Mini Back 2 MAC Haul

So this past weekend I did a good deal of shopping.  But I also did a little recycling as well.

If you read the title then you know I went to MAC to redeem some recycle-ables.

If you aren't familiar with Back 2 MAC then here's the basics:

For every 6 containers you bring back to them, you get a free lipstick, lipglass or eyeshadow.  This depends on the location.  Pro stores will let you redeem for all of the above.  Most department store counters will only let you get lipstick.  I heard free-standing stores give you the option of lipstick or lipglass but I'm not 100% sure.

In the past I was able to redeem for any lipgloss (not just lipglass) and was able to get lipsticks that weren't part of the permanent collection (like All's Fair) and other types of lipsticks like the Slimshines.  But I think they changed the rules.

Also you can't redeem for any Viva Glam product.

So what can you redeem for free stuff?

Basically anything that is made of plastic or glass.  One thing I know you can't redeem are the caps to pencils that you can sharpen.  The automatic pencils can be recycled.  Lipstick, lipgloss, eyeshadow (only if it's in a container, the pans that go into the palette don't count), blush and powder compacts, skincare bottles and tubes, mascara, false lash containers, packaging to the make-up remover wipes, nail polish bottles, shadesticks, liquid eyeliners, paint tubes (if you still have them), paint pots, lip balm containers, gel liner pots, etc.....

There's a lot that can be redeemed.

Is there a limit?

I have been told that there is a maximum of 4 redemptions per visit.  I like to hoard my empties and get 4 items at once.  Feels so good to come out of a MAC store with 4 items and spending $0.

Where do I find containers?

There are people that swap for empties on sites like MakeUpAlley.  I don't normally go through that route because I am a make-up junkie.  To make the costs a little more bearable, I do go to places like CCO to buy MAC at a discount.  I also tend to buy more of the cheaper basics that need faster replenishing such as mascara (love my Opulash!) or remover wipes.

Can't I just buy the lipstick?

Yes you can!  But in case you have 6 empties (they don't have to be empty) or can wait until you do, why not get it for free.  MAC tends to put out a new collection once every other week.  For me that puts priority on the new collections and I tend to overlook the core line.  This allows me to get the items from the core line and be able to buy from new collections when it suits me.

So what did I get?

I got 3 lipsticks in Midimauve, Lovelorn and Plink!

I've been on a MLBB kick and I love how the Lustre formula wears on my lips.  Plus neutral lips look so polished and go with any look.

That's all for now.  Live Happy!