Birchbox | August 2017

My August Birchbox arrived! I loved the summer sunset design, so I had to bring back the nail art. I have matched my mani to my box a few times- (The first time here; and here; and here) I can't believe that was two years ago! Anyway, back to 2017, here's the box & the nails!

I picked the curated box this month. I love a good mask, and this one came with the pur-lisse Blue Lotus Seed Mud Mask and a hair mask, Living proof Restore Mask Treatment. I also have had the amika Bombshell Blowout Spray and enjoyed it and the color of the Stila liquid lipstick looked gorgeous.

With that said, after 5 years of subscribing, I have canceled my subscription. I was tempted to when they had changed the point system but kept going to see if it would still "spark joy". And after a few months, sometime not even sharing the box, even on Instagram,  I realized it was time to try something else. I was just receiving too many of the same brands over and over again, and ones I couldn't use because of their stance on animal testing. That doesn't mean I'm done with monthly beauty boxes! I have decided to try out Petit Vour. It just seems to be a better fit for my beauty profile. I will still order from the Birchbox shop-they have a great mix of beauty and lifestyle products, promos and gifts with purchase, and I love their limited edition boxes. I am just ending the surprises.

Let me know what beauty subscription boxes are your favourite!

0

Birchbox | July 2017

Hello again! I am trying to get back on the blogging wagon. I feel like summer is a time when schedules become a bit unpredictable and despite doing a lot of cool things, both beauty and life, it's hard to find the time to put the thoughts into words. Last night, I annotated a calendar to try to get myself organized with blog ideas.  I thought I'd start with sharing my July Birchbox with you before August rolls around.

Box Breakdown

Oribe Matte Waves Texture Lotion

Avene Cleanance Expert

Beautaniq Beauty Blush Serum in Sunrise

Bobbi Brown Beach Eau de Parfum

Marcelle 3-in-1 Micellar Gel Eye Makeup Remover

Overall, it looks like a very summery box befitting of the theme. I am always excited to test out new skincare, and it's cool that the blush almost doubles as skincare. Oribe has super luxe hair products, but I haven't tried anything in lotion form-just the black canister hair sprays. And of course, you can't get more summertime than Bobbi Brown's Beach.

What did you get in this month's BB?

0

Birchbox Refresh + Reset Limited Edition Box

I am so behind on blogging! I just got back from South Africa, and I can't wait to share the photos. But before that I needed to catch up on my backlog of post ideas that I took the pictures for without quite making it to the writing. First up, I wanted to share Birchbox's Refresh + Reset box. It's been on the site awhile now, but who knows when it might sell out!

Box Breakdown

Eyeko Sport Waterproof Mascara 

HUM Nutrition Raw Beauty Green Superfood Powder - Mint Chocolate Chip Infusion 
ARROW REFRESH On-the-Go Cleansing Cloths 
Avène Thermal Spring Water
Living proof. Perfect hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo
R+Co ANALOG Cleansing Foam Conditione
S'well 9 oz. Bottle in Amethyst Quartz

Pointe Studio Jett Grip Light Socks

I love when Birchbox does a bigger box with a theme. There is always a mix of beauty and lifestyle goodies at a great price point. Whether you want to sample everything yourself or give as a gift. I've been back on a fitness kick, so I was already digging the theme of this one. Additionally, I had already tried most of the products included and knew I loved them. You can't go wrong with a Swell bottle. You get most of the cost of the box back right there. I have accumulated a couple of Swells but just had to have this cute mini size.

I actually ended up bringing a lot of the beauty items with me on my trip since they were the perfect size. The Arrow Refresh Cloths and Avene Thermal Water were perfect for the long-haul flight (and after hiking and camping!) Dry shampoo is always a good thing, and the R+Co Conditioner is a fav. The Eyeko mascara gives your lashes amazing length and lasts all day while still keeping lashes fluttery. I mainly do hot yoga, so the socks won't be necessary, but they are great quality and would work well for some home practice. Maybe for practicing some up the wall inversions with the non-slip sole... Finally, the box also includes a few packets of Hum Raw Beauty in Mint Chocolate Chip. These packets are perfect for adding to a smoothie to make it taste like a milkshake. I blend it with almond milk, extra greens, and frozen banana and top it with some cocoa nibs. Yum.

Anyway, definitely check this one out. I feel like all the products are everyday essentials, even when not at the gym.  

0

Birchbox | April 2017

I have been discovering some great products in my Birchbox lately. This month's favourite is the this works! deep sleep pillow spray. I am pretty sure last night was my final spritz from this sample. Now, maybe it's placebo, or just the ritual of spraying my pillow before laying down-or the 6:30 am yoga classes-but lately I have been falling asleep much faster with less tossing and turning. And even if it isn't so, the scent is quite lovely. I definitely think I will be purchasing a full size, though I am also considering making a DIY with some essential oils. A couple of other sample shout-outs- I love the Michael Todd Blue Green Algae Toner and had almost forgotten about it, so I am excited for the reminder and the little sample size. I am also looking forward to using the amika Bombshell Blowout Spray and No. 4 Texturizing Spray. I have tried many products from both brands and have enjoyed everything, so I doubt these will be an exception.

Any must-have discoveries from BB lately? 

0

Birchbox | March 2017

Happy Monday! Just a quick Birchbox unboxing. My March box took awhile to arrive due to a snow storm, but I was so excited to receive this little box of spring! Looking forward to testing out everything.

This month I received a couple of hair care products. I love Beauty Protector products and have yet to try the volume spray. It will be great for using with heat tools as its a thermal protector and with braids. Thanks to beauty boxes I have so many little bottles of dry shampoo. The name of this one from evo is pretty funny too-Water Killer. I have been doing hot yoga daily so dry shampoo is a must! I also got a couple of eye make-up products. During sample selection I picked the Arrow Eye Brightener. I think this will look great as eyeliner and a brow highlight. I also received a little shimmery eyeshadow sampler from Coastal Scents. Finally, there was the Kiehl's Super Multi-Corrective Cream. I have been loving a good face cream lately to rehydrate and firm my face in the morning.

What did you get in your Birchbox this month?

0

Birchbox | January 2017

 I have been loving my January Birchbox. Since my February box is out for delivery...I will just get right into it!

R+Co Oblivion Clarifying Shampoo & Conditioner

Juara Candlenut Body Creme

English Laundry Notting Hill Femme

Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant

Burt's Bees Lipstick Brimming Berry

I feel like I have been using more products to style my hair, so I am excited to try the R+Co Oblivion Clarifying Shampoo & Conditioner to reset my hair after all the build-up. The Juara Candlenut Body Creme is the perfect sized tube to throw in my bag for an easy and delicious smelling hand cream. The Burt's Bees Lipstick is in regular rotation. It's super simple to apply while giving a bold colour with the texture of a lip balm. The Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant is a dry powder that turns into a paste. It reminds me a lot of the Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powder. It makes your face feel super soft after using. I feel like I have so many perfume samples I need to use up, so I haven't gotten to the English Laundry scent yet.

0

Birchbox | October 2016

I am loving this month's Birchbox. Now that it finally arrived-I have been having such bad shipping luck recently. This month's theme is reviving and restoring. Something I definitely look for in my beauty products.

Box Breakdown

Air Repair Super Hydrating Eye Cream

Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask

Marcelle Xtension Plus Curl Mascara

Tocca Crema da Mano in Cleopatra

R+Co Death Valley Dry Shampoo

This box was perfect for me! I couldn't wait to try everything. I love a good mask, and this one by Tata Harper is perfect for giving your skin a fresh start. Follow that up with the Air Repair Eye Cream which is super hydrating for the colder, windier weather. Another fall/winter weather must have is hand cream. I love the size of this one from Tocca, and the scent is amazing. The Marcelle Curl Mascara gives your lashes a dose of volume, length, and curl. No need to choose. Finally, I received another R+Co product, and of course, I love it. Can't go wrong with a good dry shampoo. 

What did you get in this month's BB? What did you pick for November's box?

0

Birchbox | September 2016

This month's Birchbox is all about multi-tasking products to help get you through your to-do list this fall. Now that I am a little late on posting this, I can give a little review on the things I've tried.

This little can of Avene Thermal Spring Water is going straight to the gym bag. I don't think I would have ever purchased spring water mist for myself, but I got to say it's pretty refreshing.

I had no idea what type of product the R+Co Analog Cleansing Foam Conditioner was. At first, I thought it was like a dry shampoo-but conditioner. Then, I thought it was a mousse-like leave-in conditioner. Finally, I realized it is used just as a regular conditioner! Good thing I didn't put it on dry hair...Glad I figured out what it was for as it's a new favourite. It's a mousse consistency that you apply in the shower and rinse out. My hair recently has felt a bit oily and flat at the roots, and this is the perfect product to condition your hair but give it volume. It gives my hair a just tousled look.

I never ended up trying Bioderma Sensible H20 during it's peak hype in what 2012? I probably should have as I used up this little sample. I used it as a toner/remove the last bit of make-up step and loved how gentle it was.

Highlighting products are something I'll never get tired of. I do prefer the more natural ones-but it still has to glow. I have been using the Milk Makeup Highlighter non-stop since opening up this BB. Love the consistency and effect.

Okay, I didn't give this LOC Ultra-Gloss Lip Pencil in Cherry Bomb. I feel like I keep getting different shades of these, but I'm not much of a glossy lip girl.

What did you get in this month's BB?

0

Birchbox | August 2016

I wasn't quite feeling last month's Birchbox, so the urge to open this one wasn't as immediate. Usually when I see the pink box I am racing to open it. This month, I took my time (granted that was only maybe an hour). However, I was pleasantly surprised. I am excited for everything. Just goes to show you the nature of subscription boxes.

Box Breakdown

Manna Kadar Cosmetics The Day Dream Palette

Laura Gellar New York Color Luster Lip Gloss in Cookie Dough

R+Co Badlands Dry Shampoo Paste

Acure Organics Coconut & Argan Oil Cleansing Towelettes

Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray

For the sample selection, I chose the R+Co Dry Shampoo Paste. The idea of dry shampoo in a paste form was very intriguing. It has that distinctive dry shampoo smell. My plan is to throw this little tub in my gym bag. I was super excited to see the Acure Coconut & Argan Oil cleansing towelettes. I love the brand, and samples of make-up wipes are just so convenient. Another gym bag must have. The theme of this box is hair, so for my second hair sample, I received Oribe Anti-Humidity Spray. Definitely needed with this rainy, heat wave. I also received a couple of make-up samples including the Manna Kadar highlighter/bronzer duo and a Laura Gellar Lip Gloss.

What did you think of this month's BB?

0

Birchbox | July 2016

This month's Birchbox looks like lipstick swatches on the outside-what I didn't expect was lipstick all over the inside, but it looks like my LOC pencil ended up rolling around uncapped. The shade was in Punch Line, and it does look like a nice watermelon hue. In addition to that, I received a sample of Benefit They're Real Mascara and Clinique City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel. I've heard good things about these products but, because of animal testing, will be passing them on to friends. I also go a sample of Cartier's Baiser Vole Lys Rose Eau de Toilette. Finally, I received Balance Me Radiance Face Mask. I love testing out face masks, so at least there was one win for me this box.

What did you get in this month's BB?

0

Birchbox | May 2016

A very summer themed box. Usually I am not the biggest fan of summer, but this year, I am getting excited. I'm envisioning camping trips, days by the beach, and nights on city rooftops. I'm liking this assortment of Birchbox samples to keep the summer glow. Now to get that the self-tan going....

Box Breakdown

Vita Liberata Fabulous Self Tanning Gradual Lotion

Obliphica Professional Seaberry Hair Serum

Coola Daydream SPF30 Mineral Makeup Primer

MDSolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense SPF50 for Body

ModelCo Lip Lacquer in Creme Brulee

What did you get in this month's Birchbox?

0

Birchbox | April 2016

This box has me ready for Spring. The weather is definitely rainy (hoping April showers bring May flowers) but has been on the chilly side. I'm so glad that Birchbox did another collaboration with Rifle Paper Co. (see the first one here). I love the floral design, plus it came with a 20% off Rifle Paper coupon. Here is what else I received in this month's box:

Box Breakdown

Acure Pore Minimizing Facial Scrub

PBJ Smoothie Stick Creamy Lip Crayon

rms beauty The ultimate makeup remover wipe

Beaver Repair Rescue Shampoo & Conditioner

I just received a sample of the Acure Facial Scrub in the recent Whole Foods Beauty bag. I love it and even featured it in this past month's favourites. I am currently debating storing this one as a back-up or sharing the product love with a friend. I love the colour of the PBJ Smoothie Stick. It looks like the perfect transitional shade from colder weather to spring. And the little blenders on the packaging are pretty cute too. For sample selection, I chose the rms beauty makeup remover wipes. I have been wanting to try many products from rms. I love their chic design and luxe ingredients. These wipes are going straight in my gym bag. I tried hot yoga for the first time last week and came out looking like a panda-these are going to solve that problem! Finally, I received a generous size of Beaver Repair Rescue Shampoo & Conditioner. I am not a fan of their ingredients, so I might have to pass these on. Even so, this box is still a win for me. 

What did you get in this month's Birchbox?

0

Birchbox | March 2016

My little succulent has been the star of several blog posts now. But today we are talking about the March Birchbox. I had just received February's after a postal challenge, so March wasn't even on my radar. So, let's explore around this box together.

Box Breakdown

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser

Parlor by Jeff Chastain Moisturizing Sea Salt Spray

Wilma Schumann Skin Care Hydrating Collagen Eye Pads
trestique Color & Smudge Shadow Crayon in Aspen Pine
Smashbox Cosmetics Photo Finish Primer Oil

I didn't select a sample this month, so this box was a complete surprise. I have been quite happy with my subscription lately. I feel like I am always getting a good variety and large sizes. Just look at the Kiehl's. I have heard about the Parlor Sea Salt Spray, I believe it was the first product they released. Last night, I ordered some new bikinis-I am so ready for beach days and beachy hair to match. Soothing eye pads are much needed after many late nights in front of a computer screen. When I first opened my box, I freaked out that the eye shadow crayon was missing it's cap. It took me a bit too long to realize that is the cap, and once removed, the twist-up crayon is underneath. I will have to give this dark forest green a try. Finally, I received a sample of smashbox's Primer Oil. 

What did you get in this month's Birchbox?

0

Birchbox | February 2016

A very late Birchbox arrival. We have been having such issues with our mail lately. So many things have been not delivered! A rant for another day... Thanks to Birchbox for having such great customer service and sending me a new box. Now, I didn't end up getting my sample selection (I wanted to try the Ren Glycolactic Mask!), but I got some other amazing goodies. Not to mention the adorable box.

Box Breakdown

The Body Shop Fuji Green Tea Body Butter

Hey Honey Take it Off! Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask

Tocca Eau de Parfum, Emelia

Arrow Boost Color Enhancing Lip Balm

Terax Hair Care Original Crema

Who doesn't love The Body Shop's body butters? I am excited to try the Fuji Green Tea scent. The mini sizes are perfect for travel or just throwing in your handbag. I am a bit mask obsessed and am looking forward to a pamper night with this exfoliating honey peel off mask. I have been wanting to try a honey based mask for awhile. Though I am not the biggest perfume fanatic, I have never been disappointed in a Tocca scent. They are always so fresh and bright. I've even purchased their laundry detergent for delicates. Arrow is a brand direct from Birchbox. I was curious, so I am glad to get to try their lip balm. Finally, I received a generous sized sample of a conditioner from Terax. I go through shampoo and conditioner like crazy, so I am always up for trying something new.  

What did you get in this month's box?

0

Birchbox | January 2016

The first month of the new year, and Birchbox themed the box to get you ready for 2016. Out of the sticker choices, I went with 'Strengh'. I have so many goals for 2016 and the next few years, and I know I will need to be strong for life's ups & downs.

Box Breakdown

Foreo Day Cleanser

Eyeko Fat Liquid Liner

TonyMoly Delight Tony Tint in Red

Beautiful Nutrition Grapefruit Detox Shine Repair Shampoo & Conditioner

What was your word for 2016?

0

Birchbox | December 2015

The last Birchbox of 2015! I am loving the cozy, yet glam, silver knit print, as well as the contents of this box.

Box Breakdown

theBalm FratBoy Blush

Coastal Scents styleEYES formalEYES

(Malin + Goetz) clarifying clay mask

gorge I'll Make You Look Amazing Daily Spray

amika The Shield Style Extending Spray

Another happy mix of hair, skin, and make-up products. I love Malin + Goetz, so I am excited to test out the clarifying clay mask. I have been needing a good detoxifying mask-hope this one fits the bill. I have developed quite the collection of mini dry shampoos and have even tried one from amika previously. This is a little different as a 'style extending spray', but it seems to be the same deal. I love the packaging-print & size. Another beauty product running rampant in my cabinet is conditioning sprays. Love them. I am looking forward to trying this one from gorge with lime oil and green tea. Finally, I got too super cute mini make-up samples. FratBoy is a cult favourite blush I can't wait to try, and the shades in the Coastal Scents duo are right up my alley. This box also included a $10 code for the Birchbox shop-perfect for holiday gifts (yourself included). 

What did you get in this month's Birchbox?

0

Birchbox | November 2015

This month's Birchbox is quite gorgeous with a teal floral-palm motif and burgundy tissue. I love the copper Birchbox marking as well. It's holiday luxe without being too obvious. I am also quite excited about the products inside.

Box Breakdown

Make Face Gloss

LOC One & Done Shadow Stick in Impress Me

Liz Earle Superskin Moisturizer with Natural Neroli

Temple Spa La La Lagoon Aromatic Bath & Shower Gel

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo

The sample selection of the month were the LOC make-up sticks. There were lipstick and shadow stick options in gorgeous shades. I went with the Shadow Stick in Impress Me. I love rose gold, especially shadows, so it was a no brainer. I have only swatched it on my hand, but I have to say the shade is perfect, creamy consistency while smudge free. I'm excited to test it out. I love Liz Earle products and have used a whole pot of their Skin Repair Moisturizer, so I know I will love the Superskin Mositurizer. Plus, I love neroli scents. I feel like I have been getting pretty lucky with the dry shampoos! Like I said before, I can't get enough. I've tried several things from Living Proof, so I have no doubt I'll like the dry shampoo. It smells so fresh and has quiet a powerful spray. Matte gray and white packaging seems to be a thing with Temple Spa having a similar packaging vibe. Usually bath gels aren't the most exciting product, but they definitely get used. This scent is quite invigorating with mint and basil-it's spicy and unisex- perfect for if your boyfriend steals your soap. Finally, I received a little tube of Make Face Gloss. I am not too sure about this product. I don't know if I want my face to be glossy? I tested it out on my hand, and it really does look like a gloss-it's not as sticky, but has some tack to it. I will have to try it out as intended to see how the consistency works with make-up. 

What did you get in this month's Birchbox?

0

Birchbox | October 2015

Good evening, friends. October has been such a busy month! In the best possible ways. Every night we have had something going on-which is great but makes this daily blogging thing mighty tricky (I definitely haven't been proof reading...not good!) I have to say I am impressing myself with this streak. Anyway, today is a Birchbox day! I love getting new little products to test out. When I opened up this box, I was super excited. It's kind of my jam.

Box Breakdown

Avene Cleanance Soap-Free Gel Cleanser

BioRepublic Green Tea Detox Purifying Sheet Mask

Eyeko Black Magic Mascara

Number 4 Texture Styling Creme

Macadamia Professional Style Extend Dry Shampoo

Instantly, I was excited about the Macadamia Professional Style Extend Dry Shampoo I have changed to a dry shampoo convert lately, and I love testing out new ones. This one smells amazing, in true Macadamia fashion. Awesome sizing too! My sample choice this month was the Eyeko Black Magic Mascara, another beauty product I can never have too many choices of. The tube is so unique. The wand has a slight curve and natural bristles. It has potential to be a new fav. And if the matches in this box couldn't get any better, I also get a new sheet mask to try, BioRepublic Green Tea Detox Purifying Sheet Mask. Additionally, I received a little facial cleanser with french thermal spring water-Avene Cleanance Soap-Free Gel Cleanser- and a sample of Number 4 Texture Styling Creme. I have tried several No. 4 products in the past and liked all of them. I don't regular use a texturizing creme product, but I might give it a go to boost up some big braids for fall. 

I love the marbled dye effect of the box. I have a marble mani post if you want to achieve the look in nail art! Just use shades of pink instead. 

What did you get in this month's Birchbox?

0

Birchbox | September 2015

A week of subscription posts! It's fun to have a bunch of new surprise packages awaiting. Birchbox is continuing with the fancy boxes it seems.

Box Breakdown

100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream

Helmut Lang Cuiron Perfume

Rene Furterer Asbolue Keratine Sublime Renewal Leave-in Cream 

Tocca Esfoliante da Corpo-Bianca

ModelCo Ultra Long-Lasting Lipstick Smitten

I feel like every month I have been getting a perfume sample despite having checked the reduced perfume options. I'll have to look back on my previous posts to calculate it! The Helmut Lang Cuiron perfume is perfect for the cooler months. It reminds me a lot of a fall day with crisp leather notes. One sample I have received before (another not-supposed-to-happen event) is the 100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream. I really liked it, so it's not too disappointing to get another sample. Plus, it's in a legit container, rather than a foil packet, so it will last awhile. I mentioned always being up for a leave-in hair treatment, and it seems the universe decided to grant me that with this Rene Furterer Renewal Leave-in Cream. I love a good body scrub and this Tocca Esfoliante da Corpo in Bianca is a gorgeous scent and texture. Definitely happy I received this in my box. Finally, another product I am excited about is the ModelCo Lipstick in Smitten. The shade is so gorgeous, a perfect fall burgundy. I've been really happy with the mix of beauty products in my Birchboxes. I think they got their algorithm right-despite the repeat product & too many perfumes. 

What did you get in this month's Birchbox?

0

Birchbox | August 2015

I am going to have to rock some pool nail-art to match this fun August Birchbox! I think the theme is "Soak It Up!" I will be soaking up the last weeks of summer. I am so excited for fall though...

Box Breakdown

Juicy Couture I Am Juicy Couture

Coola SPF30 Organic Makeup Setting Spray

LAQA & Co. Cheeky Lip Cray Cray

IPKN Flash Cream Radiant Primer

Parlor by Jeff Chastain Smoothing Blowout Spray 

Birchbox is such a lovely monthly treat. I am always eager to open the cute box filled with little samples. This month I received a good mix of things. I think they do a great job curating. I am most excited about the Coola Makeup Setting Spray. I love Coola sunscreens and wanted to try this version. I am also having a moment with make-up setting sprays again, so it's nice to have another option. You can definitely tell it has sun protectant, so watch out for your eyes & nose. It dries quickly and not too chalky feeling, like sunscreen can. I keep getting perfume samples! I thought I opted for the reduced amount. I almost can't believe that Juicy is still releasing perfumes. This one is a bit too sweet for my taste, but if you like the candy/vanilla scents, give it a try. The IPKN Primer is super brightening. It almost looks opalescent on the skin. I haven't tried it under make-up yet-I am hoping it keeps the brightening in a natural way. I probably have way too many lip crayons, but how can I resist? This LAQA cheek and lip crayon has an oh-so appropriate name-Cray Cray-and is a pretty pinky peach shade. Finally, I received a sample of the blowout spray from Parlor, a brand exclusive to Birchbox. I love hair products, so I am excited to try this out-it smells amazing. 

What did you get in this month's Birchbox?

0