In between working and watching terrible horror movies on Netflix to review, I’ve also been using the products I recently received in my September 2014 GlossyBox, a collaboration with Harper’s Bazaar. After the debacle that surrounded August’s box, I was pleasantly surprised my box arrived on time- and even more so at what was inside of it. With an assortment of full-sized and deluxe samples that covered hair care, nails, makeup, and skin care- September’s GlossyBox might be one of my favorite ones to date!

What I Received:

Benefit Cosmetics ‘They’re Real!’ Mascara

BVLGARI Eau Parfumée au thé vert conditioner

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics ‘Black Dahlia’ Lip Tar – Matte (*Full Size!*)

essie ‘She’s Pampered’ Nail Polish (*Full Size!*)

Vichy LiftActiv Night Cream

Product # 1: Benefit Cosmetics ‘They’re Real!’ Mascara ($23)

The only product I received in September’s GlossyBox that I DIDN’T try was Benefit’s “They’re Real!” Mascara- not because I’m not a fan of it- but because this is actually the mascara I’ve been using every day for the past couple of months. I’m saving this sample sized tube for the next time I travel for quick and easy touch-ups on the go. This mascara delivers phenomenal results- giving me long, fluttery looking lashes with just a couple of sweeps with no clumping, smudging, or flaking- and the formula stays in place comfortably all day.

Would I Purchase?: Yes, and I already have! While I’ve been a fan of the false lash look for the longest time, lately I’ve gravitated towards a more natural approach to my eye makeup. “They’re Real!” makes my lashes pop without making them look TOO heavily done. I’m a big fan.

Product # 2: BVLGARI Eau Parfumée au thé vert conditioner ($45)

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, when it comes to BVLGARI, their products are hit or miss for me- mostly because of the fragrance. For example, in past GlossyBoxes, I’ve received samples of perfume and bath teas that have smelled lovely- only to receive a bar of soap with the same perfume that have downright made me gag. This conditioner thankfully smelled really, really nice- and I found myself unconsciously touching my hair throughout the day because this product made it silky soft. The only thing that would keep me from going out and buying a bottle of this right away would be the $45 price tag. I don’t mind, and even encourage, the occasional splurge- but even I draw the line at this!

Would I Purchase?: Yes. Like I said, if I could afford stocking up on multiple bottles of this conditioner without breaking the bank- I absolutely would. It gave me great results and smelled great- but whereas I use LOTS of conditioner for my curls, I can only see myself treating myself to this conditioner every once in a great while.

Product # 3: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics ‘Black Dahlia’ Lip Tar – Matte ($18)

Don’t let the name of this highly pigmented lip color or the appearance of it within the tube fool you- while the shade may look like something out of a gothic tutorial, the color when applied on the lips is actually a beautiful deep plum with crimson undertones- perfect for this time of year! I’ve heard a lot of good things about OCC’s Lip Tars, but had yet to try one until now. The product applied easily enough with the included brush, giving me rich, full matte color with just a droplet of the gloss- and it stayed in place for HOURS- through morning coffee and my lunch break. Even when the full extent of the color had faded by dinner, my lips still had a bit of a stain to them. The only downside to this product, and I’m not sure if it’s because of the matte formula or the longevity- is that it’s drying. I highly recommend using a balm under or over before/after applying this to prevent cracking, peeling, and general discomfort.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! The drying aspect aside, which can be easily solved with the aforementioned balm- this is an impressive product that packs a punch- both in color and in how long it lasts. I was surprised with how flattering ‘Black Dahlia’ looked on me, and would re-purchase it in the future- but I’d love to try other shades, too!

Product # 4: essie ‘She’s Pampered’ Nail Polish ($8.50)

I can never have enough brilliant red nail polishes in the Fall and Winter, so I was pretty excited to see this full-sized bottle of bright, bold, cherry-hued polish from Essie in September’s GlossyBox. The photo above is after two coats and a top coat- but despite my love of the color, the polish began chipping within 24 hours and required more than one touch-up- which chipped again in a short amount of time. I was disappointed in the lack of staying power- but other than that- I liked the easy application and the shade.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. Essie is good for a 1-2 day manicure or if you need a quick pop of color for a special event, but for those who like their polish to last more than a couple of days- I don’t think you’ll find what you’re looking for with this formula. While the color was beautiful, I really wished it would have stayed on my nails for a longer period of time.

Product # 5: Vichy LiftActiv Night Cream ($50)

Back in January, I had received a sample of Vichy’s day cream in my GlossyBox that I had liked despite it’s strong fragrance. This cream, it’s nighttime companion- didn’t seem to have such a strong perfume added to it, and whereas the day cream was rich but not too heavy when it sank into my skin- this product started off with a thick, heavy texture and eventually melted onto my skin- almost immediately making it feel tight and firm without irritation or any kind of reaction. After using it for a few days, I noticed an improvement in my skin’s overall tone and texture. I may not need firming/lifting benefits in my skin care regimen just yet- but I was a big fan of this product.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! While I was on the fence with the day cream, I really enjoyed this night cream and would splurge on a full-sized jar in the future. It’s less-overpowering fragrance was a relief, the cream was hydrating (which is important in these colder, dryer months!) and the results I achieved with such a small amount in only a few short days was impressive.

With 4 out of 5 products receiving positive reviews, and one not quite living up to expectations- overall I’d say I was pleased with September’s GlossyBox.  I think Harper’s Bazaar curated a great assortment of goods that covered a broad spectrum of areas. I absolutely loved the conditioner and lip tar- both of which were my favorite things in the box- and I hope to discover more brands/products to get smitten with when I receive my October one near the end of this month!