The latest sample reviews are in...
If you appreciate the little things in life, samples of all kinds are probably among them. Aside from snack samples that keep the kids quiet at Costco and free samples of crazy-expensive prescription medications (that’s a sign of a great doctor), beauty samples are the best for a few reasons. 1. You can try before you buy. 2. If you hoard enough, you can travel with all of your toiletries in a sandwich-size Ziploc bag. 3. You can experience a product you might not ever purchase otherwise. 4. If you hit up the Tom Ford counter at enough different times of day and different days of the week, you can just about fill a travel-sized atomizer of your favorite without spending a cent on your scent (or any sales associate being the wiser). But I digress…
In case you couldn’t tell, I love samples—and here are the latest I’ve tried.
M.A.C Upward Lash Mascara
I’m always surprised at how long a mascara sample lasts, and in the case of this one, I was beyond glad to get a lot of use out of it. I’m very picky when it comes to mascara, and if I get a shmear under my eyes by 3pm it’s out. This one stays put—even through a workout—and the innovative brush lends major length. Instead of soft, fluffy bristles it has short, stiff nubs that get right to the root and separate your lashes while evenly distributing color. The verdict: I bought a full size.
Kiehl’s Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream
I received this sample when I went for my customized Apothecary Preparations serum (in case you missed yesterday’s post, click here), as it was recommended to complete my skincare regimen. I love how rich and comforting this cream is. Featuring anti-aging copper and antioxidants, it plumps up my skin instantly and leaves it feeling hydrated for hours. The verdict: If my beauty closet ever runs dry and I find myself needing to go out and actually purchase moisturizer, this is at the top of my list.
Chanel Blue Serum
If I were able to buy any five things from Chanel, skincare would not be one of them. I’m not knocking the ingredients (and their elaborate backstory), formulations or technology, I just think there are a lot of brands with a lot more expertise in the skin-health arena. I ripped this sample out of a magazine and I was pleasantly surprised at the serum’s lightweight consistency, fast absorption and scent—but obviously I didn’t have enough product to use for the amount of time needed to see a visible difference in my skin. The verdict: I’d totally take a sample of this with me when I travel, but I’d never go buy the full size based on my limited experience.
Dior Addict Lip Maximizer
I’m still a fan of lip plumpers, even if they’re so 10 years ago. I got a sample of this at a charity luncheon I attended and it’s just plain awesome. It delivers a slightly poutier pout without any stinging or burning, and the glossy finish looks fabulous when out and about. The verdict: It’s on the list for my next Sephora binge.
Charlotte Tilbury Goddess Skin Clay Mask
I believe I received this sample with a recent Nordstrom order, and I put it to use last Saturday night. Perfect for pre-going-out, it tightens pores, brightens your complexion and leaves skin soft, silky and primed for makeup. The verdict: I can’t justify buying another mask when I have a drawer full of them, but I may have to call in a favor from a publicist because it’s really that good.
