I’ve been a loyal subscriber to GlossyBox for a few years now, having first opened up my account back in the beginning of 2013 when the company collaborated with blogger Man Repeller for a special curated box. I had been so pleased and impressed with everything that I had received that I couldn’t wait to see what would come the following month, and the month after that- and the month after that.

And now, just a little over three years of samples, coupons, and reviews- my relationship with GlossyBox has sadly come to an end. I still think very highly of the service, and recommend it to anyone looking to test out new products from different brands- but for me, it was starting to get a little stale. There’s only so many black eyeliners and rose-hued lipsticks a girl can need/want- and coupled with my new budgeting plan for 2016- it was finally time to sever ties and bid a fond farewell to my very first beauty box subscription.

Last month’s box, which arrived free of charge since I cashed in my accrued GlossyDOTS (collected by answering survey questions about the samples received in past boxes)– arrived right on time- however I only recently finished trying everything out.

WHAT I RECEIVED:

Adore Cosmetics Cellmax Elite Facial Serum

RITUALS Cosmetics Shower Foam in ‘Zensation’

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara

NIOXIN System 3 Cleanser & Scalp Therapy Conditioner

TALIKA Photo-Hydra Day

Product # 1: Adore Cosmetics Cellmax Elite Facial Serum ($749.95. Yes, really.)

Have you ever held something in your hand that was so obscenely expensive that you had a mild panic attack at the very thought of dropping it while you clutched it in your sweaty palm? WELL DO I HAVE A PRODUCT FOR YOU TO TRY. This is Adore Cosmetics’ facial serum- and it’s price tag is one of the most bonkers things I’ve ever seen in my entire life. For just under $750 for a full-sized jar, I wanted this serum to make my face look the way it did when I was seven years old. I’m talking giving me my flawless elementary school skin. If I’m spending what could easily be a month’s rent- then I want miracles.

Well, after using this serum for a few days- morning and night- I gotta’ say it’s pretty awesome. My skin has been significantly brighter, clearer, softer and smoother. The difference is really, really noticeable- and a little goes a long way- so I’ll be milking this deluxe sample for as long as possible.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Listen, if food, shelter and clothing were not a necessity- I would buying this stuff in bulk. While my skin doesn’t look the way it did while I was in elementary school- it still looks and feels great- and that’s good enough for me. This serum seriously packs a punch and I’m going to be sad when I’m left scraping this little jar for the last bit of it!

Product # 2: RITUALS Cosmetics Shower Foam in ‘Zensation’ ($15)

I’d received a full-sized RITUALS shower foam in a past GlossyBox before, which I had really enjoyed. The fragrance was divine- and the foam-on-contact aerosol can made for a mess-free shower experience. This miniature version, with a different scent that still smelled light, fresh, clean and only a little floral- was just as good. It left my skin feeling truly cleansed and moisturized throughout the day- and I personally loved how conveniently-small the canister is. This would be perfect to travel with since it beats the drying and over-perfumed hotel room bar soaps or body washes any day.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I looked at RITUALS website, and it seems they do have these smaller-sized containers of shower foams available for sale- which means I can stock up for my upcoming travel plans (and keep one in my gum bag for my post-workout shower, too.)

Product # 3: Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara ($24)

Speaking of travel-sized necessities- I love receiving small tubes of mascara because for me- they never go to waste. I always use them up before they expire, they’re more convenient to carry with me, and the fact that they’re free isn’t a bad deal, either. I also love Benefit Cosmetics- so getting to try a tube of their Roller Lash mascara was really enjoyable for me.

This mascara had a really unique shaped brush which helped coat my lashes evenly and without any clumping or flaking. Theproduct definitely lengthened my lashes- although I didn’t really notice any difference in how they curled up (but mine tend to do so naturally, so that might be why)– but this stuff stayed in place all day and well into the night, even when it was getting hot and humid outside- without giving me the dreaded raccoon look by the time I got home.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I liked the longevity of this mascara, and I liked how it lengthened my lashes- but there was a certain “wow’ factor that was missing that I usually find in my Tarte and Too Faced mascaras. This one is nice for sure- but I’m not 100% sold on it.

Product # 4: NIOXIN System 3 Cleanser & Scalp Therapy Conditioner ($49 for kit)

I was unfamiliar with the brand NIOXIN prior to receiving these two samples of shampoo and conditioner- but apparently the products are designed to aid those with thinning hair. Since my hair is pretty thick and curly naturally, I had a feeling I wouldn’t see much of a difference- but decided to try these anyway for the sake of a review. Despite being for chemically-treated hair- both products are loaded with sulfates and hard-to-pronounce artificial ingredients- so I went easy on the usage as to not strip my red.

Both the shampoo and the conditioner smell STRONGLY of mint (and getting a little in your eyes is not a fun experience- trust me), but while the shampoo didn’t lather up all that well and didn’t make my hair feel any cleaner- the conditioner worked well enough at de-tangling my curls and softening my scalp. I just needed to use a lot of it to work through my hair. By the time I was done, my hair didn’t look or feel any different in terms of thickness. It looked about the same.

Would I Purchase?: No. I can’t say for certain if this product would work wonders for thinning hair, but for me- it was okay. My hair didn’t feel particularly clean after I used the shampoo, and I needed a lot of the conditioner to get my curls soft and manageable. The overpowering mint fragrance didn’t really help much, either. I’ll pass on this stuff.

Product # 5: TALIKA Photo-Hydra Day ($49)

I’m always a little weary when it comes to trying serums/oils/moisturizers from brands that I’m not too familiar with. I have sensitive and combination skin- and one unusual ingredient or too much added perfume and my face turns into a war zone of bumps, blemishes, and redness. I’d never tried TALIKA products before- at least not any that I can remember easily- but this lightweight, anti-aging “plumping” moisturizer seemed tame enough.

While this product does have a little bit of a fragrance to it- which kind of reminded me of the beach for a reason I still can’t quite explain- it was harmless on my face. It softened my skin, and even brightened my complexion a bit- but I didn’t necessarily notice any changes to the “plumpness” or firmness to it. It was just a nice, lightweight daily moisturizer that I didn’t mind having within reach after I washed my face.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. If you’re looking for something to seriously firm, tighten, or tone your skin- this might not be the perfect product for you- but it’s a decent daily moisturizer to apply in the mornings before my makeup- which is a nice, convenient thing to have in the Summer. Really the only thing that’s still got me on the fence about this product is the price point- since $49 is a lot to spend on something that doesn’t do every single thing it’s supposed to, after all.

My final GlossyBox consisted of two YES (“YASSSS”) products, two maybes, and one definitive no. Not the best assortment of items- but also not the worst, either.

I’ve had a lot of fun with the company- and I recommend them to anyone who is looking to try new beauty products every month for a reasonable price- but I needed a break.

xx

After last week’s unforeseen and unfortunate loss of a cultural icon- I wanted to work through the mourning process and get back to schedule and to the basics. Namely: my monthly subscription service reviews.  Having only recently received my April POPSUGAR ‘Must Have’ box and Loot Crate over the past couple of days due to late and/or delayed shipments, I thought I would write and post my reviews based on the order the boxes were delivered to me and kick off this installment with the first to arrive at my door this month- my April GlossyBox.

April’s GlossyBox contained two full-sized products and three deluxe samples that predominantly covered skincare but also included a hair styling product, a makeup product, and a nail polish (always one of my favorite things to receive!) The selection of items and the box itself did not have a specific theme- but with the Summer months approaching- I’m hoping GlossyBox will have some fun collaborations to liven things up a little.

WHAT I RECEIVED:

ALTERNA Haircare CAVIAR CC Cream for Hair 10-in-1 Complete Correction

Studio | 10 Brow Lift Perfecting Liner (*Full Size!*)

Biossance ‘THE NOURISHER’ Precious Rose Face Oil

Leighton Denny Expert Nails Nail Polish in ‘Pillow Talk’ (*Full Size!*)

Unani Dermo Defense Face Mask

Let’s take a look at everything one-by-one.

Product # 1: ALTERNA Haircare CAVIAR CC Cream for Hair 10-in-1 Complete Correction ($25)

This actually isn’t the first time I’ve tried this product through GlossyBox. Back in 2014 when the company teamed up with BERGDORF GOODMAN, I had received a deluxe-sized sample tube of this very same styling cream- and I had absolutely loved it.

Nearly two years later and despite the packaging looking slightly different- I’m still as big a fan of this product as ever. It makes my hair ridiculously soft and frizz-free, tames my curls to give them a beautiful and effortless wavy appearance, and it doesn’t require using a TON of product since a little bit of the cream goes such a long way-  even with my thick hair- so having to buy in bulk isn’t really necessary (just a life choice since I like this stuff so much.)

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I continue to swear by this cream. No matter what type of hair you have- this product is a must-buy game changer. It has completely simplified my morning styling routine and whenever I use it- my hair always looks and feels incredible. On most days, this is the only product I need/use in my curls!

Product # 2: Studio | 10 Brow Lift Perfecting Liner ($20)

I’ve been getting experimental with my brows lately- and by “experimental”- I mean I’ve been too lazy to pluck or wax them properly so I’ve just been letting them grow out until my next appointment at the salon where I’m sure I’ll clean them up a little. Until then, all I really do is use a brow gel and brush to keep them even and in place and go about my day. I’ve never really been in need of a pencil- especially a hard-tipped one like this brow pencil/highlighter duo I received from Studio | 10.

The cool thing about this product (and this brand in general) is that with every one of these brow pencils sold- the company donates one to a person undergoing cancer treatment who may need a pick-me-up from the side effects of their treatments/medications and who could use a boost in morale and self-confidence. Having known a few people who have courageously battled cancer throughout my lifetime- I think it’s the little things that make all the difference- and sending someone something as small as a little makeup is a sweet gesture.

Despite being hard-tipped, both ends of this pencil actually applied pretty smoothly. Unfortunately, the colors didn’t look quite “right” on my skin tone (the brown was too noticeable and the highlighter wasn’t noticeable enough) and I couldn’t get either end to blend to look more subtle and natural. I think I’ll be sticking to my brow gel and brush for now.

Would I Purchase?: No, not for myself- but given the buy one/give one aspect of this liner- I wouldn’t be opposed to picking up a few for some of my girlfriends’ makeup collections. It would be supporting a nice cause and they’d probably have more luck getting this pencil to look right on them than I did!

Product # 3: Biossance ‘THE NOURISHER’ Precious Rose Face Oil ($72)

In a past GlossyBox, I had received a multi-purpose Biossance oil that I had enjoyed very much as I slathered it on my cuticles, the ends of my hair, and my face and neck. This oil- a face-only formula that smelled strongly of freshly picked roses whenever I uncapped the bottle- was obviously a little different. I used this oil as directed- applying with a cotton ball in the morning before my makeup and at night after thoroughly cleansing my face before bed. Although it took a few minutes to fully absorb, I noticed that my skin gradually became softer and smoother with each passing day- and I didn’t have any sort of bad reaction or breakout from this oil- even with the fragrance and even when I applied sunscreen after using it in the mornings. Not bad at all!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Much like the last oil I received from Biossance- the price tag on this product is a little steep- but it’s worth it given the results that can be achieved. I think when it comes time for me to splurge a little bit on myself and replenish some of my skin care- I’d consider ordering a full-sized bottle of this oil to keep on hand since it worked wonders for me. It made my skin look and feel hydrated and supple all day & night long- and I believe it would be suitable for any and all skin types, too.

Product # 4: Leighton Denny Expert Nails Nail Polish in ‘Pillow Talk’ ($16)

Whenever I receive a nail polish in any of my subscription services, I typically take a photo of how the polish looks on my nails since it can turn out much different than how it appears in the bottle. Unfortunately, shortly after my last manicure- I headed off to New Hampshire for a weekend in nature- and by the time I got done hiking/rock climbing/zip-lining (that recap is coming up shortly)– my nails weren’t exactly the most photogenic things. In fact, my hands pretty much took a beating- and I’m trying to get them back into nice condition again.

I digress! The color of this long-lasting lacquer was lovely (say that three times fast.) A bright combo of pink/red- this polish really stood out on my nails pre-trip to New Hampshire and is going to be a nice addition to my Summer colors when it comes time to get pedicures again.

Also? I just love the name of the color, too.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! It’s hard for me to locate a nail polish I don’t like (it’s happened, for sure- but those instances are far and few between) and this shade is another winner for me. I love the color and the longevity- and I’ll hopefully have a photo of how it looks on my fingertips up on my Instagram once my hands are healed up!

Product # 5: Unani Dermo Defense Face Mask (N/A)

Finally, the last product in April’s GlossyBox was this gel-like face mask for sensitive skin from Unani, which I unfortunately couldn’t find a price listing for. The mask, lightweight and meant to be used 2-3 times a week, sank into my skin with ease and rinsed off with no complications after I’d kept it on for approximately ten minutes- briefly leaving my skin feeling soft and conditioned- although not necessarily “clean” the way most face masks do.

The issue with this mask arose shortly thereafter- when a series of bumps along my cheeks appeared- followed by more bumps along my forehead and chin. This mask made me break out- badly- and some serious extraction and salicylic acid application was required to clear up the damage.

Just to make sure that the reaction was a result of the mask itself and not the side-effects of my period- I tried the mask again a few days later- and the same exact thing happened (although not as badly the second time around.) Once again, I had to scrub and nurture my skin to clear up the blemishes- and some of them still haven’t gone away.

Would I Purchase?: No. Out of all the products in April’s GlossyBox- this one was the worst. This mask temporarily ruined my skin- and I’ll be steering clear from it while I wait for the reaction it caused to eventually clear itself up and my face can return to it’s normal oily/combination state.

April’s GlossyBox also included an additional voucher for 50% off (the code was edited out in the above photo) a kit from the company Doorstep Desserts– who make weekly deliveries of ingredients to bake/cook different types of desserts depending on subscribers preferences and pay plans. The concept is pretty neat, and we all know how much I love to bake a good dessert- so I think I’ll be using this one in the future to see if the company is as good as it sounds!

Overall, April’s GlossyBox was a pretty good composition of different products- and although two of them were just not for me at all- overall I was pleased with what I received (especially another sample of the CC cream for my hair!)

Next month’s GlossyBox will be free thanks to my cashing in my accrued GlossyDots- and I’m going to take the opportunity to determine if I want to stay a subscriber or not since I’ve been on the fence with the company for quite a while now.

We’ll see how it goes in May!

xx

Next up while I’m making the rounds with my monthly subscription services is my review of March’s GlossyBox. I’ve been on the fence with this company for a few months now (I feel like I say that every month, really) since the service is often hit or miss and I’ve been finding the assortment of products I receive each month is starting to feel repetitive- which is ultimately what led me to cancel my Ipsy subscription a while back- but I’ve been trying to tough it out since reviewing these pretty pink boxes every few weeks has been a tradition since I first started writing ‘Legally Redhead’ back in 2013.

March’s GlossyBox did not have a particular theme/collaboration this time around, and featured two full-sized products with three deluxe-sized samples

WHAT I RECEIVED:

Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick in ‘Chihuahua’

I Love…Cosmetics Super Soft Hand Lotion in ‘Raspberry & Blackberry’ (*Full Size!*)

Luxie Beauty Rose Gold Large Angled Face Brush 504 (*Full Size!*)

Eyeko Eye Do Liquid Eyeliner

Vine Vera Resveratrol Merlot Moisture Day Cream

Product # 1: Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick in ‘Chihuahua’ ($21)

I wanted to start this month’s review with what was hands down my favorite product in March’s GlossyBox. I’m a big fan of Too Faced cosmetics, and although I’ve seen the tubes of their Melted Lipstick staring up at me each and every time I’ve gone into Sephora recently- I never got around to testing the product- let alone buying a full-sized one. I’ve heard mixed reviews, and was very happy to receive a rather large sample size of their rose/neutral shade, ‘Chihuahua’ to play around with- and from the first time I applied this shade with the sponge-tipped applicator- I was in love.

I love how this formula feels on my lips. It’s creamy, not greasy- but dries to a beautiful and long-lasting finish that stays in place for a long time until it eventually fades out into a non-drying stain. The color is flattering, but what makes me even happier is the price point. Similar highly-pigmented lipsticks like this one tend to break the bank. $21 for a tube that will last a long time seems pretty reasonable to me- and Melted Lipsticks come in so many shades that I can find a perfect one for any season/occasion.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! While ‘Chihuahua’ complimented my skin tone for sure, I’d actually really like to try some of the other, bolder colors this formula comes in- like a nice poppy shade or a deep violet. I think I’ll be adding a couple of these to my basket the next time I’m in Sephora!

Product # 2: I Love…Cosmetics Super Soft Hand Lotion in ‘Raspberry & Blackberry’ ($6)

I love the smell and taste of both raspberries and blackberries- so combining the two in a product I will never, ever say no to (any type of hand cream) is pretty much an automatic win in my book. Not only was the packaging to this $6 intensely hydrating and quick-absorbing hand lotion bright and fun- but the product smelled so delicious and so convincing that it immediately made me crave a smoothie while I was vigorously rubbing it into my hands and cuticles. While my skin is nowhere near as dry as it was about a month or two ago when I was in the thick of frigid Winter temperatures- I still try to treat the rougher patches of my body (including my hands) to some TLC as much as possible. This lotion definitely helped get the job done.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I really enjoyed this hand cream- and after doing some research into I Love… Cosmetics- it looks as though the company offers an assortment of other creams/body washes in different fragrances, too. I’m currently eyeing the coconut one since that is my favorite scent of all!

Product # 3: Luxie Beauty Rose Gold Large Angled Face Brush 504 ($16)

Typically when I receive any type of makeup brush in a subscription service, I pass it along to my other makeup-fiend friends or family members since I’ve been more than content with my longtime collection of brushes, sponges, and tools. However, I’ve recently been playing around with contouring lately- and having misplaced a couple of my brushes during some light travel over the past couple of months- I found that this one arrived just in time to help me get a defined and radiant look with my blushes and highlighters. Apart from the fact that this brush is pink (!!!), it’s bristles are also incredibly soft and deposit the colors I choose evenly on my skin as opposed to causing any colors/powders to look chalky or caked on.

Sorry, friends and family- I’m keeping this one for myself!

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I highly doubt I’ll be in need of a replacement any time soon since this brush seems pretty well-made and durable, but if I find myself in a bind and need to re-order- I might consider picking up another one- especially for only $16, which is a steal compared to similar brushes from other high-end companies.

Product # 4: Eyeko Eye Do Liquid Eyeliner ($20)

Typically the words “liquid” and “eyeliner” put together makes me cringe and/or recoil in horror, since I always end up looking ridiculous whenever I try to apply a decent cat-eye with my shaky hands- but this black eyeliner from Eyeko is actually the “marker” version of liquid eyeliner that I enjoy since it has a fine point applicator and is easier to control than a sopping wet brush.

Sure enough, when I first tried this liner pen, I was able to create a subtle lined look that didn’t require multiple do-overs or corrections, and for the most part- this product stayed in place. I say “for the most part” because on a couple of separate occasions, I had noticed that the outer corner of my eye where I had flicked the liner up to create a cat-eye was starting to look a little dark- like the product was in the early stages of smudging/fading. A touch-up with my concealer and highlighter later and it was gone- but I dread to think of how I could have easily resembled a raccoon had I not noticed it in time.

Would I Purchase?: No. I didn’t hate this liner by any means, and for someone like me who typically can’t line their eyes to save their life- it was easy to hold steady and apply evenly. I think I just need something that has a bit more staying power for those days/nights I don’t have time for touch-ups- and that’s why I’ll be sticking to my gel liners and other tried and tested brands of “marker” style liners, instead.

Product # 5: Vine Vera Resveratrol Merlot Moisture Day Cream ($146)

For years, I’ve heard about the benefits of wine when it came to heart health (… or stress relief), but never once thought about it being beneficial in skin care. I suppose it was only a matter of time before someone tried it out and created a skin care product out of a chardonnay or Merlot- which is where Vine Vera comes in.

When I first saw the two very small containers from the brand in March’s GlossyBox, I thought for a second that maybe one cream was a day cream and the other was a night cream- but they were both day creams- and I have to say I wasn’t a fan of the way it was packaged. For a product that costs $146 for a full-sized version, I’d have hoped to receive something that didn’t look like it had been an afterthought/last minute choice to add to this month’s assortment of items and placed in something that resembled one of Sephora’s small take-home tester containers.

My dissatisfaction with this product unfortunately didn’t end with it’s packaging. While the cream was lightweight and made my skin feel nice at first- it was temporary. After each use of this product, I noticed a series of bumps and blemishes appearing around my face that required a mask and a bit of extraction to get rid of. I had to stop using this after the fourth time it made me break out along my chin.

Would I Purchase?: No. Apart from the weird reaction I had to this cream, I’m also at a loss for it’s price tag. I’m aware that anti-aging products can get a little expensive- but I don’t even see any indication, anywhere, that this cream has any type of SPF in it or how it’s even supposed to work. A peek at Vine Vera’s site shows multiple (and oddly vague) 5-star reviews for this cream- but again- no truly specific information. I’m gonna’ pass on this one.

Although I loved the lipstick and the lotion (and didn’t have any problems with the brush) in March’s GlossyBox- the eyeliner and especially the day cream left a LOT to be desired. This wasn’t the worst box I’ve received- not by a long shot- but I wasn’t exactly blown away by it, either.

I’m currently accruing GlossyDots in order to receive one of my upcoming boxes for free. I’m hoping to be dazzled and wowed again by the company before then so I’ll have incentive to keep subscribing- because with the exception of a couple of recent themed/collaboration boxes- it feels like they’ve been falling a little flat.

‘Til next time!

xx

Before I write about my birthday, the blizzard, or do my wrap-up for the month of January- I wanted to go over my three monthly subscription services, all of which arrived in my postbox within days of each other- starting with GlossyBox. After last month’s red and white holiday-themed assortment of items, this month saw the company return to it’s trademark pink and black packaging and no specific theme laid out in the information card included in each month’s box.

With two full-sized items inside- the products I received in January’s GlossyBox covered makeup, moisturizers, and hair care.

Let’s take a look at what I got!

WHAT I RECEIVED:

MeMeMe Lip Glide in ‘Playful Peach’ (*Full Size!*)

Beautiful Nutrition Lemon Rinse Gentle Clarifying Treatment

Emite Makeup Diamond Heart Base Primer (*Full Size!*)

Royal Apothic Moisturizing Body Cream in ‘Cutting Garden’

-417 Nourishing Foot Cream

Product # 1: MeMeMe Lip Glide in ‘Playful Peach’ ($12.50)

Ah, yes- we are officially in the season of all things matte. Matte eye shadow, matte lipsticks, matte leggings (it’s a thing that exists!) and while I’ll never shy away from a matte red, wine color, or neutral tone for the Fall/Winter- a matte coral seems a little unusual, if not downright unseasonal for mid-January. Regardless, I still tried this lip pencil from MeMeMe for reviewing purposes.

The color, a bright peach/coral- is very pigmented when applied with 2-3 swipes over the lips- and appears matte as promised on the packaging and in the product’s description. Unfortunately, with my pale skin- the tone almost immediately washed me out completely. While the application of the pencil itself is smooth, the formula does seem to make my lips look a little dry once it sets in. Lines and creases are clearly visible- and the product doesn’t last very long. A few sips of my coffee and the color was all but gone and needed to be re-applied again to keep my lips from looking patchy and uneven.

Thankfully, this pencil doesn’t dry my lips out the way other, similar products tend to do- but even still- I wasn’t all that impressed with this.

Would I Purchase?: No. This pencil was just not for me at all. Between the unflattering color, the dry-looking appearance, and the disappointing longevity- I’m going to have to pass on this product and stick to my usual matte lipsticks for long-lasting, rich texture and tone.

Product # 2: Beautiful Nutrition Lemon Rinse Gentle Clarifying Treatment ($10)

No, your eyes are not playing tricks on you- the label on this bottle of clarifying hair treatment is indeed a little wonky. So much, in fact- that I had to go online to research and read the instructions before I used this lemon-scented rinse to make sure I was doing it correctly. Thankfully, the directions are pretty simple. After shampooing and conditioning my hair as usual, I combed some of this product through my still damp curls and let it sink in for roughly 30 seconds to a minute or so before rinsing it out and styling as usual.

What I was left with was shiny, soft, healthy-feeling hair that was free from breakage and frizz (and it also smelled like lemonade which was admittedly very nice!) I didn’t think anything that was left on for the bare minimum of time would have such great results- but I was pleasantly surprised by this product- and for $10 for a full-sized bottle you can’t go wrong.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This rinse was a great find and worked wonders on my hair. I was very impressed with the results I achieved after just a couple of uses, and the fact that it smells nice and is safe for color-treated hair is an added bonus. The price point is ridiculously fair, in my opinion- and I plan on ordering a couple of full-sized bottles to keep in my shower and in my overnight bag the next time I travel to maintain my curls looking clean and vibrant.

Product # 3: Emite Makeup Diamond Heart Base Primer ($29)

It’s not very often I fall in love with a makeup primer, as many in the past have either caused breakouts, made me look shiner than usual, or just didn’t keep my makeup in place, period- but here we are and here I am- swearing by this primer by Emite Makeup. This lightly-tinted formula that has a faint and familiar scent I couldn’t quite put my finger on- applied easily and felt lightweight on my skin- not greasy or slick. When it dried, my face appeared dewy without looking overly oily- and it helped keep my foundation in place all day without sliding off or creasing anywhere.

I think what I like best about this primer is that it sort of doubles as a skin perfecting and brightening BB cream. You can wear it on it’s own for sheer coverage and not have to worry about it clogging your pores or anything. I like to throw this on (with some mascara and lip gloss) when I’m just running a couple of errands and don’t necessarily want to deal with a full face of makeup- and it still makes my skin look nice!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This is one of those rare instances when a makeup primer actually worked really well for me. I love this formula, and how it can be worn under foundation or by itself. I loved it’s staying power- and I especially love it’s price since it costs a fraction of what I’ve spent on other primers or BB creams in the past that didn’t work nearly as well for me!

Product # 4: Royal Apothic Moisturizing Body Cream in ‘Cutting Garden’ ($30)

I’m a pretty big fan of nearly every Royal Apothic product I’ve received in my subscription services to date, so I was excited to see this lovely packaged tube of body cream by the company in January’s GlossyBox. ‘Cutting Garden’, a very pretty floral fragrance, rubbed into my skin quickly and evenly- instantly hydrating any dry spots or patches without making the not-so-dry spots and patches feel slick or greasy (my biggest pet peeve with moisturizers!)

Hours later, my skin was still soft, smooth, and lightly scented. To say I love this cream is an understatement, and although $30 is a little on the steep side for a full-sized tube- I can easily picture myself picking up a couple for friends who appreciate a good hydrating cream as much as I do! (I sense a giveaway coming up soon…)

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Royal Apothic had yet another hit with this body cream. I loved the results, the fragrance, and the beautiful packaging. Although the price-point is a little more on the expensive side- I think this is a great item to splurge on for yourself and an even better item to give as a thoughtful gift for those trying to get through harsh Winters, too! This formula comes in a variety of fragrances, but I’m quite keen on ‘Cutting Garden’ as it is!

Product # 5: -417 Nourishing Foot Cream ($18)

The other night I was telling a friend how long overdue for a decent pedicure I was. Winter- and my knee-high boots- have been absolute Hell on my heels. They’re dry and cracked- and no amount of lotion or cream seems to do the trick even if I vigorously and religiously apply it. I wasn’t expecting much from this small yellow tube of cream- but I gave it a whirl anyway.

First things first, this cream does not smell like your usual, every day pedi-product. There’s no traces of mint, or lavender. Instead, this lightweight cream has a woodsy fragrance- almost like men’s cologne- but not nearly as strong or potent. I rather liked the smell of it, and didn’t mind that it stayed on my hands well after I applied this all over my heels, soles, and toes.

The cream IS moisturizing- and my skin definitely felt softer as I wrapped my feet in fuzzy slipper socks and went to bed- but by the next morning, my heels still felt a little dry and scratchy. After two more nights of pre-bedtime application, my feet slowly but surely began to feel a little smoother and less dry overall- so this is a product that will work gradually over time. If you’re looking for a quick fix- this isn’t the cream for you.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I think this foot cream would be ideal in the Spring/Summer when the air is less dry and cold and I’m not wearing boots at all times- but for this time of year- I don’t think it’s heavy duty enough for me as I battle through Winter. I’m going to need something much stronger to keep my skin from perpetual dryness and cracking- but I could see myself using this product when the weather warms up.

With only one product I wasn’t a fan of (and one I’m still a little on the fence about)– January’s box was fortunately anything but a bust for me. I loved the hair rinse, the body cream, and especially the makeup primer- which makes this assortment of items a really good way for the service to kick off 2016. It’s a strong start- and I hope GlossyBox can keep up the momentum into the new year.

I was recently sent a spoiler for February’s box- a themed one (my favorite!)– that I’m really looking forward to receiving and reviewing next month!

‘Til then!

xx

With the end of December swiftly approaching, the final subscription boxes of the year have been arriving right on schedule. The expectations I have for end-of-the-year assortments might seem a little unfair to some- but I want to be dazzled! It’s the holidays, after all. It’s almost 2016- go big or go home, right? Give me glitz, and give me glamour- but please just put some effort into ending the year on a special high note!

So when December’s GlossyBox, the first to arrive, showed up in my postbox early last week week and I saw the lovely and festive red & white packaging- I had a feeling I was going to be impressed. Sure enough, once I’d actually opened the box and took a peek inside- I was greeted with four full-sized items and a deluxe sample.

Merry Christmas to me!

WHAT I RECEIVED:

colorpHlex Leave-In Treatment & Detangler

MTJ Cosmetics High Definition Mascara (*Full Size!*)

GlossyBox Brand Eye Shadow in ‘GlossyBox Muave’ (*Full Size!*)

OROGOLD Cosmetics 24K Hand Cream (*Full Size!*)

Color Club Nail Polish in ‘Feverish’ (*Full Size!*)

Product # 1: colorpHlex Leave-In Treatment & Detangler ($22)

I’m very appreciative that GlossyBox takes color-treated hair into consideration when sending out their samples/products. In the nearly three years I’ve been a subscriber, I’ve only ever received 1 or 2 hair care or hair styling items that were potentially harmful to my reds and my violet highlights. This colorPHlex leave-in treatment is not only designed to keep my color vibrant and protect it from fading- but it also softens and untangles my thick and unruly curly hair, too.

I liked the way this spray smelled- like a greenhouse (weird, I know- but it reminded me of being in a room filled with plants and not in a bad way) and how it didn’t make my scalp or my ends feel sticky, crunchy or greasy after I’d spritzed some on post-cleansing my curls in the shower. It sank in quickly and my hair was instantly shinier and easier to comb through. After I styled as usual, I noticed my hair also stayed remarkably frizz-free despite recent humid conditions here in Massachusetts (El Niño Winter over here so far!) and to date- there has been no fading or discoloration of my hair color. My reds are just as bright and vibrant as ever.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I was really pleased with how easy to use and effective this spray was. It protected my color, detangled my tricky ends like the bottle promised it would, and kept my hair soft and smooth all day long. I have a feeling I’ll be picking up a couple more bottles of this once I’m out of the sample I received- one for home and one to take with me when I travel!

Product # 2: MTJ Cosmetics High Definition Mascara ($21)

I’ve been running low on my current mascara over the course of the past week or so, so receiving a brand new, full-sized tube was definitely a treat that saved me a little bit of time and money. I had figured that even if I hadn’t liked this black MTJ formula- it would at least hold me over until I could find the time to hit the shops and pick up a replacement for my nearly-empty Tarte tube. Fortunately, this mascara completely exceeded my expectations and blew me away.

The photo above was snapped after two quick coats- and look how long and feathery my lashes look! With no clumping or flaking whatsoever, this Hi-Def formula lasted all day and well into the evening- and the unique shape of the brush made it super easy to reach those difficult and smaller lashes near the inner corners of my eyes without discomfort. I’m in love!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I adored the way this mascara made my lashes look and feel. The formula was easy to apply, stayed in place without giving me the dreaded “spider leg eye” look- and the price point is similar to other mascaras I’ve purchased in the past that weren’t nearly half as nice as this one. I’m really glad I gave this one a chance- because I think I’ve found a keeper!

Product # 3: GlossyBox Brand Eye Shadow in ‘GlossyBox Muave’ ($11)

Although my lids have been covered with sparkling golds and matte nude tones as of late, I’ll never say no to trying a shimmery mauve shadow- especially when the color tends to make my blue eyes pop when worn correctly. This powder shadow, a GlossyBox original formula, was well-pigmented and easy to wear by itself as a subtle solo-shade or blended with other colors for a more dramatic look- and the longevity was pretty impressive, too. There was no creasing or flaking down along my cheeks- even as day turned to night. It stayed in place- and a reapplication or touch-up wasn’t necessary. I do love the color, a beautiful purple/silver tone- and I think I’ll be incorporating it more and more with my holiday and Winter wardrobe and makeup selections.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This single shadow was a really nice and unexpected find. I don’t know if GlossyBox sells their own brand of makeup through their website (I can’t seem to locate it anywhere) or if it’s just limited to their subscription boxes only- but if they were to make this available for purchase online- I’d pick up a replacement for when I ran out of the full-sized tub I received in this month’s box.

Product # 4: OROGOLD Cosmetics 24K Hand Cream ($18)

If anyone is looking for a last minute Christmas present for me- let me help you out: hand cream. Just a ton of hand cream. Through Fall and Winter, my skin dries out like crazy, and sometimes it seems like there’s not enough lotion in the world to make me feel moisturized and comfortable. For that reason, I was ecstatic when I saw this tube of OROGOLD cream in December’s GlossyBox- and it’s since found a home in my purse until I run out.

The formula is lightweight, non-greasy, and lightly scented (a bit like a musky/woodsy fragrance, not bad at all)– and once it was applied- my hands felt soft and smooth for hours. Although I tend to compulsively reapply creams throughout the day- it wasn’t necessary with this product- which is always a welcomed treat since I won’t have to hurry to replace it so soon.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! When it comes to hand creams- all they have to do is hydrate my skin without making it feel slick or drying them out even more than they were pre-application- and I’ll be pretty content. This cream hit the mark, had a pleasant and long-lasting scent- and although $18 might be a little steep compared to other brands that sell hand creams at a fraction of that price (Bath & Body Works’ $5-$10 shea butter hand cream tubes, for example)– this was a quality product I’d splurge on in the future to treat myself.

Product # 5: Color Club Nail Polish in ‘Feverish’ ($8.50)

First and foremost, I want to give a shout-out to my manicurist, Cindy, who applied this color to my fingernails and then went on to decorate my thumbs and ring fingers with lovely and festive-looking bows for the holidays. She’s magnificent and wonderful at what she does.

Now, onto the polish. Although I’m a fan of the rich burgundy tone of ‘Feverish’, the lacquer itself was a bit of a pain to apply. Instead of simply gliding on with one or two sweeps- my manicurist had to almost dab/tap it onto my nails to get it to stay in place without streaking unevenly- which proved to be slightly more time consuming. After two coats (and a top coat to seal everything)– the polish dried quickly enough- and has yet to chip, peel, or become discolored. I love the shade for the Winter months- but I’m weary about it’s odd application.

Would I Purchase?: No. Although I don’t think I’d repurchase ‘Feverish’ again (solely because it took longer than I would have liked to get it on my nails easily), I’d like to try some of Color Club’s other available shades. After browsing their website- they have some really neat prism-style lacquers that caught my attention. It’d be interesting to see if the streaking problem was solely limited to this one shade, or if it’s an issue across the board with all of the brand’s polishes.

Overall, I was thrilled with the quality of December’s GlossyBox. The amount of full-sized products I received was definitely impressive- and I loved nearly every item with the exception of one. On top of that, the design of the box was beautiful! I enjoy getting the occasional decorated or designed box from time to time. It’s such a nice surprise.

This was a wonderful assortment of products/samples to round out GlossyBox’s 2015- a year that saw the service speed up it’s formerly sluggish delivery time and branch out to include more bold products and collaborations- and I am looking forward to seeing what the service has in store for next year. I hope they keep up the great work!

xx

So even though my employment situation has changed fairly recently, it’s still business as usual here at ‘Legally Redhead’, which includes my round up of my monthly subscription box reviews. First up was November’s GlossyBox- a follow-up to October’s impressive Parisian-inspired collection and the prelude to the service’s holiday/end of the year box.

Comprised of mostly full-sized or deluxe sample-sized skin care and makeup items (no hair care or nail products this time around)– trying everything was a breeze and only took a matter of days.

WHAT I RECEIVED:

Marsk Cosmetics Mineral Eye Shadow in “You’re Toast” (*Full Size!*)

Florapy “Sweet Dreams” Yarrow Lavender Mask

Crabtree & Evelyn La Source Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy

Beauty For Real D-Fine Perfect Lip Pencil (*Full Size!*)

Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme Global Anti-Aging Creme

Product # 1: Marsk Cosmetics Mineral Eye Shadow in “You’re Toast” ($22.50)

Near the end of the year, around the holidays and well into Winter- my every day wardrobe and evolves from light and flowing floral prints and pastels to darker hues of grays, blacks and browns with pops of royal blue, rich violet- and gold. SO much gold. From my makeup to my jewelry- I like to be dripping in it. When I first saw this copper-hued loose powder shadow from Marsk, I wasn’t sure what to expect. It didn’t look like much in it’s little round tub- but I opted to wear it by itself over my usual primer for a couple of days to see how the color held up against other sparkling tones I’ve worn in the past.

First of all, this shadow is REALLY pigmented- which I liked very much. The photo above is after a couple of dustings all over my lid and into my crease- and you can see how rich it is. While it has shimmer to it, “You’re Toast” (love the name, by the way) didn’t look TOO sparkly on me and actually made my blue eyes really stand out in a flattering way. Best of all? This shadow didn’t budge. Not at all. Not even a little bit. It stayed in place all day without creasing, crumbling, or flaking off. To say I’m in love is an understatement- and I’ve been wearing this non-stop since I received it.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I love the rich color of this shadow, it’s staying power, and how I can wear it by itself with just a swipe of mascara and my eyes still look luminous and festive. A little goes a long way with this shadow, so I don’t anticipate on running out anytime soon- but when I do- I’m picking another one of these up.

Product # 2: Florapy “Sweet Dreams” Yarrow Lavender Mask ($8)

I’m a big fan of sheet masks- even if they make me look like Leatherface from ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ whenever I wear them. They’re just quick and convenient whenever my skin needs a little pick-me-up after a long day or week. I especially like to pack a couple when I travel, since in-flight cabin pressure and a change of climate can all but suck the life out of my face.

I tried this “Sweet Dreams” mask before bed, getting used to the slick feel of it after I’d removed the packaging and left it on my face for about twenty minutes. I have to say that I wasn’t particularly fond of it’s fragrance- which was kind of overpowering and not very relaxing- but I did like the way my skin looked and felt after I’d peeled the mask off. It was soft and felt replenished and hydrated.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I don’t think I’d opt for the “Sweet Dreams” mask again, because like I said- the fragrance was a little too strong for me- but I wouldn’t be opposed to trying some of the other masks Florapy has available. For $8 a package, I could see myself stocking up to get me through the winter.

Product # 3: Crabtree & Evelyn La Source Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy ($9 – $32)

Although my skin is typically combination/oily at all times- my hands get SO dry this time of year. It’s unbearable- and I have to have at least two tubes of moisturizer in my bag at all times for frequent reapplications throughout the day (or else I go nuts.) I was pretty happy to receive a hand cream in November’s GlossyBox for that very reason- and I wasted no time in slathering on this skin therapy from Crabtree & Evelyn almost as soon as I took it out of the box.

I would like to remark on the fragrance, first and foremost- because as soon as I got a whiff of this cream-  I was instantly reminded of my grandmother. I know that sounds weird, and probably off-putting to some- but to me, it was strangely comforting. My grandmother used to put those small, potent-smelling decorative soaps in her bathroom whenever she had company over. I never knew where she got them from- or why she insisted on having them- but they were always there and the scent of them has always reminded me of holidays at her home since. This lotion smells like that. It’s not bad, really.

But most importantly, of course- are the results. This cream instantly soothed my dry hands after I liberally applied it- and it kept my skin soft and smooth for hours. I didn’t have to feverishly reapply over and over- which was a nice change of pace to what I’m used to every November/December.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I loved this cream- and I would absolutely re-purchase this again in the future. I also like that Crabtree & Evelyn have different gift sets available this time of year- some of which include this product. I think I’ve found a couple of good presents for friends and family who are also in the same “dry skin” boat as me this year.

Product # 4: Beauty For Real D-Fine Perfect Lip Pencil ($14)

I’ve said in the past that I’ve never really been keen on lip pencils. The drying, the crumbling, the fading of the color- finding one that works well and wins me over is far and few between- so I wasn’t exactly jumping for joy when I saw this twist-up lip liner from Beauty For Real. A review is a review, however- and I gave “D-Fine” a shot for a couple of days to test the color and longevity.

First, the color. The photo above is of just the liner- which I used to outline my lips and fill them in before sealing in the product with a clear gloss. I liked the nude tone, and how easy it was to blend and correct any mistakes (unlike red or plum liners I’ve received in the past that were a nightmare) and how soft the pencil felt. It wasn’t painful or drying on my lips. It just looked nice and natural.

The longevity, however- left a lot to be desired. While this product made it through morning coffee and typical early a.m. wear and tear- by noon it was all but gone from my lips and had to be reapplied a couple more times throughout the day to keep the color as even and lovely as it looked when I first applied it. No thanks.

Would I Purchase?: No. While the color was very pretty and the product itself was easy enough to apply- this liner simply didn’t last long enough on my lips to keep me interested in re-purchasing it in the future. I think if it had better staying power, I’d consider using it again- since I really did like the nude tone.

Product # 5: Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme Global Anti-Aging Creme ($50 – $90)

Oh, Estée Lauder- what a weird relationship you and I have. Some of your products have been gems, and others have caused me nothing but grief- and don’t even get me started on your price points- which were still too high for me even when I was working full-time. Even still, I’m never opposed to trying one of your laughably small samples whenever I receive one to see if they blow me away or leave me shaking my head in confusion.

I tried to stretch out the dollop of this cream I received for as long as possible to write an accurate and thorough review- and I thankfully made it a few days- which was long enough to not see any significant difference on my skin with the exception of a few blemishes that sprang up shortly after I first applied this lightly-scented cream. Tsk, tsk.

Sure, my skin felt soft- but I didn’t notice any brightening or firming effects- and still hadn’t by the time I ran out of the sample.

Would I Purchase?: No. I think I’ll stick to the brightening nighttime sereums Estée Lauder has made that have worked wonders for me in the past- but I’ll be skipping over this cream entirely. It didn’t do anything for me except give me a couple of pimples on my forehead.

November’s GlossyBox was a mixed bag for me. I liked two of the products I received very much, didn’t like two of them at all- and one I’m still on the fence about. It wasn’t the worst assortment by any means- but I’m really hoping the service goes all in with their December/holiday box. I’ve already seen a sneak peek of the packaging and it looks very cute!

Here’s hoping!

xx

As much as I enjoyed last week’s vacation, and have no regrets whatsoever with the time I took off (except for maybe that one night in California where I thought eating half my weight in Mexican food was a brilliant idea)– it did create a teeny, tiny bit of a problem in regards to my subscription services. To be more specific- they all arrived at the same time while I was away- which made going through them and giving what I received a thorough and proper review upon my return quite a project in itself!

I decided to start with October’s “Viva La France” GlossyBox, an assortment of items inspired by the top products found in French pharmacies that came packaged in the cutest box imaginable- covered with drawings by illustrator Jamie Lee Reardin. Now, being from a spectacularly French family, myself- I was eager to dive into everything right away since it all looked just SO nice (and three of the products were full-sized!) but I had to pace myself so this post wouldn’t be a mishmash of exclamation points and all capital letters.

But I mean- the box is SO CUTE, RIGHT?!

What I Received:

NUXE Gentle Exfoliating Gel with Rose Petals (*Full Size!*)

PHYTO Huile Soyeuse- Lightweight Hydrating Oil

De Bruyère ‘Paris Red’ Lip Gloss (*Full Size!*)

LOLLIPOPS Paris Nail Polish in ‘Voyage à Paris’ (*Full Size!*)

Carven Parfums – Carven Le Parfum

Product # 1: NUXE Gentle Exfoliating Gel with Rose Petals ($26)

I’m always thrilled whenever I receive any type of exfoliating product in a subscription service- but especially during and/or after traveling- where my skin takes a beating in changing climates and conditions. This gentle, lightly-floral scented, coffee-colored facial scrub definitely came in handy while my pores were attempting to rebound after facing in-flight cabin pressure, Vegas-induced heat, San Diego sunshine, and finally bitter cold New England air upon my return home. My skin was dry, flaky, and bumpy in some areas- like it couldn’t quite figure out what to do or how to recover.

This scrub helped even out my skin’s overall texture and sloughed away dry patches and would-be blemishes without further drying out my skin or causing any kind of awful reaction. My face felt softer, smoother, and looked considerably brighter after each use. If I had to nit-pick (and I do sometimes), I would say the only frustrating thing about this product is the cap- which clicks into place a little too tightly and requires a good amount of pressure to re-open again for each use. I know it sounds silly, and not-at-all-important, but try doing it in the shower when your hands are wet. It’s a feat in itself!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This scrub is such a nice (and kinder) alternative to harsh apricot scrubs that can cause more damage to the skin or not-strong-enough gentle exfoliants/cleansers that don’t quite clean out pores as much as I’d like. It’s a little on the pricier side, sure- but you only have to use a small amount of this scrub once or twice a week- so buying in bulk isn’t necessary. One tube of this stuff should last you for a while- and it really does give great results!

Product # 2: PHYTO Huile Soyeuse- Lightweight Hydrating Oil ($40)

Like exfoliating products- another post-travel pick-me-up lifesaver that I always appreciate are leave-in conditioners for my hair- which also takes it’s fair share of abuse while I’m away from home. With naturally curly (but color treated) locks, I have to give my hair and scalp some TLC now and then to keep it from looking dry and damaged- but especially after I get back from a cross-country trip.

I liked the consistency of this oil (in a convenient spray pump), which absorbed quickly into my curls and didn’t leave my hair looking or feeling greasy- however I didn’t notice much of a difference in my hair’s overall softness or texture after each use. My strands still looked- and felt- a little on the dry side- and a second product (a hydrating styling cream) was added after and alongside this oil to make my hair look and feel a little more conditioned and glossy. I’m used to using more than one product when styling my hair in the morning anyway, but for a $40 price tag- I was hoping that this oil would give me significantly noticeable results all on it’s own.

Would I Purchase?: No. I think I’ll be sticking with my current collection of tried and true leave-in conditioning sprays and styling creams for the time being. This product- which may be helpful to others with different hair types who try it- was just not a good fit for me. I need something a little stronger- and definitely less expensive!

Product # 3: De Bruyère ‘Paris Red’ Lip Gloss ($17.50)

I love when GlossyBox takes a bold chance with lip colors- especially reds- which I prefer much, much more than the usual “safe” colors of light nudes or barely-there pinks/rose tones. I like to make a statement with my eye color or my lips, after all. I was really excited to try this shiny gloss- which looked fire engine red in the tube. However, when I applied it- the color appeared to be more of a hot pink hue than red. It was still flattering to my skin tone, and definitely stood out- so I didn’t mind the initial deceit that much- and it helped that the formula wasn’t overtly sticky or thick.

Longevity wise, this gloss really packs a punch. I had applied it early in the morning and it stayed in place throughout most of my work day- gradually fading near the end of the afternoon where it left a subtle stain on my lips (which meant I didn’t have to rush and furiously re-apply it to avoid the dreaded “outline-only” look.) That’s always a plus for someone like me who is typically busy running from place to place and can’t always stop for touch-ups.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I really liked the pigmentation of this gloss (even though it was more pink than red) and I was especially fond of it’s long-lasting, non-drying, and not-sticky-at-all formula. It has all the qualities I like in a decent lip gloss- although the pricing might be considered a little steep for a “drug store” brand. I’d like to try this product in a different color to see if it’s true to the hue in the tube, as well- or if it’s different as advertised, too.

Product # 4: LOLLIPOPS Paris Nail Polish in ‘Voyage à Paris’ ($10)

Like my lips, I also like to make bold and bright statements with my nails- so a cherry red shade is perfect for me (and the Fall, and the days leading up to Halloween…) While I’ve heard of LOLLIPOPS polish before, this is the first time I’ve ever been able to try it. The formula applies pretty sheer, so it took about three coats to get the color to look just right- but it’s stayed in place over the course of a few days since I initially applied it. I haven’t noticed any chipping, smudging, or discoloration just yet- which is always nice considering I do a pretty good amount of typing and texting every day.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I have quite a few red polishes, and this one didn’t particularly stand out for me. It’s not bad by any means, but it’s not “blow me away/have to have it,” either. The longevity has been great so far and the pricing is fair for the amount of product you get in a container- but I’m in no hurry to buy this in bulk just yet. Also? LOLLIPOPS seems to have a really, really limited selection of other lacquer colors available on their website- which is a bit disappointing. I’d like to see and try more of a variety!

Product # 5: Carven Parfums – Carven Le Parfum ($86)

While I am always up for trying new things and experimenting with different brands and products- I admit that I can be a bit picky when it comes to two things: hair care and perfumes. In the fragrance spectrum, I typically like things that aren’t too heavy or spicy but don’t smell sickeningly sweet and floral, either. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this Carven perfume (which came in a cute little bottle) but was pleasantly surprised with the floral/earthy combination of ‘Le Parfum.’ With noticeable hints of jasmine and sandalwood- this perfume smelled incredible and stayed in place all day. I got quite a few compliments on this at the office and out with friends when I wore it- so I’m not the only fan!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This sample came at the perfect time, since I’m running low on my current perfume and was looking to try something new for the colder months. I loved this fragrance, and it’s available at Sephora (so convenient) with a matching body wash, body milk, and deodorant. I think I’ll be splurging on myself- just a little bit- within the coming weeks!

Although there was one product I wasn’t a fan of and one product I’m still on the fence about- October’s GlossyBox might be one of my favorites I’ve received to date. I loved the theme, the selection and value of the products included, and of course- the design of the box- which I’ll be using in the future for cute storage or to package a lovely gift for someone. This was a great box for the service and I know they’ll only get more impressive within the next couple of months with the impending holiday season!

xx

When it comes to subscription services- my favorite ones to receive typically arrive during my favorite time of year (spoiler alert: Autumn.) Of course, September is sort of that ‘still-kind-of-Summer-but-still-Fall-esque’ month where you have to bundle up in a sweater in the morning but are left sweating your butt off by 2 p.m. because it’s so hot out, so I never really know what to expect from beauty box companies like GlossyBox.

Thankfully, GlossyBox took a neutral approach with their assortment of items in September’s box to help those of us who can’t quite commit to one particular seasonal look just yet until the temperatures turn and stay consistent. With hair care, skin care, two rosy hues for the cheeks and nails, and one bold lip color for the daring- I was pleased with the variety of products (three being full-sized!) and couldn’t wait to try them.

WHAT I RECEIVED:

STIKS Cosmetiks Lipstik in “Red Lipstik” (*Full Size!*)

Biossance “The Revitalizer” Skin Serum

Emité Makeup Artist Colour Powder Blush in Shade 108 (*Full Size!*)

12 Benefits “Love At First Lather” Foaming Hair Shampoo

Nails, Inc. Uptown Nail Polish (*Full Size!*)

Product # 1: STIKS Cosmetiks Lipstik in “Red Lipstik” ($15)

In a box where the makeup selections were comprised of mostly neutral-tones, this fire engine red lipstick in sleek packaging really stood out from the bunch. As an avid lover and longtime supporter of a good, dramatic red lip- this was the product I absolutely HAD to try first.

STIKS Cosmetiks is designed for the woman on-the-go- and per the informative card I received in this month’s GlossyBox- this particular lipstick is advertised as being able to be applied effortlessly in just a matter of seconds. You flip the clear hinged cap open, click the lipstick up, apply, flip it closed- and you’re on your way. I tested this claim more than once- and each time it took a little longer than a few seconds to get my lips looking just right. The angled tip of the lipstick makes an even application a little difficult and awkward at times, but the formula is creamy and non-drying once it’s on- and it stays in place all day. I’ve made it through my morning coffees, lunches, late-afternoon snacks and chai lattes before the color begins to fade. I’m impressed!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I’d definitely re-purchase this red shade once I run out, and I’d love to try the other colors that are available at STIKS’ website, too. I love the feel of this lipstick, it’s pigmentation, and it’s longevity. Although the application process is a little tricky- this product is a fantastic find and worth the extra effort it takes to get it on evenly.

Product # 2: Biossance “The Revitalizer” Skin Serum ($58)

I have sensitive skin, so putting any kind of oil on it (except for tea tree oil when I get the occasional breakout) always makes me a bit nervous. I don’t want to exacerbate blemishes or cause any kind of horrible reaction on my skin- so I do my best to proceed with caution with samples or new products. That was the case with these drops, made out of 100% squalane (which the body produces naturally, but also tends to wear down over time,) this fragrance-free hydrator can be applied to the skin, cuticles, hair, etc.

I started with my nails just to test this product- and I liked the way the drops softened and conditioned the delicate skin around my cuticles. From there, I used these drops to tame flyaways when styling my hair- and was relieved there was no weird reaction on my scalp or hairline. Finally, I worked up the nerve to gently sweep 2-3 of these drops over my face with a cotton ball. It took a while for them to absorb, but once they did- my skin looked brighter and felt considerably softer to the touch. I didn’t notice any breakouts or bumps- so I’ve continued using this product nightly after removing my makeup and cleansing my face to keep my skin glowing (the drops can be used in the morning, as well- but I don’t like applying makeup over something like this.) It’s been a few days and I’m really liking the results so far!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! $58 might seem a little steep for something as simple as versatile drops for your skin/hair, I know- but a little goes a long way and the results are noticeable almost instantly. I think this decently sized sample will more than likely last me a while- but I’d definitely pick up a full-sized one when I run out to keep my hair and face soft and conditioned.

Product # 3: Emité Makeup Artist Colour Powder Blush in Shade 108 ($22)

It’s that time of year again where I trade in my bronzer and peach/golden-hued Summertime blushes for more rosy and brown/neutral shades for my cheeks. I thought this deep pink blush from Emité seemed perfect in it’s packaging, and I couldn’t wait to see how it looked once I’d applied it.

Be warned, however- this powder blush is VERY pigmented- so even the lightest amount on the tip of your brush bristles will apply heavily. I was a bit horrified at first, but once I’d gradually blended the blush until it looked as natural as I could get it- I was quite smitten with the shade. I thought it complimented my skin tone and gave me a nice, warm pop of color that I’ll definitely need in the coming months.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. This color is beautiful for sure once it’s blended, but I’m still not over the initial shock I get when I first try to apply this blush. It’s so dark and so heavy- and some mornings I just don’t have the time (or the patience) to keep working with it until it looks less garish. That said, I think I may consider this formula in the future- but possibly in a slightly lighter shade to make applying it a little easier.

Product # 4: 12 Benefits “Love At First Lather” Foaming Hair Shampoo ($7.99 – $24)

I am so unbelievably picky about the type of shampoo I use. I know, and I’m sorry- but I have very curly and color-treated red hair- which is the hardest to maintain and care for. For that reason, I have to be careful about what I use when cleansing and styling it. Too many chemicals can turn my hair brassy or worse- flat-out orange, and not enough conditioning benefits can make my curls frizzy and unmanageable. It’s a tricky line to follow to get the best results possible without having to purchase a dozen products.

I had received a leave-in conditioning treatment from 12 Benefits in another GlossyBox some time ago that I had liked very much, so I didn’t think twice about giving this foaming shampoo from them a try since it’s free of many harmful and color-fading chemicals. The shampoo doesn’t require a vigorous amount of lathering since it comes out of the bottle already foamed up- which blew my mind a little bit- and working it through my hair wasn’t an issue. The problem was that while my hair did feel very hydrated and soft after I rinsed it out- my scalp didn’t necessarily feel clean (if that makes sense.) I even repeated the process, concentrating specifically on my roots while I worked the foam through- but it yielded the same results. My scalp felt sort of slick after the fact- even more-so when I followed up with my repairing mask treatment. I’m not sure how to feel about that.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I think this shampoo is pretty innovative and would probably be a great alternative to use in the harsher winters when applied near the dryer sections of my hair like the ends since it’s intensely moisturizing- but when I’m looking for something that will actually clean my hair thoroughly from root to tip- I think I’m going to have to stick with what I’m currently using. Even if I’ll have to get it to lather up on my own.

Product # 5: Nails, Inc. Uptown Nail Polish ($15)

After a Summer of wearing lots of florescent pinks, purples, corals, blues and mint greens on my fingertips- this toasted rose nail polish from Nails, Inc. was a welcomed surprise that I felt would be the perfect and subtle transitional color from Summer to Fall. The neat thing about this particular polish, however- is that it has the same shiny finish and longevity as gel formulas- but with no harmful UV light required! Nails, Inc. has also infused the lacquers in their gel line with nail-strengthening and cuticle conditioning ingredients- making this a hassle-free and easy manicure that’s actually good for your digits.

The photo above was taken after an application of two coats of “Uptown” and a clear top coat. It’s been days, and the polish hasn’t chipped, peeled, or gotten discolored in any way. I’m a big fan of this formula- which surpasses other and similar polishes that I’ve tried that were also inspired by gel-manicures.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Not only would I re-purchase the ‘Uptown’ shade again, but I’m already eyeing some of the other available colors in this collection. This polish was easy to apply, rich in color, and has impressive staying power. I love it!

September’s GlossyBox also came with a 20% off coupon that can be used at BAUBLEBAR (I’ve blocked out my unique code for obvious reasons) which I thought was a nice addition. I’m currently in the process of re-vamping my jewelry collection, so this will come in handy when I’m ready to pick up a couple of new pieces!

Overall, I really enjoyed September’s GlossyBox. There was not one item that I disliked (two of them I am on the fence about, but that doesn’t necessarily mean I hated them!) and the size and value of each item included was really impressive. I’ll be getting a lot of use out of the nail polish, skin oil, and lipstick- and I’m hoping October’s box is just as good!

xx

With the recent cancellation of my membership with Ipsy, that leaves GlossyBox (which I’ve been subscribed to the longest) as my only beauty-centric subscription service these days. I admit that sometimes the boxes and assortment of items I receive every month can be downright disappointing- but overall I’ve been very happy through the 2+ years I’ve been a member. More times than not, the value of the products in each box surpasses the $21 a month fee- and I’m always discovering new brands and products to try- so it’s been worth every penny in the long run.

August’s GlossyBox, with the company’s newly integrated more prompt shipping method (which I truly appreciate)– arrived right on schedule- giving me plenty of time to try all of the products and write a thorough review of the pros/cons of each of them.

WHAT I RECEIVED:

GlamGlow YouthCleanse Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

MANNA KADAR Cosmetics Lash Primer

Lollipops Paris Malicieuse Lip Balm (*Full Size!*)

SpaRitual Nail Lacquer in ‘I Feel The Earth Move’ (*Full Size!*)

POP Beauty Kajal Pen in ‘Sooty Black’ (*Full Size!*)

Product # 1: GlamGlow YouthCleanse Daily Exfoliating Cleanser ($39)

With all of the beauty box subscription reviews I’ve written over the years, it should come as no surprise to anyone that I am an avid fan of any and all GlamGlow products. Their masks and treatments, both for face and eyes, work wonders for me- and I recently tried (and subsequently fell in love with) their POWERMUD Dualcleanse treatment per a small sample I received. The products- particularly the deep-cleansing masks- have become weekly staples in my skincare regimen.

I have not, however- tried this cleanser. Admittedly, I was worried that using a GlamGlow product on a daily basis would be overly drying to my skin. After all, they tend to suck out any dirt, oil, and makeup clogged in my pores like a vacuum- and that’s not something I necessarily need to do every morning/night. I didn’t want to overdo it- but I tried this cleanser regardless- and I’m really glad I did!

I’ve been using this product each night after removing my makeup with a towelette, first applying it like a mask and letting it sit for a couple of minutes on my skin before I wet my hands and massage it into a lather on my face and then rinse it off. The formula is NOT drying at all (it’s surprisingly gentle!) but it still deeply cleanses and smooths my skin. Recently, and prior to using this product- I had a couple of pre-PMS blemishes spring up along my cheeks- but this cleanser helped clear them up right away with no pain and no irritation! I think I’m in love.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This is a great daily cleanser that took me by surprise and exceeded my expectations. I’m very happy with it and I do plan on stocking up on a full-sized bottle during an upcoming trip to Sephora to replenish some of my skin/hair care and makeup.

Product # 2: MANNA KADAR Cosmetics Lash Primer ($24)

I’ve never really been one for lash primer. I think the last time I used one was over several years ago when I worked for Clinique Cosmetics and the company provided me with a free full-sized tube of theirs to try. I inherited long lashes from my mother, so the need to prime them in order to make them look fuller or longer when I followed-up with mascara was just an unnecessary step in my routine. This MANNA KADAR formula, however- acts as both a lash conditioner and primer in one- and can be used during the day with mascara to enhance the appearance of lashes, and at night by itself to soften and hydrate them. I caved, and tried this product in both ways.

While I didn’t notice much of a difference when using this primer with my ‘Better Than Sex’ mascara (my lashes still looked the same as they did without it,) I did see a slight improvement when I used this product at night. Each morning after I’d applied a couple of coats of this from one corner of my eye to the other- my lashes did look a bit thicker and felt softer to the touch. This primer didn’t cause any irritation to my lids and didn’t cause any blurry vision or anything- which is a plus- but I’m still a bit on the fence about it since I’m not sure it’s something I’d have to have.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I don’t think I’d re-purchase a full-size tube of this primer to use with mascara, but I’d probably consider it if I wanted to continue with a nice and gentle nightly conditioning treatment for my lashes.  If your lashes are in need of some TLC- this might be a really good product for you to try, but for me- it’s not something I’d rush out to purchase once I’m done with the sample.

Product # 3: Lollipops Paris Malicieuse Lip Balm ($5.50)

When I first opened August’s GlossyBox, I was hit with a strong whiff of what smelled like vanilla cake. Immediately getting hungry, I pulled the box apart until I found the source- this tube of clear moisturizing balm. It thankfully hadn’t leaked out of the tube- but it’s fragrance was powerful enough to take over the box. I can’t say I minded much- because it really does smell delicious. Part of me hoped that it would taste delicious on my lips, too- and I was really happy to see that I was right. It definitely did!

My love of cake aside, this balm was very moisturizing and lightweight- so it softened and smoothed my lips significantly without feeling greasy or sticky the way other balms can. It also lasts a long time, so when I overdid it on the licking (I swear, I couldn’t help it,) it didn’t come off easily and therefore multiple re-applications weren’t required. It was like- wait for it, wait for it- having my cake AND eating it too! Too cheesy? Okay, sorry. I’ll stop.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This might be one of my favorite products in August’s box. I loved the feel of this balm, and I obviously loved the smell and the taste- but I’m also very appreciative of it’s price point. $5.50 per tube is not bad at all for something that is this lovely. I’ll definitely be re-ordering another tube (or 20) of these when I run out of the one I received.

Product # 4: SpaRitual Nail Lacquer in ‘I Feel The Earth Move’ ($12)

I know that just a few posts ago I was practically pleading with Mother Nature to let Summer stick around longer than usual this year (I need it to, okay? Just let me have that), but that doesn’t mean I can’t dip into lovely Autumn colors on my eyes, lips, and nails just a little bit prematurely, right? I mean, it’s not like I’m breaking out my sweaters and knee-high boots right now (okay, maybe I wore knee-high boots the other day- but they really complimented a dress I had on.)

I digress, I couldn’t put off trying this lovely and very dark raisin shade from SpaRitual until the middle of September or early October. I had to try it now. Now, the color itself wasn’t really easy to apply, and required a steady hand and a good eye to keep it from getting streaky- but considering that’s a common encounter with nearly every dark shade of nail polish ever created- I wasn’t too put-off by it. After two coats and a little touching up, my nails looked dark, vampy, and very Fall-esque. The formula is pretty tough, too. I’ve had it on for a few days and I have yet to see any peeling, chipping, or discoloration. I love it- and I think this is going to be my go-to shade once the cooler weather is upon us.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This bottle is going to probably last me several lifetimes, but if I ever run out I would definitely pick up another one. I’d also really like to try some of the other shades available in this collection. I love that SpaRitual’s formulas are completely vegan and free of harmful chemicals- but that the longevity of the polishes are still fabulous!

Product # 5: POP Beauty Kajal Pen in ‘Sooty Black’ ($10)

Ah, yes- the classic black eyeliner pencil. We meet again. I’m pretty sure this type of product has all but become my sworn enemy through the years- but a thorough review is a thorough review- and I reluctantly tried ‘Sooty Black’ (I admit, I like the name,) to see how it compared to my past battles with other products similar to it. Although this pencil is hard, it didn’t feel agonizing on my lids- and it applied surprisingly smoothly. The other end, used to smudge the liner- came in handy on the one or two minor mistakes I made when trying to get a perfect cat-eye- which was nice. Most impressive was this liner’s staying power. This product didn’t budge once until I used a makeup remover at the end of the day. There was no bleeding, no flaking, and no fading. I didn’t have to worry about looking like The Winter Soldier by the time my lunch hour rolled around- which is always a huge relief.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I’m still not 100% sold on hard pencil liners (I’m stubborn, after all,) but this one wasn’t terrible. I will give credit where credit is due. It didn’t inflict pain to apply and it stayed in place all day. I like the price, which is very reasonable for the quality- and might consider it down the road if I ever need a break from my liquid and gel liners.

With three out of the five products I received in August’s GlossyBox being hits for me (and the other two I’m still unsure about- but weren’t terrible by any means,) I have to say this month was a pretty good one. I really liked the assortment of items and the value of the full-sized ones that were included. I think this box was a nice way to bid farewell to Summer before subscription services begin rolling out their Autumn collections and creations.

I can’t wait to see what’s in store for September!

xx