredible! x
ReplyDeleteHannah | Heyitshannaah
Highly recommend it! xx
DeleteYou've reminded me that I really ought to use up some samples :) They're a great way to discover and try out new products. I always enjoy reading your summaries and if you'd repurhcase or not :) The Antipodes vanilla day cream sounds lush!
ReplyDeleteStyle Sunrise ☀
:)
x
It's so easy to forget about samples isn't it?! Aw thanks for your nice comment, I'm really glad you like it! xx
DeleteI do actually need something for my nails...so this could be something for me!
ReplyDeleteAnnabel ♥
Mascara & Maltesers
Worth a try lovely :-) xx
DeleteI absolutely love the DHC cleansing oil! It is by far my favorite of the cleansing oils I've tried - and I've tried a lot of them by now. It's just so gentle and hydrating [=
ReplyDelete♡Em | www.haulanddupes.com
Great to hear you're a fan of the DHC oil too! xx
DeleteOooh your new header is a beauty! Love it :) Thanks for the mention and glad you enjoyed the Vanilla pod cream Xx
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Ana, I'm so pleased with it! You're welcome :-) xx
DeleteI love the DHC cleansing oil! I am definitely taking my little sample on holiday with me :) xx
ReplyDeleteMagpie Jasmine
The mini is so handy for travelling isn't it, I've taken it on a few weekends away now! xx
DeleteI've heard so many great things about the DHC cleansing gel, it really sounds like a winner. And the Hourglass Primer has been on my wish list for some time now, just wish it wasn't so pricey but I might try pick up the mini size if I ever come across it x
ReplyDeleteBeauty with charm
I hope the small size comes back into stock soon! If it gets discontinued or something I think I'd cry haha. The DHC oil is fab! xx
DeleteI've been also loving the DHC cleansing oil, so nice! And I've been wanting to try the Hourglass primer for ages but the price definitely puts me off buying it. I didn't know they have the 10ml version, I will definitely try to get it :) x
ReplyDeleteMummy’s Beauty Corner
The formula is lovely isn't it? I've seen the 10ml on John Lewis' and Space NK's website but both out of stock at the mo :-( xx
DeleteThese products look great. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteHayley xxx
I thought you may like to enter my give-away to win a fantastic nail varnish set from Ciate London
http://mydebeauvoirdiaries.com/?p=4297
Thanks for commenting! xx
DeleteI love the DHC Cleansing Oil - it's been a firm favourite for a while Sasha! The large size with the pump last me about 5-6 months for evening use so it's well worth the money! The Hourglass primer sounds amazing (so wanted to type amazeballs then!) but I'd have to go for the smaller size - shame it's so expensive! xx
ReplyDeleteI know this mini is lasting ages and I feel like I've used it loads! Haha I use that word sometimes too ;-) I know it's frickin expensive but Jenny it's soooo good! xx
DeleteI'm currently trying a small bottle of the DHC oil and I am impressed too, feels really thick and nourishing! I think I will end up buying a full size too.
ReplyDeleteDannie x
www.famousinjapan.co.uk
It's such a nice oil! Feels so lovely on the skin xx
Delete