Recently I was contacted by Purple PR and asked if I would like to receive some of the Beauty Protector products. I've already received a few of their products from Birchbox, and their protect spray is one of my HG products at this point, so I emailed back and said, absolutely!
Over the next few weeks, I'll be trying out their Beauty Wash and their Beauty Cream, and even though I've already tried and reviewed their Treatment Mask, I'm going to try it again, and see if my impressions change since this is a full size and I can better formulate a lasting opinion.
I will say, initially, all the products have that great Beauty Protector smell (I can't explain it, but it's definitely sweet). The Beauty Wash seems like it will lather well but not strip my skin, and the beauty cream isn't greasy at all. I'm really excited to give these new products a try!
FTC: This product was received from the PR company with no obligation to review, and no compensation has been exchanged. No affiliate links have been used in this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Today I bring you another Birchbox Haul!
I decided to use some built up points to purchase the Color Club Zodiac Nail Art Kit in Aquarius, the Kate Spade Stationery Like a Book Thermal Mug, and the Beauty Protector Protect and Detangle Spray. The nail kit and the mug were fun little purchases, but the Beauty Protector Spray is something I've recently used a sample of and discovered that, as of right now, I cannot live without it! (I received it in my October 2014 Birchbox, which was one of the months I missed thanks to my lovely bout with morning sickness!)
Because my purchase reached over $35.00, I received a free sample pack. Honestly, I'm not very fond of these samples, and I also am not going to use them right now. So they've gone away where the rest of my samples go until I'm ready to use them.
The best part of this haul is that I spent $0.00. My total order came to $60.45, but I received a discount of 25% off for my 13 Month Box Anniversary (so cute they do this!), as well as Free Shipping because I'm a VIP member, and then I used 400 points for the remaining amount, and spent absolutely nothing!
FTC: These products were purchased by me with my own money, and with the use of birchbox points which were received by doing reviews of samples received in my monthly subscription. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post does not contain any affiliate links.
I received this in my
July 2014 Birchbox.
How To Use: Work through wet hair, focusing on ends. Leave on for up to 20 minutes before rinsing away.
How It Works: The formula is loaded with antioxidants to neutralize damaging free radicals. Argan oil, honey, amber, and crushed pearls (if the mask’s creamy texture wasn’t proof enough of its luxuriousness) revive strands and preserve their youthful texture and shine. What’s more, the mask works with all hair types, and is cruelty-free.
Initial Impressions: I had to use about half of one of the containers above for my hair, since it is so long. It didn't feel great when I was putting it on my hair (not smooth like I'm used to for a deep conditioner), and when I was rinsing out my hair, it didn't feel smooth or silky. Brushing out took as much time as if I had just used a regular conditioner, and I didn't use any other products as it air-dried and I finished off with a blow dry. However, after the drying process was done, my hair did look shiny, it didn't get overly greasy throughout the day, and also remained virtually tangle free. It also felt smooth, which was weird to me because it was the opposite while rinsing out the product from my hair. So my initial impressions were a little mixed, but the end results were still good.
Final Impressions: I was able to get four uses out of the samples provided to me, but my impression stayed the same- it didn't wow me pre-rinse, but post-rinse, it did leave my hair in pretty good condition. It also smells so great- exactly like the Beauty Protector Protect and Oil. One of my coworkers was standing away from me, and asked what the smell was, and then came and smelled my hair. (We are friendly, so I wasn't creeped out or anything.)
With that said, it's not anything special. Yeah, it deep conditions my hair and feels and smells good, but there are other deep conditioners that do the same thing. So I probably won't be repurchasing this, but I enjoyed trying it!
You can purchase your own Beauty Protector Protect and Treat Hair Mask here.
FTC: This product was received as part of a subscription service which was purchased with my own money. No affiliate links have been used in this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My box s
hipped on the 8th this month, and all I could think once I saw the spoilers on the 10th is "I really, really hope I get this specific box this time!"
- RUFFIAN Nail Lacquer in Relic: I actually got to pick this sample this month! It's the first time birchbox is letting their subscribers pick a sample, and you could pick one of the three available Ruffian Nail Lacquers.so I chose Relic. It's described as a silvery taupe, which is pretty much right up my alley!
- RUFFIAN Dressing Room Nail Lacquer Remover Towelettes: I'm always willing to give a new polish remover a try, but I've never been a huge fan of towelettes soaked in remover, and they never work as great for me as they seem to work for everyone else. But I'll definitely see if they work!
- Naoboy Body Radiance Lotion: I wasn't super excited about this at first, but I do love to try new lotions, and it's made of almost completely natural ingredients! It also gets pretty good reviews on the birchbox site.
- Real Chemistry Luminous 3-Minute Peel: I am usually not too excited about anything with the name peel on it, and this is the sample I'm least excited about.To me, peel is way too much for my sensitive skin. However, the description says suitable for all skin types, so I'll try it out.
- Beauty Protector Protect and Treat Hair Mask: I received the Beauty Protector Shampoo and Conditioner in my May 2014 birchbox, and the Hair Oil in my February 2014 birchbox, and I did enjoy them, so I'm anxious to give this a shot. (Also, I wonder if I'll be getting two based on my spoiler photo?? I guess we'll see when I get the box!)
- Benefit Posiebalm: I am extremely excited to give this a try, because the color of posiebalm is a color I really like!
They partnered with Women's Health this month, and how stinking cute is this box?!
And I got what they said would be in my box this time. Hooray!
Beauty Protector Protect & Treat Mask
Developed by stylists, this argan oil treatment restores strength and megashine to hair.
How To Use: Work through wet hair, focusing on ends. Leave on for up to 20 minutes before rinsing away.
How It Works: The formula is loaded with antioxidants to neutralize damaging free radicals. Argan oil, honey, amber, and crushed pearls (if the mask’s creamy texture wasn’t proof enough of its luxuriousness) revive strands and preserve their youthful texture and shine. What’s more, the mask works with all hair types, and is cruelty-free.
Will I Use It?: Yes, and I love that it smells like the other Beauty Protector products. This is currently in my shower, waiting for the next time I deep condition.
Benefit Cosmetics Posiebalm
This mango butter balm hydrates lips and provides a wash of sheer, just-right pink.
How To Use: Sweet onto bare lips, or over your favorite Benefit tint for instant moisture.
How It Works: This balm has mango butter and sodium hyaluronate to moisturize lips. The subtle pink shade looks good on everyone (after passing it around Birchbox HQ, we have yet to be proven wrong).
This balm has mango butter and sodium hyaluronate to moisturize lips. The subtle pink shade looks good on everyone (after passing it around Birchbox HQ, we have yet to be proven wrong).
Will I Use It?: I've been using this, and I really, really like it. I'm actually planning on buying it as soon as this sample runs out, because I've been just a little obsessed with it. It makes my lips feel so soft, and has just a little bit of a pinkish tint. Although this sample was really small, it's a good one because I haven't even finished using it, and I already want to buy it.
NAOBAY Body Radiance Lotion
This Spanish favorite uses olive oil and avocado to naturally hydrate and soften skin.
How To Use: Massage generously into skin, focusing on dry patches like elbows and knees.
How It Works: Olive oil, shea butter, and avocado oil deliver serious moisture, while aloe vera soothes and protects skin. More than 98 percent of ingredients in this creamy lotion are natural, and over 19 percent are organic—and like all Naobay products, it’s free of GMOs and made without parabens, formaldehyde, petrochemicals, synthetic dyes, and a host of other chemicals that research suggests may come with health risks.
Will I Use It?: I have used this, and I kind of liked it. The smell is really light, but nice, like lemongrass. Actually, my first thought was lemonhead candy, but that's what lemongrass smells like to me. It also lingered on my skin really nicely. The only thing I didn't really like about it was that it was thinner than I am used to, and it sank in super fast- like I didn't really get a chance to rub it all the way in before it was just in. I guess that's great if you're not a fan of that after-lotion sticky feeling, but I kind of like a thicker lotion. So I'll use this and post a final review later. Maybe I didn't use enough when I was trying it the first time.
Real Chemistry Luminous 3-Minute Peel
This acid-free peel gently exfoliates for instantly softer, smoother, brighter skin.
How To Use: Apply to clean face, wait 30 seconds, and massage to slough off dull, dry skin. Rinse away.
How It Works: Suitable for all skin types, this pH-neutral protein peel gently exfoliates delicate skin without the use of harsh acids or abrasives. The unique gel binds to dead skin cells on the face, neck, and décolleté, forming solids that can be easily washed away with water. In just three minutes you’ll reveal the luminous, younger-looking skin below. Great for reducing the appearance of acne scars, dark spots, rosacea, and blotchiness (and who doesn’t suffer from at least one of those?).
Will I Use It?: Yes, definitely! I love trying out new exfoliators- especially ones that say suitable for all skin types, because with my sensitive skin, I am the perfect one to put that claim to the test!
RUFFIAN The Rapture Collection - Ambrosia
Streak-free metallic polish in a trendy, summer-perfect shade.
How To Use: Apply a base coat and follow with a single coat of this long-lasting lacquer.
How It Works: Each polish is created to hold up for days without chipping, and unlike most metallic shades, this one applies completely streak-free. We love how Ruffian’s deco-inspired bottles look on our vanities, but we especially love how the unique bottle shape helps us get a good grip on the cap for controlled, steady application.
Will I Use It?: Absolutely! I'm still trying to get my nails back in good shape, but I think I'm just going to paint them and do that method like I used to do. Moving really did a number on me, but I need to get my nails looking pretty again.
Birchbox also including a bonus item in my box this month: The RUFFIAN Dressing Room Nail Lacquer Remover Towelettes. And another bonus- this is a reviewable item, which means this month I can earn up to 60 points, which should get me qualified for the Birchbox Aces program!
Another bonus- a free year subscription to Women's Health magazine! I've read this magazine a few times at my gyno's office, and it's a good one, so I'm kind of excited! Plus, the subscription is the price of the box, so this completely pays for it, and the samples are like a bonus.
The box also came with these Power Up Challenge cards.
If you instagram pics of yourself conquering these challenges, you are entered to win a trip to NYC and a collection of products from the July 2014 birchbox. I probably won't do them to enter the contest, but it was fun to read through!
This was a great box, especially after my weird month last month. I am excited about every product, and the magazine subscription is like icing on an already great cake. And I'm definitely getting Birchbox Aces, so that's something else to look forward to! I'm pretty happy with my birchbox subscription right now, and don't see cancelling anytime soon!
If any of you are interested in signing up for Birchbox, 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 the Birchbox card included in the box.
This post contains Amazon.com affiliate links and a birchbox affiliate link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
The individual product links to the birchbox product page are not affiliate links.
Today I'm going to be reviewing the Beauty Protector Protect and Oil I received in my February 2014 Birchbox.
How To Use: Apply a quarter-sized amount to wet hair, concentrating on the scalp. Rinse thoroughly.
How It Works: In addition to honey pearl powder, Protect & Shampoo is packed with rich vitamins and a gentle mix of sulfate-free cleaning agents. This powerhouse lineup cleanses and nourishes your strands.
Initial Impressions: My first impression is that this sample packaging is not great, and it is really hard to control how much product comes out. But it smells amazing- like sugary sweet goodness. My first time using this product, I used way too much, and my hair was oily, but it seemed to protect my hair and it didn't tangle. My second time using this product, I didn't use enough and my hair was a mess.
Final Impressions: After completely using my sample, I feel kind of the way I did on my initial impressions- it smells really good, but it's too hard to use either too much or too little. That could be a problem with the sample given rather than the product, but there was enough in the sample that I used this for a total of about three weeks (a little goes a long way!), and it was very hit and miss. Because there are other hair oils that I've enjoyed more, I don't see myself purchasing this again.
You can purchase your own Beauty Protector Protect and Oil here.
FTC: This product was received as part of a subscription service which was purchased with my own money. No affiliate links have been used in this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I got my box literally hours after the spoilers were posted on the 10th- I'm super impressed with their shipping! But I didn't use any of the stuff (until after I wrote the spoilers) so here are my impressions based on the spoilers...
- Beauty Protector Protect & Shampoo: I received the Beauty Protector Protect and Oil in my February 2014 birchbox, so this is a brand I'm already familiar with and like. I'm excited to give this shampoo a try!
- Beauty Protector Protect & Condition: I'm so glad they also included the conditioner! In last month's box, they sent me a shampoo to try, but not the matching conditioner, so now I can really try the set and see how I like it!
- LAQA & Co Sheer Lip Lube Pencil: Lip Pencils can be hit and miss, so depending on how the color looks on me, I could really like this!
- Supergoop! Everyday SPF 30 with Cellular Response Technology: Supergoop! has been in a lot boxes, based on what I've seen around the blogs, but I've never tried anything by this line. So I'm kind of excited about this! (I get excited about a lot, clearly.)
- 32 Oral Care Effervescent Breath Crystals with IsoVoxy: This is my lifestyle extra for the month.
This was a Kate Spade Saturday decorated box, and it was so super cute! I can definitely see myself saving these boxes to use once I'm in my own space and can store such things. This box also included a deal for $25.00 off a $75.00 on the saturday.com website, so that's exciting!
Beauty Protector Protect & Shampoo
Another star Beauty Protector launch, this sulfate-free formula adds shine and volume.
How To Use: Apply a quarter-sized amount to wet hair, concentrating on the scalp. Rinse thoroughly.
How It Works: In addition to honey pearl powder, Protect & Shampoo is packed with rich vitamins and a gentle mix of sulfate-free cleaning agents. This powerhouse lineup cleanses and nourishes your strands.
Will I Use It?: I have actually completely used the shampoo sample, and I really liked it. I really liked that it smelled exactly like the oil I received in my February birchbox. I felt like it got my hair clean, but didn't strip out anything unnecessary.
Beauty Protector Protect & Condition
Love Protect & Detangle? Use this nourishing conditioner with shea butter before spritzing.
How To Use: After shampooing, apply to hair, focusing on the middle and ends of strands. Rinse thoroughly.
How It Works: In addition to honey pearl powder, Protect & Condition is formulated with natural ingredients like shea butter and apple, lemon, and orange extracts. Together, they hydrate and nourish hair with vitamins and minerals.
Will I Use It?: I've used up all of this sample, as well, but I wasn't as impressed with it as I was the shampoo. It pretty much just smelled like lotion, and didn't really do much to my hair to keep the tangles out- I probably spent a good 10 minutes trying to get my hair untangled. I wasn't impressed at all with this conditioner, and there about three uses in the sample bottle provided, so I feel like I got a pretty good representation of how the product would perform.
LAQA & Co Sheer Lip Lube Pencil - Coral
Perfect for spring, this high-gloss, semi-sheer lip color glides on buttery-smooth.
How To Use: Swipe onto lips, and build for more pigment. Bonus: It smells minty fresh!
How It Works: Unlike some glosses that simply provide a nice shine, this lip lube channels softening shea butter, which moisturizes and fills in any unsightly lines, and is infused with refreshing mint. Available in an array of wearable, softly pigmented shades.
Will I Use It?: I tried this out, and honestly, the color is just way too light for me. I'm definitely a "my lips but better" kind of lip color wearer, if I wear it at all, and this is just much lighter for me than I'd prefer. I also wasn't super fond of the texture of this product, or the way it looked on my lips. I might give it to a friend to try, but I won't be reusing this myself.
Supergoop! Everyday SPF 30 with Cellular Response Technology
This lightweight cream provides water-resistant, SPF 30+ protection anywhere you need it.
How To Use: Apply a shot glass-sized amount to face and body 30 minutes before stepping outside.
How It Works: This lightweight sunscreen quickly soaks into skin—but since it’s noncomedogenic, it doesn’t clog pores. It’s loaded with beta-glucan for moisture and free radical-fighting antioxidants to keep skin looking young. And its scent—a subtle botanical fragrance with hints of citrus and basil—beats the typical sweet, pseudo-tropical sunscreen smell any day.
Will I Use It?: I haven't used it yet, but I've heard a lot about Supergoop products (though I haven't actually tried any myself), so we'll see! I might do a review later on, if I think I have anything substantial to say about it.
32 Oral Care Effervescent Breath Crystals with IsoVoxy
Breath-freshening crystals that attack unpleasant odors for a delightfully clean feeling.
How To Use: Swish around in your mouth until they begin to pop (that's when you know they're working!).
How It Works: Unlike gum and breath mints, which only mask bad breath, these teeth-cleaning crystals pack zinc and IsoVoxy to kill odor-causing bacteria. Once dissolved, they leave a fresh scent courtesy of natural peppermint flavors.
Will I Use It?: This was my lifestyle extra for the month. This kind of seems like a breath mint version of PopRocks, and I'm not gonna lie, I'm intrigued! I haven't tried them yet, but they're in my purse and ready to be used.
Overall, I really like this month's box! I've continued to be impressed by birchbox, so I'll be keeping my subscription another month!
If any of you are interested in signing up for Birchbox, 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 the Birchbox card included in the box.
This post contains Amazon.com affiliate links and a birchbox affiliate link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
The individual product links to the birchbox product page are not affiliate links.
I pulled the trigger. I decided to sign up for Birchbox. And I picked a pretty good month, because February was the Birchbox collaboration with US Weekly!
I couldn't help myself and peaked at the contents of my box prior to actually receiving the box, but I was still really excited when I saw what was coming, and once I received it.
Side Note: I was given a light studio for my birthday from my super awesome Sister-in-Law and Brother-in-Law! I'm still playing with my set up a bit and trying to make sure there are no shadows and all that good stuff, so please be patient with me in the mean time!
(As usual, since this is my first box, I am showing the complete unboxing.)
Each box comes with a card that, on one side, details the "theme" of the box, and on the backside, lists all the products that are included.
Beauty Protector Protect and Oil
Exclusive Launch! This just-for-you hair oil defends against UV rays, heat, and breakage.
How To Use: Smooth one to three drops into damp hair, working from the roots to ends. Or, you can apply a small amount to the ends of dry hair to tame frizz and provide light conditioning.
How It Works: This nourishing formula uses star ingredient argan oil to protect, strengthen, and add a pretty gloss to strands—all without heaviness. Armed with UV and heat protection, it stands up to two of our favorite past times: heat styling and spending hours in the sun. The paraben-free formula is also cruelty-free.
Will I Use It?: Well, I do love a good hair oil, so I imagine I will be making use of this soon! It's getting pretty great reviews on the Birchbox website (It's about at a 4 1/2 out of 5 stars). I will definitely update you guys when I use it and get an idea of whether I like it or not!
Harvey Prince Hello
Best-selling spritz that mingles cheerful citrus with floral notes. Well, hello there!
How To Use: Spritz on first thing in the morning and whenever you need a fragrance mood boost.
How It Works: Made with eco-friendly ingredients, this scent has all-day staying power. A top note of Meyer lemon captures the scent of fresh-squeezed lemonade, while Satsuma mandarin adds a double fruity note. Next up, summer forsythia and pink plumeria—traditionally found in Hawaiian leis—give the scent its heady floral layer.
Will I Use It?: I have tried it, and it is a really nice scent. It's definitely not something I would have purchased for myself, but after wearing it most of the day today after receiving my box, I like the way it mixes with my body chemistry, and it really lasts! I'll definitely keep using the sample!
OPI Sheer Tints in Don't Violet Me Down
This tinted top coat gives nails a wash of high-shine, translucent color.
How To Use: Wear the tinted top coat over bare nails for a sheer wash of color or customize your shade by layering to achieve your desired outcome.
How It Works: The translucent colors take your polish to the next level: Make solid nail lacquers pop by brightening or darkening, accent glittery or dark polishes, transform crème and shimmery shades, reveal imbedded colors in your favorite hues, and layer to create the ultimate ombré look.
Will I Use It?: I tried this on one of my bare nails, and to be honest? It's not my thing. I think if I had received the pinker color, it might be a little better for me, but overall I'm not really into this. I might try it over a couple polishes to see what kind of look comes out, but I haven't decided yet.
Harney & Sons Fine Teas (Black Tea in Paris (Caramel and Citrus), and White Vanilla Grapefruit (White Tea infused with Vanilla and Grapefruit))
Rich and flavorful tea blends from the family-owned craft brand.
How to Use: Steep sachet in boiling water according to directions.
How It Works: Harney & Sons has a robust range of teas. Try one of their black teas: Organic English Breakfast is a classic black, Early Grey Supreme adds citrus for a twist on the original, Hot Cinnamon Spice blends orange, cinnamon, and cloves, and Paris is fruity with vanilla and caramel flavors. Then there are the green teas: Japanese Sencha has light accents of citrus, Organic Green with Citrus and Ginkgo brings added health benefits, and Organic Bangkok blends green tea with ginger, lemongrass, coconut, and vanilla. And the herbal teas: Chamomile is mellow with very subtle apple flavors, Rooibos Chai brings spicy, earthy flavors with a hint of nuttiness, and Mint Verbena is a refreshing mix of mint and citrus. Finally, the flavored teas: Pomegranate Oolong is a tangy fruity brew, Caribe blends black and green tea with tropical flavors, Tilleul with Mint mixes peppermint and woodsy tilleul, and White Vanilla Grapefruit is a sweet brew with a white tea base.
Will I Use It?: I love tea, so I will absolutely be trying these. I'm not at all familiar with this brand, but depending on how I like these two samples, I will definitely be checking out their Earl Grey (my fave tea type) and the Caribe. And the Pomegranate Oolong. Okay... so I may just buy all of them!
If any of you are interested in signing up for Birchbox, 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 the Birchbox card included in the box.
This post contains Amazon.com affiliate links and a birchbox affiliate link. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
The individual product links to the birchbox product page are not affiliate links.
