If you know me, you’ll know I am the queen of half-used bottles. I love trying new beauty products, so finishing something is actually a big deal in my world. This month I managed to get through three things that deserve a proper mention. They’re all very different, and they all earned their empty status for their own reasons. I love reading beauty empties posts and watching them on YouTube.
Here’s what I finished and what I really thought.
1. L’Oreal Paris Elvive Bond Repair Full Routine Set
Shampoo 200ml and Conditioner • Around £6–£8 each
I bought mine from Amazon
With very bleached blonde hair, I am always looking for anything that helps with strength and softness. I wash my hair once every two days, often after muddy outdoor rides or Zwift sessions, so products get tested properly in my routine. This shampoo and conditioner are a nice affordable option. They smell quite strong at first but settle into a fresh floral scent. The conditioner has a thick moisturiser-like texture, which is a bit unusual but gives a nice coating on the hair. My bleached blonde hair stayed clean for about two days before going oily again. It’s good for the price, just not as deep-cleaning or effective as my Olaplex on my blonde hair.
Pros:
• Affordable bond-repair option
• Fresh scent and rich, moisturising conditioner
Cons:
• Hair went oily fairly quickly
• Not as strong or cleansing as Olaplex
Would I buy it again? Maybe.
2. e.l.f. Instant Lift Waterproof Brow Pencil in Blonde • Around £3.50–£5
This is one of my forever budget beauty favourites and definitely a repeat buy. The blonde shade is spot-on for my light blonde and light brown brows. It gives a natural look, takes seconds to use and stays on through everything, whether that’s wet rides, workouts or nights out. I normally grab mine in Boots or Superdrug and I always keep backups in my drawer. It’s simple, reliable and honestly better than many high-end pencils.
Pros:
• Perfect blonde shade that looks natural
• Long-lasting and waterproof, great for active days
Cons:
• Pencil runs out quicker than gels or pomades
• Best for natural brows, not bold sculpted looks
Would I buy it again? Yes, already have.
3. Aldi Lacura Sweet Angel Shower Gel • Around £1.99–£2.49
I’ve loved this shower gel since I bought it last year, and I’ve been making this bottle last because the scent is one of my favourites. Aldi Lacura shower gels are the best dupes you can find. It lathers beautifully, leaves my skin soft and honestly smells better than the Lush version it reminds me of. It’s also a fraction of the price, which makes it even better. This became my daily grab after rides, gym sessions or just when I wanted something comforting. Now that it’s empty, I’ll be stocking up again. Please have it back this year Aldi pretty please.
Pros:
• Gorgeous scent that beats the Lush version
• Leaves skin soft and moisturised
Cons:
• Hard to beat once you’re hooked
• Not as “luxury” as spa-style body washes
Would I buy it again? Absolutely. I’d buy the whole shelf.
Final Thoughts
For someone who rarely finishes anything, this month's empties were a satisfying mix. A budget-friendly bond-repair duo, my holy-grail brow pencil and a shower gel that makes my whole shower smell heavenly. If you’ve tried any of these, or found any great budget gems lately, let me know. I’m always looking for my next obsession.
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