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!

July 2012 Glamour Birchbox

Many of you fellow subscribers know already that Birchbox has teamed up with Glamour Magazine for the month of July. The theme is "The Senses; See it, Hear it, Taste it, Touch it, Smell it"

I honestly had no idea what to expect because I was not so thrilled with my May Gossip Girl Box. I really feel BB missed the great potential for that box, but this box really blew my mind. Teaming up with Glamour was the right choice!

The colors for this box are all bright summer filled shades of fun. I loved the unboxing because it was uplifting to see the bright blue and green tissue paper and awesome bright pink and green ear buds after a long day of classes and work.

Info Card:

(All prices are via the Birchbox Shop for full sized items)

(Double click to enlarge)

BeautyBlender - The Original Beauty Blender

Retails at $25.95 for a set of two

I've seen subscribers in past month receive these and I have to admit I was curious to see what they are like. I do not wear foundation, but I do wear tinted moisturizer. I'm sure you know that by now if your a regular reader of this blog. I've been wanting to start my quest again for the perfect foundation so this will come in use. I will be trying it out with my tinted moisturizer and I hope its everything it claims to be. (Which ensures smooth, even coverage every time) You can read more on that here.

Harvey Prince Hello

Retails at $55, but can be purchased other shops/sites 

for as low as $22 for smaller packages of course.

This smells absolutely splendid! I honestly cringe at the sight of a perfume in my box, especially as a regular item instead of a Lifestyle Extra, but, this fragrance is so lovely and fresh with just enough classy and girly kick to it. I honestly will be purchasing this sometime. Most likely not through BB because I'd prefer a smaller bottle since I'm living a budget type of lifestyle

Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint

Retails at $38 

This will be my second tinted moisturizer from BB and I'm more than excited. I've had such great luck with the PUR Minerals 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer and I'm excited to try more. I'm particularly excited to try Jouer's because I've read many reviews about it's legitimate dewy finish that it claims to provide. 

Stila Lip Glaze

Retails at $12 for the "It's Go Time Lip Glaze Trio"

I've never actually used a lip glaze, however I'm so ecstatic that this item was in my box because Stila is a well known, quality brand. I've samples other Stila products and absolutely adore the brand. I received the color "Camera" which is a nice darker shade but still comes up with a great balance between shine and color. I like darker tinted colors because of my olive-tan skin. I am planning to but the set because of it's price and I want to use more of my points that I've been collecting.

LIFESTYLE EXTRAS

Tea Forte Minteas

Retails at $9.95 for 3 tins (75 mints)

These mints have the perfect minty, cocoa taste. I really enjoy these. They are in a fun, cute tin and I think really do give you that extra boost. I've been using them at school and work and believe me, I need them! Will I purchase these? Possibly, they are fun to have around. I like Lifestyle Extras like these!

Birchbox Exclusive Earbuds

Not for sale at BB, so no price. I have tons of earbuds and 

they range anywhere from $5-$15 for the basic earbuds.

I love these! The color is awesome and just "pops." They sound great  and really block out other noise. I use headphones on a daily as I walk to and from school, and have spare time at school to do work. I love that it came with a card to wrap them around because I often find mine tangled in my bag.

All in all, I am more than satisfied with this month's box! I rate this a 9/10 . I have been using each item! I love the samples sizes for everything but the Jouer Moisture Tint. That sample is honestly so tiny. I know i wont need much to test it out, but I'd like something I could use for at least week. Everything else is a hit. 

'

This is why I am subbed to Birchbox. I look forward to the August Box. I can't believe in September I will have been subbed for a whole year!In the mean time check out some of my previous boxes:

December 
January
February 
March
April
May

June
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xoxo
mattabellax3

Sneak Peek: Birchbox June 2012

This month has over 40 different products being shipped to subscribers. This video from the Birchbox Team shares a few. Some of these items looks promising. Here is a full list of the items shown:

(Descriptions and prices are from the Birchbox Shop) 

theBalm Stainiac http://birch.ly/LzkRRA

The handy wand makes applying this stain a breeze. Swipe onto your lips as you would a regular lip gloss. To use as a cheek stain, smile and dab two or three dots onto the apples of your cheeks. Gently blend the pigment into your cheeks using small circular motions.

$17 for the full size product of 3 fl oz. Can be purchased in three shades (In order shown):

Beauty Queen

Homecoming Queen

Prom Queen

Tili Bags http://birch.ly/KjKi9H

Fill your tili bag with your travel accessories or other belongings. Take it with you before you head out on your next adventure.

tili Bags Small Box Collection 1 

$8.49

tili Bags Large Box Collection 1 

$9.49

Melvita Floral Rose Water http://birch.ly/KU8ylp

This moisturizing spray is ideal for healing skin after sun exposure; don't forget to pack it with you on your next exotic vacation!

Can be found at the Birchbox shop retailing at $22 for 6.76 oz

John Varvatos Start U.S.A. http://birch.ly/KyHMkB

This dapper scent combines red ginger essence from Laos, juniper berries and cedrat from Sicily, blue spruce, green cardamom, osmanthus, vetyvert, belambre, and tonka bean from Venezuela.

$55 for 1.7 Oz Bottle at the BirchBoxShop

Masqueology http://birch.ly/MgzpIO

Start with clean skin. Unfold the mask and lay it over your face, adjusting it so the eyes, nose and mouth openings are comfortable. Then, kick your feet up and hang for 20 minutes. When you’re ready, toss the mask and rub in the remaining serum.

$24.00 for 3 Masks

Stila One Step Bronze http://birch.ly/KIaWNI

Apply this serum to clean skin for an all-over glow. You can wear it by itself or follow with foundation or tinted moisturizer for extra coverage. For subtle highlighting effects, dab on to cheekbones, brow bones, and the tip of your chin. Blend well.

$36.00 for the full size bottle of 1 fl oz

Juliette Has a Gun http://birch.ly/KU942S

Single Note Perfumes: Spritz onto your pulse points.

 

There are three different scents here and in order from left to right they are:

Juliette Has a Gun Miss Charming 

$85.00

Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume - 100 ml 

$110.00

Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume - 50 ml 

$85.00

Comodynes Self-Tanner Towelettes http://birch.ly/KyImi4

It’s important to exfoliate before you apply a self-tanner in order to get rid of dead skin cells that can block the pigment.

One towelette should be enough to cover your whole face and body, though you can use two if necessary. Run the towelette over your bare skin, taking care to avoid your delicate eye area. Wash your palms and nails carefully afterwards, and wait at least ten minutes before showering or getting dressed. The results will appear in about three hours. To maintain your tan, reapply every three to four days.

$14.99  for the 8 pack.

Unfortunately not all these items can be in our Birchbox. I do already like the fact that are some well known reliable brands show here. I'm really hoping the Stila One Step Bronze or even the Self-Tanning Towelettes. theBalm Staniac lip stain would be a great addition as well. I do not have high hopes to receive these goodies because Every time I see a Sneak Peak video, I receive weird off the wall products. Of course I know I can cancel but not all months are bad and I've found great products thanks to Birchbox. 

My box has shipped as of yesterday so in short time we will see what is in my box. Stay tuned!

What do you think of these products? Have you tried any of these products before? I know I haven't.

xoxo

mattabellax3

Birchbox: December, January & February

December:

December 2011 Birchbox

Products Included:

Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Birchbox Pink

Showstoppers® Designer Fashion Tape in Nude/Black

Benefit The POREfessional

Nuxe Huile

 Prodigieuse® OR Multi-Usage Dry Oil Shimmer

Atelier Cologne Ambre Nue Cologne Absolue

EBOOST Orange Natural Energy Booster

Birchbox gave me 100 extra points this month because they were slightly late! Thank you Birchbox!!

So I tried the Benefit POREfessional minimizing creme and I kind of like it. it soft and really does minimize my pores. I used it on my nose because that area is obvious on me, I got about 5-6 uses so I was happy with this item. I also tried the Jouer lip gloss and I love that the color was Birchbox pink. I think this color can be used on ANYONE. You can wear it as a pretty pale shimmery pink or build it up for that sexy hot pink. 

I rate this box 8/10. I still have to try the other products, but I'm just happy I have NEW products to try!

January:

BORGHESE CuraForte Moisture Intensifier

Juicy Couture - Viva La Juicy - 3.4 oz

Jouer Body Butter

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner - Peacock

LÄRABAR Mini Bars - Coconut Cream Pie

The only product I’ve tried before from this box us the LARABAR Mini Bar in Chocolate Chip Dough. I had the pleasure of testing that through Influenster’s VoxBox Program. I’m excited to try another flavor because I thoroghly enjoyed the bar I tried. LARABAR Mini Bars are made with all natural ingredients, meaning they are super healthy!! YAY.

The product I’m most excited to try is the Stila Smudge Stick Liner. I’ve played around with since the moment I saw it, and I’m almost positive this will become a staple. Its so soft, and seems as if it would be long lasting. Only time will tell.

Viva La Juicy smells AMAZING! I’ve never owned or tried any Juicy Couture product so this was a nice suprise. It’s very girly and kind of has a lively feel to it.

The Jouer Body Butter has a delightful, natural smell. I took a dab and put it on my hand, and it has the feel of sunscreen. :/ But I’m not totally throwing this one out. I want to give it a chance because I may end up enjoying this product.

After trying: Stila Smudge Stick is AWESOME! It brings out my brown eyes and looks great with my dark hair and olive/tan skin! The Larabar was alright, I'm not a big coconut fan but it wasn't too bad. I really want to try more flavors. And of course, I have yet to try the other products. I really take my Birchbox for granted and never seem to find time for the skin products. I really prefer cosmetics over skin care items.


I rate this box 4/10 The only item I guess I really enjoyed was the Stila Smudge Stick. I use this about 3 times week. 

February: 

BLK DNM Perfume 11 - Remind of pine needles or the woods. It’s a spicy scent. In my opinion, it’s not for me.

Exude Lip Creme - Very minty smelling. I received the color CORAL. Leaves lips moisturized and soft after it wears off.

Eye Rock Designer Liner - stick on liner strips for one times use. I received 4 different styles. I cant wait to try!

La Fresh - Nail Polisher Remover. Tuscan orange scent. This item I can go without.

Lifestyle Extras:

Heart Shape Nail File

Digital Download of the GREEN RIVER ORDINANCE, who are an Indie Rock Band from Texas. I do love me some great Indie Tunes so this bonus is awesome for me.

At first glance, my favorite item is the EYE ROCK liner, and my least favorite is the La Fresh Nail Polish Remover. That is, until I try the products!

So After trying, I LOVE the LA Fresh nail polish remover! It smelled great! I love a citrus smell and it was very soothing to my toenails. I have yet to download the GRO tracks, so I really need to get on that if there is still time. The Exude Lip Creme is nourishing and the color is very nice on my lips, and goes well with my skintone. I haven;t used the nail file. It's basically junk so I was bummed with that item. I'm waiting to use the EYE ROCK  liner for a special evening out. I'm weird i know :)

I rate this box 10/10. I really enjoyed the items I did try and look forward to trying the other items I haven't tried yet. This box was great for a first look!

My Experiences with Birchbox

So I've subscribed to Birchbox since August 2011. I read about in my monthly Cosmopolitan and signed up right away. I really enjoy getting my box each month. Its a nice surprise and there's always new products for me to try. Some months aren't as great but that's expected. You can't like everything. I will continue my membership as always and look forward to future boxes. My goal (for the April box) is to try EVERYTHING before the month is over. I tend to collect the items instead of actually using them all. SO here's to the future months ahead with Birchbox.