Samply Fantastic...

So we all know that Sephora loooooves to give away little free samples. (And let's be honest, we love getting them.) However, nine times out of ten the sample gathers dust and then goes into the garbage unused, or we use it - it is just kind of blah and in the garbage it goes. Well lately I have been on a free sample kick, trying all the ones I can. As a result, today I have a list for you of legitimately good - some great- free samples that I received from Sephora. Of course, the whole point of free samples is to get you to want to buy the real product. And in the case of a few of the following- I am very tempted.

I have listed the full size prices for each sample I am reviewing and they are all available at Sephora.

So, in no particular order...my favorite samples of late:

N.V. Perricone M. D. Cosmeceuticals - Face Finishing Moisturizer - $65

Initially I was slightly weirded out by this moisturizer - it seemed to light, too well...nothing. But with Perricone's reputation I had to give it a try and I was pleasantly surprised. Lightweight but plenty moisturizing, this lotion did give the impression of not only hydrating but of getting my skin ready for make-up and the rest of my day. It is chock full of anti-oxidants and it does a great job of smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. It almost feels like a moisturizer and primer in one. I can get behind that. Downside? No SPF.


Jurlique Herbal Recovery Gel - $67
Here is a serum for the nature lover in all of us. Formulated without all of the garbage that goes into regular serum, this gel is still a power player when it comes to the anti-aging game. I felt the tightening almost immediately and was pleasantly surprised that the effects lasted throughout my day. (I used this for several mornings in a row.) It is made with plant oils and herbs and still has a lovely smell(although it does remind me a bit of a spa massage oil.) Overall, a great serum for anyone looking for power but something natural at the same time. A word to the wise, if you buy this- the product is meant to be tapped into the skin not spread. It won't have the same effect if you rub it in.

Smashbox Photo Finish Lid Primer - $20

I knew this product would be great- Smashbox rarely lets me down. This lid primer is just like their regular face primer but tinted and designed for the eyelid. It evens out skin tone, smooths out fine lines, moisturizes and gets your peepers ready for any make-up that will be applied and makes that make-up last.
My only thought on this sample? If you are trying to save money you can probably skip it. If you have the $20 and are having trouble with the eyelid area than this is your go-to product. But if you are like me and the $20 is a little bit too much right now, I recommend using your under eye concealer on your lids as well. I have been doing this for years as my lid primer and it has all the same effects as the Smashbox primer minus the anti-oxidants. However, when I can justify the $20, I will probably splurge on this item.


So are you going to get any of these samples? Who knows? Maybe some of them will permanent BGND fixtures!

Have a great weekend and keep looking fabulous!
BGND