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!

Beauty | Lip Products

I have never much of a bright lipstick girl, but I am trying to step out of my comfort zone a little bit. So I decided to share my lip product collection with you, as of September 2014 this is what I own!

1. LAQA & CO Fat Lip Pencil in Lambchop

Full disclosure: This lipstick is waaaaay too bright for me. I wore this on 80s day to work, and it was a hit! I am very fair, light blonde hair and I look silly with super bright pink lipsticks. But minus the color, the texture and lasting of this lip pencil is super!

2. theBalm How 'Bout Them Apples in Pie

I really enjoy this color. It's a great fall lip color, it's a brighter reddish pink color, but has kind of a rhubarb undertone that makes it perfect for fall. The lasting power isn't super great, it tends to wear off in the center first so you need to touch up a few times.

3. Model Co Shine Ultra Lip Gloss in Berry Pink

I probably wear this lip gloss the most. This color is fairly flattering on me, but it the consistency of the gloss can be a little sticky. It lasts for a decent amount of time though, plus the mirror on the gloss is super handy!

4. H&M Shimmer Lip Balm (similar)

This was an impulse buy a few years ago while in line at H&M. I enjoy it, but I have to be careful not to apply it too heavily because the color isn't a great match for me (notice a trend here?). 

5. POPBeauty ATqua Lacquer in Flowering Fuchsia

This is another brighter pink color, but it actually works for me (I think at least...). The gloss consistency isn't as sticky, it's the perfect amount of shine and it lasts. That's a win in my book!

6. The Body Shop Colour Crush Lipstick in Coral Kiss Matte (#315)

This is my favorite! It's the perfect neutral color for my skin tone, it's matte, it lasts forever, it's moisturizing and it applies beautifully. I highly recommend the body shop colour crush lipsticks! Plus, the packaging is beautiful!

7. Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Monaco

This is a sample size, and I have had it for a few months now. It's a bit brighter than I tend to wear, but I will slap this on for a night out or a late dinner out or something. It is a smooth and creamy texture, and it has great lasting power.

8. Pixi Shea Butter Lip Balm in Pixi Pink

I love this formula! This lip balm is super hydrating, keeping my lips nice and smooth all day long and trust me, that's a feat! The color isn't super great for my skin tone, but it's manageable!

9. Bath and Body Works Plump Glass Plumping Lip Gloss

I got this in my stocking a few Christmases ago, and I'm not sure that it actually plumps my lip up, but it's a nice clear gloss and that's always a good thing to have on hand. It is a bit sticky, but lip glosses tend to be that way so it's nothing surprising.

10. Wet n Wild MegaSlicks Balm Stain in Pinky Promise

I adore this product. It's a balm stain, so it's super hydrating and it lasts forever! I also love the color, and you can bet I will purchasing more. Especially since it's super affordable!

11. Cynthia Rowley Beauty Creamy Lip Stain in Valentine

This is another sample size, and I absolutely adore this lip stain. I think lip stains are the best because they last. The color is a really pretty light red, with a rosy undertone, and it applies super smooth. It doesn't dry out your lips, and is not sticky in the slightest.

12. mirenesse Glossy Kiss in Perfect Kiss

I use this product the most I think. It's a beautiful cinnamon color, and it's a crayon so it applies super smooth and moisturizes as well. It lasts for a few hours without any touch ups needed.

I need to work on figuring out what colors are best for my pale skin, but a lot of these are given to me so it's probably why they're not perfect matches! What colors match your skin tone the best? Any other pale people out there with advice for a lip color novice?