Today we’re talking about deluxe samples I’ve used up. It’s difficult to tell how well a product works just by using a sample. Usually, there’s not enough product to make an assessment. However, these were a decent size and I was able to get a lot of use from them. So are they good? Would I purchase the full size? Here are my thoughts…
Skinfix Ultra Rich Hand Cream: I received this sample from Ulta a while back. I wasn’t familiar with the brand at all. According to Ulta this is Clinically proven to treat dry, cracked skin on hands. It’s free of steroids, soy, parabens and phthalates. It’s also fragrance and cruelty-free. I really enjoyed this cream. It was effective in treating my extremely dry hands. I suffer from dermatitis. It’s lingered from my photo darkroom days in college. This cream gives me instant relief. It’s a thick and rich but it absorbed quickly. This lotion hydrating and nourishing. I actually prefer it to the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream. I will definitely purchase the full size because I used up every drop.
Fresh Crème Ancienne Ultimate Nourishing Honey Mask: According to Fresh, this is a hydrating treatment made with pure honey. It also contains Echinacea which is an antioxidant. This sample was part of a Nordstrom beauty bag. Unfortunately, I didn’t like this mask at all. I had to force myself to finish it. The scent was too overwhelming. I could tolerate the unpleasant scent if the mask had given me positive results. Unfortunately, this did nothing for me. My skin didn’t feel plump or hydrated after use and it wasn’t detoxifying. It’s surprising because there are positive reviews for this. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth $140. I rather invest that kind of money on a serum. It just didn’t work for me.
Alterna Haircare CAVIAR CC Cream for Hair 10-in-1 Complete Correction: This was a Sephora 100 point perk. Actually, this is my second sample and I’ve been using it for quite some time. It’s meant to provide shine, softness, and moisture. It also acts as a heat protectant to help prevent breakage. I enjoy using it as a finisher after heat styling. It tames my ends and makes my hair look polished. I don’t love it enough to purchase a full size. There are other products in my hair care arsenal that provide a similar finish but with much more hydration.
Josie Maran Pure Argan Milk™ Intensive Hydrating Treatment: Another Sephora 100 point perk. According to Sephora, this is a serum that pairs the deep hydration of purified water with skin-rejuvenating micro-droplets of Josie’s 100% Pure Argan Oil. This is was just okay. It wasn’t bad it didn’t deliver the hydration it promised. It has a milky consistency and it absorbs well but it didn’t make a difference on my skin. It’s a pass on the full size for me.
John Frieda Frizz Ease 3 Day Straight Semi-Permanent Styling Spray: This contains a proprietary blend of polymers with keratin protein wraps each strand, sealing in straight styles for up to 3 days. I mostly used this while on vacation. I normally don’t bring curling wands or straighteners with me when I travel. They’re too bulky and I prefer to keep it simple. This is easy to use. I just spray it from my ears down and use the hair dryer in the hotel room and no frizz. It’s awesome for hot or humid weather too. The scent is like regular hairspray. It’s not offensive to my nose. I think it’s worth purchasing the full size in the summer to help with the humidity. I try to avoid using too many styling products because I don’t want buildup but overall it’s a good affordable product.
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day® Night Cap Overnight Perfector: I’ve heard a lot of good things from Living Proof. I haven’t delved too much into the brand. I’m currently using a sample of their Perfect Hair Day Shampoo and Conditioner and so far so good. I used it in place of my Kerastase Nectar Thermique and it worked very well. You simply apply a small amount on damp hair, towel dry and leave it in overnight. I notice a difference the next day. As a result, my hair feels lighter and more manageable without making it greasy. It’s a great detangler and the scent is nice too. You don’t need much, just a pea-sized amount will do. I will definitely purchase the full size, it’s awesome.
Any samples you been loving? Let me know in a comment below.
