My birchboxes over the last few months have been really hit or miss, and more recently they tend to be misses. Due to that, my excitement for this particular subscription has been waning a bit more each month.
With that exciting introduction, here is a glimpse of the usual pink outside packaging.
Inside the outer packaging is the actual box, which is brown.
Each box comes with a card that has a blurb about the theme. January's theme is "Go Time" and is all about taking on challenges and trying new things.
The back of the card has information about the products in the box.
The reveal! Each box has tissue paper inside, usually pink, but I had already discarded it before taking pictures.
A closer look...
Before I go into detail on the products, I do have to note one item that isn't pictured: Ahmed Tea London.
First out of the box, "pin-able" cards with motivational sayings.
And on the back, ideas and suggestions to be happier. Tying into the "Go Time" theme.
Meh. I appreciate well designed paper products, but I don't anticipate actually pinning any of these cards to my walls.
100% Pure
Reparative Cream, Organic Eye Cream, & Soothing Night Cream
Each sample packet is: net wt. 0.067 fl oz/2 ml (Full size: $19 - $38)
"This moisturizing trio diminishes lines, plumps, brightens, and smoothes. Use the body cream on dry areas like elbows and knees. Apply the night and eye cream daily."
I will confess that I haven't tried any of these creams yet. It seems like a good brand, and per the packaging it is one hundred percent natural and vegan. Also animal cruelty free.
Fekkai
Brilliant Glossing Créme
Sample size is: net wt. 45g/1.6 oz (Full size: $19.99)
"Rich in olive oil, this creamy frizz-tamer gives strands all-day shimmer. Smooth a nickel-sized amount through dry or damp hair before styling."
There is a light, pleasant smell to the cream and I do see some shimmer. I tried it one morning, but was in a rush and didn't do any styling. Really didn't notice any difference, but I think a more in-depth test is needed.
Inika
Mineral Eyeshadow in Eternal Marine
Full size sample! Net wt. 1.2g/0.04oz (Full size: $20)
"Packed with certified-organic ingredients, these natural pigments stay vibrant for hours. Apply to lids dry or wet using your favorite shadow brush."
I swatched the color, but have yet to wear it out into the real world. I like the color, a bit like the ocean during a storm. Per the packaging, product is 100% vegan, cruelty free, and halal. From Australia.
Not the best picture. The shadow has a lot of shimmer to it, which is fun. I will enjoy the sample, but at a $20 price point I probably won't be purchasing another one.
Nail Rock
Red Glitter
Full size sample! 10 ml/0.3 fl oz, net wt. 5g/0.18 oz (Full size: $6.99)
"The UK's two-step system for your sparkliest mani ever. Accent nail, anyone? Use two coats of polish. Dip wet nails into glitter pot, let dry 20 minutes, and shine on."
My first thought was: Fun! Quickly followed by: Wow. That is intense. I have yet to have a go at this polish, simply because I have been too obsessed with my Julep subscription to wear any other polish. From the pics I've scoped out on Instagram, it looks cool. I think I would limit it to an accent nail or two, rather than an all over look. It does seem like a messy process to get the glitter on the nail...
Ahmad Tea London
Assorted teas
Sample size: three packets (Full size: $7)
"Beat the winter chill with tasty blends from a Buckingham Palace-approved British brand. Steep 3-5 minutes in near-boiling water."
As my "Lifestyle Extra" I received these packets of tea, and I have been referring to it as Queen Tea. Of the three flavors I received, one is Apricot Sunrise which I gifted to B, my co-worker who launched my subscription addiction. I am not a fan of fruity teas, but they are B's favorite. The second was an English Breakfast blend, which I have already consumed. It was delightful and probably my favorite item in the box. The third packet is Mint Mystique. I have yet to try this one, but it is in my desk drawer at work just waiting for the right moment.
Summary: a better box than usual. I'm excited that there were two full-sized samples, which make up for the small eye and body cream samples. Just the value of those two items ($26.99) is worth the cost of the $10/month subscription. The tea was a bonus item, and therefore isn't supposed to count towards the value of the box, but it was a welcome inclusion and my favorite item. All of the brands were new to me, and ranged from French, Australian, British, and American. Part of the fun of getting these boxes is trying new products, and this month certainly accomplished that.
Next month Birchbox is partnering with US Weekly, so I have high hopes for that box!
Birchbox:
https://www.birchbox.com/invite/hv6ks
My referral link should you like to subscribe and give me free points.
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