Birchbox vs ipsy: July 2014

Time again for another birchbox vs ipsy match-up!

What came in my birchbox?

Benefit Posiebalm, Beauty Protector Protect & Treat Mask, NAOBAY lotion, Caudalie overnight detox oil, and Ruffian polish with bonus polish remover towelette.

What did my ipsy bag contain?

Lavilin cream, bareMinerals cream eyeshadow, pixi tinted lip crayon, Hang Ten tanning oil, and Pür Minerals waterproof mascara.

The winner: birchbox.

Birchbox was a winner for a couple reasons: non-American brands and the overall products. I like all of the products I received, and will not be swapping any of them. I love the Ruffian polish, and the ability to pick one of my samples.

Ipsy didn't win because there wasn't any sample that I am really excited about, although I am only swapping one of the products.

Birchbox: 3, ipsy: 4

My referral links are below, should you like to sign up and give me free points:

Birchbox:

https://www.birchbox.com/invite/hv6ks

ipsy: http://www.ipsy.com/r/4xwr

Birchbox: July 2014

This month birchbox teamed up with Women's Health Magazine!

The special packaging featured small polka dots:

The inner box is covered with health-related items such as yoga pants and weights.

July's theme is: Power Up.

The flip side has the info on the products in the box.

Also included is a booklet with 12 challenges. Subscribers are encouraged to post pics of the completed challenges.

First look:

Beauty Protector

Protect & Treat Mask

Sample size: two 0.5oz pots (Full size: $25.95)

"Developed by stylists, this argan oil treatment restores strength and magazine to hair. Work through wet hair, focusing on ends. Leave on for up to 20 minutes before rinsing away."

Beauty Protector always has the best smelling products! Plus, this mask is pink! I am also really pleased that two samples pots are included. Keeping with my history, one of the pots arrived with the cap loose. Luckily it isn't liquid, so no spillage this time.

Benefit Cosmetics

Posiebalm

Sample size: 0.01oz (Full size: $18)

"This mango butter balm hydrates lips and provides a wash of sheer, just-right pink. Sweep onto bare lips, or over your favorite Benefit tint for instant moisture."

As you can see the box arrived a bit banged up. Luckily the tube inside wasn't damaged. The size of this sample is disappointing, but I like the color.

It's kind if hard to see, but it is a very sheer, pale pink.

Caudalie

Polyphenol C15 Overnight Detox Oil

Sample size: 0.03 fl oz/2 mL (Full size: $52)

"An all-natural blend of antioxidant plant oils works to hydrate, purify, and renew skin. Before bed, apply six drops of the oil over clean face. Wear alone or under night cream."

Another new to me product from Caudalie. I love receiving their products, I just wish their samples weren't so small. 

NAOBAY

Body Radience Lotion

Sample size: 1.01 fl oz (Full size: $24)

"This Spanish favorite uses olive oil and avocado to naturally hydrate and soften skin. Massage generously into skin, focusing on dry patches like elbows and knees."

I love all things Spain related, so I look forward to trying this lotion!

Ruffian

The Rapture Collection - Rosary

Full size sample! Sample size: 0.17 fl oz (Full size: $10)

"Streak-free metallic polish in a trendy, summer-perfect shade. Apply a base coat and follow with a single coat of this long-lasting lacquer."

This month birchbox gave subscribers the opportunity to pick one sample. The choice was between a Ruffian polish or a Cynthia Rowley lip gloss. Clearly I went with the polish. I had the option of either Relic, Ambrosia, or Rosary. I debated over Ambrosia but decided on Rosary. It is a really pretty coppery color.

Birchbox also threw in a Ruffian Acetone-Free Towlette. It is supposed to be a great nail polish remover. The full size is $12 for a set of 10.

Also included is a free one year subscription to Women's Health Magazine.

I haven't actually ever pursued this particular magazine, so I look forward to that.

This month I also took advantage of Birchbox Plus.

There were three options, and I chose the Beauty Protector Dry Shampoo.

I like it, but am really disappointed that it doesn't have the signature Beauty Protector smell.

Summary: I really, really liked my birchbox this month! Loved the polish, and the fact that I could pick it! Like the brands and the mix of product types. Just wish some of the samples weren't quite so small. I am also happy that I took advantage of Birchbox Plus, andook forward to next nonth's offerings.

Birchbox:

https://www.birchbox.com/invite/hv6ks

My referral link should you like to subscribe and give me free points.

Ipsy: July 2014

Time again for another ipsy bag! This month the theme is: Sensationally Sunkissed. 

The reverse has the logos of the possible brands sampled in the bag, as well as details on how to win a one-year free ipsy subscription.

The bag is a summery bright pink, but nothing special IMO.

First look:

bareMinerals

5-in-1 BB Advanced Performance Cream Eyeshadow - Devine Wine

Sample size: 0.03 oz (Full size: $18)

"Meet the next generation in eye shadow: creamy, long-wearing color meets exceptional skincare benefits and broad spectrum SPF protection. Chock-full of skin-loving ingredients, this breakthrough product delivers 5 benefits in one luxurious formula.

Benefits:

• 12-hour long-wearing color
• Supercharged primer
• Powerful brightening benefits
• Smoothes the appearance of fine lines
• Protects with Broad Spectrum SPF 15"

Of the two bareMinerals eyeshadows ipsy was sampling this month I was hoping not to get this one. And boy is it tiny! That said I do like the color and it blended well when I swatched it on my hand.

This also came with a free shipping offer from Ulta:

Hang Ten

Dark Tanning Oil SPF 8

Sample size: 1 fl oz (Full size: $11.99)

"Highlight your healthy glow with our organically indulgent dark tanning oil. Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, & exotic plant extracts. Tan naturally!"

I don't think I have ever used a tanning oil. My first thought was actually a flashback to my 90's childhood when my mom and her friends always used that coconut-scented tanning oil from Hawaiian Tropics. Lol. Seattle is going through a stretch of really warm weather, so this could be the perfect time to test this oil out.

Lavilin

Jojoba Gel Cream

Sample size: 15 mL (Full size: $21)

"Jojoba, out of all nature's compounds, is the most similar to human skin oil. It is known to restore the skin's natural luster and suppleness, and soften and hydrate dry skin. Lavilin Jojoba Cream calms and softens skin, is excellent after over-exposure to sun, and is suitable for use in intimate areas."

Jojoba creams seem to be the popular item to sample this month. Could be a good item to use after the tanning oil trial. It was developed and manufactured in Israel, which is kinda cool.

Pixi Beauty

Mini Tinted Brillance Balm - Pretty in Pink

Sample size: 0.06 oz (Full size: $14)

"Packed with lip-loving ingredients, this glossy gel balm protects & hydates lips instantly. After the balm wears off, lips are left tinted with a flattering, personalized hue just for you (color & intensity depends on pH level of lips)."

I'm always happy for lip products, and this is a nice color. Lip crayons seem to be the hot item right now. Too bad this is a baby one.

Pür Minerals

Big Look Waterproof Mascara - Black

Full size sample! Sample size: 0.12 oz (Full Size: $20)

"Rain or shine, take your lashes to the extreme! Made with Argan Oil—a revolutionary ingredient, loaded with lash-loving omega fatty acids, vitamin E and antioxidants— Pür’s waterproof mascara evenly coats each lash in beautiful, budge-proof colour. Go big with our exclusive, clump-resistant wand, ensuring a smooth, no-mess application— even in tough inner corners. This waterproof lash enhancing mascara is the last waterproof mascara that you will ever need!"

I love the "rain" detailing on the cap! Sadly I am on black mascara overload. Plus, I am not much of a waterproof fan. So off to the swap shop this will go.

Summary: another month that is a bit ho-hum for me. And only one full size sample which is a bit disappointing. That said, only one of the items will be swapped away. That is a better ratio than the other boxes I have received this month.

ipsy: http://www.ipsy.com/r/4xwr

My referral link, should you like to sign up and give me free points.

Beauty Box 5: July 2014

My July Beauty Box 5 has arrived! 

This month the theme is: Defining Moments.

Product details are included on the back (complete with correct company hashtags):

This month was a complete mystery for me!

Revlon 

Bold Lacquer Mascara - Blackest Black

Full size sample! Sample size: 0.24 fl oz (Full size: $7.99)

"Meet our newest every day fave! Thanks to its lacquered formula, this mascara not only delivers volume and definition, but actually lifts lashes--no curler necessary. Oh, and did we mention that it doesn't smudge or flake? A total steal."

I am a bit on mascara overload at the moment, so this one may be swapped. I wish this wasn't black. I have so many black mascaras. A lighter grey or brown would have been exciting. Nice to receive a full size item though. 

This came with a little coupon booklet, complete with selfie frame:

I'll toss this in if I do end up swapping the mascara.

Hask

Argan Oil Intense Deep Conditioning Hair Treatment

Full size sample! Sample size: 1.75 oz (Full size: $2.49)

"Plauged with dry, damaged hair? No more! Restore your mane to all it's shining glory with this thick, nourishing cream that delivers results that last for two weeks! BB5 Tip: Just apply to wet hair (you only need half of the packet!), wait 10 minutes, and rinse!"

I wish just wishing for this product after receiving a different Hask item in my Beauty Army box, and like magic this appears. I'm looking forward to trying a deep conditioning treatment, and am happy this will stretch to two uses.

Body Drench

Candy Licious Lips - Red Licorice

Full size sample! Sample size: 0.09 oz  (Full size: $3.99)

"Give your lips a treat! Infused with beeswax, coconut oil, and vitamin E, these candy-flavored lip balms taste like the real thing (without the guilt or sugar-rush) and are utterly irresistible to men and small children, so apply with caution!"

This is a nice little lip balm. There is a bit of color, and a faint taste of red licorice. A nice item to have in my purse, but not a balm I would buy again. 

Anna Naturals

Glowing Mama Walnut Face & Body Scrub

Sample Size: unknown (Full size: $10.99)

"A favorite of all-natural beauty devotees and expecting mamas, this luxe vegan scrub is infused with moisturizing botanicals for safe and gentle exfoliation without parabens, harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances."

This may be a bit too hippy-dippy for me, and I don't love the scent. This will probably end up at the swap shop.

Miss Jessie's

Multicultural Curls

Sample size: 1 fl oz (Full size: $16)

"A true hero product for ladies with multi-textured curls, this styling lotion fights frizz and delivers the soft, gorgeous hold you've always dreamed of. BB5 Tip: apply a capful to wet hair, scrunch, and air dry to keep your natural curls!"

I received this same sample in a previous birchbox, so it was disappointing to see it again. Not BB5's fault though. I have no use for this item, so it will be joining the other one in the swap shop.

Summary: I liked this month's box, but not as much as the previous two. The number of full size samples is nice, but the brands are mainly drugstore. I will keep my subscription for at least another month though.

Anyone else tried Beauty Box Five??

Beauty Army: July 2014

I have to start by admitting this box arrived over a week ago. I've just been too lazy/busy to blog or otherwise post it. Now I have boxes piled up awaiting my attention, so brace yourselves for a slew of reviews. 

This is a new to me subscription, and was actually a birthday gift from a friend. The premise of Beauty Army is a bit different than other sample boxes. Instead of being suprised with a handful of samples, for $12/month the subscriber gets to choose six samples from a list of available products. This list changes each month. Full size products are also available for purchase.

I filled out my beauty quiz and was presented with my possible samples. I will admit that I wasn't super impressed with the selection, and there wasn't any one sample that I was excited to try. It also seemed fairly hair product heavy. I made my six selections though, and the box was shipped quickly. 

(One note here, I signed up and made my choices in different sessions. I honestly do not recall entering my payment information or the gift card number. No money was debated from my account, so I have no idea if this was a free box or if I paid for it in some way. No payment section is listed in either my order history or account settings, which is strange.)

First look! The orange box is nice and sturdy. Definitely could be re-purposed for something.

Since each box is customized to the user there is not a standard info card. Instead the card has a summer bucket list. Very cute!

Already knowing exactly what products inside was a bit less fun then receiving my other sample sub boxes. Not sure why though since I usually always peek.

Agave

Healing Oil Treatment

Sample size: 0.1 oz (Full size: $24-$40)

"Soothes, restores & transforms unmanageable, frizzy hair"

This is my second Agave sample this month. I swapped for one before picking this up. They are different packing, although they are the same small size. I'm curious to test and see the difference.

Phyto 5

Jojoba Shea Butter Face Cream

Sample size: 0.17 fl oz (Full size: $64)

"An intensive nourishing treatment cream for dehydrated skin. Protects, regenerates and minimizes fine lines. Ideal for mature skin."

I wouldn't consider my skin "mature" but I do get more ma'am than miss. This face cream is made in Switzerland, and has an interesting smell. I'm curious to see how I like it...

Nelson J Beverly Hills

Aegean Oil 7 Moisture Healing Mask - Pomegrante scent

Sample size: 0.5 fl oz (Full size: $20)

"Unique 100% Argan Oil derived moisturizing treatment provides long lasting and the most effective result for color-treated, dry, or damaged hair."

I've never tried a hair mask before, so I am looking forward to giving this one a whirl. I wish I could have sampled the coconut scented one instead though.

Vincent Longo

Lip & Cheek Gel Stain - Liquid Kiss

Sample size: 0.09 fl oz (Full size: $24)

"A lush, multitasking formula that adds a pop of long lasting color to lips and cheeks."

I was looking forward to this sample when I selected it, but the color is so dark in person it reminds me of blood. Kind of freaks me out. I may be swapping this instead.

Hask

Keratin Protein Soothing Deep Conditioner

Sample size: 1.75 oz (Full Size: $25)

"Are color treatments, blow drying and hot irons leaving your hair lifeless and drab? We feel your pain! That’s why Keratin is a key ingredient in these fab new Hask products. Keratin Protein is the stuff your hair, skin and nails are made of—so it’s no wonder it’s so powerful and restorative for your hair. Keratin revives, restores, calms and strengthens parched, frizzy locks—wiping out the effects of heat, humidity and over-styling and helping your hair look and feel its best. What can’t Keratin do, you ask? Hold the curling iron for you, but that’s about it. Making Hask® Keratin Protein products a part of your daily beauty routine can help to revitalize and condition that hair of yours, all while sealing in moisture and shine!"

This is basically a full-size sample, the difference being for the full size price you get 12 of these packets. Like the hair mask, I have never deep conditioned my hair before. So, again I am looking forward to that experience. Also like the hair mask, I wish I could have sampled the argan oil one instead of the keratin protein. I might see if I can swap them.

Roux

Anti-Aging Hair Serum Leave-In Treatment

Full size sample! Sample size: 4 fl oz (Full Size: $11.99)

"Leaves hair healthier and rejuvenated for more beautiful, younger-looking hair from the inside out."

I chose this item because it was one of the only full size items listed. The scent is really strong though, so I will be swapping this away.

Summary: I think the value of six samples for $12 is good, and having the ability to pick your samples is neat. Overall though I wasn't super impressed and won't be subscribing. It was fun to check it out though.