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.

Birchbox April 2014

I am seriously in love with this box! So far, it's my favorite.

Of course I looked at the spoilers first, and here are my first impressions:

- Cynthia Rowley Beauty Eye Pencil - Depending on what color I get, this could be exciting! I've never tried one of her eyeliners before.
- Fekkai Technician Color Care Shampoo - I've tried this before, way back in 2011, as a product review thing from BzzAgent. Overall it's okay, but not worth the price of me repurchasing. I will enjoy using this again for now.
- Color Club Gala's Gems Collection - I enjoy Color Club's formula, so I'm excited to see what color I get!
- theBalm Cosmetics How 'Bout Them Apples? Cheek and Lip Cream - I don't own anything by theBalm, but I've heard good things. But I'm also not really a cream blush girl. We'll see!
- KIND Snacks Healthy Grain Bar - This is my lifestyle extra, and I've never tried these bars but have seen them in the store, so I'm intrigued!







Part of the box including 52 Bright Ideas for a Rainy Day, and I got #13. (If this is something that interests you, you can purchase all 52 from Birchbox for $10.00.



My Tip: Stage a full-force closet attack. Rule of thumb: If you haven't worn it in two years, you probably aren't going to wear it again. Put it in a bag and donate it. Reward yourself with a new outfit.
(I actually do this all the time- I am constantly purging my closet of clothing I don't wear.)



Here are all the products!



Color Club Gala's Gems Collection in Heirloom Pearls
We teamed up with style blogger Gala Gonzalez to create this exclusive shimmery shade.
How To Use: Use two coats for an opaque, pearl finish.
How It Works: These lacquer shades combine Gala’s beauty know-how with Color Club’s longwearing formulas. Gold Struck is an understated, soft gold that’s subtle enough for daytime wear. Breakfast At... is an emerald pearl that bears a striking resemblance to a certain iconic jewelry box. Aquamarine Azulino is a pearly sky blue with a hint of shimmer, and Heirloom Pearls, Gala’s admitted favorite of the whole collection, is an opulent off-white.
Will I Use It?: Yes, I love Color Club's polishes! Probably be looking for this in my next Nail of the Month update!



Cynthia Rowley Beauty Silver Eyeliner
The NYC-based designer's new metallic liner goes on smoothly for long-lasting wear.
How To Use: Gently trace your lash line for a defined look. Smudge within 30 seconds for a smoky eye, and then let the formula set for all-day wear. Sharpen the pencil as needed for a finer point.
How It Works: These luxe, creamy liners deliver bold color that lasts and lasts. Choose from five wearable shades: Black, Silver, Charcoal, Sky Blue, and Violet. Vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free, these liners feature Cynthia Rowley’s signature gold foil design.
Will I Use It?: I used to LOVE Silver Eyeliner in my high school days- it brings me back to my Sophmore year, studded jeans, and thick eyeliner. So I was actually kind of excited to see this- I would NEVER buy a silver eyeliner now, but I'm glad to have it back in my collection. And I put it on my lower water line and it just made my eyes shine! Definitely a keeper!  
I posted a swatch at the bottom of this post. 
(As a side note: I'm pretty bummed this has to be sharpened, I wish it was a twist up.)



Fekkai Technician Color Care Shampoo
This hydrating cleanser uses plant proteins to keep color-treated hair looking true-to-hue.
How To Use: In the shower, work a generous amount through wet hair, concentrating on your roots. Rinse, and follow with conditioner.
How It Works: Plant-based proteins keep color-treated looks looking true-to-hue, while moisture-restoring avocado oil hydrates dry, brittle strands. A potent blend of peach, apricot, and callendula flower extracts helps protect hair from discoloration and fading.
Will I Use It?: As I said above, I have used this shampoo before, and I did like it. I'll definitely use this.



theBalm cosmetics How 'Bout Them Apples Cheek & Lip Cream in Pie
From the brand's new palette, a dual-purpose, creamy stain with a hint of shimmer.
How To Use: For a true-to-life flush, dab onto cheeks and lips with fingertips. For a more precise line, apply to lips with a lip brush.
How It Works: This creamy lip and cheek palette offers gorgeous, long-wearing color with a slightly wet feel that makes it oh-so-blendable. You might say that applying it is as easy as (apple) pie. Each palette has six colors: Cider, Cobbler, Pie, Crisp, Candy, and Caramel. Mix and match for the sweetest results. Use Caramel for contouring, and dab Cobbler on your lips for a fresh shade of red. Layer Candy and Crisp for the perfect pink peach color, or use Crisp solo all over cheeks. Wear Pie on the apples of your cheeks, and try Cider to mimic the effects of a day spent in the sun.
Will I Use It?: Honestly, I have never really been a fan of cream blushes- I never feel like I'm using them correctly! But I do enjoy the color of this, and might use it as a lip cream. HOWEVER, I swatched this on my hand (see below), and wasn't at all impressed with the staying power. So I'll give this a try, but I'm not expecting much.



KIND Snacks Healthy Grains Bar - Maple Pumpkin Seeds with Sea Salt
The perfect combo of salty and sweet, these delicious treats pack a whole-grain punch.
How To Use: Throw one of these in your bag or a whole box in your desk drawer at the office, and you’ll never have to worry about being “hangry” again.
How It Works: Each bar is made with five super grains for maximum nutritional and taste bud benefits. Available in Maple Pumpkin Seeds with Sea Salt, Dark Chocolate Chunk, Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate, and a variety pack of the three.
Will I Use It?: Yep, I'm going to take it to work, and when I feel like I need a snack, I'll give this a shot. It definitely sounds like something that I will like.



Here are a couple swatches. Both products have really nice pigmentation.

This is my favorite box of the three I have received so far, and I'll definitely be keeping my subscription another month.
Birchbox also introduced their Aces program this month, and I am already half way to the 500 point goal! I think this is a great way for them to reward people that keep their subscriptions and review all the products in their boxes. Good going, 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.
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.