Allure Beauty Box is a subscription box that is curated by Allure’s editors and contains $50-$90 worth of full and deluxe size products, per their website. I would recommend subscribing through Amazon (rather than directly with Allure) to avoid shipping and cancellation issues The subscription is $15 per month.
Time to stop yacking and start unboxing!
Overall Box Impressions: This is my second month receiving this box. It’s an odd mix of brands and products and at least half are sample size. This month we received three full size products (lipstick, nail polish and multistick). I did take the full-size prices for the remaining products and the sample sizes to determine the value of the sample size items. In total, the items in the box are worth $88. Of the seven items I had heard of four of the brands. I am most excited for the Juice Beauty Cleanser and least excited for the nail polish.
Au Naturale The Anywhere Creme Multistick in Grapefruit
This is basically a cream blush stick (I wouldn’t wear it “anywhere” as the name suggests) and I really like the color. It’s a very soft shade and the cream is nice and buttery. However, I’m most likely to use something in stick form if I’m on the go and cream doesn’t lend itself to on the go touch-up (since I would be applying a cream over a powder).
Juice Beauty Green Apple Brightening Gel Cleanser
This is the item I am most excited for given the brand, scent and that it is a gel cleanser. It does have hydroxy acids to help with exfoliation and also contains retinyl palmitate. The smell is nice but still subtle and it is truly a gel.
Burt’s Bees Lipstick in Blush Basin and Londontown Laur in Brit of Love
Both of these products are (very) pink, which does not look flattering on me. I’ve never used this brand of nail polish (I only use gel polish) so I can’t speak to how it applies or wears. I do have the Burt’s Bees lipstick in another shade and it is fairly hydrating. It’s not what I would “creamy” though and that’s where it falls flat for me.
Mamonde Rose Water Toner and Belif Aqua Bomb
Last month we received the Rose petal spa oil to foam cleanser from Mamonde and this month we received the matching toner. I’m not loving the smell and actually already destashed the cleanser to a friend’s daughter. However, I love the aqua bombs from Belif – they’re very similar to the Laneige Water Mask. This is probably the third sample of this I have (other two are from Sephora)
Acure Seriously Soothing Blue Tansy Night Oil
I’ve heard of blue tansy before from working with essential oils and in that context it is considered to have soothing properties. This is the first time I’ve seen it in skincare though. The bottle received is actually a rollerball, which is confusing because the directions on the box say to “warm 1-2 pumps in the palm.” Obviously, a disconnect.
Ipsy contains five sample sized products that are personalized based on your profile. Products include beauty products with a heavy focus on makeup. The subscription is $10 per month and you also have the option to add additional samples (for additional dollars) and shopping on their website gives you cash back. All together, very slick.
I actually get two Ipsy bags. I originally set up this structure to test out their profile algorithim and see if it really worked. The results have historically been mixed and on average I get one duplicate product a month. One bag is intended to be my “makeup” bag and the other is intended to be my “skincare” bag. That said, most months my “skincare” bag is light on real skincare products.
Overall Bag Impressions: This month is pretty spot on, with the exception of the skincare product (which was in both my bags). Most of the items are new to me and ones I’m excited to try out – especially the primer and eyeshadow (green is my color). I actually received a full-size of the RealHer liquid lipstick (same shade) in my Ipsy Glam Bag Plus (on the same account). Ipsy emailed me that they made a mistake by sending a duplicate product and would be sending a different full size product later this month, which I’m really impressed by.
Illamasque Hydra Veil Primer
I’m a primer junkie (still looking for holy grail primer) so I will definitely give this a try. However, I might wait a while because right now my skin, especially in the area where I need primer, is oily. I am thinking this might be a good under-eye primer though.
Space Case Cosmetics Eyeshadow
This eyeshadow is in a beautiful green color (matches my eyes) called Messy Lochnessy. I rarely receive a color I truly LOVE but this one I do. I definitely can see wearing this shadow on its own over a transition shade. It looks like their shadows are sold as singles for $9 each.
Farmacy Green Clean Meltaway Cleansing Balm
I like cleansing balms (my favorite is the one from @clinique) for removing eye and lip makeup in particular. So, it will be important that this balm from Farmacy does the same thing. Has anyone else tried the balm for eye and lip makeup?
RealHer Liquid Lipstick in I Am Adaptable
I have other lipsticks from this brand and love the feel of them on the lips. I also received a full-size of this lipstick in my Ipsy Glam Bag Plus box (same account). Ipsy sent a nice email saying they caught their error (they don’t intend to ever send duplicates) and would be sending a full-size Murad product later in the month.
Seraphine Botanicals Curl Imperial Mini Mascara
I know Seraphine for their awesome lip scrubs (check out apple mint – you will want to scrub your lips every day) and given the quality of that product I will definitely give the mascara a try. I also like that this is a curling mascara, versus the more frequently seen lengthening or volumizing. You can see in the photo that this mascara does have a lot of little fibers.
My “Skin Care” Bag
Overall Bag Impressions: This is my “skincare” bag, meaning I filled out the profile with a focus on skincare and tools (versus makeup). This month was pretty meh in terms of having skin care items. I received one tool, two skincare items and two makeup items. One of those skincare items was already in my “makeup” bag. I’m most excited for the green eye pencil, but mostly because of issues with the other items.
Moda Pro Precision Angle Brush
I normally like receiving brushes and love Moda brushes even more. However, upon taking this brush out of the plastic sleeve several brush hairs fell out (approximately a dozen in the first 15 minutes after opening). Not sure if I just got a bad brush or they’ve changed their product. I guess we’ll see if it’s going to continue to shed hairs.
Sand and Sky Australian Pink Clay Pore Refining Face Mask
I actually received another sample of this from another subscription box but that’s ok because I do like this mask. I struggle with large pores (now trying AHA/BHA peels) and I do think this mask temporarily helps with pore size.
Ciate London Lip Lustre in Wildfire
I love Ciate lip products (let’s not talk about my collection of Glitter Flips) and enjoy the feel of the products when applied. Unfortunately the shade is too pink for me (I do not have pink marked as a color I want to receive). Interestingly, they describe the shade Wildfire as an “entry level red” but when I apply it on my lips, its definitely more of a pink shade.
Lord & Berry Velluto Eye Pencil in Supreme Green
So oddly enough, this eye pencil matches the eyeshadow I received in my makeup bag. I love the green shade and could see myself using it regularly. However, I’m not a big fan of true eye pencils as I’ve become accustomed to the ease of kohl and gel eye liners/pencils.
This is my first month getting Ipsy Glam Bag, after spending a couple months on the waitlist (after getting off what I call the “pre-waitlist”). If you want to get on the waitlist you DO have to email Ipsy, it is not automatic.
With Ipsy Glam Bag Plus (you don’t actually get a bag), you get five full-size products for $25 per month. Similar to the normal Ipsy bag, they do customize your products using the beauty profile. You do have to have a monthly Ipsy bag membership in order to upgrade.
Overall Box Impressions: I’m not wowed by my first month of the Plus but I don’t hate it either. I’m really somewhere in between. I’m not sure how much Ipsy Plus actually uses profiles since two of these items I’ve said I don’t want. I realize that with subscription boxes you will still get those items sometimes but for 2/5 to be that off is a bit frustrating. The total retail value of the box, as noted by Ipsy, is $141, which is $20 higher than last month’s BoxyCharm. That said, the most expensive item, the set of five brushes, is definitely over-valued at $50. More on that later.
Purlisse Butter Me Orange Creamsicle Body Butter
An orange scented body butter (texture is more lotion-like) with coconut oil, sugar cane and fruit extracts that purports to benefit your skin. I’ve only tried it a couple times and the level of moisturizing was pretty decent and it dried down. I thought I would love the scent, however, to me it smells “fake” and by that I mean it doesn’t smell natural. I like the concept of fruit scents (a lot) but only when it’s more of a natural scent. MSRP: $24.
RealHer Liquid Lipstick in I Am Adaptable
I have another liquid lipstick from this brand that I absolutely love (side note: they changed the packaging). This color is a brighter red (poppy red) than I normally purchase but I want to give it a try. The inspiring color names are motivation and not cheesy at all. At $14 a pop I also think these are more affordable liquid lipsticks compared to some higher end brands. Very excited to see this in my box! MSRP: $14.
Huda Beauty Obsessions Palette in Mauve
I rarely receive the color option I hope for but I did this time! I love the pigment of these colors in the pan and they’re a nice mix of mattes and shimmers/glitters. My past experience with the 9-pan palettes from Huda has been that there is a lot of fall out and a powdery consistency. Now, I was hoping this was because of the colors I previously used (green), but just from swatching I can tell this is the same formula. Even when swatching the powder gets everywhere and the swatch stripes don’t lay down evenly. I’m still going to try to make it work because I do love the color, but will definitely do my eyes before my face when using this palette. MSRP: $27
Benefit Cosmetics Sun Beam Complexion Highlighter in Golden Bronze
This liquid product is supposed to be primarily a liquid highlighter but also function like a bronzer (in that it will warm up the skin). Now I’m not big into highlighters at the moment and a liquid highlighter is more effort and mess than I want to put into a type of product I’m not excited about to begin with. I will be looking into if a few drops of this can be added to foundation or moisturizer to create a radiant glow. MSRP: $26
F.A.R.A.H Brushes – 5 Piece Eye Perfection Set
This item has me perplexed. This is a five piece eye brush set with a silver metallic handle from F.A.R.A.H (we frequently receive singular brushes from this company in the regular bags). Where I’m tripped up is that the MSRP for this set is $50, or $10 per brush. That is more, per brush, than a brush from Morphe. So then I went on the company’s website to find this product – no “perfection” brushes listed in a set or alone. Ok. So then I looked for eye brush sets. I found one ten piece brush set including five eye brushes and five face brushes (called Baby I’m your’s in white) for $40 – so an additional five face brushes for $10 less. I also found the “Black and White Smoke 8 pc Eye Set” for $32. So, three extra brushes for $18 less. Long story short, this appears to be a custom product made for Ipsy and to me the $50 MSRP is probably overstated by about $20. I don’t feel like the brushes are any softer or nicer than any of my other brushes (ELF, Luxie, Real Techniques). Did you receive these? What did you think of them? MSRP: $50
This will be a different post for this blog but I’m excited by the previews for this Spring’s Ulta 21 Days of Beauty. So, I’m going to share what’s on sale each day, including online only and diamond/platinum exclusives, and what my thoughts are on items to purchase. At the end of the post are the Hot Buys. Check in with me on Instagram (@moosebeauty) each evening to see what deals are coming the next day.
If you’re unfamiliar, Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty is a 21 day sale (March 17 through April 6) where each day select items are 50% off. Generally these are prestige brand items from companies like Tarte, Lancome, MAC, Too Faced, Urban Decay and more. There are also “Hot Buys” that are available during the 21 period with up to 40% off other products.
As an important note, if you hold Diamond or Platinum status at Ulta, your orders will ship free (no minimum) during the sale.
Ready! Set! Go!
Sunday, March 17
Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Mascara, was $23 now $11
Lancome Cils Booster XL Mascara Primer, was $26 now $13
Exuviance Performance Peel AP25, was $77 now $38.50
[Diamond/Platinum][Online Only] Benefit The POREfessional Face Primer & Pearl Primer, was $32 now $16
[Online Only] Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester Collection, was $38-99 now $19-49.50
What I’m Buying: I will be picking up the Tarte mascara for my mom if the sale includes the waterproof version and the Lancome Mascara Primer for me. I actually like the Lancome primer for the conditioning benefit rather than any substantial improvement in the appearance of applied mascara. Maybe also pick up some Benefit pore primer if I’m running low.
Monday, March 18
Dose of Colors Desi x Katy Eyeshadow Palette Friendcation, was $55 now $30
Teami Detox Mask, was $30 now $15
[Online Only] Smashbox The Cali Contour Palette, was $39 now $19.50
[Online Only] Murad Anti-Aging Acne a Time Release Acne Cleanser, was $39 now $19.50
Tuesday, March 19
Mario Badescu Botanical Scrub, was $26 now $13
BareMinerals Mineral Veil and Bare Skin Perfecting Veil, was $24–27 now $12–14
[Online Only] Skyn Iceland Icelandic Relief Eye Cream with Glacial Flower Extract, was $45 now $22.50
[Online Only] Dermablend Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation Drops, was $40 now $20
What I’m Buying: I will be picking up both products from BareMinerals, the Mineral Veil for me and the Perfecting Veil for my mom.
Wednesday, March 20
Proactiv Adapalene Gel and Exfoliator, was $30–$40 now $18–$20
M.A.C. Pro Longwear Paint Pots, available in Soft Ocre and Painterly, was $22 now $11
[Online Only] Sugarpill Lipstick, was $18 now $9
[Online Only] Sara Happ The Lip Slip zone Luxe Gloss Clear, was $20 now $10
[Online Only] Flesh All Lip, was $18-24 now $9-12
[Online Only] Eyeko Eyeliners, was $22 now $11
What I’m Buying: one pot of the M.A.C Paint Pots in painterly for priming my eyes (especially if I’m using a shade that stains my lids) and cutting creases.
Thursday. March 21
Becca Backlight, First Light, and Ever Matte Primers, was $39 now $19
Clarisonic Applicator Brush Heads, was $39–$59 now $20–$30
[Online Only] Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Overnight Cream, was $75 now $37.50
[Online Only] St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Mist, was $30 now $15
Friday, March 22
Too Faced Chocolate Gold Eyeshadow Palette, was $49 now $25
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, was $24 now $12
Peter Thomas Roth Hungarian Thermal Mask or Moisturizer, was $58 now $29
[Online Only] Dr. Brandt Needles No More Expression Line Smoother, was $89 now $44.50
What I’m Buying: one tube of the Urban Decay Primer Potion, which is my go to for longwear days. I would also highly recommend the Too Faced Chocolate Gold palette as their formula is excellent.
Saturday, March 23
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz, was $21 now $11
Philosophy Time In A Bottle Serum and Eye Serum, was $76 now $38
Clinique Hi Impact Favorites Kit, was $25 now $13
[Online Only] Dermalogica Clear Start Blackhead Clearing Fizz Mask, was $21 now $10.50
What I’m Buying: one or two Brow Wiz pencils from ABH in the auburn shade. I have pretty full brows but I like this for uneven spots.
Sunday, March 24
it Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Pressed and Silk Micro Powder, was $29 now $15
It Brushes For Ulta #202 and #225, was $36 each now $18 each
Murad Clarifying Cleanser and Oil-Control Mattifier SPF 15, was $30–$40 now $15–$20
[Online Only] Tarte Tarteist PRO Glow & Blush Palette, was $45 now $22.50
[Online Only] Tarte Tarteist PRO REMIX Amazonian Clay Palette, was $49 now $24.50
What I’m Buying: the it Cosmetics Silk Micro Powder to help with my pores. I may get one for my mom as well (she didn’t ask for this product like she did the others) as she’s been looking for an anti-aging powder. I may also pick up one of the Tarte palettes – I need to go check out the blush one in store and see how many matte shades are in the PRO REMIX palette.
Monday, March 25
Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gel, was $30 now $15
Lancome La Base Pro Face Primer, was $42 now $21
[Diamond/Platinum][Online Only] M.A.C. prep+prime fix + scents, was $27 now $13.50
[Online Only] bareMinerals Statement Luxe Shine Lipstick or Gen Nude Radiant Lipstick, was $20 now $10
What I’m Buying: the bareMinerals Gen Nude Radiant Lipstick in Honeybun (toasted nude) and Panko (spiced coral) for my mom. She loves lip products from bareMinerals.
Tuesday, March 26
Ofra Nickel Tutorials Highlighter Trio, was $29 now $15
Serovital Dietary Supplement, was $99 now $50
[Online Only] Butter London All Lip, was $18-22 now $9-11
[Online Only] Kate Somerville Wrinkle Warrior 2-in-1 Plumping Moisturizer + Serum, was $95 now $47.50
What I recommend: I already have the trio-in-one so I’m not buying it but I do recommend the Ofra highlighter trio. The trio is great because it gives you a more neutral colored highlighter, as well as a more bling-y shade.
Wednesday, March 27
Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer, was $42 now $21
PUR 4-in-1 Pressed Powder Foundation, was $30 now $15
[Online Only] Persona Cali Glow Highlighter, was $24 now $12
[Online Only] Nudestix All Lip, was $26 now $13
[Online Only] Beauty Bakerie HD Flour Setting Powder, was $24 now $12
[Online Only] Kopari Coconut Rose Toner, was $24 now $12
What I’m Buying: My mom asked I pick her up some of the Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer, which I think will be good for her drier skin.
Thursday, March 28
Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Cream, was $21 now $11
Dermadoctor Kakadu Vitamin C Peel Pads, was $78 now $39
[Online Only] Philosophy Renewed Hope In a Jar, was $39 now $19.50
[Online Only] Clinique Quickliner for Eyes Intense, was $18 now $9
What I’m Buying: The Buxom lip cream in Rose Julep (rose berry) the the Clinique Quickliner in Intense Clove, per my mom’s request. I may get one of the Quickliners in black for me to try out.
Friday, March 29
Tarte Tartelette Toasted Eyeshadow Palette, was $39 now $20
Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Serum, was $80 now $40
[Online Only] Cover FX Shimmer Veil, was $28 now $14
[Online Only] Too Faced Born This Way Loose Setting Powder, was $33 now $16.50
[Online Only] Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Cleansing Foam, was $40 now $20
[Online Only] Velour Lashes (select styles), was $26 now $13
Saturday, March 30
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Waterproof Liner, was $22 now $11
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, was $17 now $9
Dermablend Loose Setting Powder, was $29 now $14.50
[Online Only] Lipstick Queen Select Shade Shifters Lipstick, was $25 now $12.50
What I’m Buying: The Stila liner in Intense Labradorite (charcoal) for my mom.
Sunday, March 31
Urban Decay Eyeshadows and Moondust Eyeshadows, was $20–$22 now $10–$11
Sugar Rush By Tarte Preppy Precision Eyeliner, was $15 now $7
Origins Travel and Trial Kit, was $29 now $15
[Online Only] Exuviance Age Reverse Introductory Kit, was $80 now $40
Monday, April 1
Laura Geller New York Spackle Primers and Lip Spackle, was $23–$32 now $12–$16
Perricone MD Cold Plasma Products, was $86–$160 now $43–80
[Diamond/Platinum][Online Only] Clinique Moisture Surge (1.7oz), was $39 now $19.50
[Online Only] Select Brands Too Cool For School, Touch in Sol or IPKN, as $12-29 now $6-14.50
Tuesday, April 2
Lime Crime Venus Palette (Venus 3, Venus, Venus 2) was $38 now $19
First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads, was $16–$32 now $8–$16
[Online Only] Estée Lauder DayWear Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant 24 Hour Moisture Creme, was $34 now $17
[Online Only] Dermadoctor Kakadu C High Potency Evening Oil, was $74 now $37
What I’m Buying: The First Aid Beauty Pads in the larger size (28 count versus 60 count). Easiest way ever to exfoliate on the go, but I like it at home too when I’m in a hurry.
Wednesday, April 3
Cover FX Setting Powder, was $35 now $18
Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker, was $75 now $38
[Online Only] Boscia Botanical Bestie’s, was $45 now $22.50
[Online Only] Better Skin Co Mirakle Cream & Lava Magik, was $32-34 now $16-17
[Online Only] Mamonde Rose Water Toner, was $23 now $11.50
[Online Only] Meaningful Beauty Creme de Serum, was $65 now $32.50
[Online Only] Tula Hydrating Day & Night Cream, was $52 now $26
Thursday, April 4
Tarte Quick Dry Lip Paint and Glossy Lip Paint, was $20 now $10
Exuviance Age Reverse Eye Contour, was $79 now $40
[Online Only] Buxom Palettes (nude & mauve), was $40 now $20
Friday, April 5
Too Faced Bronzers, was $30 now $15
Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum, was $45 now $23
M.A.C. Prep + Prime Skin, was $31 now $16
[Online Only] Strivectin Wrinkle Recode Line Transforming Melting Serum, was $89 now $44.50
What I’m Buying: If the Sun Bunny bronzer is included in the Too Faced Bronzers that are on sale I will likely pick one up.
Saturday, April 6
It Cosmetics Superhero Elastic Stretch Mascara, was $24 now $12
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50, was $73 now $37
Benefit Cosmetics Gimme Brow Volumizing Gel, was $24 now $12
[Online Online] LORAC PRO Palette 3, was $44 now $22
What I’m Buying: One or two of the Gimme Brow products in the shade auburn. This is my go to for making my brows match my hair and still look natural.
Hot Buys (these are available throughout the 21 days and are up to 40% off)
Skincare Items:
Boscia Luminizing Black Charcoal Mask 2.8 oz, was $34 now $23.80
Kate Somerville DermalQuench Liquid Lift 2.5 oz, was $95 now $66.50
Shiseido Essential Energy Products, was $42-48 now $29.40-33.60
Meaningful Beauty Cindy Crawford Intensive Trip Exfoliating Treatment 1.7oz, was $52 now $31.20
Exuviance AGE REVERSE Total Correct + Sculpt Serum, Triple Microdermabrasion & Hydrafirm, was $72-79 now $50.40-53.30
Elemis Superfood Pre-Biotic Day Cream, was $45 now $31.50
Mamonde Petal Spa Oil to Foam Cleanser, was $21 now $14.70
Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion, was $79 now $55.30
Perricone MD Essential Fx Acyl-Glutathione Products, was $98-179 now $58.80-107.40
Strivectin SD Advanced Intensive Concentrate for Wrinkles & Stretch Marks, was $79 now $47.40
Makeup Items:
Butter London Mascaras, was $20 now $12
Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Shadow Primer, was $21 now $12
Dose of Colors Lip it Up Satin Lipstick, was $17 now $10
Julep Cushion Complexion 5 in 1 Skin Perfector & Perk it Eye Brightener, was $26-30 now $15-18
Laura Gellar New York Baked Blush-n-Brighten, was $28 now $16
Lancome Advanced Genefique Hydrogel Sheet Mass, Buy two get one free
You might want to go get a drink before you sit down to read this, because we’re going to be here for a while.
So regular BoxyCharm contains four to five full sized products, per their website. The products are what I would call higher end (versus drugstore). The subscription is $21 per month and will have a retail value of over $100.
On the quarter months (March, June, September and December) BoxyCharm offers BoxyLuxe as an upgrade. Instead of your regular box you receive a box with 9 to 10 full-sized beauty items worth over $250. The box costs approximately $50 total.
Overall Box Impressions: This was a rough month for BoxyCharm in general. There was a large snafu with the face palettes (more on that later) and as of today (Tuesday the 12th), many regular boxes (versus Luxe) haven’t even shipped. In terms of box contents I was hoping to be wowed since this was my first Luxe box but honestly, the number of products I like is the same as the regular box. The next Luxe box will be in June and generally we see most spoilers far enough ahead of time such that I am seriously considering downgrading back down to the regular box if I’m not impressed by the contents. This month’s box by far has the highest number of products I will be destashing/selling, which is very unusual for me.
My two favorite items are the Becca lipstick and the IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream. I love cream lipsticks and haven’t tried the Becca lipstick yet so I appreciate the chance to try it. The Confidence in a Cream says it helps to reduce the look of pores and discoloration which are two items I struggle with. I received variation 1 (as noted in the corner of my card). If you get this box, which variation did you receive? What was in your box? The total retail value of the box, as noted by BoxyCharm, is $302.
CoverFX Perfector Face Palette
This was the largest hyped item for this month’s box, not only the BoxyLuxe, but also the regular BoxyCharm. In February the leader of BoxyCharm went on social media and told Charmers to make sure to fill out their BoxyCharm profile because they would be using that to determine if you got the light-medium palette or the medium-dark palette. Now I am fair-light skinned (Snow – Born this Way, Mont Blanc – NARs Sheer Glow) and noted my skin tone in the profile. I was very excited for this palette since I do not have an all-in-one face palette and I’ve never used a product from CoverFX. Then last Thursday (March 7) BoxyCharm sent out an email to certain Charmers saying that they had a “data issue and identified a small group of Charmers” who might be receiving a shade that did not match their profile. Uh-oh. Fast forward to now as BoxyLuxe Charmers are receiving products and there are a much higher number of light-skinned Charmers receiving the dark palette than vice versa (based on the Facebook BoxyCharm group I follow). And the dark palette is dark. Like the top left highlighter would really only work as a bronzer. Given the number of Charmers posting that they are looking for the light palette, this appears to be much bigger than a “small group.”
Now, to BoxyCharm’s credit, they did provide 4,500 charms for their Charm Room to each affected Charmer (that received the email). However, their Charm Room is well-known for not having much in the way of products to spend their charms on. With the addition of the 4,500 charms, I now have over $70 worth of charms. But I have yet to see something still in stock and I’d actually want to spend my charms on. And this is where most of my frustration lies. I’ve considered cancelling my BoxyCharm but if I do, I forfeit those charms. So I feel a bit stuck with BoxyCharm. As mentioned previously, I will be looking at the spoilers closely for June and at a minimum downgrading to the regular box if I’m not wowed by those spoilers. I will also be looking to sell the pictured medium-dark palette above.
MSRP: $45. This seems in line with what I would expect for a face palette from a high end brand.
Moda Brush Duo and BoxyCharm Traincase
We received a pair of Moda brushes, one for applying face powder and one for highlighting (soft glow). Very soft and the rose gold handles are pretty. I will definitely keep the brushes and use them. However, I think the stated MSRP of $30 is high for two Moda brushes. I’ve purchased Moda brushes before from Wal-Mart where you get six brushes (including two face brushes) for $10. Now, these could be higher end brushes than what you purchase at Wal-Mart but $15 per brush for that brand seems high.
We also received an exclusive BoxyCharm rose gold bag. Now I really like the style of the bag – it’s the same as my toiletries bag. Color really isn’t my style but the bag is nice and is a different product than what we normally receive from Boxy.
MSRP: $30 for the Moda Brushes and $20 for the traincase
Iconic Eyebrow Cushion & Lilly Lashes
The eyebrow cushion from Iconic London is definitely a unique product. Not just in terms of what we receive from Boxy, but what I’ve seen in the market in general. The compact contains a duo-tone liquid cushion and an angled brush to sort of “stamp on” the pigmented liquid onto the brows. Everyone received the shade medium which is much too dark for me (and I use Gimme Brow to make my brows red to match my hair). So while I think this is a cool product I will likely try to destash/sell to someone who can use and enjoy it.
The lashes are exclusive faux mink gaia lashes from Lilly Lashes, which I understand is a popular brand. I actually don’t use adhesive false lashes so while the lashes are beautiful (and very full) I will be destashing/selling these. Postscript – already found someone to swap with – my lashes for their Becca lipstick in Mocha – win!
MSRP: $40 for the eyebrow cushion, $25 for the lashes
Wander Beauty Peel of Mask & it Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream
Wander Beauty has been in a lot of subscription boxes lately, which I love because I appreciate the quality of their products. The Lift Off Purifying and Brightening Peel Off Mask contains a variety of natural ingredients (acai, goji berru, blueberry and more – remember not to eat the mask) and is designed to purify and replenish skin. In addition, it is purported to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores. So, all benefits I’m interested in.
One of the other hyped items in the box is the Confidence in a Cream from it Cosmetics. The cost of this product is actually almost the cost of the box itself. I’m excited to see how if performs and if I see improvement in my pores, skin tone and scarring.
MSRP: $34 of Wander Beauty mask and $48 for Confidence in a Cream
Becca Cosmetics Ultimate Lipstick Love
I’m a lipstick hoarder. I admit this. We’ve discussed this. This is a new lipstick so I’m beyond thrilled to try it out. I received the shade Crimson and am going to try to trade some of the products I don’t like for additional colors. This lipstick is purported to be an 8-hour longwearing silky satin color and is infused with hyaluronic acid.
MSRP: $24
Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish
These nail polishes are absolutely tiny but supposedly they give you the effects of gel polish without the damage. I’ve tried many polishes that make that claim but I am so hard on my nails nothing other than a true gel manicure holds up. So, I will be passing these along to someone who can enjoy them.
MSRP: $20
Morphe Eyeshadow Palette
I received this 15-shade palette in the shade 15B – Babe Brunch. Lot of neutrals and pink tones. I’ve actually already found someone on FaceBook to swap with for the 15N palette, which has neutrals and more purple toned shades. Morphe has a lot of very affordable palettes but their formula isn’t my favorite (especially in regards to blending). So I’m mixed on this being included in BoxyCharm.
Ulta – home to the things I can’t find at Sephora. Generally, the folks at my local Ulta aren’t very friendly so I usually choose to shop at Sephora (and the prices on most items are the same). I actually ended up ordering all these items online.
I love OFRA’s liquid lipsticks for their formula and pigmentation. I found this set on Ulta’s website and it’s called Everyday Nudes ($20). It includes mini sizes in the colors Sanibel (rose nude), Verona (mocha nude brown), Bel Air (light nude) and Unzipped (nude berry).
I placed this order on National Lash Day so Ulta had several full size mascaras on sale for 50% off. One of those was Bad Gal Bang from Benefit, which I had been looking at as a volumizing mascara. What do you think of the wand?
I had a couple replacement Ulta items to order, including the Mint Lip Scrub and the Lip Plumping Primer. I added the Under Eye Primer to hit the $20 mark, which got me a large bonus gift. The mint lip scrub is one of my favorites and compares to $20 high end lip scrubs, even though it’s under $10.
Here is the awesome Ulta gift set (including bag) you could receive for spending $20 on Ulta products. I really like the mini blending sponge for getting around the eye, and the highlighter stick. I haven’t tested the durability of the brush yet but it is pretty soft. Also received a mini face palette, mascara, makeup wipes, hair ties, under eye primer, lip crayon, primer and a lipstick.
I love finding great deals on makeup, skin care and tools at TJMaxx and Marshalls. I’ve never seen an expired or fake product, but I have seen some that were damaged or had been swatched. Now, you do need to price compare a bit because I have seen TJMaxx selling items for the same price as you would find at Ulta (that’s rare though).
Skin Care:
Derma E Dark Circle Reducing Eye Cream – this is an amazing eye cream but is not carried by Ulta, which makes me so sad. TJMaxx $5.99, Derma E online store $29.95.
Dr. Brandt Pores No More Vacuum Cleaner – This is the blackhead extractor mask (eek!) and given my large pores, I’m very excited to try. TJ Maxx $11.99, Sephora $42 (for the Pore Purifying Mask – closest item I could find).
Derma E Anti-Wrinkle Advanced Antioxidant Moisturizer – another product not in Derma E’s collection at Ulta but I haven’t tried it yet to see if I’m in love with it. TJMaxx $5.99, Derma E online store $14.95.
Makeup:
MAC holiday set of mini lipsticks – This cute little set has three shades, one is gold, and the other two are red. This was originally called the Snowball set in the “warm” shade set. Marshalls $12.99.
Becca Jet, Set, and Glow Set – this is the actually the second time I’ve bought this set. It contains a mini pot of the Under Eye Brightening Corrector, which doesn’t work on me, and a 0.5 oz tube of the Backlight Filter Face Primer and a 0.5 oz tube of the First Light Filter Face Primer. Now, 1 oz of either of those primers is $39. So for $13 at TJ Maxx you essentially get a $39 primer. Marshalls $12.99, Sephora $25.00.
Bath and Body:
Spongeables Body Wash in a Sponge – I really like the Spongelle products but they’re only available online so you can’t scent test them (and I’m picky about scents). So, I want to give the Spongeable one a try. TJMaxx: $4.99.
Shower Cap – I only wash my hair every 2-3 days so on the in-between days I have to put my hair up and try to keep it dry. I also sometimes use a shower cap when I have a leave-in hair mask. My old one was clear and thin (and starting to yellow) so when I saw this one with cats, I immediately grabbed it! TJMaxx: $4.99.
Aside from the makeover trip with my mom I had a few Sephora purchases in February.
My mom purchased this set of products (the last in-store set) when we went to Sephora and when I saw it online later, I picked it up. This is the Go-To Glow Set from Clinque and retails for $39.50 (although it appears to be out of stock now.) The big draw for me is the Moisture Surge moisturizer and the take the day off cleansing balm (which is great for waterproof mascara). The entire set includes:
1 oz Clinique Pep-Start™ 2-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser
1.7 oz Moisture Surge™ 72-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator (this is normally $39 by itself)
0.29 ozL Clinique Fresh Pressed™ Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%, 1 vial (one-week supply)
0.13 oz Chubby Stick™ Sculpting Highlight in Hefty Highlight
0.05 oz Clinique Pop Splash™ Lip Gloss + Hydration in Caramel Pop
0.07 oz Dual-Ended High Impact™ Mascara in Black
0.08 oz Dual-Ended Lash Building Primer
1.7 oz Take The Day Off™ Makeup Remover For Lids, Lashes & Lips
1 oz Take The Day Off™ Cleansing Balm
Too Faced Peach Perfect Comfort Matte Foundation in Snow ($36) – I liked the consistency of this foundation when I tried it in store but they didn’t have my color in-store.
Marc Jacobs Sugar High Nude Lip Trio ($25) – I’ve never tried any lip products from Marc Jacobs but have seen good reviews. This trio contains (all mini-size) a lip liner, a lip gloss and long-wear lipstick all in the shade Sugar High. Have you tried Marc Jacobs before?
I’ve seen questions about samples received from Sephora so I wanted to include this photo of the samples I received.
Find out my opinion of the product, what I liked and what I didn’t. Side note: I’m a pretty harsh grader as I expect my grades in aggregate to form a bell curve.
Product: Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Micellar Cleansing Towelettes
Grade: F
Retail Price: $7.99 (Ulta)
What I loved: micellar formula
What I didn’t love: chemical smell & dryness of the wipes
Now I love and use a lot of Neutrogena products, in particular the hydro gel recovery mask, acne moisturizer, pore cleanser, and pore toner. And a couple weeks ago I was out of my normal micellar wipes so I grabbed these at Ulta.
For me this product was a big flop – for two reasons. One, the smell. They are highly fragranced and the smell is horrible – like chemicals. Two, they were extremely dry. Not enough moisture in them (upon opening a new package) to actually wipe makeup of myself. Even though I could re-hydrate these with some micellar water I will be tossing them in the trash unfortunately due to the smell. Very surprised this is a Neutrogena product as their quality is generally very high.
MooseBeauty 