Birchbox March 2015

I still really love how all the boxes are totally customized this year, and this box is no exception to that! This month, we got to choose, again, between three samples, or a curated box, and I chose the amika Bombshell Blowout Spray.




I cannot get over how cute this box is!



amika Bombshell Blowout Spray
Lightweight styler that volumizes, smooths, and protects for a sleek yet bouncy 'do.
How To Use: Divide damp hair into sections and spritz from roots to ends before blow-drying.
Will I Use It?: I tried it, and I do not like it. Since this was my sample choice, I can't hold it against Birchbox, but this was just awful. It made my hair so crunchy and sticky, and not at all volumized or sleek. I will definitely not be using this again or repurchasing it. 



Number 4 Clarifying Shampoo
Vitamin-rich botanicals gently purify hair while restoring lost moisture and shine.
How to Use: Work a small amount into a lather with damp hands, apply to wet hair, then rinse.
Will I Use It?: I'll definitely be giving this a try, but I'm currently trying out a couple other shampoo samples I need to get through, so I'll have to do a review in the future.
Also included in this box was a bonus sample- the Reconstructing Masque!



Smashbox Cosmetics Be Legendary Lip Gloss in Disco Rose
Creamy lip color with a subtle sheen and serious staying power.
How To Use: Glide onto lips, layering for a bolder hue.
Will I Use It?: I absolutely will use it! I love this color, and the gloss is just beautiful on the lips. It goes on smooth, and builds up really nicely. It's not at all sticky. This is definitely a keeper, and even though the sample is tiny, it will still last me a long while.



Supergoop! Daily Correcting CC Cream SPF 40 in Fair/Light
Next-generation SPF 40 CC Cream that triple protects against UVA, UVB, and infrared-A rays.
How To Use: Apply a nickel-sized amount over face and neck- it works as both a primer and a foundation.
Will I Use It?: I'll definitely give it a try! I love trying new BB/CC creams, and this sample should give me at least two to three uses, which is a pretty good indication of how well it's going to perform for me. I'll do an updated review once I have a chance to try it out.



Whish Shave Savior Hair Inhibiting Gel
All-natural formula that slows hair growth while deeply hydrating skin.
How To Use: Smooth onto slight damp skin after showering.
Will I Use It?: I might save this for after the baby is born- I'm only shaving my legs once a week or so (shaving is hard when you have a belly to deal with!), so I feel like I can't properly test this product now. I will put up a review one I am able to test this out.


Other than the amika spray, I really, really enjoyed this box and will use everything in it. Although the smashbox and supergoop! samples were a little small, there's still enough included to make an informed decision about the products. I'm definitely happy with this subscription, and can't see myself cancelling any time 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.

The only affiliate link used is the Birchbox affiliate link directly above. Any other links to the birchbox shop are just for reference only. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

Birchbox February 2015

This month, we again got the choice of three different samples, or a guest editor box. I chose Marcelle's Gentle Make-up Remover for sensitive eyes. This was also the Rent the Runway month, and all subscribers received $30.00 off a Rent the Runway rental of $75.00+! (Which I thought about using for my baby shower- they don't have maternity wear, but there are things that could work, but I didn't want to risk it and everything is also just a bit too fancy.)
I've changed the birchbox reviews up a bit, as well, like I did with ipsy.



Again, we get 60 points for this box- 10 points for every sample we review, and an additional 10 for sharing on twitter or facebook! This seems like a regular thing now, and like I said last month, this essentially makes Birchbox a $4/month box. I can't get over what an amazing deal that is!


And, I know... vertical pictures! I've made myself a note for next month to not take them vertical anymore. It's a learning process!
On to the box!




I really love this box, again! We were advised to keep our boxes all year, and I've already decided to repurpose mine to hold my samples in. I'll have to do an updated product organization blog soon to show you guys what I mean!




BeeKind Body Lotion
Made with honey and organic chamomile, this yummy UK fave sinks in to restore skin.
How To Use: Massage generously into skin.
Will I Use It?: I've been kind of obsessive about lotion lately- my skin has been pretty dry (a combo of pregnancy and winter), so I could always use another one! I haven't tried this yet, but it smells nice, and it's currently in line for me to try!




Eyeko Skinny Liquid Liner in Black
From the go-to UK eye makeup line, this user-friendly liquid liner goes on velvety smooth.
How To Use: Trace our upper lash line, or try your hand at a cat-eye.
Will I Use It?: I was so excited to see this in my box! I've heard nothing but good things about the Eyeko liners, and that they're fairly easy to use if you're a beginner with liquid liner, which I definitely am! 




Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Cleanser
Made with organic botanicals, this hydrating wash declogs pores and brightens skin.
How To Use: Twice daily, massage onto damp skin. Rinse well and follow with moisturizer.
Will I Use It?: I have added it to my growing sample stock of cleansers that I can't currently use (I'm sticking to mostly natural products or low-ingredient products), but I'm excited about this, too! 




Juice Couture Hollywood Royal
A floral scent with notes of candied apple, white petals, and cashmere wood.
How To Use: Spritz onto pulse points to feel walk-the-red-carpet glamorous.
Will I Use It?: I really, really like this scent. As a matter of fact, I think I have enjoyed every Juicy Couture fragrance I've ever smelled, and if you know me, you know I'm not much for perfumes. I plan on giving this a try on my days off (office policy is no strong scents, and I'm also a sensitive person myself to scents to I try to abide), and figure out if I should purchase it.




Marcelle Gentle Make-up Remover for Sensitive Eyes
Hypoallergenic formula that's tough on even long-lasting makeup, but gentle on the eyes.
How To Use It: Dispense onto cotton ball and wipe eyes to remove liner, shadow, and mascara.
Will I Use It?: This is the product I picked as my sample choice this month, and I am so happy I did! I've heard this was a really good product, but this was one-swipe good. And the day I tested this, I was wearing quite a bit of eye makeup, including waterproof mascara. And it didn't irritate my eyes at all. So far, I am super impressed and I already want to buy the full size. But I'll keep trying it first!


I am seriously so happy with this box! I like every product and can see myself using them all, and that hardly ever happens. Great job, Birchbox!


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.

The only affiliate link used is the Birchbox affiliate link directly above. Any other links to the birchbox shop are just for reference only. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

Birchbox Brag Haul #2

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.

Birchbox January 2015

I feel like it's been a really long time since I've shown you all what's in my Birchbox!

This month, we had a choice of three samples, or two different guest editor boxes. If you're curious about them, you can watch their January Sneak Peak video below. I didn't choose a sample or a guest editor box this month.



As a subscriber, my big takeaways from this video were this:
1) We're supposed to keep all of our boxes for 2015. They didn't say why, but I know mine will be put away. Just in case.
2) You can earn 60 points with this box- 10 points for each sample you review that you've received (everyone receives 5 samples), and then an additional 10 points for sharing that page. I really hope this becomes a regular thing- that means my Birchbox is basically $4.00 a month. Which is unreal for what you get!


I also had major issues with my account this month- for whatever reason, I could not see my box. Not on the app, not on mobile internet, and not on my computer browser. Luckily, Birchbox Customer Service is THE BEST and within a week, my issue was resolved. And for my trouble, they hooked me up with 100 additional Birchbox points!
I really cannot say enough good things about their customer service, and to me, it's just another reason why I don't see cancelling my subscription anytime soon.

Quick Note: I took these pics with my iPhone, and I took them vertically. I absolutely hate the way it looks and will not be taking them that way in the future. I also am not using my backdrop right now, as you can tell.
Okay, on to the box!



The packaging on this is super cute! Even if they didn't suggest keeping the box, I probably would because I just love it!



Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45+
A cult favorite, this all-in-one provides light coverage, anti aging benefits, and mega SPF.
How To Use: Blend a nickel-sized amount onto clean skin, following with concealer if needed.
How It Works: This tinted balm contains myriad of complexion-benefiting ingredients. Adenosine improves skin’s elasticity, and arbutin brightens and evens out skin tone. An antioxidant bio-peptide complex provides anti-aging properties and promotes collagen production, while titanium dioxide and zinc oxide add broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
Will I Use It?: I will definitely give it a try. As of this blog post, I haven't yet. I did read several reviews that indicated to me this product may not be for us oily-skinned girls, but I'll definitely try it out soon.




Harvey Prince Sincerely
Sweetly spicy scent with Indonesian clove bud, Indian tuberose, and Japanese orange flower.
How To Use: Spritz onto pulse points- and see where this intriguing scent takes you.
How It Works: The fragrance features carefully selected notes from around the world: South African freesia mingles with Japanese orange flower, Moroccan rose, and Australian sandalwood.
Will I Use It?: I won't be using this- it's just not for me. I don't know if it's the sandalwood or the freesia, but something in this doesn't agree with me. Which is disappointing- I have liked all the other Harvey Prince scents that Birchbox has sent me!




Sumita Color Contrast Eyeliner
This soft wax pencil delivers rich, long-lasting color that won't irritate eyes.
How To Use: Glide along lash line. Colorblock with your other liners for a sleek, modern look.
How It Works: The soft wax pencil won’t tug the delicate skin around your eyes, while a dose of hydrating glycerin guards against irritation. There are seven dramatic shades to choose from, including playful Signature Lime Green and a classic rich Black.
Will I Use It?: I actually used this the day I'm writing this post to line my upper lid. I really, really love the color I was sent (Hansa), and this went on so nicely! I could definitely see pairing this as a base to the Jade color in the Lorac Pro 2 palette. 




Vasanti Cosmetics BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator
This customer fave mimics the effects of microdermabrasion for glowing, smooth skin.
How To Use: 3-5 times a week, massage a pea-sized amount into damp skin and rinse. For all skin types.
How It Works: This powerful exfoliator mimics the results of professional microdermabrasion, minus the potential for redness and sensitivity. First, papaya enzymes break down dead cells while evening out your skin tone. Next, dermatologist-approved microderm crystals fade the appearance of fine lines and acne scars, leaving skin smooth and free of imperfections. Finally, aloe vera, coconut, and vitamins B and E nourish fresh skin to keep it free of irritation.
Will I Use It?: I have received this product three different times now, and I will eventually use it... but I still have the other two! (I know I received one in my birchbox haul, and I believe I may have received one in a Test Tube... but it must have been an additional sample because I don't have anything under Vasanti in my labels.) I took a break from products like this after I found out I was pregnant, but I'm sure I'll go back to using this stuff after I have my little guy.




Whish Three Whishes Body Butter in Lavender
Luscious, antioxidant-rich formula that firms, softens, and soothes.
How To Use: Smooth onto skin after showering. A little goes a long way.
How It Works: Organic aloe, shea butter, and raspberry butter conquer dryness, while organic seaweed extract contains naturally high levels of skin-firming peptides. The formula also includes organic rice bran oil, a natural source of tocotrienols, a potent antioxidant that defeats free radicals and provides UV protection.
Will I Use It?: I have used this, and I like it. The Lavendar scent is pretty soft, and it goes away really quickly after application- I couldn't even smell if at first when trying to smell it from the bottle. I have been lotioning my belly at least twice a day, but the day I used this, my belly still felt very moisturized when I went to use lotion in the evening. So I might actually be looking into purchasing this again really 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.

ipsy vs Birchbox, October - December 2014

Since I have not done an ipsy or birchbox review since my last ipsy vs Birchbox, this is all new stuff! I'm still just going to do what I did last time- compare the boxes as a whole.


ipsy vs Birchbox October 2014
Here's my ipsy from October 2014

And here's my Birchbox from October 2014


Even though I have tried the Sukiface Exfoliating Cleanser in March 2014 New Beauty Test Tube, Birchbox was definitely the winner for me this month. I have used every single sample in it. For the ipsy, the lipstick is sitting in a stash of stuff I need to give away, the handcream is tossed in with the others, and the mascara was just meh. I didn't choose any of my samples in this Birchbox- I just let them curate my box for me.
Winner: Birchbox


ipsy vs Birchbox November 2014
Here's my ipsy from November 2014

And here's my Birchbox from November 2014


This month, I opted to get the Birchbox Buzzfeed Box (read more about it at the Ramblings of a Suburban Mom blog) when they asked me to choose a sample, and even though I picked it, I think I would've been happier just letting them choose the box. The mascara is an extremely wet formula that is just really doing me no favors, and I really, really disliked the candle scent. The only thing I kind of liked is the dry shampoo. The ipsy bag, on the other hand, was decent, and I've used the eye liner and eye base quite a bit. I will be passing off the lip sample and highlighter to a friend, but, overall, I just liked it more. I also really, really liked the bag this month!
Winner: ipsy


ipsy vs Birchbox December 2014
Here's my ipsy from December 2014
 
And here's my Birchbox from December 2014


This month, I picked the eyeliner in my Birchbox, and I received a rose gold that I have used at least three times a week since receiving my box. And I used the hair spray once, but I wasn't super impressed with the staying power. For ipsy, I have used everything, and really enjoyed the products they chose for me- and I FINALLY got to try the Tarte deluxe lights, camera, lashes mascara that so many people rave about. And that eye polish is a really pretty rose gold that I've also gotten a lot of use out of, and will continue to do so. And the bag is super cute, though I kind of think it would've been more appropriate for a February box, since it has a pink heart. 
Winner: ispy


So the score for this quarter is Birchbox - 1, ipsy - 2, and the overall total for both is Birchbox - 2, ipsy - 3, and both - 1. 
I am going to keep both of them because I still love the Birchbox points system, and wish ipsy did something similar. But I love that ipsy gives more makeup products. And at $21.00 for both, it's still not something I feel like I'm not getting my money's worth out of each month.
This series will continue in the beginning days of April!



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.
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: I pay for both subscription boxes with my own money. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Ipsy vs Birchbox, July - September (are they both worth it?)

I wanted to do a quick post about what I have thought about my ipsy bag the last three months, compare it to my Birchboxes from the last three months, and then ask myself- is it worth the money to keep them both?

Birchbox and ipsy July 2014
 

This was the first month I had ipsy, and at the time, I really like it, but looking back, I haven't really used any of the products, and none of them are now must haves for me. However, the Birchbox has two products I really loved (the nail polish the posiebalm), and I will be repurchasing posiebalm once I run out of the sample. So I guess this month, Birchbox won for me!


Birchbox and ipsy August 2014
 

This month, ipsy definitely won me over more. I LOVE the Perversion mascara, I've used that eyeshadow so much, and the Mongongo lip balm is now something I can not see myself ever not having. For the birchbox, I wasn't excited for it at the time, and looking back, it's probably one of my least favorites. I did really like the perfume, and have it on my favorites to possibly purchase one day. This month, ipsy won!


Birchbox and ipsy September 2014
 

Since I'm not that far removed from when I received the boxes, I can only say that both boxes were fine. I've used most of the products in both of the boxes, and don't really feel like any are must haves. (Though, I haven't tried the Liz Earle Cleanser yet.) Nothing so far strikes me as something I'll be repurchasing, but I liked the curation of both boxes. So this was a tie month.


So the score is Birchbox - 1, ipsy - 1, and both - 1. Which, to me, means it's absolutely worth it to hang on to both. Neither of them is the absolute winner, but both have been curated according to my profile and have some good products that I still use.
I'm going to make this a quarterly series, so I'm going to check back in at the beginning of January for October, November, and December.


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.
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: I pay for both subscription boxes with my own money. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Birchbox September 2014

It's Birchbox's 4th anniversary! Happy Anniversary, Birchbox!

This month, I received an email asking to choose a sample, much like last month and the month before. I hope that means this is becoming a regular thing, because I really like it!



I chose to get the 2nd sample on the top from the left, which is the Davines sample package. The reason I chose this is largely because it's a complete Shampoo/Conditioner/Oil set, and there's also three products, so I knew I would get to review them all, which will give me more Birchbox points.

I received my shipping notification on the 6th this month! According to "Everything You Need To Know About The Birchbox Cycle," all boxes now ship by the 10th, which is awesome, because it used to be you didn't really know when it would ship. I'm really happy mine shipped so early.
However, I did have to wait until the 10th to see all of my spoilers!



- Atelier Cologne Vanille Insensee Cologne Absolue: The description says this has jasmine, vanilla, and lime. I'm not sure about those combos together, but it could surprise me.
- Davines OI/Oil Absolute Beautifying Potion: This is a serum, actually, and you all know how much I love hair stuff.
- Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser Starter Kit: This is probably the most hyped up item I will receive in a Birchbox (at least up to this point), so I have very high expectations!
- Davines OI/Shampoo: This shampoo claims to boost volume and improve hair texture. We'll see!
- Davines OI/Conditioner: This is supposed to soften and protect hair, and improve drying time. Again, we'll see!
- Acure Organics Day Cream Gotu Kola Stem Cell +1% CGF: Hmmm another anti-aging day cream. But this also claims to help fight free radical damage, and who doesn't want that?! (Okay, that was slightly sarcastic, even though I do know that it's a good thing.)
- Pixi by Petra Breath of Fresh Air Exclusive Lip Balm Set: I'm assuming since the sample says set, I will receive them all? I guess we'll see!




I LOVE the packing this month! It's so cute!



Acure Organics Day Cream
Made with gotu kola stem cells, this antiaging moisturizer firms and protects skin.
How To Use: Smooth onto clean, dry face, neck, and chest
How It Works: Chlorella growth factor protects collagen and elastin fibers for stronger, more elastic skin. Gotu kola stem cells stimulate cell turnover, help fight free radical damage, and firm skin tone, restoring and evening complexion. The easily absorbed formula locks in moisture for all day nourishment of normal to dry skin.
Will I Use It?:I definitely will give it a try. I've heard it's a thicker moisturizer, so I might wait to use it when it's not 100 degrees plus outside every day. I will definitely post a review once I am able to use it.




Atelier Cologne Vanille Insensee Fragrance
A fresh, lively blend of soft vanilla, romantic jasmine, and bright lime notes.
How To Use: Spritz onto pulse points- a little goes a long way.
How It Works: Romantic and sumptuous, this scent is a worthy addition to any fragrance collection. Top notes of bright lime and coriander mingle with middle notes of jasmine and oak moss. Madagascar vanilla and amber notes anchor the scent.
Will I Use It?: I haven't been in the mood for perfumes too much lately, but when I am, I'll give this a try. I also really like the postcard the sample came with- it's super cute! I've been using it as a bookmark.




Davines Oi Conditioner (the shampoo and oil are bonuses)
Loaded with apricot butter and roucou oil, this detangler protects and softens hair.
How To Use: Apply small amount to hair after shampooing, focusing on ends. Rinse after 2-3 minutes.
How It Works: Natural active ingredients like antioxidant-fueled roucou oil guard hair from harsh UV radiation and heat styling, while apricot butter softens, conditions, and soothes.
Will I Use It: I love hair products, and trying them, so of course I'll try it! And I'm thrilled that Birchbox gave me the whole system to try. I will definitely post a review once I get a chance to use it.




Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser Starter Kit
UK favorite that uses a two-step ritual to purify and exfoliate. A Birchbox exclusive!
How To Use: Massage into skin. With muslin cloth, wipe off gently in small circles, from the center out. 
How It Works: This creamy cleanser contains moisturizing cocoa butter, and two of nature’s best astringents: eucalyptus essential oil and rosemary. These plant oils lift dirt off the skin’s surface without disrupting the natural barrier function. The 100 percent cotton muslin cloth gently exfoliates without irritation, even for the most sensitive complexions.
Will I Use It?: I absolutely will use it! I've heard such good things about this product, so I wonder if it will live up to the hype? I will definitely provide a full review and let you all know!





Pixi Shea Butter Lip Balm in Ripe Raspberry
Dual-purpose balm that hydrates with shea butter and give lips bright, buildable color.
How To Use: Swipe onto lips for instant moisture. Layer on for a more intense hue.
How It Works: This exclusive set features four tinted lip balms: Honey Nectar, Ripe Raspberry, Natural Rose, and Comfort Clear. Formulated with shea butter and vitamin E, each infuses lips with moisture with every application. No flaking or dryness here!
Will I Use It: I have used it, and I really like the color! It has better pigmentation than I thought it would, it's very smooth, and lasts quite a while. I definitely recommend it!



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.

Birchbox Brag Haul #1

It came to my house in a white and orange box. 


I was pretty excited to finally spend my birchbox points, and get the shampoo and conditioner I've been wanting to try, along with quite possibly my favorite hair oil ever. 



I received the Agave Smoothing Haricare Trio, the Tweezerman Procurl Lash Curler (I really wanted to try a "high end" lash curler and figured since I have the points, I might as well spend them!), and I also got the Mystery Sample pack, which is normally $10.00 but I received it for free since I spent $35.00. It came with the Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvinator and a sample of Follie de Joie eau de parfum, both of which are samples I've received before, but I like them both so I wasn't too disappointed.

For all of this, I only spent $9.00 because I used 500 birchbox points (which is $50.00). 


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.

Birchbox August 2014

This month, I received an email asking if I wanted to customize, much like last month with the Relic nail polish.




This email came to me at 7:19am, but since I work at 7am, I didn't see it until my break time and the choices were already gone. (Ramblings of a Suburban Mom did a review of the Everygirl Box, if you're interested in seeing one.) I really wanted the Everygirl box, but since it wasn't an option, and I didn't like any of the Lighten Up sample choices (all of which are pictured above), I decided to go ahead and leave my complete box a surprise this month.

I received my shipping notification on the 9th, and my spoilers, as usual, were available to view on the 10th.



- Harvey Prince Ageless - Pink Grapefruit: The notes in this seem to be ones I might like, so we'll see!
- Number 4 Hair Care Number 4 Super Comb Prep & Protect: As I've said about a thousand times now, I'm always willing to try a new hair protector.
- theBalm cosmetics Stainiac: This is one of the items that I could have chosen if I had wanted to choose an item. Don't get me wrong- I'm okay with receiving this still, but I specifically didn't choose an item because I wasn't excited about any of them, and it seemed like, if you didn't chose, you wouldn't receive one of the items. I guess I can just be glad it wasn't the eyeliner.
- Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream: I'm probably least excited about this, especially since I see that a full size is $20.00.
- Paula's Choice RESIST Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum: At first I was a little put off- I'm only 29 and I definitely don't have wrinkles! But it has Retinol, and says it's also good for spots and acne scaring, so I'm a little less put off and a little more looking forward to seeing how it works.








Harvey Prince Ageless
This grapefruit-sandalwood blend leaves skin smelling youthful.
How To Use: Apply to pulse points for instant freshness (and a spring in your step.)
How It Works: Olfactory studies have shown that when the fatty acids in our skin begin to breakdown, they emit a particular odor. Fascinating, no? Even more fascinating: pink grapefruit and mango counteract that smell, which is why they’re called the ‘olfactory antidote to aging.’ Beyond the science, this lovely scent has layers of fresh citrus, pomegranate, and mango as well as jasmine, ylang-ylang, and sandalwood. It’s guaranteed to make you feel good.
Will I Use It?: This is a really nice, light scent. I really liked it, and could definitely see buying a smaller size of it some day soon. (I already put it on my amazon wishlist for future reference.)



Number 4 Hair Super Comb Prep & Protect
A sulfate-free conditioning spray that safeguards color and protects against UV rays.
How To Use: Mist evenly onto damp hair and style as usual.
How It Works: Natural conditioners—including black currant, soy yogurt, algae, and yerba mate—combine to restore hydration to dry hair, while the unique UV/Color Polar Shield protects dyed or sun-exposed locks. Soy and vegetable proteins repair damage caused by heat and chemical styling. And don’t forget about the defrizzing factor—anti-static technology tames flyaways, making hair more manageable and easy to style.
Will I Use It?: I've used it a couple of times, and I liked it. It smelled like chocolate cake when I sprayed it, but that scent didn't linger at all. (I think I'm the first person that has said that's what it smells like, but to me, it does!) It detangled my hair really well, and didn't weigh my hair down. I'll do a more complete review once I have a chance to fully use the bottle, but so far, it's really great!



Paula's Choice RESIST Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum
Retinol-powered antiaging treatment that fades dark spots and smooths away wrinkles.
How To Use: Before bed, gently smooth a few drops into clean, dry skin. Safe for the eye area too.
How It Works: This fragrance-free serum starts working immediately to clear up and smooth out skin. It releases a patented blend of retinol (stabilized for high performance), wrinkle-resisting antioxidants, and proven skin-soothers to help erase the effects of sun damage, poor lifestyle choices (ahem—tanning beds), and of course, Father Time.
Will I Use It?: I will use it, but there are some samples I'm trying to get through first. I'll review one I've had the chance to use it and form an opinion.





theBalm cosmetics Stainiac in Beauty Queen
Best-selling stain that gives cheeks and lips a sheer, rosy tint.
How To Use: Dot onto cheeks and blend quickly. Sweep over lips to give them a wash of color.
How It Works: The tinted gel leaves a lasting stain on lips and cheeks. Since it’s water-based, it has a longer setting time than most quick-dry stains, which means it won’t leave any unsightly streaks behind as long as you take care to blend well. Use a single coat for a subtle look or layer it on for a more visible (yet still discreet) hue.
Will I Use It?: I used it on my lips, and I liked the subtle color it left behind. I haven't tried it on my cheeks yet, but I will keep it in my makeup bag to try. I still kind of wish I would have been sent something besides this, but it is something I didn't have, and I enjoy the color.



Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream - Acai Grapefruit
A shea-butter packed, silky cream in a fresh-for-summer scent.
How To Use: Apply to legs, armpits, or bikini line before you shave.
How It Works: A moisturizing base of omega-rich squalene, organic shea butter, jojoba oil, and coconut oil protects against the redness and irritation associated with shaving, while organic green tea extracts infuse skin with antioxidants.
Will I Use It?: I will definitely give it a shot, and do a review on it further at a later date. I'm still not super excited about it.


I'm not as excited for this box as I have been in past months, but I appreciated that all the sample sizes are actually what I would consider deluxe samples- even the perfume is good enough to get an idea of whether or not I will actually like it. I still wish I had received a completely surprise box, but it doesn't take away from the fact that I like that all the sizes of samples were decent, and that I still really am loving my Birchbox subscription.

I also cashed in my points this month (I had $50.00 worth!), so I'll have a #BirchboxBrag post as soon as I get the items so you all can see what I got!


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.