SAMPLE SUNDAY | Origins Plantscription SPF 25 Anti-Aging Cream x Make Up For Ever Artist Plexi-Gloss #202

Origins Plantscription SPF 25 Anti-Aging Cream |
After a rather disappointing experience with the Murad Essential-C Day Moisture SPF30 during a previous Sample Sunday, my hunt for the perfect daytime moisturizer with SPF is still very much ongoing. This is a hydrating moisturizer from Origins with SPF 25 and anti-aging properties that claims to improve lines and wrinkles, and restore the skin's youthful appearance. It is rich and thick in consistency yet not overly greasy - Origins also offers an oil-free version for you oilier girls - and does have a subtle sunscreen smell which I'm not the biggest fan of, yet am also not bothered too much by. I do need to give this time - 5 minutes or so - to fully sink in before I can start applying foundation. So far, I'm liking it! There's nothing super fancy about this cream but it gets the job done - my face stays hydrated throughout the day and gets that much-needed sun protection. This seems to be a good, solid choice for an AM moisturizer and I will definitely consider buying the full-sized jar in the oil-free formula.

Make Up For Ever Artist Pexi-Gloss #202 |
For those of you who remember my Sephora haul back in May, I talked about picking up the Sephora Favorites Paint It Pink set and it included this sample sized MUFE lip gloss in #202 Sweet Pink, a sheer, neutral light pink. I have never been a lip gloss gal - I have owned a total of zero in my life - but this sample was too cute not to try out. This has a flexible, paddle-style wand that applies just the right amount of gloss and fits the contours of my lips perfectly. The gloss itself is tacky - just a step below being too sticky - and I don't find it too distracting or uncomfortable to wear. It delivers a ton of shine and really highlights my lips, making them look fuller and poutier. Not gonna lie, didn't think I would like this - or lip glosses in general - but it's growing on me! This is definitely not a must-have in my books, but it's certainly nice to have in your purse for when you want that extra attention and oomph on your lips. Plus, it has amazing staying power. I dig it!

SAMPLE SUNDAY | Caudalie Vinosource Overnight Recovery Oil x Philosophy The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash

Caudalie Vinosource Overnight Recovery Oil |
This is my first foray into face oils, as I used to shudder at the idea of slathering oil on my already oily combination skin. I've finally now learned that face oils can actually be beneficial for all skin types - it can help strengthen, protect and balance the skin, and even regulate the overproduction of sebum for oilier skin types. This face oil from Caudalie is a "soothing oil to restore dry and sensitive skin overnight", and is formulated with a unique blend of 6 natural oils that nourishes, soothes and repairs skin. The next morning, your skin should feel transformed - fresh, radiant, soft and supple. Yes please! Although this is catered for "dry to very dry skin", it still worked wonders for me. This has a subtle aroma of tea leaves and roses - uh, YUM - and has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs almost instantly - like my face was drinking it up! This has a nice soothing effect on the face, and I noticed that my skin just looked better the next morning - fresh and supple, with significantly less redness around my nose and on my cheeks. I'm definitely sold on this stuff now and have already added it to my skincare wish-list. I have a feeling face oils are going to become my new obsession...

Philosophy The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash |
It's been a while since I've found a good exfoliating scrub - my last favorite was the St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub which I have now found to be just a tad too abrasive on the face, ouch - so I had high hopes for this exfoliating wash from Philosophy. This claims to "effectively cleanse the skin while providing resurfacing benefits", serving as a 30 second mini-peel that replenishes, protects and improves the skin's texture. This stuff is seriously good - it contains tiny, refined sand-like crystals that are super gentle on the skin (quite possibly the gentlest exfoliator I've ever tried), and made my face feel super smooth and clean, yet still hydrated (no tightness whatsoever). There is no noticeable scent, and would be an especially good option for those of you with sensitive skin. If you have flaky skin and prefer more of an intense exfoliating experience, this won't be your cup of tea. I personally appreciate that this is gentle enough for daily use, and will definitely be picking up the full size.

Thanks for reading! What are your favorite face oils and exfoliating scrubs?