ipsy September 2014

Ahhh I love everything in this bag!



- The Bag: I can't actually tell if I'll like this or not. I like the colors, but I'll reserve judgement until I hold it in my hands.
- Alterna Haircare CAVIAR CC Cream 10-in-1 Complete Correction: I have wanted to try this for awhile, so I'm really happy to see it in my bag. I just hope that it's a decent enough sample to at least get 3 or 4 uses.
- Crown Brush Infinity Shadow/Crease Duet Brush: I'm always excited for new brushes, and I've heard good things about Crown Brushes.
- NYX Hot Singles Eye Shadow: I wonder if I'll be receiving this purple shade, because according to the ipsy website, there are 10 different shades I might receive. I'm already a fan of NYX, so unless they send me a color I don't like, I know that I'll like it.
- Pacifica Natural Water-Proof Eye Pencil: I never really get excited about standard pencil liners- I'm more of a fan of the kind that twist up. So this is one product that I'm just meh about, and I kind of wish I had received the nail polish instead. There are two color choices (Gunmetal or Fringe), and I don't really care which one I get.
- CAILYN Art Touch Tinted Lip Gloss: The two choices are Basic Instinct (which is the one shown above), and Love Affair, which is a deeper red color. I kind of am hoping I get Basic Instinct. According to the spoilers, this will be a full sized item. (And the lipgloss is worth $19.00, so this will basically pay for the whole bag.)



I really like the bag this time- it's kind of got an 80s vibe, and I like that it's just a little bigger than the last couple of months' bags have been. 



Alterna Haircare CAVIAR CC Cream 10-in-1 Complete Correction
A miracle leave-in product that delivers 10 benefits in 1 easy step, leaving hair perfectly polished. Can be used alone or as a foundation for the layering of other styling products.
How To Use: Apply evenly to clean, towel-dried hair & style as desired. Can also be used as a finisher on dry hair for added perfection.
How It Works: Caviar CC Cream perfects hair in 10 different ways for complete: Moisture, Shine, Smoothness, Softness, Anti-Breakage, Heat Protection, Light Hold, UV Protection, Manageability and Strength
Will I Use It?: I've already tried it once, but results weren't that exciting. I'll keep using it and do a more complete review. 




Crown Brush Infinity Shadow/Crease Duet Brush
This dual-ended brush offers the best of both worlds.
How To Use: The shadow brush is perfect for applying eye shadow or contouring the eye, while the crease brush is designed to be used dry for defining the eye, or wet for precision concealing.  
Will I Use It?: I've used this brush a handful of times since receiving it, and I understand why Crown Brushes are so hyped. This is one of the best quality brushes I own, and can definitely see investing in some others in the near future.






NYX Hot Singles Eye Shadow in Bling
Whether your look is edgy or natural, NYX’s unique formulation is easy to blend and build on. 88 amazing shades inspired by the latest fashion runway trends.
How It Works: Hot Singles are intense! Powerfully loaded with pigments, this versatile formula lets you make a statement for any occasion
Will I Use It?: I added it to my makeup bag, but haven't used it yet. I will, though!






Pacifica Natural Water-Proof Eye Pencil in Fringe
These rich water-proof, buttery smooth eye pencils glide on smooth and deliver big color pay off with every stroke. 
How It Works: Long-lasting natural formula, provides hours of wear and contains beneficial ingredients great for the sensitive eye area.
Will I Use It?: I used it on a day when I knew I'd need a waterproof mascara, and this definitely came through- it didn't budge at all. It's a nice, dark brown color, and I really like it!






CAILYN Art Touch Tinted Lip Gloss in Basic Instinct
CAILYN Art Touch Tinted Lip Gloss delivers the stunning color impact of a lip stain and high shine of a lip gloss. 
How It Works: This silky smooth gloss glides on your lips like butter, leaving you with a lacquer like finish.
Will I Use It?: I really like the color, but I haven't used it yet. 


I really enjoyed everything in this bag, but I have decided to switch up my profile a bit- I've unmarked lip products completely. Hopefully I won't receive any for awhile, because I'm not even a big lip product junkie, so none of them are really getting used. 
This isn't reflected at all of the color or quality of the lip products received, I just won't use them and would rather see what else I get if that option isn't available for now.


If any of you are interested in signing up for ipsy, please click there and use my affiliate link! I receive points which I will exchange for products that I can review on this blog.


FTC: This box was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. All product descriptions were taken directly from ipsy, amazon.com, or the product page on the brand's website.
This post contains Amazon.com affiliate links and an ipsyaffiliate link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
The individual product links to the ipsy product page are not affiliate links.

QVC New Beauty Test Tube Fall/Winter 2013

Oh, hey! Look what I got!


I started seeing the spoilers for this box shortly after the New Beauty Test Tube was released, and was really excited about a couple of things, but some of these I have never heard of! That's the great thing about subscription services- you get to experience new products and brands that you may not be able to afford to try otherwise! (I know I never thought I would spend the money to try Alterna products, and thanks to this box and the previous one, I have now tried two!)

My auto subscription for this year is now over, and I am most likely going to renew next year, and am seriously considering signing up to get the regular New Beauty Test Tube- I love the curation of their boxes.




(I'm pretty proud of this picture, mostly because stuff kept falling over!)

As usual, all descriptions are taken directly from the Test Tube catalogue.




Peter Thomas Roth Oilless Oil 100& Purified Squalane (.34 fl oz)
This luxurious, silky, skin-softening moistuizer helps to improve the look of fine lines wrinkles, and radiance.
How to use: Apply a.m. and p.m. as a treatment moisturizer. Use one drop on face, sparingly on body, elbows, cuticles, and damp or dry hair.
Benefits Include: Sweet Ingredients - Derived from farmed sustained sugarcane; Smoother Skin - In a clinical study after three weeks of daily use, a decrease was seen in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; and No Residue - Peter's formula is silky smooth and luxurious to the touch, without leaving an oily or greasy after feel. It provides all the hydration benefits of an oil without leaving you with that filmy feeling.
Will I use it?: I have used it once since receiving the test tube, on my face and on my hair. I was nervous about putting oil on my face since I do have very oily skin, but I was pleasantly surprised that it felt extremely moisturizing, and I didn't get oily throughout the day like I usually do. My hair, on the other hand, did not like this stuff at all. It fell so flat, and I only used three drops. It also made my ends look super oily but also crunchy. I think I will continue to use this for my skin, and see what happens!
(This is the second Peter Thomas Roth product I have received in a Test Tube.))




Perricone MD Face Finishing Moisturizer (.5 fl oz)
This smooth and lightweight formula is scientifically formulated to help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, firmness and radiance, leaving the skin looking healthy and youthful.
How to use: Apply liberally to face and neck in the morning and evening.
Benefits Include: Anti-Aging Science - Vitamin C ester, alpha-lipoic acid and DMAE combine to help address the appearance of wrinkles and firmness while imparting a beautiful, radiant glow; Advanced Hydration - The luxurious texture and key antioxidants will keep your skin feeling soft and smooth throughout the day; and Radiance Restored - Formulated with vitamin C ester, this moisturizer works to help improve the appearance of skin tone and texture to impart a visibly more glowing, radiant, porcelain-like complexion.
Will I use it?: I have used it probably around 10 times since receiving it in my box, and am frightened by how much I love it, considering this size is $13.95 on amazon. It does sting, but it doesn't create any redness. It's also extremely potent, and is a strong floral scent. That's the part of this that I really, really don't like. I'm extremely sensitive to scent in products. But this product is just so good. My skin does look more glowy after use.
That's the downside to these tubes- falling in love with pricier products!
(This is the first Perricone MD product I have received in a Test Tube.)




Philosophy Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Retinoid Eye Treatment (.07 fl oz)
Eyes show the first signs of aging, but you can bet there's a product to help slow down the clock. Help reduce the appearance of the signs of aging- including lines and wrinkles- with this innovative treatment.
How to use: Gently apply a small amount with fingertips under and around the eye area morning and evening.
Benefits Include: Groundbreaking Ingredient - High-performance retinoid (hpr) helps deliver results; Anti-Aging - This gel formula helps improve the look of the signs of aging; and Eye Awakening - Specifically designed for the eye area, this cream provides a powerful anti-aging agent.
Will I use it?: I have used this three mornings, and I really like the AM benefits- I do feel like it plumps up my teensy fine lines, and it also helps my foundation go on smoother in that area in general. I've also found my makeup settles less in the lines throughout the day. However, I'm unsure that it's unique to this product, because my other eye creams that are good for the morning tend to do the same thing. But I really like the texture of this one, as opposed to a standard lotion. So I will keep using it and see what happens!
(This is the third philosophy product I have received in a Test Tube.)




WEN Pomegranate Finishing Treatment Creme (4 fl oz - full size!)
If weightless, manageable hair is what you're after, the Finishing Treatment Creme is your savior. Made to use on dry hair, it will give you body or a polished finish.
How to use: Apply a dime size amount of less to palms and rub together. Gently squeeze treatment into hair, starting mid-shaft and working towards the end.
Benefits Include: Mane Attractions - The WEN system is infused with a perfect blend of herbs and natural ingredients; Soothing Formula - The aloe vera in this finishing treatment has soothing, healing and moisturizing properties, which are a huge benefit for damaged, frizzy hair.
Will I use it?: I have used this once, the day I am writing this post (which is Oct 25th), but I will definitely be adding this to my daily routine. After I blow-dried my hair, I used this as suggested, and it seriously made my hair so soft, and voluminous. And it smells AMAZING. So amazing I want to eat it. But I won't, because that would be weird. The smell doesn't stay in the hair too long, which is a shame. I would be happy to smell this in my hair all day.
(This is the second WEN product I have received in a Test Tube.)




Alterna Bamboo Smooth Kendi Oil Dry Oil Mist (.85 fl oz)
Envelope your hair in a lightweight, frizz-fighting, nutrient-rich oil mist that helps protect hair. Your strands won't be able to thank you enough.
How to use: Spray liberally throughout damp hair and style as usual.
Benefits Include: Two Times the Benefits - Not only does this formula help to nourish, but it can also be used as a color-protecting primer; Bamboo Boosters - Made with bamboo extract, this spray is sure to provide you with sustainable style; and Lightweight Finish - This ultralight texture won't weight hair down.
Will I use it?: I have used this three times. The first time, I was in love with it. I let my hair air dry and it looked gorgeous. The second time, I hated what it did to my hair- it made it greasy and flat. That may have been my fault, as I sometimes get spray happy, and I also let it air dry this time. The third time, it really didn't do anything at all to my hair, it looks like it normally does when I blow dry it, which I did this time to see if it made a difference. I will keep using it, but so far I have mixed feelings.
(This is the second Alterna product I have received in a Test Tube.)




Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask (.16 fl oz)
If you want gorgeous, glowing skin, look no further. Engineered to mimic the effects of bliss Spa's world famous Triple Oxygen Treatment Facial, this mask is a superfast fix for dull, tired and sallow skin. This fabulous complexion formula gives you the appearance of fresher, younger-looking skin.
How to use: Massage a generous layer onto damp skin, wait ive minutes for a full froth to form and rinse well.
Benefits Include: Oxygen Detox - bliss uses different ingredients that deliver oxygen to the skin and contain antioxidants to help protect the skin from free-radical attacks; Fast Worker - It only takes five invigorating minutes for this frothy mask to leave your skin refreshed and glowing; and Vitamin Filled - This formula helps lighten the skin with the most active form of vitamin C available.
Will I use it?: I try to use all the products at least once before writing my blog so I can give at least some type of initial impression. But I haven't used this yet. I am planning on giving my skin a nightly mask treatment soon, and will be using this one. I will definitely do a separate blog post review later.
(This is the second Bliss product I have received in a Test Tube.)




IT Cosmetics Hello Lashes 5-in-1 Mascara (.16 fl oz)
Get ready to go vertical! From the lash ball detailer to the volumizing formula, this clinically proven mascara takes the place of five products, all in one bottle!
How to use: Starting at the base of your lashes, hold the brush horizontally, then wiggle and sweep the brush up and through to the tips. Next, use the lash ball detailer to add length, volume and separation to your lower lashes, as well as your inner and outer corner lashes. For a more dramatic look, add additional coats.
Benefits Include: The Multitasker - Not only is it a volumizing mascara, it's also a conditioning lash primer, lash-enhancing serum, lash tint and a lash comb/curler; Unique Brush - The flexible brush works to lengthen, curl and separate while the lash ball tip reaches even corner lashes. You'll never miss a spot again; and Vitamin Packed - Vitamins A, C, E, and B5, along with green tea, acai and jojoba, work together to condition and enhance lashes.
Will I use it?: I have used this almost every single day since receiving it, and it is quickly becoming my favorite mascara. Ever. The link above is to my size sample from amazon. Buy it right now. It's the cost of a drug store mascara to try. I will definitely be purchasing a full size of this once this sample is dried out.
I never believed the hype behind IT Cosmetics, but now I am thinking I should have, and will be looking into trying more of their products soon.
(This is the first  IT Cosmetics product I have received in a TestTube.)




Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick in Saddle Shimmer (.06 oz)
For eye color that won't crease or wear away, Mally's Evercolor Shadow Stick is a creamy, glide-on shadow that stays looking freshly applied. It includes a special silicone system that glides on, then seals together to last and last.
How to use: Run along lashes to use as an eyeliner or smooth on lids and blend to use as an eyeshadow.
Benefits Include: One and Done - In just one stroke of the glide-on applicator you'll get an incredible high-performance look. Once applied, you've got 30 seconds of playtime to blend and smooth the color before it sets; Multitasker - This easy-to-use color stick can act as a primer, eyeshadow or eyeliner, and it even replaces your brushes. You simply glide the color where you want it to line and define your eyes, or layer several colors for a dramatic, smoky look; and You're In Control - You have complete control with this easy-to-use stick, so have fun and experiment! It's the perfect solution for a quick, finished look that won't come off until you take it off.
Will I use it?: I have used it, and honestly? I wasn't super impressed. I don't feel like it does anything better than the Maybelline Color Tattoos do, and it is very similar to the Bad to the Bronze shade. It also creased like crazy on me less than an hour after I put it on, and I used my Too Faced Shadow Insurance, which NEVER causes creasing. It is a really pretty shade, and it does go on beautifully. And I will probably still use this on an occasion, but I will never buy one of these for myself.
(This is the third Mally product I have received in a Test Tube.)



As with the others, overall, I was really happy with this tube, and as I said above, I am most likely going to be renewing my purchase should they do this again next year. My favorite product by far is the mascara, followed second by the finishing creme.

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!



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



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.



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.



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.




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.



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.



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.




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.

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.





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.




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.




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.




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.