January empties

Starting a new year with a focused empties post is a great way to reflect on the products that truly worked for me and those that didn’t meet expectations. Over the past month, I finished a variety of items ranging from bath and body products to skincare essentials. One standout was the WINTER PINES BATH & BODY WORKS soap, which left my skin feeling clean and refreshed. I appreciated the gentle, sulfate-free formulation of the amika shampoo, which maintained my hair's natural moisture without weighing it down. Interestingly, I decided not to repurchase the Living proof frizz humidity shield because although it protected my style well, I wasn’t a fan of the scent and felt it created some residue. I also experimented with shower steamers from anihana, which added a spa-like experience to my routine with their invigorating scents—definitely worth repurchasing. Meanwhile, cotton rounds from Made Without Sulfates and NEMISH were gentle and hypoallergenic, perfect for sensitive skin days. An important takeaway has been the shift toward reducing overconsumption. By focusing on project pan goals like #projectpan2026, I aim to minimize waste and be more mindful about finishing what I use before buying more. This practice not only saves money but also encourages evaluating product utility and ingredient quality. I noticed that scents play a huge role in product satisfaction. For example, vanilla and winter pine scents from various products were comforting, while others, like the pistachio and salted caramel, didn’t suit my preferences. This highlights how personal scent choice affects whether a product becomes a staple or an unused item. Ultimately, sharing empties helps me stay accountable and organized in my beauty routine. I recommend anyone interested in sustainable beauty habits to keep track of empties monthly. It’s a small habit that can lead to better product choices, less clutter, and a more intentional self-care routine.