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 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!


(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.