August 2012 Birchbox

Birchbox's theme this month is Beauty School. Birchbox focused on creating a Beauty School Supply Kit, filled with beauty essentials. Birchbox partnered with Pencils of Promise, an organization that works to provide all children with quality education. Birchbox is donating 15% of all proceeds in the month of August to Pencils of Promise to help build a new school.

The info cards this month are so adorable and came extra special with Beauty School tips that anyone can use. Instead of a normal card, there was a fold out pamphlet with great tips that I often forget and my "Supply Kit" was listed on the back. (Click to Enlarge)

Beauty Fixation Cuticle Conditioner $25 - These swabs are made to soften your cuticles. I never pay attention to my cuticles besides pushing them up so I think this item came at the perfect time, since I just had my acrylics removed.

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy La Fleur $70 - I love the original Viva La Juicy so I had extra high hoopes for this scent, and yes my expectations were met. This fragrance is so flowery and fruity and just pretty. I really want the full size!

Stila Stay all Day 10-in-1 HD Beauty Balm Foundation and Concealer $38-$44 -  I was psyched to see this item in my box but sadly when I saw the sample size and shade provided for me, I became disappointed. The samples are on sample card and can barely be enough for one use. The shade is "warm" which is so dark for me. I am an olive toned gal and this shade is for someone at least 10x darker than me.

WEI Pomegranate Buffing Beads 20 Packets for $20 - These buffing beads are designed to be mixed with a cleanser of your choice to lightly exfoliate the skin. My box came with two single use packets. I can't say I'm totally thrilled with the size and I'm still on the fence about this product. I understand this line is expensive but it is difficult to decide if you like something based off of two uses.

WEI Golden Root Purifying Mud Mask $42 for 8 masks at 8ml - This facial mask is made to dust away debris, dirt, and oils away from your face without leaving the skin dry and taut. Apparently the full size product comes with a reusable brush that is used to apply the mask onto your face with. This mud mask did leave my skin feeling so soft and supple, like porcelain but the price is just to high for this college girl.

Schick Hydro Silk Razor $9.99 - This razor is so amazing! I love Schick razors but the refills are so pricey. I love that this razor came with a $4.00 off coupon for the refills. Lately I've been using my bf's Schick Hydro for men razor and this is the perfect equivalent to that!

I rate this box a 7/10. I was not impressed with the sample sizes this month. I cringe at the sight of one time use samples because like i stated before, it is so difficult to try and products and form an opinion after one or two uses. This month was a mediocre follow up to last months.  

December 2011

January 2012

February 2012

March 2012

April 2012

May 2012

June 2012

July 2012

Birchbox Points Program Explanation

Join Birchbox Here!!

So what do think of my box? Any items you'd like to try? Link your Birchbox posts below so I can check them out!

TAG: Most Worn Things Summer 2012 Edition

Silvana at Glitz Glam Budget tagged a few blogging divas including myself to share our "Most Worn Things" this summer, so keep reading to my current favorites.


 

1. Most Worn Hair Product(s):

During Summer I give my a major rest from heat products and tools so the only product I can say I've worn most this summer is hairspray. I use it for my side swept bangs to keep them, well banging of course.

2. Most Worn Lipstick/Lipgloss:
Yes to Carrots Color Balm in Rosy Bloom. I bought this at target and use it more than once a day. I love the Yes To Brand and look forward to trying more product from them.

3. Most Worn Nail Polish:

I've had acrylics on my fingernails most of this summer, but as for polishing my toes, I've using th Sally Hansen HD Nail Color in Hi-Res 08

5. Most Worn Blush/Bronzer:
I've been wearing the Bella Bamba blush from Benefit. I love this blush just as much as I love the Bare Minerals Blush I've been consistently using for the last two year. Thank you again Abuilool! I won this from her giveaway about a month or two ago!

6. Most Worn Mascara:

 I absolutely love Hard Candy Mascasra and have used it almost everday this summer! It is affordable and long lsting. I lvoe how it make my eyes appear wider than usual.

7. Most Worn Foundation: 

I do not wear foundation, but I have been wearing my Pur Minerals 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer almost everyday, which is almost like a foundation. If you've read my review, than you know I am in love with this product! If you haven't read it, check it out here.

8. Most Worn Accessory:

I love this flower clip from Thirty One. Larger flower clips are available, but I prefer the smaller one for my hair. I usually wear in this updo at work, or a fishtail. This clip was only $3.00!

9. Most Worn Shirt/Top:

I love this Dolman style top. I've maybe worn this a bit too much, but is so flattering my curvy figure and it was $8.99 at  Ross.

10. Most Worn Shoes:

I have two pairs of these trendty sandals from Target and I plan to buy more. I believe they are $12.99 and I'm cesrtain they are sold every summer if you missed out on them. I've been wearing the white and brown equally. I love theses sandals because they are so easy to slip on and match just about every outfit.

11. Most Worn Handbag/Purse:

My Vera Bradley of course! This is not a winter bag, so I make sure to use it like crazy during spring and summer.

So what have you been wearing this summer?

Beauty Flawed
WyoSparkles

Betzy's Makeup

Huma Says
Daydreaming Realist 

Abuilool
Makeup Junkie Nikki
All Things Beautiful

Caateryna
A Lil Bit of This and That
Mirandas Makeup and More

Ms. Prettyful Girl

Beauty Love and Lipgloss
Beauty makeup Addict

Have you tried any of these products before? What are you wearing the most this summer? I encourage everyone and anyone to do this TAG, so be sure to leave your links in the comments! <3

To check out what Silvana has been wearing this summer click here.

Pür Minerals 4-in-1 Mineral Tinted Moisturizer Review

Prior to using Pur Minerals 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer, I've never used a tinted moisturizer, or anything from Pur Minerals. I honestly haven't read much about them either. I didn't expect much coverage but boy was I worng. After testing this product through my April Birchbox, I purchased the full size product because I fell in love with it! I bought this via Birchbox and redeemed it with my points. I didn't even have to pay shipping because each month items ship free! Total Freebie!!

The Pur Mineral 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer is not like any other tinted moisturizer. This tinted moisturizer has added benefits that many others do not. Pur Minerlas 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer is not only a tinted moisturizer, but a primer, sheer foundation, and SPF 20 all packed into 1.

This tinted moisturizer comes in 4 shades: Light, Medium, Tan, & Dark. Birchbox only offers Light & Medium. I received Medium and it works perfect for my skin although I am decently tan. 

This product retails at $34 via the Birchbox and Pur Minerlas websites. That may sound like a lot, but this product lasts a long time.

The original sample from my Birchbox was a true "deluxe size" sample. It was very generous and I can honestly say I got over 15 uses form it. I love that because It's easier to test out a product based on more uses rather than a one time use sample.

Here you can see the sizes between the full size and sample size:

Swatches:

As you can see in the third picture, it blends in very well with my skin tone.

What I love about the Pür Minerals 4-in-1 Mineral Tinted Moisturizer:

This tinted moisturizer gives me the exact coverage I need. it's not too heavy but it truly "blurs" my blemishes and evens out my skin tone. When using this tinted moisturizer, I feel like my skin looks flawless and has a natural glow. This product also has a bit of shimmer to it which I think adds dimension to my face. This product is so easy to use; you simply smooth a small amount on clean skin and blend evenly. The primer works great  as my blush stays on all day. I've even used it as eyelid primer and make up stays put and lasts almost day. (Unless I'm at school and work all day. i work in a restaurant so that's expected)

After trying this I plan to buy the 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Foundation, because I did find I became a bit oily through the day, which is normal since I have combination-oily skin and am of Hispanic descent. I typically do not wear foundation, but this product and brand gives me the confidence to give it a try. 

What's great abut Pur Minerals website is that they list what colors go great with each shade of tinted moisturizer. if you're interested in that click here to read more on that and ingredients.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Does not take long to apply
• Actual product lasts a very long time
• Coverage lasts a long time
• Includes a long lasting primer
• Includes a sheer foundation
• Includes an SPF 20
• Gives my skin a radiant, natural glow.
• made from natural ingredients
• Not tested on animals
• Does not break my skin out
• If I'm in a hurry I feel comfortable to wear this tinted moisturizer with mascara and leave the house.

Cons:

• Price, but the product lasts so it's worth it
• The shimmer can sometimes be a bit too much

All in all, I highly recommend this product. Although it is a bit pricey, it's not a total budget breaker as you can easily and quickly save up to buy it. I rate this product a 10/10. I've added this to my daily beauty regimen and won't ever look back.

Have you tried the Pür Minerals 4-in-1 Mineral Tinted Moisturizer or any other tinted moisturizer? What are your thoughts?

Birchbox Subscribers! What have you redeemed with your Birchbox points?

Check out my Birchbox Points 101 Post!

Join birchbox Here!

Ulta Urban Decay Smoked Palette Giveaway

This giveaway is so simple, so why not enter it?

Ulta is giving away 5 Smoked Palettes via Facebook. Visit the "Fabulous Fan Giveaway” tab HERE to enter. Simply "Like" Ulta and fill out the form and BOOM, you entered the giveaway!

The Smoked Palette looks stunning as usual for an Urban Decay Product. They know how to pick perfect names for their products! The name of this palette makes it so much more enticing.

****Enter ASAP because this giveaway is ending soon****

Always & Tampax Always Radiant Collection

Disclaimer: I received this product complimentary for testing purposes from Influenster.

My last two VoxBox's included the Always & Tampax Radiant Collection, which is fabulous since I have been using these brands since I hit puberty. Even if I'm tight on money I never switch to anything else because this brand is that affordable. I have of course tried other brands when I've received samples or had that emergency and had to borrow from a friend, but I always go back to Always and Tampax. Sounds almost like a LTR huh?

This kit is so adorable and included 1 pad, 1 panty-liner, 2 tampons, 2 coupons, and a wristlet to carry your products in in for discreet travels.







I have tried the Radiant Collection previous to receiving it my latest VoxBox's but that's okay because I can always use extra for my stash. I have used the coupons and was thrilled because my local Giant Eagle doubled them wihout even asking!

If you have not tried the Radiant Collection before, I highly reccomend it! These pads and tampons are super reliable.



Pros:

• Affordable
• Comfortable
• Ease of use
• "CleanGrip" plastic applicator
• "LeakGuard" braid to stop leaks as they happen
• Features the "FormFit" protection that expands to fit one's own unique shape

Cons:
There aren't any! I am not saying that because Influenster sent these to me for a review, because if you know anything about the program, than you know they want honest feedback. As stated before, I have been a fan of Always and Tampax since puberty.

If you would like more information on this collection or other Always/Tampax products be sure to click the links below to check out their websites.

Always Website

Tampax Website

Latest Klout Perks

It has been quite a while since I've posted about a Klout Perk that I've received. I do post Alerts for current perks, however I rarely post about the perks I actually received mainly because I don't receive them as often as I'd like, and most are discount codes which I don't totally care for. Nonetheless, it's free and why complain?! If you've never heard of Klout, check it my out Klout 101 post.

AVEENO MAKEUP REMOVING WIPES

A few weeks ago I received the Aveeno Perk which I signed up for about a month ago. I received the Aveeno Active Naturals Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes. I must admit I am not so good with cleaning my face at night, so luckily these came to ease that problem. These wipes have a fresh, clean smell and they work perfect! It's been a long time since I've used a makeup removing wipe.

As you can see this package is the full size, including 25 wipes. I love that Klout's Perks are almost always full size!

ESSIE LUXEFFECTS STROKE OF BRILLIANCE

The other latest Klout Perk I received is the Essie Luxeffects Polish in "Stroke of Brilliance."

This polish a a gorgeous glittery blue that has nice hints of purple.

I have set of acrylics on with painted black tips, and I added this polish to them which works out because the black polish was starting  to fade and chip. I used two coats to get a lot of the glitter to show. And yes I need them filled in! I now have 2 polishes from the Luxeffects Collection, including "set of Stones" which came from my March Teen Vogue Birchbox.

Are you on Klout? +k me here and I'll +K you back!!

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen

Disclaimer: I received this product complimentary for testing and review purposes from Influenster.

In case you haven't heard of this product before or have yet to try it, here are a few important details you should know:

• This moisturizing lotion is also a sunscreen! #winning!
• I received a 2 oz bottle with 30 SPF, however this lotion is available in 12, and 50!
• This sunscreen lotion provides a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB protection
• Provides 12 hour moisturization while your out catching some rays!
• Contains ultra-luxurious hydrating silk ribbons
• 6 oz bottle retails for about $8.99
• Can be purchased at almost any major retailer!

My experience:

I must first explain how bad I am regarding sun safety. I have used tanning beds a lot in the past. I have laid off of using them in past two months and I'm considering other tanning alternatives. I read so much about the hazards and the damaging effects from the sun, and quite frankly, I'm afraid of it! I am good about using facial products that contain sunscreen in them, which  is a big step considering I never worried about it before. So with that being said, I'm so happy to have received this item in my latest VoxBox from Influenster.

I've been using this lotion all over my chest, arms and legs. Those areas are always susceptible to the sun's harmful rays and I rarely ever protect them. I love using this lotion in the morning because it honestly lasts my entire school day, and some. It also reminds me of the tanning salon because its tropical smell. The plus side to this lotion is that it's also very light weight. It doesn't have that greasy feeling that some lotions leave behind. I highly recommend everyone giving this lotion a try. It will be great for winter because it will remind of the beach during those gloomy grey winter days.

Pros:

• Ease of use
• Affordable
• Easy to find and purchase (even in my small town)
• The smell is magnificent
• It's staying moisturizing power
• The Hawaiian Tropic product line has many products to choose from, including self-tanning lotions! Whoo-hoo!!

Cons:

• None! can honestly say I have absolutely no complaints about this lotion. I will be purchasing the full size of other products from the Hawaiian Tropic line.

Have you tried this lotion sunscreen yet? What are your thoughts?

If you're interested trying products like this as an Influenster click here.

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Follow Hawaiian Tropic on Facebook 

Influenster Summer Beauty VoxBox

I have finally received the entire Spring Beauty VoxBox from Influenster. I received my partial VoxBox in Early July with only 3 items; The Quaker Banana Nut Bread Soft Baked Bar, and the Clear Scalp Shampoo and Conditioner. After emailing/tweeting Influenster about this whole mess, they replaced the missing items and explained that the issues were due to a new company shipping out our VoxBox's. Many bloggers I chat with had missing items as well, and I truly think Influenster has corrected this issue. So after all these problems I am happy to share the contents.

**I've noticed this time around, samples are much smaller than before. The only full sized product for this VoxBox is the nail polish. No complaints, but this is how many companies turn out; Enticing with larger samples, then slowly sending smaller samples. Interestingly enough, these samples are still bigger compared to samples I've received in services I pay for.

Info Cards:

(Click to Enlarge)

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion (Sunscreen w/SPF 30)

This bottle retails for $8.99 for the 6 oz bottle. Influensters received a 2oz which is still generous. This lotion smells amazing, and reminds me of the beach. I enjoy sunscreen with a fragrance because many sunscreens have that not so desirable sunscreen smell.

Tampax and Always Radiant Collection:

 

Prices Vary per box. This box came with 4 samples. All products in which I am familiar with and currently use. The best part about this item being included in this VoxBox is that it came with the cutest bag, perfect for discretion.

Quaker Soft Baked Bar:

Came in the Flavor Banana Nut Bread and retails at $3.29 for a package of bars. This bar is light and super soft. the taste is absolutely divine and honestly tastes as if my grandma made it! These are a great snack for my school days!

Sally Hansen Magnetic Color:

Came in 908 Graphite Gravity and Retails at $9.99 per bottle. This item is the item I am most excited about. I am just starting my polish collection and this will be a great addition.

Sally Hansen Nails and Cuticle Hand Creme:

This handcream retails at a super affordable $5.99 per 3.4 oz bottle. Influensters received a nice sized 1 oz bottle, perfect for testing purposes. This lotion is made with shea butter and has a great citrus smell.

Clear Scalp and Hair Beauty Therapy:

These shampoos and conditioners are a brand new product everywhere! They retail between $4.99-$5.99 for 12 oz bottles. Select Influensters received 3 fluid oz bottles which is fantastic for a sample size. Most shampoo/conditioner samples are foil packets. I really enjoy the smell and look forward to using this product.

After receiving the entire VoxBox, I rate it 10/10. Everything is great and will be fun to try! With that being said, I cannot wait to receive my next VoxBox; The Latina VoxBox!

Summer BBQ Cravebox (July 2012)

Summer BBQ Cravebox:

Info Cards:

I love that Cravebox shows the twitter handle and FB fan page link. I love following brands I use.

I linked each content title with the brands website for those of you interested.

Bic Flame Disk 

The BIC Flame Disk seems like a superb idea for virtually anyone. My hunny and I rarely ever have the time to grill so this product makes it that much easier. The price is affordable as well. 

Mighty Leaf Iced Tea 

I am a tea fanatic and am so lucky because I have received so many different brands of tea from all the boxes, or freebies sites I subscribe to. This tea came with a coupon which is not pictured because I already used it. I liked this tea enough to purchase it. 

The flavor is great because it has the perfect balance between the green tea taste, citrus notes, and organic flavoring. It is quite refreshing and has an amazing aroma that filled my kitchen.

Mozaik Appetizer Ware

I've never heard of this brands before. I love discovering new products and brands and that is why I love any subscription service. These cute and classy appetizer plates will be used very soon. They are absolutely adorable and perfect for that special party. Unfortunately, I can only order more online because they physical stores in which they are sold are only in larger towns/cities. Luckily Amazon is only a click away.

Bic Lighter Coupon

These Bic Lighters are always a staple in my house. I use them all the time. Lately I haven't a BIC lighter, but the cheaper kind from the Dollar General and let me tell you, it makes a difference. I love that this coupon is for a *FREE* full sized multi-purpose lighter. Walmart here I come!

True Lemonade

I can't say I'm a total fan of these. Not because of the brand of itself, but because I do not like powdered drinks. They rarely turn out right for me and leave a not so desirable after taste. The flavor for this lemonade is better than most. I like that this brand offers many flavors and has natural sugars. I'm always trying to take in less sugar.

I rate this box a 10/10. Cravebox stuck to the BBQ theme perfectly. I will use the contents of this box entirely and am so satisfied with this month's box. I look forward to the August Cravebox.

To check out my JUNE Cravebox Click Here

SIGN UP FOR CRAVEBOX HERE!

I will not get points or referral bonuses for those of you who click this link. This is the Cravebox Sign Up Page and is not a unique link

Klout Perk Alert: Essie Mirror Metallics

 Klout has released another Perk from Essie. This polish will be from the Mirror Metallics line. All the colors would be something I can wear.

I did notice that at the bottom of this photo it says only 873 left! Get your hands on this fast.

If you have a score 45 or higher with any of the topic listed below in the "high" range, you will be eligible for this perk.

Keep in mind, you may not get a "notification" for this perk. I did not and I still am receiving this perk because I clicked the arrow under my name, clicked "Perks", then clicked the orange "Claim This Perk" button and then clicked the orange "I'm In" button.


or you can use this link:


http://klout.com/#/perk/Essie/EssieMetallics

I will not receive anything for anyone who uses this link. I just love to share a good freebie!

Here you can see what colors are included in this collection. You will not find out what color you will receive until you receive it. SURPRISE!