I’m a Discerning Beauty Director—These 6 Products Are So Impressive, I Used Them Up in Just a Month.

      (Image credit: Lucy Robinson for Who What Wear UK)

      published

      5 December 2025

      Welcome to The Empties Edit, a monthly summary of beauty products that our beauty director Shannon Lawlor uses until the very last drop. Shannon tests countless products each year, and only her absolute favorites achieve "empty" status. Think of The Empties Edit as your ultimate guide to the finest beauty products available. As winter settles in, I find myself wanting to stay indoors, indulging in the most luxurious beauty routines. I’ve always openly favored high-end beauty products that provide an experience beyond just results, but when temperatures drop, I really lean into treating myself. I’m all about lavish baths, under-eye masks that can stay on for over an hour, and indulgent face serums that add a touch of je ne sais quoi to a otherwise mundane skincare routine. The past few weeks have been about enjoying the bliss of being at home before the party season begins. (At the time of writing this, I’m on my fourth consecutive night of work events, and my social energy is completely depleted.) If you know me at all, you understand that I take self-care very seriously. While I’ve spent the last dozen years testing every beauty product imaginable, I absolutely prioritize my personal pampering time. Only the best will do for my face and body. From the lush lip balm that works overnight to the incredibly effective moisturizer that keeps my tired skin looking somewhat vibrant, here are the six beauty products I used up entirely last month.

      The Empties Edit: November

      1. **Mirror Water Soak Bath Salts**

      I enjoy an extensive soak in the bath nightly, so the speed at which I go through bath soaks is quite impressive. Typically, I choose bubbles—when I treat myself, why not go all in? However, in recent weeks, my overwhelming end-of-year schedule has left me utterly drained both mentally and physically, so I opted for something really special. These Mirror Water bath salts not only soothe my weary limbs but also infuse my entire bathroom with an incredibly calming aroma. If I close my eyes and concentrate hard enough, I can envision myself relaxing in an outdoor hot tub, deep in the forest of a luxurious Scandinavian spa retreat.

      2. **Rhode Peptide Eye Prep**

      I won’t claim these are the best under-eye treatments I've ever used, but something about them really resonated with me last month. I finished a pack of six in just three weeks and would gladly do it again. Formulated with caffeine and peptides, they brighten, rejuvenate, and depuff the under-eye area (and they truly deliver). What makes them stand out is the joyful experience of using them. They aren’t overly saturated, making them comfortable to wear, and it simply feels nice to be a bit extra roaming around my flat with Rhode-branded eye masks. Rhode’s bold branding might not be for everyone, but I’m fully on board with whatever initiative Ms. Bieber is leading.

      3. **Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream**

      What I appreciate about Korean beauty brands is their ability to create skincare products that are truly effective without compromising on the user experience, and this daily facial moisturizer is a prime example. If you have oily or breakout-prone skin, don’t overlook this face cream. It’s one of the best things to happen to my skin in years. It soothes, hydrates, supports the skin barrier, is non-greasy, and perfect for sensitive skin. In my view, it’s skin health in a tube. I challenge you to try it and not notice an improvement in your skin’s condition.

      4. **Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask**

      Last month, I completed what is likely my sixth Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. I finished last year’s limited-edition Eggnog Latte scent, and I’m truly disappointed that I can't enjoy that cozy wintry fragrance anymore. However, I’ve replaced it with this year’s Hot Cocoa, which is filling the gap wonderfully. If you struggle with dry lips, this overnight lip balm is among the best and most delightful to use in the market. Although it's designed for overnight use, there’s nothing stopping you from applying it throughout the day (I keep one in my bag and another on my bedside table).

      5. **Refy Brow Tint**

      I've talked about this product extensively over the past year, and I admit I've had the same tube the entire time. I’ve used it at least three times per week for a year, and I just finished it (though I could have gone longer since much of the formula did spill around the lid). I absolutely love this brow tint/gel hybrid. If you have thick brow hair like I do, you’ll appreciate the rounded plastic brush head—it lifts your hairs from root to tip. The hold is medium, and the tint is subtle, making it the ultimate everyday brow product for those who