Top 15 Beauty Empties in 2025

 

In 2025, I emptied a total of 101 unique beauty products (excluding repurchases), but only 15 truly made the cut. These are the products I enjoyed enough to repurchase without hesitation as they are the ones that stood out for their performance, consistency, and how they fit into my routine.

Looking back, this year passed by in a blur. Ever since I started my new role in mid-2022, every month has felt equally busy with new company initiatives layered on top of daily operational work. There were moments I felt deeply tired, and I found myself turning to scents and simple rituals as a form of relaxation and self-care where small pauses made a big difference.

This year also marked a meaningful milestone: I was promoted. Having previously worked closely with machines in my engineering career, I now work primarily with people in the learning and development space. While the workload can be demanding and balancing it is still a work in progress, I’m genuinely grateful for the environment I’m in. The people I work with are real, helpful, and committed to doing better - no unnecessary gossip, no pretense. I truly value that authenticity.

2025 wasn’t just about mindful beauty consumption; it was also about intentional living. I tried my best to live by this personal quote I have chosen for 2025, one that guided not just my purchases, but how I showed up for others. 

[ Review ] Hyaah All In One Ectoin Lotion

 

Product Description

Hyaah All In One Ectoin Lotion is a hydrating lotion formulated with Ectoin and Ceramide to enhance skin hydration, while reinforcing skin protective barrier. It is also infused with Squalane to calm inflammation and soothe irritation, while replenishing moisture. Suitable for all skin types, particularly for irritated and dry skin.

A good moisturiser is the backbone of any effective skincare routine. Regardless of skin type, maintaining optimal hydration is essential for supporting the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss, and keeping the complexion balanced, resilient, and healthy-looking. 

For those with combination skin and surface dehydration like mine, choosing the right moisturiser becomes even more crucial where I always need to look for the one that hydrates without feeling heavy or clogging pores.

This review features my 3rd emptied product from the HYAAH skincare range, following the Hyaah Synergy Mask Pad and Hyaah Licorice First Essence. These products were part of a curated set from a StyleKorean collaboration, which allowed me to experience how the range works cohesively within a routine or as a moisturizer alone.

[ Review ] HYAAH Licorice First Essence

 

Product Description

Hyaah Licorice First Essence is a soothing essence formulated with Licorice Extract and Hyaluronic Acid to enhance skin hydration, while soothing irritated or acne-prone skin with powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Infused with Allantoin to further help calm irritated skin, reduce redness and inflammation, while enhancing skin texture. Has a fast-absorbing texture that seamlessly delivers deep hydration without stickiness even with multiple layers.

I received a set of Hyaah products as part of a Stylekorean collaboration. After emptying Hyaah Synergy Mask Pad, the product I found myself reaching most was the HYAAH Licorice First Essence. 

Packaging, Scent and Texture

HYAAH Licorice First Essence comes in a 200ml bottle with a pointed nozzle, making it easy to control the amount dispensed despite its runny, watery texture. The lightweight consistency spreads effortlessly across the skin and absorbs quickly with a hint of tackiness. Scent-wise, it carries a subtle herbal fragrance, which feels calming and soothing during application, making it especially pleasant for daily use.

[ Review ] L'Oreal Absolute Repair Molecular Rinse Off Serum

 

Product Description

L'Oreal Absolute Repair Molecular Rinse Off Serum goes beyond regular repair masks. ​Rebuilds hair molecular structure and restores strength. Deep penetration, instant transformation.​

When hair is damaged, its molecular structure, composed of peptides, is compromised. Hair breaks, becomes too elastic, with no movement. But most peptides are too big to be reinjected into the fiber, making damage almost irreversible.

For the first time, L’Oréal Advanced Research achieved to decompose peptides, to inject their components separately into the fiber. Once inside, they reform and rebuild the molecular structure of the hair. Deep molecular repairing hair rinse-off serum for damaged hair.

How To Use :
1) In the shower, detangle clean, wet hair for a better serum absorption.
2) Divide the hair into two sections.
3) Press two to three pumps of the serum onto the hands.
4) Distribute evenly onto each section from lengths to ends.

Tips: For very dry hair, apply from roots to ends. Work the serum through the hair between the palms of your hands for one to two minutes.

I received two 75ml bottles of L’Oréal Absolut Repair Molecular Rinse-Off Serum, which I used as a pre-shampoo conditioning treatment to soften my hair before cleansing. The lightweight, runny texture spreads easily, though I prefer pouring it into my palms and rubbing my hands together before evenly coating my lengths to avoid wastage.

When used consistently, this rinse-off serum noticeably improves hair softness and smoothness, making my long hair feel less tangled and easier to manage. The difference is especially obvious on days when I skip it where my hair feels comparatively rougher and less conditioned.

Scent-wise, it carries a strong, salon-like floral fragrance that lingers briefly on the hair after rinsing, adding to the professional treatment experience without being overwhelming.

Where To Buy : Amazon

Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Glycine, Citric Acid, Parfum/Fragrance, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Cetrimonium Chloride, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 80, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Glutamic Acid, Quaternium-80, Arginine, Hydroxypropyl Guar, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Serine, Linalool, Tyrosine.

[ Review ] Natio Silky Soft Cleansing Milk

 

Product Description

Rejuvenate and replenish your skin with Natio Silky Soft Cleansing Milk. Formulated with nurturing Aloe Vera, Ylang Ylang and Lavender, the milky cleanser gently removes makeup and impurities to purify skin while protecting its vital natural moisture balance, for a complexion that feels clean, soft and comfortable.

After emptying Bioderma Sensibio Lait, it was time to open yet another new cleanser - Natio Silky Soft Cleansing Milk. I really enjoy using Natio Daily Invigorating Body Wash as my last body cleanser.

Packaging, Scent and Texture

Natio Silky Soft Cleansing Milk is housed in a 200ml bottle with a convenient flick-top cap, allowing controlled and fuss-free dispensing, great for everyday use. Its white, creamy texture feels silky and comforting, gliding effortlessly across the skin without any tugging. The fragrance is very subtle, making it gentle enough even for those who prefer low-fragrance skincare products.

How To Use :

1) Use morning and night, massaging gently onto damp face with circular movements. 

2) Rinse away with warm water or gently wipe away with a soft cloth.

Performance and Ingredients

I enjoyed using this cleansing milk as it glides smoothly across the skin and effectively removes impurities without stripping moisture. After rinsing, my skin feels soft, smooth, and comfortably clean. The gentle formula is enriched with botanical ingredients commonly found in Natio products, which help condition and soothe the skin during cleansing.

Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Propanediol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Sodium Polyacrylate, Polysorbate 60, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Beta-Carotene (CI 75130), Benzyl Alcohol, Fragrance (Parfum), Cananga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) Flower Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil.

Where To Buy : Shopee

Conclusion

To conclude, Natio Silky Soft Cleansing Milk is a gentle and reliable daily cleanser that performs well for those seeking a soft, smooth, and comfortable cleanse. Its subtle scent, creamy texture, and easy-to-use packaging make it a pleasant addition to any skincare routine. 

While simple in formulation, it delivers clean, refreshed skin without irritation, making it a solid option for dry, sensitive, or minimal-maintenance skincare users.

This product is also featured in my Top 15 Beauty Products in 2025!

Thanks so much for reading! Is my Natio Silky Soft Cleansing Milk blog post helpful for you? Let me know in the comments or by sharing it on social media.

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[ Review ] Lululun Pure Pink Toner Mask

 

Product Description

Lululun Pure Pink Moist Mask is enriched with cacao extract for skin softening. Infused with intelligent sensor capsules to detect and care for rough skin. Prevents dryness and rough skin, promoting overall skin health. Its alcohol free, additive free, chemical free, colour free, fragrance free, mineral oil free, allergy tested and patch tested.

I purchased 2 packs of Lululun Pure Pink Toner Mask during a sale in Watsons. and as expected from a made-in-Japan daily sheet mask, the packaging is simple, functional, and designed for convenience. 

Each resealable pouch contains 7 toner-infused sheets stacked together, making it ideal for everyday use without the fuss of opening individual sachets. The closure seals well, helping to keep the masks moist and preventing the essence from drying out too quickly.

The masks themselves are thin, well-soaked and lightweight, offering that refreshing slip you’d want from a toner-style mask. However, the cutting can be a little inconsistent: some sheets have larger eye openings, while others come with a narrower philtrum area, which may affect the fit for different face shapes.

[ Review ] Coco & Eve Body Sunscreen SPF 50+

 

Product Description

Coco & Eve Body Sunscreen SPF 50+ is an Australian-made SPF 50+ body sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection that ensures you're protected from harmful rays while unlocking soft, silky-smooth skin. Infused with Coconut Oil, Aloe Vera, and Vitamin E, this lightweight sunscreen nourishes and hydrates your skin, leaving you with a healthy and radiant glow. Not only is it fast-absorbing and nourishing, but it also boasts 4 hours of water-resistant protection, perfect for working out or a day at the beach or pool.

This is my first Coco & Eve product. 

According to the brand, if you want smooth, even, healthy-looking skin, the one product you should use every day is sunscreen. Why? Because if you forget to protect your skin from the sun, not even the very best Vitamin C serum or prescription strength retinol will save you from premature fine lines, dullness and pigmentation - or the nastier skin issues! 

[ Review ] PHS Hairscience Res Repair Shampoo

 

Product Description

PHS Hairscience Res Repair Shampoo is a dual-function, sulfate-free, colour-safe shampoo that cleanses, repairs, protects and strengthens your hair & scalp. It helps to restore and replenish moisture, nourishes and strengthens hair for better manageability. 

I received a complimentary PHS Hairscience RES Repair Shampoo with my recent purchase and decided to put it to the test after finishing my PHS Hairscience PRO Shampoo Stem C+ Calming Shampoo. I’ll be honest, I used to be pretty carefree with my shampoo choices, switching between whatever was interesting in the market and assuming my thick hair could handle anything.

But things changed when I noticed visible thinning at my hair crown. That was when haircare suddenly became serious, and choosing the right shampoo for hair fall prevention became a priority. These days, trying a new shampoo can feel nerve-wracking especially when you’re unsure if it’ll help or worsen hair shedding.

Many people experience androgenetic alopecia, also known as female or male pattern hair loss, which is hereditary and can be passed down from either side of the family.

Here’s how genetics plays a role:

• Your genes can influence hair follicle sensitivity to hormones like DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which can cause follicles to shrink.
• This leads to shorter growth cycles, finer strands, and eventually visible thinning.
• It often starts at the crown or hairline, depending on gender and genetic pattern.

However, genetics is not the only cause. Other factors like stress, hormones, scalp health, aging, and nutritional deficiencies also contribute which is why hair care, scalp care, and lifestyle still matter even if hair thinning runs in the family.

Luxasia, Don Don Donki, Welcia, Yesstyle Haul

 

Happened to see their ad, on this sale happening on the day I took my birthday leave so after a lunch treat for my parents, off I go for Luxasia Warehouse sale at Tai Seng. 

Tips to note for warehouse sales :

- check expiry dates if you can commit to emptying the product within the deadline. 

- wear light and carry light as it can get stuffy when in crowds and your bag will be secured with a cable tie. 

- if you are a skinholic like me, it is helpful to have a list of products that you currently have, so that you don't end up buying duplicates or more than what you can use up. 

This is the least amount spent among the last few Luxasia warehouse sales I have been to. They have lesser skincare and makeup with fewer brands than previous years but more perfumes on offer. 

First Aid Beauty Ultra Lip Balm $10

Supergoop! Protec(Tint) $15

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen $15

[ Review ] P. Calm Water Barrier Sun Cream

 

Product Description

P. Calm Water Barrier Sun Cream SPF 50 PA++++ is a chemical sunscreen fitted with SPF50+ PA++++ that protects skin from UVA and UVB rays. Enriched with skin-brighteners like niacinamide, the formula leaves skin glowing. Other active ingredients like Water Barrier™ provide skin barrier-supporting benefits. Lightweight formula applies easily and doesn't leave a white cast. Clinically tested sun cream is hypoallergenic.

Benefits:

-A moisturizing sunscreen that protects dehydrated skin from strong sunlight.

-Formulated with SPF 50+ PA++++ UV protection.

-Brightens your skin without leaving white cast.

-Suitable for sensitive skin.

Protecting your skin from the sun is more than just avoiding a tan but more about preventing long-term damage that can be incredibly difficult to undo. Chemical sunscreens have become a top choice for daily wear because of their lightweight textures, transparent finish, and ability to protect against both UVA and UVB rays without leaving a white cast. But beyond comfort and aesthetics, there’s a deeper skincare truth: once pigmentation appears, it’s extremely stubborn to fade.

Hyperpigmentation, whether from acne scars, melasma, or sunspots develops when UV exposure triggers excess melanin production. And while brightening serums and clinical treatments can help, it may take time and is expensive. This is why dermatologists repeat one golden rule: prevention is better than correction.

By incorporating a broad-spectrum chemical sunscreen into your daily routine, you’re not only shielding your skin from sunburn as you’re actively defending against dark spots, uneven tone, and premature aging. In other words, sunscreen isn’t just a skincare step; it’s your most powerful anti-pigmentation tool.

My last 2 emptied chemical sunscreens were Foretderm Derma Relief Vegan Suncream and Cell Fusion C Laser UV Sunscreen and now I am trying out yet another new brand in my arsenal, P.Calm which I purchased in 2023. You can now purchase it on Shopee Singapore.