Showing posts with label Algenist. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Algenist. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

QVC New Beauty Test Tube Summer-Fall 2013

Another week, another unboxing!
This week, I bring you the QVC New Beauty Summer - Fall 2013 Test Tube. I previously received the Summer 2013 box, and loved it, so I signed up for auto delivery. I saw the spoilers for this box initially on the My Subscription Addiction blog (which, if you love subscription boxes or seeing what is in them, I highly recommend you follow her because she gets almost all of them!) and was instantly excited! 

And I was not let down. There is only one product for sure in this box I'm not going to use.

On to the unboxing! 


The box itself is so cute! It's bright pink and makes me so happy to see!

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And here are all of the products that came in my box!

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The box contains a copy of the Summer/Fall 2013 New Beauty Magazine, 8 products, and a catalogue showcasing all of the products and providing information about the products.

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The magazine has Stacy Kiebler on the cover. I have not been able to read this yet, but I really enjoyed the magazine in the Summer box, minus all of the plastic surgery stuff.

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And this is the catalogue that comes with it. It is probably the most detailed of all of the subscription services.. Usually it gives a little tidbit about the product, key ingredients, how to use, and more information about the company itself.


Now, the real reason you came to this blog - to see the products!
Also, I tried a little something different with these photos, but I'm not sure if I like it. Let me know what you all think!

All descriptions are directly from the catalogue. Included also is the size of sample I received.


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Ole Henriksen Ultimate Lift Eye Gel (.25 fl oz)
Hectic schedules and busy day-to-day routines may leave you feeling exhausted, but that doesn't mean you have to look that way. Help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eye area with this eye gel for a completely refreshed look.
How to use: Apply gently under the eyes, extending toward the temples.
Benefits Include: Night Shift - This dual-action cooling gel works hard while you sleep so you can wake up looking younger and more refreshed than ever before; Youth Refreshment - Wrapping the eye area in calendula and cucumber while a complex of peptides infused with arginine helps to keep you looking revitalized; and Hydrating Humectants - Enriched with the moisturizing power of humectants, the lightweight gel provides optimal hydration to smooth the skin around the eyes.
Will I use it?: I have actually used it, and I like the sensation it gives me. It is very cooling (I bet it would be even better if I stuck it in the fridge), and I have noticed the area under my eyes looks more moisturized in the morning. I've read online that some women use this during the day, but I would only ever use it at night. I haven't had time to notice any real difference, but like I said, I have noticed my under eyes look more moisturized.

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Philosophy Hope in a Jar Skin Advanced Smoothing Body Lotion (4 fl oz)
This lightweight, antioxidant-rich body lotion features an advanced skincare formula that helps smooth and hydrate for healthier-looking skin.
How to use: Apply a generous amount onto skin with fingertips and massage in gently with a circular motion.
Benefits Include: Moisture Maintenance - The advanced, fast-absorbing formula helps maintain skin's natural moisture barrier for maximum hydration that lasts; Radiance - Harnessing the exfoliating benefits of ester of lactic acid, the lightweight lotion works to gently exfoliate for more radiant-looking skin; Nurturing - Antioxidant-rich body lotion nurtures and helps maintain skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving skin feeling noticeably softer, smoother, and more supple.
Will I use it?: I have used this as well, but don't have any real opinions formed yet. It smells okay, and the scent doesn't seem to linger too long after application. My skin definitely did feel moisturized, but no more than it usually does with a standard lotion. I will continue using it to form a definite opinion.

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Ojon Rare Blend Protecting Treatment (.85 fl oz)
Give your locks a little love before busting out the flat iron or any other heat-styling tool. This unique dual-phase spray helps protect strands against heat-styling damage.
How to use: Mist onto damp hair before brushing and heat styling.
Benefits Include: Dynamic Duo - The dual-phase formula includes a top phase comprised of seven nourishing oils that help protect and condition hair; Namesake Ingredient - Used as a restorative hair treatment for more than 500 years in Central America, Ojon oil goes deep within each strand for optimal protection; Strand Protector - While nourishing oils provide hair with hydration, this protector helps strands maintain a healthier look.
Will I use it?: Yes, I am looking forward to using this! I always try to use a heat protectant before doing any sort of heat styling on my hair (it's damaged enough from coloring), and I like the "dual" aspect of this product.

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Laura Geller Waterproof Eye Spackle Hues Advanced Primer and Eyeshadow (.074 fl oz)
Simplify your makeup routine with Waterproof Eye Spackle Hues Advanced Primer and Eyeshadow. This double duty primer/eyeshadow-in-one is waterproof while imparting a sheer wash of color. Wear it alone or under makeup - priming and perfecting eyelids is now easier than ever.
How to use: Dot a thin layer over clean eyelids and blend with your fingertips or the applicator.
Benefits Include: Multitasking Color - This unique, multitasking eye spackle offers versatility as both a primer and an eye shadow that can be worn alone or layered under shadow for added dimension; Locked In and Lasting - The creamy, waterproof formula dries to a matte finish, with color that locks in, so it won't budge, melt or move no matter what the day entails; Foolproof Application - The easy-to-use pen brush applicator makes for foolproof application that is perfect for the girl on the go.
Will I use it?: 
Here is the swatch, I think it's a really pretty color, I'm just going to have to mess with it to see how I feel.
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I wore it once, however, I guess I didn't read the whole thing and used my Too Faced Shadow Insurance prior to using this product, so although it didn't crease, it may not be strictly because of this product. I am also going to use it for layering - the color itself I felt wasn't the most flattering alone on my lids, but maybe on the outer corners would be okay.


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Alterna Bamboo Volume 48-Hour Sustainable Volume Spray (.85 fl oz)
Put an end to dull, flat, lifeless hair with this lightweight spray that nourishes strands while creating long-lasting volume. Made with bamboo extract, this spray is sure to provide you with sustainable style.
How to use: Spray throughout clean, towel-dried hair before blow-drying.
Benefits Include: Long-Lasting Effects - This spray helps to increase volume for up to 48 hours in-between washings and it works on even the finest hair; Boosters - The formula is comprised of ingredients to give you a boost in volume without parabens, phthalates, synthetic color, mineral oil and petrolatum; Lightweight Finish - The ultralightweight texture won't weigh hair down or leave it feeling sticky or dry and crunchy. An added bonus: it smells amazing!
Will I use it?:  I did use this one day, but didn't notice a huge volume difference- but I was running late so I didn't fully dry my hair. This stuff really does smell amazing. I will definitely try it again when I'm not running so late so I can really test it out.

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Algenist Gentle Rejuvenating Cleanser (1.5 fl oz)
Infused with anti-aging and deep-cleansing ingredients, this facial cleanser leaves skin feeling fresh and younger-looking, sans any harsh ingredients.
How to use: Apply to moist skin, lather for one to two minutes and rinse with warm water.
Benefits Include: Anti-Aging Powerhouse - Alguronic Acid and the fruit complex work together for the appearance of more radiant, youthful-looking skin; Complexion Smoother - Thanks to the dynamic cleansing duo of witch hazel and oat amino acids, skin feels softer and appears smoother; Gentle Formula - The gentle cleanser is a non-irritating unique formula that is free of parabens, phthalates, triclosan, nitrosamines, synthetic fragrances or synthetic dyes.
Will I use it?: I have used this a couple of times, and I'm not sure if it is it or something else, but something is making my skin super red. It's not itchy or anything, so I'm pretty sure it is this- because I get reactions to witch hazel. I always forget until I use something with witch hazel in it, and then bam, red skin. Luckily I've only used this at night, and by the morning it has gone away. I may use it a couple more times just to be sure that is what is actually causing a reaction, otherwise, I'll have to pass this on to someone else.
It does feel and smell great, though.

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Mally Beauty Lip Magnifier (.10 fl oz)
This is not your grandmother's lipstick. It's called magnifier for a reason- this unique formula is designed to amplify your pout with fierce, long-lasting color for soft, luscious lips that stand up to whatever the day might bring.
How to use: Apply all over lips.
Benefits Include: Multitasking Magnifier - While adding the perfect amount of shine and long-lasting color, this creamy formula also works to nourish and condition lips; Just Right Texture - Glossy, but firmer than gloss. Rich color but softer than lipstick. Unique texture clings to lips to last and last; Confidence Booster - This lip-perfecting formula might leave every woman feeling like she can conquer the world.
Will I use it?: No. I'm actually really disappointed with this product. I used it one to test it out, and there are a couple things that really disappointed me- the color (punch) is not at all flattering on me, the texture doesn't do much for me, and the fact that it doesn't twist up the product, you have to sharpen it?! Total deal breaker. There is no reason why this shouldn't be a twist up, and since this product is pretty soft, it would waste a lot to sharpen. I definitely will not be using this, but I'll try to gift it to someone instead of just throwing it away or hording it for no reason.

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Bliss Blood Orange and White Pepper Soapy Suds (1.5 fl oz)
Take your bubble bath to the next level with this unique sudsy formula that works to hydrate and soften skin for a bath time routine that is both relaxing and refreshing.
How to use: Use as a body wash to shake up your shower, or pour a bit into the bath for bubbling bliss.
Benefits Include: Skin-Softening Trifecta - Enriched with the moisturizing trio of aloe, glycerin and vitamin E, this formula delivers powerful hydration for noticeably softer, suppler skin; Versatile Formula - A relaxing soak in the tub doesn't exactly fit in your schedule? No worries - you can rev up your shower when you opt to use this as a body wash instead; Luxurious Lather - This unique-scented soap works into a rich lather that feels as luxurious as it looks.
Will I use it?: I have used it a couple of times, but haven't formed any real impressions yet. I do enjoy the smell!


I am so happy with this box, and can't wait to continue to use the products, get to know them, and review them for you all. Currently I have a review planned next month, once I have had a chance to really use and get to know these products, so be on the lookout for that if these kinds of posts interest you!

You can buy your own QVC New Beauty Test Tube from QVC here on a one time basis, or you can sign up here for auto-delivery.


FTC: This box was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. This post does not contain any affiliate links, any links are for your reference only. I am not in any way affiliated with QVC, New Beauty, or any of the brands mentioned.

Friday, June 28, 2013

QVC New Beauty Test Tube Summer 2013 Review (and my thoughts on beauty boxes, in general)

I have a slight obsession with Subscription Boxes. Now, let me clarify this a bit: I had a Birch Box for two months, and cancelled, and I have never had another. But I love watching the box openings on YouTube, reading reviews online, and researching the crap out of them (check out my favorite site, subscription boxes, to research the one for you!) trying to figure out what I should invest my money in.
The reason I got rid of my Birch Box is that I loved my first box, but was not a fan of my second box, so I ultimately decided I would rather spend that $10.00 on something I know I would like, then a bunch of foil packets I would probably get with a purchase from Sephora. I haven't had much of an interest in ordering a Birch Box since.

I have heavily researched the POPSUGAR Must Have Box, but given my current living situation (with the in-laws) and the amount of "lifestyle" items, it doesn't seem like the best choice for now. But, watch out when the husband and I get a house, because that will be coming to my door every month. This may even pop on on a Weekly Weakness post, so I can tell you all more about it, in case you might like it.

There are more I researched (Ipsy and Glossy Box being two other examples), but I am getting way off track of what will already most likely be a long post.

Ultimately, I went with the QVC New Beauty Test Tube. I had diligently watched every single video I could find on every one that came out (people think different things about them, so it's nice to get several different opinions), and saw what was in the newest one I would get, and ultimately decided to just enter my credit card information and get one of my own!
Now let me clarify something that confused me slightly- New Beauty releases their own Test Tube through their website and it has different items than the QVC One. I did research on both, and figured the QVC one would be the best choice for me.


Okay, now that that's all said... on with the review!

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(All I have is this crappy Instagram pic. I promise I will have better pictures for my blog taken with my actual camera soon!)

My test tube came in that bright pink box. Inside the box was thick brown paper, and this tube. It also came with the New Beauty Magazine, as well as a guide to what was inside the tube. Inside of my tube came the following items: 1-fl oz Algenist Triple-Action Micropolish and Peel; 6-fl oz WEN by Chaz Dean Replenishing Treatment Mist; 0.04-oz tarte Skinny smolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner; 1-fl oz Peter Thomas Roth Antiaging Cleansing Gel; 0.39-fl oz Mally Beauty Volumizing Mascara in Black; 0.4-fl oz philosophy hope in a jar night; 0.17-fl oz Josie Maran Argan Oil; 0.60-fl oz Perfect Formula Manicure Booster; and NewBeauty magazine. (This description taken directly from the QVC website to provide accurate information.)

I have provided information on where to buy and how much for reference. You can tell I easily paid for the price of the box with the size of the samples received! 

Algenist Triple-Action Micropolish and Peel ($58.00 for 2oz from Sephora)
I was nervous about trying this product. I have very sensitive skin, and it smells very medicinal. I associate that smell with pain on my face. However, I have been very pleasantly surprised! This did not irritate my skin at all, and my skin definitely feels smooth after use. I have used this product three times since receiving my tube, all at night, and I can tell a difference the next morning- things just look a little brighter and if I had a breakout, it looks less irritated.
Would I repurchase? I could see myself investing in this after my sample runs out. I feel like it really helps my skin. 

WEN by Chaz Dean Replenishing Treatment Mist ($19.99 for 6oz from Amazon)
This is something I had been wanting to try for awhile, and a huge check in the plus column of me purchasing this box. I've heard a lot about the WEN products, but never have purchased. The smell of my sample was Lavender, which I could take or leave, but it is not at all offensive in this product. My hair is fine, and very long, and tends to get tangled easily, but it seems like it gets less tangled when I spritz a little of this. I also have been using it to "refresh" my hair at night before going out with this on the ends and a little dry shampoo on my roots, and it definitely makes my hair more manageable.
Would I repurchase? This does make my hair more manageable, but I feel like there may be similar products out there, so I will be researching. If I do repurchase, I will probably go for the Fig next time.

tarte Skinny smolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner ($19.00 from Ulta)
Let me start off this review by saying that I am a HUGE fan of Tarte products. Tarte was the first high end anything I ever purchased, and I frequently check out their products to see what's new. HOWEVER, I did not like this product at all. It is very, very soft. I barely touched it to my eye, and it crumbled everywhere- on my face, on my shirt, and IN MY EYE. Not pleasant. I stuck it in the freezer overnight to sharpen it the next day (that is how much was wasted from that one use), and it was still hard to sharpen. I did manage to get a little on my eye one day, and it smudged everywhere. Not in a sexy smudgy way, but in a looks like I have no idea how to do my makeup way. And because it's water proof, it did not want to come off.
Would I repurchase? Absolutely not. I would rather buy one of their EmphasEyes eyeliners.

Peter Thomas Roth Antiaging Cleansing Gel ($35.00 for 8.5 fl oz from Ulta)
My only previous experience with Peter Thomas Roth was some lotion that was available for use at the Hilton hotel my husband and I stayed at for our honeymoon. I have heard good things about the skincare, but had not yet wanted to spend the money to check it out. This stuff. I cannot say enough good things. It has not irritated my skin, it leaves my skin feeling very clean and soft. I don't have a need for an "anti-aging" cleanser- I don't have those issues at this time. But it has also helped with my acne (it has brightening properties and glycolic and salacylic acid). The description for the product indicates it is not ideal for sensitive skin, but I have not had any issues with redness after use.
Would I repurchase? Yes, absolutely. I love the results.

Mally Beauty Volumizing Mascara in Black ($20.00 from Ulta - currently online only)
I wasn't super impressed the first four times I used this mascara. It has a very wet formula, and I wasn't impressed with the results. However, I left it untouched for about a week and now I really like it! It definitely separates and gives me the look of volume, and no longer clumps.
Would I repurchase? Probably not. I have a bareminerals volumizing mascara that is one of my favorites, and I don't feel like this is a better product.

philosophy hope in a jar night ($48.00 for 2 fl oz from Sephora )
I have never tried a philosophy product before trying this. Blasphemy, I know. I have always wanted to give their products a try, but have never been in a situation where I wanted to choose it over something else high end that I wanted. This was another big sell on the box for me. It is a pretty thick cream, and you do not need much. I don't feel like it moisturized my skin right away, but the next morning my skin feels extremely soft. The smell is interesting, and not the best. I can't explain it other than to say I just don't like it.
Would I repurchase? No. I didn't like the results enough to spend this much money. It did make my skin soft, but I have other less expensive night time moisturizers that smell better and do just as good of a job.

Josie Maran Argan Oil   ($48.00 for 1.7oz from Sephora)
The last big sell for me in ordering this tube. I have coveted this the last two times I have gone into Sephora, because I've heard it's AMAZING for split ends. I've also heard good things about it's skin care properties, but I have not used it for this purpose, so I can't speak to that. But the hair. To say my hair is soft is an understatement. If hair could be as soft as a babies butt, mine definitely would be when I use this stuff. I use about 4-5 drops, rub between my hands, and smooth first on the ends of my hair, and then I'll rub whatever's left from about ear-length to the ends again. My hair never tangles on the day I use this. Amazing, amazing stuff.
Would I repurchase? Given the rave above, you would think I would pay any amount for a "miracle" product. But I feel like there may be some alternatives out there that will be just as good (One 'n Only Argan Oil comes immediately to mind), so I will probably try some of those before repurchasing this.

Perfect Formula Manicure Booster ($4.95 from Amazon)
I wanted to LOVE this product. I do my nails about twice a week or more, depending on my mood, and love a good primer and top coat, and this is marketed as both. It did HORRIBLE things to two of my nail polishes. Bubbles everywhere the first time I used it. I figured I probably didn't let this set long enough on my nails, but on my next use, I had the same problem. It also did not dry quick enough for me- over an hour later, I moved slightly and bumped my finger against my bed sheet and got instant wrinkling in the polish. Not cool. I also experienced chipping after my first day of wear both times I used this. I will use this on occasion to see if maybe the past experiences were flukes, which they very well could be. I will definitely keep you all updated.
Would I repurchase? The depends on the outcome of continued use. If I had to choose to repurchase either today or never, it would be never.

NewBeauty magazine ($9.99)
I figured I might as well go ahead and review the magazine while I am reviewing the rest of the tube!
I enjoyed this magazine, but it definitely had too much plastic surgery talk for this girl! However, with that said, I did find out a lot of interesting things. It is probably not something I would choose to pick up on my own (It's $9.99 and I don't feel like there's enough content that I enjoy to spend that kind of money), but it was a nice bonus!

Overall Thoughts: I am really happy with the purchase over all. I got to try things I never would have, and discovered a couple new favorites!
Will I reorder?: Yes! I'm signed up for auto delivery and plan on getting the August and October shipments.

FTC: This product was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. This post does not contain any affiliate links, the links are for your reference only.