Beauty | October 2015 Birchbox Review

This month I actually chose one of the curated boxes, mainly because there were a few products I wanted to try and a product I already knew that I loved. It seemed like a win-win. The box is all about breast cancer awareness, which is a cause near and dear to my heart. All of the brands in this box help support breast cancer research, which is a great thing.

 

 

1.  Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer

Full size $36

This is one of the products I wanted to try, so that is why I chose this particular box. To say I'm disappointed in the sample size would be an understatement. It is tiny. .25 fl oz tiny. I have a rather big face I mean, don't we all? I hope I can at least see if it's worth the $ to buy a regular sized one. This is a primer that is oil free and is supposed to create a nice, smooth, flawless finish for your foundation/tinted moisturizer/whatever. 

2. Clinque Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

Full size $39

This is super lightweight cream-gel that is meant to soothe and plump skin, along with hydrating it. It's very creamy and sinks right into the skin, not leaving any sort of oily, greasy residue on your skin. It's also very cooling, it feels really nice when you apply it. The price is a bit much for me, personally, but I think this sample is perfect and should last awhile. 

3. Clinque Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balm in Mega Melon

Full size $17

I already have the Clinque Chubby Stick Baby Tint Moisturizing Lip Color Balm in Coming Up Rosy and to say I love it would be an understatement. Also what is with the long names Clinque?! This tinted lip balm is full of shea butter and other hydrating products. I already know that I love the formula, just from using the other one I own. I'm particularly excited about the color because it's a nice, natural, nude-pink shade that will look great for everyday use.

4. Darphin STIMULSKIN PLUS Multi-Corrective Divine Cream

Full size $295

This is a luxury product, as evidenced by the price. I will never spend that much on a beauty product, but I'm happy to try a sample for next to nothing. This is a rejuvenating corrective cream that claims to visibly soften lines, nourish and brighten your skin. It's definitely a dream to apply, it's super creamy and soft - it feels really nice. But the scent is reminiscent of a flowery grandmother perfume - which is not my cup of tea. I will definitely use up this sample, and then move on to my more affordable products.

5. Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Serum Synchronized Complex II

Full size $65

This a highly potent overnight eye serum that is supposed to dramatically reduce all signs of aging. That is some mighty big claims. I won't see results with the tiny little sample size I got, but I like the packing with the pump dispenser. The product itself is incredibly light, which is great for under the eyes - but I like to apply something heavier at night and really let it soak in. Also, the price point is way out of my range again.

I would consider this box a success because I got to try some products I have been wanting to try, I got a product I already knew I loved in a new color and I got to try some high end products that I would never be able to afford otherwise. This is just a small reason as to why I'm incredibly pleased with my Birchbox subscription! 

Beauty | September 2015 Birchbox

So the theme for September is Better Together. It is meant to celebrate the customers of Birchbox and remind us that we are the reason this whole crazy thing is even happening. If you want to know more about Birchbox, visit their website here or check out my blog post that tells a bit more information about it here.

Onto the products! When I open my box and get my first glimpse of what I am trying this month is always my favorite part!

So let's talk about these products.

1.  ModelCo Ultra Long-Lasting Lipstick Trio

 

Full size of this lipstick trio is $20. I only received one lipstick and I got the color Smitten which is a deep cranberry red. I really liked it on a lot more than I liked it in the package.  My only complaint is that the lipstick was broken in half, so I smushed it together for this photo. But Birchbox Customer Service is amazing, and I am sure they will help me out (they gave me 100 points which = $10). Back to the product: the other two colors in the trio are Kitty, which is a soft pink and Stiletto which is a brighter, richer red. This lipstick is super hydrating and smooth, I'm a big fan.

2.  Harvey Prince Eau So Divine

Full size is $55. This perfume has notes of lemon, lilies, jasmine and vanilla. All I smell are the floral scents, they are quite overpowering. Personally, I am not a fan of floral perfumes so I am not a huge fan of this particular perfume. If you like floral scents, I recommend giving this one a try.

3. 100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream

Full size is $25. This eye cream reduces the appearance of lines and dark circles underneath your eyes and works as an instant pick me up. It's super creamy, and doesn't really have any discernible smell. I haven't used it enough to know if it really does reduce circles or lines, but it is hydrating and absorbs into the skin quickly.

4.  dr. brandt pores no more cleanser

Full size $35. dr. brandt is an awesome brand that I am familiar with, so I was excited to get this sample. Plus, my skin has AWFUL and I need to find a cleanser that will help. This is a best-seller and minimizes pores and leaves skin clean, fresh and velvety smooth. That sounds amazing and if it helps clear up my skin I am going to repurchase! It smells pretty great too.

5. amika Bombshell Blowout Spray

Full size is $25. This spray gives volume and smooths your hair for a sleek and bouncy hairdo. You spray this on your damp hair before you blow dry. I honestly can't remember the last time I blow dried my hair...so I'm not sure that I will be using this anytime soon. Kind of a bummer because there are other amika products that I would have wanted to try over this one.

Well there you have it, my September Birchbox! Did we get any of the same samples? Did I get something that you wish you had gotten?

Beauty | July Birchbox Review

The theme for July's Birchbox was Go Bold. Summer is a time to Go Bold - to wear those bright colors and not hold back. 

1. Whish Three Whishes Body Butter
full size $24
I received this body butter in the scent blueberry, and while that is not my favorite scent the product itself is pretty great. This body butter is super creamy and smooth, and it rubs into the skin like a charm. No icky residue or greasy aftermath. I would definitely purchase this in another scent; it comes in almond, lavender, pomegranate, lemongrass, coconut and acai grapefruit. I want to try to the lemongrass, personally.

2. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
full size $42
This is a cult favorite texturizing spray; used to soak up oil and give your second day (or third or fourth) hair some bounce back. Using a spray like this isn't in my normal hair routine, but I'm not against trying it out. It smells super fruity and sweet, but the spray nozzle was kind of hard to push down. I was really pushing on it when it finally sprayed and it scared me. I am looking forward to trying this out and seeing if its one I finally enjoy.

3. StriVectin-AR Advanced Retinol Eye Treatment
full size $75
This is a gentle retinol eye treatment that targets fine lines and sagging, without causing irritation. I don't think I have ever used a retinol treatment on my eyes, so I'm interested to try this for awhile. It's a tiny bit greasy, so I will definitely be trying this at night. 

4. Stila Look At Me Liquid Lipstick
full size $20
I received this lipstick in the shade Bella, which is a bright pink. It comes in a trio which includes Bella, Beso and Venezia. Beso is a classic red color and Venezia is a bright coral color. The formula for this liquid lipstick is terrific - it glides on like a gloss but stays put and dries like a stain. I'm a huge fan of this formula and can't wait to wear this bright pink for the remainder of the summer.

5. theBalm cosmetics Balm Desert Bronzer/Blush
full size $21
This is tiny little sample size, so I'm not entirely sure how to grasp whether I am a fan or not. I love the brand and this color of this bronzer is stunning; but I think it may be a bit too dark for my pale skin. I'm still going to give it a whirl, taking care to use a light hand. 

There you have it, my July Birchbox! Have you guys ever tried any of these products and what did you think?      

Beauty | June Birchbox Review

I was gone for most of June, so coming home to my Birchbox made my homecoming just that much more special. The theme for this month was Adventure and the products that were chosen for this month are all about being adventurous. 

coTZ Sensitive SPF 40 full size $20

This is sensitive mineral sunscreen that is designed to protect and soothe even the most sensitive of skins. It goes on sheer, has a bit of medicinal scent and is not noticeable underneath makeup at all. I'm a fan, it's a possible purchase.

W3LL PEOPLE The Expressionist Mascara full size $23.50
This is an all-natural mascara that lengthens and lifts lashes without the use of chemicals or dyes. The packaging on this sample is super sleek, and the wand doesn't appear to be anything too special. Probably will not purchase, but am happy to have the sample!

Emi Jay Solid Hair Tie 5-Pack full size $11
I have approximately 100 million of these style hair ties around my house, car, bags, etc. I'm always happy to have more!

Klorane Shampoo with Mango Butter full size $19.50
This shampoo is made with creamy, rich mango butter to help nourish, smoothe and hydrate your locks. It's supposed to be SUPER hydrating so I'm looking forward to giving in a whirl. It smells divine, and the consistency is pretty thick. I am looking forward to using this shampoo after a few rounds in the pool or lake.

Klorane Conditioning Balm with Mango Butter full size $16
This conditioner detangles, moisturizes, adds shine and improves softness. It goes great with the shampoo mentioned above. My main complaint is that the sample came in a packet and I HATE those. I assume the scent is similar to the shampoo, and I'm looking forward to trying this out in conjunction with the shampoo.

La Mav Green Clay Detox Mask full size $29.95
This mask is infused with fruit extracts and is used to treat impurities, minimize pores and help brighten skin. It's a pretty small sample size, but I think I will be able to squeeze two uses out of it. It smells very fresh and the consistency is smooth and creamy so it should be easy to spread around on your face. 

Marcelle Waterproof Eyeliner full size $11
This is a blendable waterproof eyeliner that goes on smooth and stays on all day. I got this eyeliner in the color Mulberry which is a rich purple color. I really don't see myself using this eyeliner, ever. So unfortunately, this one is a bust for me.

There you go, the wonder of adventure with the June 2015 Birchbox. Now that I am thinking about it, the eyeliner would be adventurous for me. Maybe I should take a hint and give it a whirl one day...

Beauty | Empties #3

 

1. Mitchum Advanced Control Deodorant/Antiperspirant

Once again, just my go-to deodorant. I feel like I had one of these in my last empties blog post which makes me wonder how much deodorant I go through? I'm actually using a new kind right now, but you know I will be going back to this kind eventually.

2 and 3.  Suave Naturals Shampoo and Conditioner in Lilac (similar)

I received this in my stocking for Christmas (thanks Grandma) and just finally got around to using it. I don't mind Suave; it's cheap and it gets the job done. It is not the best shampoo and conditioner there is, but I don't have any complaints either.

4. Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser

I didn't like this cleanser at all. Foaming cleansers are notorious for drying out the skin; which this one definitely did. My skin felt dry all the time, even with moisturizer. I will not be buying this again. Plus side: it lasted a long time.

5. Sweet Science Invisible Daily Tint SPF 35

This was a sample from Birchbox and it provided pretty good coverage and definitely made me face look more matte. I didn't really like the smell of it, or the  price so for those reasons I won't be repurchasing.

6.Valencia Even Glow Serum 

This serum made my face feel sticky and orange; plus the dropper style dispenser is not very easy to manage. My face did feel nice and hydrated after using it, but that's about it. There are better serum's on the market, for sure.

7. Davines OI Shampoo 

I really liked this sample size shampoo (once again from Birchbox) as a cleansing shampoo about once a week or so. My hair felt nice and clean; stripped of all the build up that gets in there. Plus, it smells super nice and fresh as well. This is a probable purchase.

 

Beauty | May 2015 Birchbox Review

This month's theme was Elevate Everyday; and it was made in conjunction with Cupcakes and Cashmere. The idea behind this box is to elevate your everyday routine by bringing in some out of the ordinary elegance. I didn't feel like this box had a particular elegance to it; but I was pleased nonetheless.

 

1. English Laundry Notting Hill Femme Eau de Parfum
full size $90
Apparently there has been a man version of this for awhile; this woman's version is fairly new. It's not my personal favorite scent, as it is quite floral. It's described as a classic "walk in the garden" scent which really says it all. I will not be purchasing this product.

2. Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Day Tint 
full size $48
I have enjoyed every Dr. Jart product I have tried; my main complaint is the price can be quite hefty. This Day Tint provides intense hydration; it has ceramides in it - which are the naturally occurring lipid molecules that are lacking in dry skin. This tint is on point. It's so smooth, it applies like a dream and makes your skin look absolutely flawless. Plus it has SPF 15 and it brightens up your skin. This is a definite possible purchase if I gather enough points.

3. Harvey Prince Sea Salt Texturizing Mist 
full size $22
 I have been intrigued by sea salt mists for awhile now, but didn't want to take the plunge in purchasing one and have it be a crock. So when the sample choices were released, I quickly made sure to snag one of these. It smells like flowers, which was weird to me. I expected more of "beachy" scent, but its okay. I tried it on dry hair and it didn't work. Then I tried it on wet hair, scrunched it in and I kind of got some beachy waves going on. I think I just have way too much hair for this to work. It definitely added some texture and volume; but my hair is pretty voluminous to begin with. I don't think I will be purchasing this product in the future.

4. Marcelle Hydra-C 24H Energizing Hydrating Gel 
full size $24
This is a gel formula moisturizer that is packed with nutrients to help hydrate your skin. It has green tea and cucumber extracts; along with vitamin A and E. It apparently hydrates all long (hence the 24 hour in the name). It goes on rather cool which is nice and soothing for your skin; especially in the summertime. I really liked this moisturizer; I prefer gel formula in the summer and this one definitely lives up to the hype. A possible purchase in the future once I use up my current stash.

5. ModelCo Party Proof Lipstick Trio (different color) 
full size $20 
I have used a ModelCo lip gloss in the past, loved the color but the formula was so sticky - so I was pretty hesitant when I saw I was receiving this lipstick. I got the color Dusk Till Dawn and it's a pretty dark nude with beige undertones. I tend to use pinker lip products so this was a definite step out of comfort zone. I really did like it though and it survived through my morning coffee, breakfast smoothie, doctor appointment, grocery shopping and a mid-afternoon nap. Not sure if it's party proof, but it's a definite purchase for me.

Beauty | April 2015 Birchbox

This month's Birchbox theme was Fresh For Spring: the picks for this month will put a bounce in your step and help shake up your look for the new season. Those are some pretty big promises, my look does not shake up often. The box itself is stunning; Birchbox partnered up with Rifle Paper Co this month and the floral décor on the box is gorgeous. A nice way to lead us into springtime indeed.

As always, when I opened up the box it was beautifully packaged and there were no damaged products. I was pretty happy with the samples I received this month, I got some hair stuff, face stuff and makeup. That's pretty much all you need in life, right? Wrong, but it sounded nice. If you're interested in learning more about birchbox, feel free to click here and gain some knowledge. I am a huge advocate and fan for life. FOR LIFE YOU GUYS. It's that real. Let's get to the products.

 

 

1. Beaver Professional Hydro Nutritive Moisturizing Shampoo full size $15

I know some people hate getting shampoo and conditioners in their boxes, but I am a fan. I have a lot of hair and having the opportunity to try some higher end products without breaking the bank is great for me. So, this shampoo is supposed to help repair dry and damaged hair gently. It uses avocado oil and aloe vera extracts to repair and rebuild hair. The scent isn't overpowering, but pleasant and I'm looking forward to seeing if this shampoo will help out some of my dry strands.

 

2. Liz Earle Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion full size $25

This is a soothing, cooling lotion for your eye area, it has a blend of ultra calming and de-puffing ingredients such as witch hazel, cornflower and aloe vera. It is safe for contacts wearers. This product intrigues me because I'm not really sure why this is a necessary product? I guess maybe I could give it a whirl in the evenings and see if I notice any sort of difference. I think this will be fun to try, but won't be a necessity.

 

3. Beaver Professional Hydro Nutritive Repairing Conditioner full size $16

This is obviously the conditioner made to go with the shampoo that I also received. It's a nourishing and strengthening conditioner and I can't wait to try it out. My hair is super dry right now, so I'm anxious to see if this does anything for it.

 

4. MDSolarSciences MD Crème Mineral Beauty Balm SPF 50 full size $38

 This is a lightweight formula that is designed to be both sunscreen and primer. It also apparently does a whole lot of other things such as brightening your skin tone, diminishing the appearance of fine lines and it leaves skin with a flawless matte finish. It does all of this by using a bunch of fancy pants ingredients. I don't really care about all of the fancy stuff, but if it's a good sunscreen then I'm in - I am super sensitive to the sun. Can't wait to give this a whirl.

 

5. Jouer Tint in Poppy full size $22

 This is a two-in-one product for your lips and cheeks and it's super creamy and moisturizing. It goes on pretty sheer, and gives a nice dewy finish. I got it in the shade Poppy which is a coral-tinged pink color that I think will be quite flattering on my pale, freckly skin.

Another great birchbox, I can't wait to dive into my samples and find something awesome to do with this beautiful box.

Beauty | March 2015 Birchbox

March's Birchbox was all about creativity; being creative and expressing yourself. The box itself was really pretty and, you guessed it, creative! I really like the fun boxes they are doing this year.

 

So I opened up my box and as usual everything was beautifully packaged and in pristine condition. I have never received a broken sample or anything of the sort.

 

 

Alright, so onto the products. Once again, I did select one of the samples to receive. It's one I really have been wanting to try, so I couldn't turn down the opportunity. I got 5 products in this box, reviewed them all and got 50 points. Birchbox and their point system is why they are superior to all other subscription box services in my opinion. I am a fan for life.

 

 

1. BioRepublic Green Tea Detox Purifying Sheet Mask full size $14.50 (includes 3 masks)

This is an antioxidant rich mask that helps to clear up skin and minimize imperfections. You apply this to a clean face, let sit for 15-20 minutes, remove and pat in the leftover serum. I love a good face mask, for sure. I have never tried a sheet mask before and anticipate a selfie being taken while doing this one. I am excited to try this.

 

2. Paula's Choice Resist Moisture Renewal Oil Booster full size $35

This oil is made with nine plant oils, and is great for dry skin. It helps to fight redness and irritation. You just smooth 2-3 drops over a clean face, or you can even mix it in with your regular moisturizer or serum. Where was this product in January? I tried it on the back of my hand real quick, and it's silky smooth. It's definitely oily and leaves a shine and for that reason I will use this product at night. Looking forward to see how it does on some of my dry spots.

 

3. It's a 10 Miracle Leave-in Product full size $18

This 10 in one treatment helps with hair damage from brittleness to frizz. All you have do it is spray one to two spritzes into dry or wet hair. This is product that I chose. I use a detangler/leave in conditioner every night on my wet hair, and I have my current favorite but I am always game to check out other "miracle" products. The smell is kind of a little too flowery for me, but if it works I may forgive it. SUPER excited to try this one.

 

4. Elite Therapeutics  Rosemary Eucalyptus Body Crème full size $19

This is crème that nourishes and soothes, using 70% organic ingredients. This lotion smells more like eucalyptus to me than rosemary, which is a good thing in my book! When I tested the sample on the back of my hand, it smelled great, rubbed in quickly and didn't leave a super greasy residue on my hand. I have pretty sensitive skin, so I may just use this as a hand cream and see what happens.

 

5. Jelly Pong Pong GLOW GETTER Highlighter full size $12.75

This is a gel formula highlighter that gives off a subtle, pearlescent shimmer. You dab onto cheekbones and brow bones, then get on with your day. When I first saw this I thought it was a nail polish. This is a kind of glittery-shimmery so if that's not your scene, then avoid. Applying it with the nail polish-esqe wand and then using your fingers to buff in is the best way I have found to use it. It is a bit gloopy, so we will see how that works out as it gets older.

 

There you have it, March 2015 Birchbox-ness is now a thing of the past. This year is already cruising on by. Have you received any of these samples before? What did you think?



Beauty | February 2015 Birchbox Review

The theme of February's Birchbox was Friendship. This box is geared towards celebrating the people who keep us up and calm us down. I'm not entirely sure how it does that, but the box itself was really fun. Kind of an orangey-red color with purple on it.

 

I was able to choose a product this month, and I went with the eye make up remover because, honestly, I am just about out. Plus it's a decent size sample. So let's see what Birchbox sent me this month!

1. Marcelle Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover for Sensitive Eyes

Full size $15

 

I never had sensitive eyes until I hit 30. Now, they are always aching and sore and feeling dry or strained. Such a mess. This product is half oil and half water so it easily takes away even the most stubborn makeup. It says that it is good for contact lens wearers (which I am one, so that is awesome). It also has green tea extract to calm the delicate skin around the eyes and cucumber extract to ease puffy eyes and minimize the appearance of dark circles. This all sounds grand to me, can't wait to give it a whirl.

 

2. Benefit posiebalm

Full size $18

 

 

I have seen this product around, I am a huge Benefit fan. This is a dual purpose balm that can be used on your face and/or your lips. It has a creamy formula that is hydrating and the color is quite sheer so it is very buildable to a poppy-pink color. They say this color looks good on everyone, so we shall see.

 

 

3. Miss Jessie's Original Super Sweetback Treatment

Full size $14

 

I love receiving hair treatments in my Birchbox. It's one of those things that I really like the opportunity to try it out first before I commit and make the purchase. This is a heavy-duty deep conditioning treatment for CURLY HAIR. I DO NOT have curly hair. Not even a little bit. This treatment is supposed to nourish your curls to make the soft and bouncy and easy to manage. Well, I will still use it and see if at least hydrates my hair. My hair is a frizzy dry mess right now since it's been so cold here. You just work this into your damp, clean hair and let it sit for at least 30 minutes and then rinse it out. This is first time I have ever received something in my box that is not relevant to me. I'm a little bummed, but I'm sure this treatment will work for straight haired folk as well.

 

4. Sumita Color Contrast Eyeliner

Full size $11

 

I am pretty sure I got this in the shade, Bhura, which is just a brown shade. This eyeliner apparently is very blendable, it comes in bright colors and it has a non-irritating formula. It's a soft wax formula that is long-lasting. I am not huge into eyeliner, I prefer to line my eyes with some of my more playful colored eyeshadows if I am going to go that route. But I will hold onto this for awhile and see if I use it. I am interested in the formula and seeing how it goes on and if it really is long-lasting.

5. BeeKind Shampoo

Full size $15

I received a sample of BeeKind's lotion once a long time ago, and I remembered how much I loved the smell of it. So I was excited to see that I got their shampoo. This gentle shampoo is made of moisturizing honey extract, organic red clover and is scented with lemon-verbena which is my FAVORITE. Plus the packaging is recyclable and a portion of all proceeds go to help support honeybee research. I am so excited to try this, and the sample packaging is neat too.

I think this is the first box ever that I wasn't 100% happy with. That being said, I will still use everything in it with the exception of the eyeliner. If you're interested in signing up for Birchbox click on this link to sign on up!

Beauty | January 2015 Birchbox

The theme of this month's box was Let's Do This! I feel like it was the box with the most expensive items I have had. When I looked at the full size prices, I was floored. Even if I absolutely adore one of these items, I doubt I could stomach purchasing any of the full size products unless I used Birchbox points.

This box also had 7 products, which is the most I have ever received in a box. So, it seems like Birchbox is stepping it up in 2015! 

1. Davines Oi/Oil Absolute Beautifying Potion

Full size $41

This hair oil is very lightweight, and helps to tame frizz and even strengthen your hair over time. I have A LOT of hair, so I an anxious to try this and see how it works with my tangled, frizzy locks. The sample size looks like I might get two uses out of it, so that is disappointing. Plus, I hate samples that come in the little packets. They are hard to store once you have opened it, it's almost like you're only supposed to use it once...so then what is the point? I am NOT going to purchase a $41 hair oil from a one use sample. Not happening.

2. Davines Oi Conditioner

Full size $32

This conditioner boasts a faster drying time and protection from the elements. As long as it doesn't weigh my hair down and it hydrates it enough to calm the static that is the winter in Michigan -- I'm game. But again, it came in a packet. So we'll see. 

3. Mirenesse Mattfinity Cream Lip Rouge in New York

Full size $29

This lip rouge is a velvety texture with a matte finish, it says no lip liner is necessary as it is a stain so it should stay put. This color is a bit bright for me, perhaps if I went out for the night it would be something I would throw on, but just for work and day to day life -- it's not really my scene. But it applies beautifully, the color pay off is fantastic and it really does last. It's not something I would purchase, because of the cost (ridiculous) unless I was using points. BUT the sample size is quite hefty and since I won't be wearing it daily it will definitely last for awhile.

4. Sweet Science Invisible Daily Tint SPF 35

Full size $45

This is a mattifying cream that evens tone, blocks UV rays and protects skin from pollutants. You just smooth it over your face, neck and chest and you can wear it alone or with makeup. I haven't actually used it yet, it's definitely something I will wear come summertime when I am outside in the UV rays a bit more. I swatched it and the color seems to be a good match, it blends very well but the sample they gave is quite small so I don't see getting more than 2 uses out of it unfortunately.  

5. Harvey Prince Hello Liquid Loofah

Full size $22

This is an exfoliating body wash that is infused with the best-selling Harvey Prince Hello scent of citrus and floral. I do love this scent, for sure. It exfoliates very gently, which is a must with my sensitive, pale skin. I am always on the lookout for gentle body scrubs, but have never found any that I consider a must-have. So we will see how this works out!

6. Essential Elements Wake Up Rosemary Body Lotion

Full size $19

This lotion is lightweight and helps to heal dry skin and energize with the rosemary and mint scent. It is paraben and petrol free, so no clogging pores with this lotion and it does not leave a greasy residue. I LOVE this fresh minty scent. Seriously. It also helps relieve nasal congestion because of the minty, kind of medicinal smell. I realize that may not be everyone's cup of tea but I adore it. Especially in the winter months. A potential repurchase for sure. 

7. Davines Oi Shampoo 

Full size $26

This shampoo is a beautifying cleanser that helps boost healthy hair by providing shine, volume and texture. I love that they sent a decent size sample, I will for sure get about 5 or more uses out of this. But I won't be able to use it with the conditioner, and that is annoying. The smell is great, very fresh and clean. 

Thanks Birchbox! Can't wait for February's box!

August 2014 Birchbox Review

I am delighted to be here today to share with you my August 2014 Birchbox! Everything I received in this box I will most definitely use, and that is always a win! Although, to be fair, I rarely get something that I am like I will NEVER even use this. I am always willing to at least try the samples. Or make my brother try them.

1. Key West Aloe Moisturizing Lotion in Mango

$12 for full size.

This lotion smells like summer and sunscreen...in a good way. I will probably throw it in my purse in February when I need to reminded of sunshine, good times and beaches. It has a 50% aloe content, which is amazing. It rubs in and dries quickly, leaving your skin smooth and soft, smelling like a tropical island. I love this.

2. Neil George Shampoo

$9 for full size

This shampoo has that luxurious, expensive smell that only shampoos they use at salons usually have, so that's super neat. This shampoo is full of antioxidants and promotes shinier hair. I haven't used it yet, because I will throw it into my travel bag and use it next time I travel, but I can't wait to see if my hair is shinier and smells as nice as the product does.

3.Neil George Conditioner

$9 for full size

Pretty much everything I said for the shampoo applies to this as well. This conditioner is paraben free and detangles and smooths hair with antioxidants.

4. Laura Gellar Beauty Cool Lids Cream Eyeshadow in Silver Sands

$19 for full size.

I have just recently started experimenting with cream shadows, so I am excited to try this out. It comes in three different colors, and I received the Silver Sands which is a...you guessed it, silver shade! I kind of wish I had gotten the bronze, or rose gold shades but it just gives me something to use points towards! This shadow swatched on my hand super smooth and it dried quickly, maintaining it's silvery finish.

5.  nugg Beauty Revitalizing Face Mask

$14.99 for full size (5 pack)

Obviously I have not had the chance to try it, and since it in a little pod thing I am unable to even feel the texture, smell it or see it until I open it. According the product packaging, it is sealed up the way it is because it will prevent the mask from oxidizing...so I don't want to open it until I am ready to use it. I love experimenting with face masks so I am excited to try this one!

Well there you have it, a lot of super awesome products to try out! Tune in tomorrow to read about my birthday kayaking experience in Mt. Pleasant!