BIRCHBOX REVIEW - December 2011

I realize I didn't post about November's Birchbox, but there wasn't anything especially great about it. I honestly don't even remember everything that was in it except for Kerastase Elixir (which works well to tame my messy locks but not quite worth $54.)

Disclaimer - I am NOT affiliated with Birchbox (or any of the product brands featured in this post). I have not received compensation for this post in any form (monetary, or otherwise). I pay for my subscription, and the opinions voiced on this blog are strictly my own.

Now, on to the good stuff: my December box:

1. Harvey Prince Ageless (Pink Grapefruit)
2. Orofluido Elixir
3. Benefit The POREfessional
4. Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss

#5 and #6 were extra samples -

5. EBOOST Orange Natural Energy Booster
6. Show Stopper Double Sided Tape

MY THOUGHTS 

#1 - The Ageless perfume smells fruity and feminine without being overpowering. It was created with ingredients that counteract the scents of aging, so I'm not really sure why they sent it to me (unless they consider a 30-year-old old).

More importantly, what exactly are the scents of aging?

#2 - Orofluido Elixir smells BEYOND amazing. I cannot stop smelling my hair, which definitely looks pretty weird. This was also my favorite sample this month, but Birchbox can chill out with the hair serum now. I know, I know. My profile says that my hair is thick and coarse (aka nappy), but I've received enough serum samples to tame my nappiness down for the next 20 years.

#3 - I haven't used the POREfessional primer yet because I have the skin of a 16-year-old right now (and not in a good way). My face has been Breakout City, and I'm afraid to try anything that might possibly irritate it further. I am eager to try this product, although it might be a while.

#4 - I haven't used the Jouer either. Along with the plethora of serum samples, I've also been sent a ton of lip gloss in less than stellar shades.

#5 and #6 - 

As far as the extra samples, I couldn't care less about the double-sided tape (as I never wear anything that requires I use it), but I'll likely try out the EBOOST Orange Natural Energy Booster eventually. 

What did you receive from Birchbox this month?

SUBSCRIPTION REVIEW - MY FIRST BIRCHBOX

Today I'm here to talk about Birchbox's little pink box. I received my first box in the mail on Saturday. I can't even express the giddiness I felt opening it. They did well choosing products that fit me personally. I'm impressed!

I was even impressed with the packaging. It felt like a close friend sent me a gift that was hand wrapped just for me, and I expected much smaller samples. Score! 

Here's what I think about the actual product samples.

*Note: I am not affiliated with Birchbox or any of the product brands featured in this post. I have not received compensation for this post in any form (monetary or otherwise), I paid for the subscription, and the opinions voiced on this blog are strictly my own.

1. The Laundress Delicate Wash 

Description: We know how tricky it can be to care for your delicates and lingerie. The Laundress Delicate Wash cleans effectively yet gently for those tricky specialty fabrics such as silk, silk blends, fine cotton, polyester, rayon, nylon and more. Specially formulated to remove perspiration, body oils and stains for both hand and machine washing.

I haven't used this sample yet, but I'm curious to see if its claims are true. What woman wouldn't love a product that cleans her delicate clothing as well as a dry cleaner? I must admit, I'm a bit afraid to try it. Me and Ms. Laundress might be brawling if one of my treasured items is ruined.

2. Ahava Mineral Foot Cream

Description: Rescue and renew the rough skin on the soles of your feet and prevent further chapping and cracking. This exclusive formulation – enriched with our very own Mineral Skin OsmoterTM, anti-bacterial Tea-tree oil and other natural plant derivatives –makes the splits and dryness disappear. Enjoy a smoother, revitalized surface on your legs and feet that is visible for all to behold. Hypoallergenic.

I don't notice a difference after using this product, but I've only used it once so far. I think foot creams need to be used regularly to see noticeable results, so I'm interested to see how well it works after using it for a while. It smells really good, though!

3. Redken Shine Flash Glistening Mist

Description: Fine-mist aerosol spray illuminates hair with brilliant sheen and a silky feel. Weightless formula gives a light, clean application to all hair types.

I'm already familiar with this spray because my hair stylist uses it, and I've always been a fan.

4. Blinc Mascara in Black

Description: Formerly known as Kiss Me, Blinc is the original mascara invented to form tiny water-resistant "tubes" around your lashes rather than painting them like conventional mascaras. Once applied, these beauty tubes bind to your lashes and cannot run, smudge, clump, or flake, even if you cry or rub your eyes. Whether your daily activities take you from the office, to your sweaty workout and then out to dinner, your lashes will look as good in the evening as they did when you first applied Blinc in the morning.

I'm not sure what to think about this mascara.

There isn't anything wrong with it, per se. It didn't flake or smudge, but... it's really quite strange. What are these "tubes" they speak of? I keep imagining literal tubes encasing each individual eyelash, which just sounds really weird to me.

5. Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser

Description: As your days get busier, simple, pampering skin care becomes more important. Purity Made Simple deep cleans pores, dissolving dirt and debris -- acting as a cleanser and eye makeup remover, and eliminating the need for a toner. Follow up with Hope in a Jar moisturizer, and you're on the path toward makeup-optional skin.

Those are bold claims, Philosophy. I will say that this was my favorite sample in the box. I've always been a Philosophy fan, but this was my first time trying their facial cleanser -- it didn't disappoint. 

My face felt fresh and clean. It even cleared up a few small breakouts that had been hanging around in just a few days. I'll likely be buying the full-sized version of this product.


Have you joined Birchbox?
What did you receive in your box this month?

*All product descriptions came directly from the company's website.