July Birchbox

 It's Birchbox time again!  I got some good products this month, including nail polish!  If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see previous Birchbox posts, click HERE.

Caudalie Divine Legs:

This lotion is tinted, and adds color to your legs.  It goes on really dark, but blends in pretty well.  It was a bit orange-y for my skin tone, though.  The next day when I showered my shower turned brown/orange from this stuff, so I would avoid using it if you're headed to the beach or pool!

(Full size - $38)

ModelCo Party Proof Lipstick:

I love that ModelCo always sends full size products!  I love their mascara, and although I don't wear lipstick, I can see that this is a quality product.  I tried it out around the house, and it didn't dry out my lips.  It stayed on pretty well too.  The color was a bit too bright for me to wear even on a special occasion, so I ended up giving this one away.

(Full Size - $19)

Dr. Jart + Ceramidin Cream:

Having fallen in love with Dr. Jart+ BB Cream, I was excited to get another sample from this brand.  This cream does make my skin softer, and it's not heavy or greasy.  I haven't noticed any long lasting effects, but I do like the way it makes my skin feel.

(Full Size - $48)

Birchbox Bobby Pins:

The patterns on these bobby pins are super cute.  They are a bit big for my preferences, but I'm sure I'll use them anyway! 

(Full Size - $5 Set of Six)

Birchbox + Color Club Wanderlust Collection:

Nail polish!!!!!  

(Full Size - $8)

This color is called London Calling.  Holy moly, this is a bright color! The colors in this collection are referred to as "neon pastels", which is totally accurate.  This polish applied easily in two coats.  Since it's so bright, I decided to tone it down with a little nail art.  I paired it here with OPI's Eurso-Euro.

If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

June Birchbox

 It's Birchbox time again!  Nothing in the month's box wow'd me, but I enjoyed trying out some new products.  If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see previous Birchbox posts, click HERE.

100% Pure Nourishing Body Cream:

This is the first time in my life that I have been tempted to find out what a lotion tastes like.  These lotions (I got vanilla and coconut) smell AMAZING!  Unfortunately that's where my love for them ends.  The lotion is very greasy, and you can feel it on your skin all day.  Definitely not what I'm looking for in a lotion!

(Full size - $15)

suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser:

Although the scent on this was a bit strange (not unpleasant, just strange), it's a nice cleanser.  It starts off as a scrub, and then turns in to a foam.  I used it on my heels and elbows, and it did a nice job of exfoliating!

(Full Size - $32.95)

Mirenesse Glossy Kiss Lipstick:

I never really wear lipstick, so I wasn't overly excited to see this product.  However, I gave it a go, and it is a nice, subtle shade.  I won't be wearing it on the regular, but maybe for a special occasion.

(Full Size - $26.55)

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk:

I'm so sick of dry shampoos!! They never work!  I gave this one a try, though, and I will say it works a little bit better than the others I have tried.  I was excited, because at first my hair had more volume and looked a bit less greasy.  However, about 15 minutes later, my hair was pretty much back to its typical day 2 look.  

(Full Size - $18)

Birchbox + Color Club Wanderlust Collection:

Nail polish!!!!!  

This color is called Reign in Spain.  My camera could not figure out how to capture this color.  It is MUCH brighter in person - it's definitely a neon.  It covers in two easy coats.  I paired it here with Milani's White on the Spot and Sally Hansen's Coral Reef.

(Full Size - $8)

If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

May Birchbox

I'm really happy with my Birchbox this month! I got four products that I will definitely be using, and I will probably buy the full sized version of two of them.  You'll notice that there are no pictures this month.  Unfortunately one of my samples (the sunscreen) was damaged in shipping, and leaked all over the box.  Luckily no other samples were damaged.  I have to compliment Birchbox on their customer service - I e-mailed them about the issue, and they shipped a replacement sample right away.  Well done, Birchbox!  If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see previous Birchbox posts, click HERE.

Beauty Protector Protect & Detangle:

This is one that I will probably be buying in full size.  This is a spray in detangler/conditioner.  This product smells great, and leaves my hair super soft.  After first trying it, I was planning on saving it to use when I go to the beach this summer.  However, after spending a few windy days outside this weekend, the sample is almost gone!  It detangles really well, so this is a product I won't mind spending the money on.

(Full size - $21.95)

COOLA Classic Face SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer for Face:

This was the sample that was damaged, and I am so glad that I got a replacement.  I am in love with this stuff!  I have really sensitive skin, so products that use cucumber tend to be great for me.  This was no exception.  It was very soothing, and left my face well moisturized without feeling heavy.  I haven't really tested the SPF factor, but if it keeps me from burning, I will definitely be buying the full size!

(Full Size - $32)

Joie Folle de Joie eau de parfum:

This is a nice smelling perfume, but not $98 nice!  It's not a heavy scent, which I liked, but it was a bit too flowery for my tastes.  I'll definitely use the sample, but I don't feel like I'll care when the sample runs out.

(Full Size - $98)

Sumita Color Contrast Eyeliner:

I'm pretty unadventurous when it comes to eyeliner - I've been using Clinique's Quickliner in black-brown ever since I was 15.  I wasn't too interested in trying out a blue eyeliner, but since the whole point of subscribing to Birchbox is to try new things, I gave it a go.  It definitely gives my eyes a softer look than my regular liner, and it applied easily.  When they say in the description that it lasts for hours, they aren't kidding.  Days, really.  Even with eye makeup remover, I had a hard time getting this off.  I'll be using this again, for sure.

(Full Size - $21 for four mini pencils)

My Birchbox extra this month was an Acroball pen from Pilot in a turquoise color.  Fun!  I've heard that you can use gel pens on your nails, so look for an attempt at that in the near future!

If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

April Birchbox

This month's Birchbox was a good one!  I'm really happy with most of the products, and I even got some nail polish! If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see previous Birchbox posts, click HERE.

Caudalie Divine Oil:

This oil does a really nice job of softening your skin!  I used it on my knees, elbows, and nails, and I was pleased with the results.  A little goes a long way with this product.  I still haven't used the entire sample.  The scent is  nice, but not overpowering.  This is definitely a quality product!

(Full size - $9-$49)

Nexxus Youth Renewal Rejuvenating Elixer:

This hair serum promises to help dry hair, and reduce the odds of age-related breakage.  I can't attest to the breakage prevention yet, but it certainly helped my dry ends.  I am in desperate need of a hair cut, and I have more split ends that any person should ever have.  This serum smoothed them out and made my hair soft and better looking.  This is one I'd consider buying when the sample runs out!

(Full Size - $20.99)

Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream:

This was my least favorite product of this month's box.  First off, the scent (blueberry) was sickeningly sweet.  It lingered long after I got out of the shower, too.  Yuck.  Second, I could not figure out how much product to use.  I used a little bit, and the razor didn't glide smoothly, so I added a little more, and didn't get a close shave.

(Full Size - $20)

Simple Revitalizing Eye Roll-on:

Full sized sample!! Whoop whoop!  Simple refers to themselves as the "sensitive skin experts".  As someone with sensitive skin, I'm very happy with this eye roller.  It does a great job of reducing puffiness and dark circles (something else I struggle with!).  I will definitely be checking out their other products, and am hopeful that other products will work as well as this eye roller!

(Full Size - $10.99)

Ruby Wing Color Changing Nail Polish in Poppy:

I love when I get nail polish in my Birchbox!  This was my first experience with a color changing polish, and it was fun to wear!  I used three coats for the swatch below, with no topcoat.  As you can see, it dries with a matte finish.  The color indoors is a super bright raspberry pink.  After only about 15 seconds in the sun, it becomes a darker purple.  I would definitely be interested in trying this polish in other colors!

(Full Size - $10)

If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

March Birchbox

Time for the monthly Birchbox review!  This month was ok.  A few good products, and one not so good one. If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see previous Birchbox posts, click HERE.

Caldrea Body Lotion:

Included this month were three samples of Caldrea's body lotion.  I got: Tea Olive Lime, Aloe Water Apricot, and Coconut Fig.  Aloe Water Apricot was my favorite of the three.  These moisturized really well without being heavy.  However, you need to use a lot of product to get results.  I thought the sample sizes were pretty generous, but each sample was barely enough for my legs.

(Full size - $22)

Make Dual-Phase Eye Makeup Remover:

This is a quality makeup remover.  I would compare it to Clinique's Take the Day Off.  It does what it promises, and doesn't bother my sensitive skin.  This was my favorite of the samples this month.

(Full Size - $18)

Make Lipstick:

I never wear lipstick, so I wasn't too excited to get a lipstick sample.  I think that lipstick looks fake on me, and so I never wear it.  However, I tried this sample out, and this shade (Putty) works really well on me.  It's like my natural lip color, just pumped up a bit.  I might actual wear this from time to time!  

(Full Size - $18)

Serge Normant Meta Revive Dry Shampoo:

Ugh. This was the loser of this month's box.  I have mentioned before that I have tried many different dry shampoos in the hopes of helping my poor, grease prone hair.  None of them have worked so far, and this one is no different.  Well, maybe I shouldn't say that.  It did take a bit of the grease out of my hair, and did give me a bit of volume.  But none of that was worth it for how it made my hair feel.  It was like putting glue in my hair!  Washing it out was a pain too - I had to shampoo three times!  

(Full Size - $25)

Madewell for Birchbox Emery Board:

This is a cute, medium grain emery board.  Not much else to say about it!

(Full Size - $5)

If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

February Birchbox

This month, I got my best Birchbox yet!! I am loving the products I got this time, and I finally got some nail polish!  If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see previous Birchbox posts, click HERE.

Ghirardelli Milk and Caramel Square:  

Delicious.  That's really it.  I ate this within two minutes of opening my Birchbox, and I wish that there were 10 more of them.  Yum.

(Full size - $4.25)

SKIN&Co Roma Cleansing Body Gel with Olive & Sicilian Orange Extracts:

This shower gel did a nice job of cleansing without drying out.  My sensitive skin felt good after using it.  The only issue I had was the scent.   It was a bit too masculine for my tastes.  But, scent aside, this is a quality product.

(Full Size - $17.50)

Dr. Jart+ Black Label Detox BB Beauty Balm:

So I have to confess that I had no clue what a BB Cream was before I got this sample.  I had heard of BB Creams, but had no clue what they were.  After a bit of research, I found that they are basically all your face products combined into one - moisturizer, sun screen, foundation, etc.  I LOVE this stuff.  It evened out my skin tone, concealed imperfections, and gave my skin a nice glow (without being shiny).  In another month I should have enough Birchbox points to get a full sized version of this for free!

(Full Size - $36)

Twistband Thick Headband:

I've used the twistband hair ties before, and liked them, so I was glad to get this headband.  You could easily wear it to the gym, or dress it up with a nice outfit.  The black color is very versatile.  This headband stayed in place very well, and didn't give me the dreaded headband headache.  Love it!

(Full Size - $19/set of 6)

Color Club Nail Polish in Wild Cactus:

I was so excited to get some nail polish in this months box!!  Emerald (the Pantone color of the year) is very trendy right now, and this polish is a gorgeous shade.  The picture below is two coats without topcoat.  My only issue with this polish is that it stains like crazy (as greens are known to do).  Clean-up was difficult, but the color is totally worth the hassle. 

(Full Size - $8)

If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

January Birchbox

January Birchbox

It's time for this month's review of the products I received in my Birchbox.  There were some really great products this month.  If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see previous Birchbox posts, click HERE.

Harvey Prince Skinny Chic:  

Finally! I perfume from a Birchbox that I can actually enjoy!  This "zesty blend of apple, mint, and lotus blossom" is really fresh and light.  This is a scent that you could wear every day.  It claims that it helps fight cravings, but I didn't see that effect (or maybe I was just extra hungry today.. who knows?).  

(Full size - $21-55)

LASHEM Measurable Difference Lash Gel Serum:

The card and the Birchbox website claim that I got the Gel Serum, but the actual sample I received is the Double Trouble Mascara.  It's a pretty decent mascara.  The sample sized brush is tough to use, but the full sized product is probably much easier to handle.  

(Full Size for the Gel Serum - $69.99)

Number 4 Clarifying Shampoo:

I have blonde and oily hair, so I use a daily clarifying shampoo every time I wash my hair.  So I was excited to get a large sample of this shampoo.  However, when I used it, it felt like I was putting glue in my hair.  It didn't lather well at all, and left my hair feeling stringy.  For a clarifying shampoo, I felt like I left more residue in my hair than any regular shampoo!  It also had a pretty unpleasant scent.  Too bad.

(Full Size - $32)

theBalm cosmetics Hot Mama:

This is a two-in-one blush and highlighter.  It gives a nice, subtle glow, and it flattering to my skin tone.  This could be used every day, or to amp up your regular makeup routine a bit.

(Full Size - $20)

Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream:

This moisturizer provides your face with light, non-greasy hydration.  I was very pleased with this product.  I noticed that my skin felt just as good at the end of the day as it did at the beginning!

(Full Size - $42)

If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

December Birchbox

It's Birchbox time again! If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see previous Birchbox posts, click HERE.  This month's box came with some really good products!

ModelCo SHINE Ultra Lip Gloss:  

After last month's full sized ModelCo mascara, I was surprised to see another full sized product from them this month. This lip gloss has a nice scent, and adds just a touch of color.  There's a mirror right on the lip gloss, which makes for easy application.  The gloss itself is a little thick, but not waxy, which is great.  Two full sized products that I really like in two months. Way to go, ModelCo!

(Full size - $16)

Aerie Shimmer Fragrance:

At first smell, I really liked this fragrance.  It smelled light and fresh, which is what I look for in a fragrance.  However, after a few seconds of smelling, the scent became very heavy. The best way I can describe it is "Old Lady smelling".  Yuck.  (Full Size - $14.95-39.95)

Kérastase Resistance Ciment Thermique - Protect:

This did a nice job of softening my hair.  I blow dry my hair every day, and straighten it regularly, so it was nice to add a little protection from the heat.  It made my dry ends look healthier, and gave my hair a nice texture.  This was a win!

(Full Size - $39)

Benefit Cosmetics It's potent! eye cream:

I haven't been using this product long enough for it to make a difference, but I have high hopes for it.  I have used another product by Benefit (POREfessional) and it did exactly what it promised.  Therefore, I expect the the eye cream will help with my dark circles.  If it does, I will definitely buy it in the future!

(Full Size - $32)

Chuao Chocolatier ChocoPod:

I'm not entirely sure what this was supposed to be.  It said it was a breadcrumb with chocolate and sea salt.  Seemed to me like just a piece of dark chocolate.  And, since I don't like dark chocolate, I did not enjoy it at all.  Oh well.

So there you have it. If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a Christmas gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

November Birchbox

Time for a review of the products in my November Birchbox!  This is a bit late, but November has been a crazy busy month so far.  If you're wondering what a Birchbox is, or if you want to see last month's post, click HERE.

This month's box.  So exciting!

So here's the lowdown on the products.

ModelCo Fibre Lashxtend Lengthening Mascara:  

Well, my Birchbox just paid for itself.  Twice.  This is a full sized mascara ($24), and I love it.  It's a perfect mascara for a light, fresh-faced look.  It doesn't clump, and it gives you a very natural enhancement.  As someone with eye allergies, I'm pretty picky about my mascara.  This one feels like you aren't wearing any mascara, and doesn't bother my eyes at all.  This one is a win!

Lulu Organics Lavender + Clary Sage Hair Powder:

Ok, I'll admit it.. I have greasy hair.  I have to wash it every day or else my blonde hair turns brown.  I have tried dry shampoos in the past and not had any success with them.  Unfortunately, I didn't have success with this hair powder either.  It didn't do anything to revive my hair, and it smelled pretty bad.  Oh well.  (Full Size - $30)

Mox Botanicals Pomegranate & Fig Lip Butter:

I have mentioned before that I'm a lip gloss snob.  Last month's lip balm was a winner, but this one didn't do anything for me.  It was a bit sticky and waxy, and I ended up giving it away.  

(Full Size - $16)

One Love Organics Aromatic Body Serum:

This serum spray had a pretty overpowering scent, but I used it anyway.  I used it on my feet, elbows, and knees, and it did a good job of softening them.  I probably wouldn't buy it again, just because of the scent.  But if they came out with an unscented version I'd be all about it!  

(Full Size - $39)

John Varvatos Artisan:

The theme of this month's box was "Give", so they included this sample of cologne to share with a "lucky guy".  I gave it a sniff before giving it away, and it was a nice scent.  Not overpowering or too musky!

So there you have it.  I'm pretty happy with this month's box, mostly thanks to the awesome mascara!  If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox (or giving a subscription as a Christmas gift!) you can use my referral link here: https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr

October Birchbox

Today I have a non-nail related post for you.  I recently signed up for Birchbox, and thought I would share a review of the samples I got in this month's box.  If you're not familiar with Birchbox, here's how it works.  For $10 a month, they send you a box with about 5-6 samples of high end beauty products.  It's fun to try new products that you normally wouldn't buy, and it's nice to get a little treat in the mail once a month!  Last month was my first month, and I got fun things like an exclusive nail polish (which the Polishaholic swatched today, strangely enough.  Check it out HERE), a makeup bag, perfume, and face cleanser.  This month I didn't get any nail polish (sad..), but I did get some other great samples.

First up is the Lip Enhancer by Jouer.  Those of you that know me know that I am completely addicted to Softlips.  I'm hesitant to try other lip products, because none can compare, in my mind.  But this lip enhancer was surprisingly good.  It won't replace my Softlips, but I liked it none the less.  It wasn't sticky or waxy at all.

 

Next is Viva la Juicy La Fleur by Juicy Couture.  I'm pretty picky about my perfumes.  I don't like very "girly" or floral scents - I prefer fresh, clean, light fragrances.  La Fleur is a little too flowery for my tastes, but I don't hate it. 

 

Mary-Lou Manizer by theBalm cosmetics is a "highlighter, shadow, and all-over shimmer".  I have to play with this more to figure out how to best use it.  So far I have dabbed a bit on the inside corner of my eyes and it definitely brightens my eyes.  This came with a card that explains other uses for it, so I'll have to try some of them out.

 

My favorite product from this month's box are the Pro:Vitamins A15 and C10 from Vitivia.  They are single use caplets that you smooth onto your face at night and in the morning.  I have been using them for a few days.  I can already tell that my skin feels softer, and just nice.  I guess there's a reason these are $55 for a full sized product!!

 

Last up is the LUNA protein bar.  I got it in the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor.  Nothing to rave about, but it was decent and kept me full for a little while.

 

 

If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox, you can use this link:

https://www.birchbox.com?raf=xdgbr