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

The second of my three monthly subscription service reviews goes to GlossyBox (my Ipsy review will be up on the blog tomorrow morning!) which included four full-sized products and one deluxe sample, which exceeded the $21 per month fee for the service. That by itself was enough to impress me- but of course- I had to review each product at length to determine whether or not July 2015’s GlossyBox was up to par with the fun red, white and blue/patriotic-inspired box I had received around this time last year!

WHAT I RECEIVED:

Naked Lips Organic Lip Balm (*Full Size!*)

Hey Honey “I Peel Good” Biomimetic Creamy Honey Peel Cream

Kueshi Anticellulite Booster (*Full Size!*)

Face Stockholm Lip Liner in “Fall” (*Full Size!*)

SESHA Skin Therapy Rejuvenating Anti-Wrinkle Mask (*Full Size!*)

Product # 1: Naked Lips Organic Lip Balm ($5.50)

There are certain products that are so simple and self-explanatory that it’s hard to write a thorough review of them that extends beyond just a couple of sentences. Chap stick is one of those products- and I’m not going to waste anyone’s time, including my own- by attempting to write a long-winded and whimsical review of this. It’s not necessary, because we all know what it does and how it works.

Here’s all  you need to know about this clear Naked Lips balm: it’s organic, it smells like peppermint, and it keeps your lips soft and smooth for a long time. That’s about it.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. The other problem with reviewing chap stick is that there’s never really been anything “wow!” worthy about it that would make me want to run out and re-purchase it immediately or order it online in bulk. This product works well enough, is reasonably priced considering it’s natural and organic ingredients- and can/will come in handy for someone like me who tends to misplace tubes of this stuff on a regular basis. If I saw this product while I was out and about- I’d probably pick one up just to keep in my purse as a backup.

Product # 2: Hey Honey “I Peel Good” Biomimetic Creamy Honey Peel Cream ($59)

July’s GlossyBox included what was my second sample of a “Hey Honey!” product, and unlike the silk serum I had received back in April’s Ipsy Bag– I actually saw and felt noticeable results with this peel. I’ve been using a small amount of this product every few days, continuously massaging it into my skin for about 3-5 minutes before I rinse it off- and my skin looks smoother, feels softer, and blemishes/pores are noticeably diminished. There’s been no weird reactions or irritation since I implemented this into my weekly skincare regimen- and best of all? It actually smells like honey!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I’ve really been enjoying this product, from it’s thin consistency, to it’s sweet fragrance- and most importantly- to the results I’ve been seeing when I use it. Although the $59 price tag is slightly intimidating at first glance, a little goes a long way with this peel and it’s not something that has to (or should be) used every day- so one full-sized tube should last for quite a while!

Product # 3: Kueshi Anticellulite Booster ($22)

Alright, ladies and gentlemen- let me just cut straight through the B.S. right now. Most people- if not all- have cellulite and/or stretch marks. The visibility of said cellulite varies from person to person, but it’s there and it’s nothing to be ashamed of and shouldn’t serve as some sort of indication as to whether someone is “in shape” or not. Skinny people get cellulite. Fitness buffs get cellulite. It happens- and I’ve always been skeptical of creams, lotions, or washes that boldly (and falsely) state that they can get rid of cellulite just with daily applications. No. That’s not how it works.

A healthy diet and fitness regimen can help tone and tighten the body, and regular exfoliation and moisturizing can help hydrate and replenish the skin- but there is no miracle cure for cellulite and stretch marks. Sorry to be a Debbie Downer, everyone.

I used this lotion knowing fully well that I wouldn’t see any mind-blowing results, which helped prevent any major disappointment. It was lightweight, absorbed quickly into my skin, and didn’t really have a strong fragrance. It softened my skin- but that’s pretty much it. Exactly what I expected.

Would I Purchase?: No.  Don’t be scammed by the “anti-cellulite” aspect of this lotion. Is it a good moisturizer? Sure. Are there cheaper ones out there that do the exact same thing as this one? Yep. Will it diminish the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks? Not at all. Save your money and invest in a regular daily moisturizer to slather all over yourself. This one just isn’t worth the money.

Product # 4: Face Stockholm Lip Liner in “Fall” ($17)

I feel like a bit of a broken record when I say how much I dislike “hard” pencils, be it eyeliner or lip liner, because I really do say it all the time. I’m a fan of softer pencils or gel liners, since they don’t feel quite like a Medieval torture device when I use them. I wasn’t exactly thrilled when I saw this hard penciled lip liner- both because of it’s texture and because of it’s darker brown shade (called “Fall”, which of course is more suitable for the Autumn months.) Regardless, I decided to try this product- paired with a clear lip gloss to diffuse the color a bit- to see if it was worth a re-purchase.

Like most hard pencil liners- this product was a pain (literally) to apply. It didn’t go on smoothly and required multiple do-overs in certain areas to get the color to show a bit more. Once I had my lips lined, filled, and sealed with my gloss- I went about my daily activities (including drinking a coffee!) and was pleased that it didn’t smudge or come off on everything. It actually lasted for quite some time before I needed to do a touch-up, which was impressive- but the hassle of the application process by itself was enough to keep me away.

Would I Purchase?: No. While the longevity of this liner was nice and the bolder, brown color would look lovely in the chillier months when my darker, heavier clothes re-emerge from the back of my closet- I did NOT like the way it applied at all. If this came in a softer formula, perhaps in a twist-up tube with a crayon-like consistency- I’d be sold- but this is yet another hard pencil that I’ll be passing on.

Product # 5: SESHA Skin Therapy Rejuvenating Anti-Wrinkle Mask ($9 per mask)

In October of last year, I had received a different mask from SESHA that I had really liked despite the fact that it’s proportions were twice the size of my head. SESHA apparently didn’t read my review, because this mask- with an anti-wrinkle formula this time around- was still pretty big when I tried to rest it on my face. The consistency of the gel that coated this product was similar to the brightening one I’d previously received, so I had an idea of what to expect when I went to lay down to hold the mask in place for 15-30 minutes (45 minutes since I ended up falling asleep with it on!)

When I peeled the mask off, my skin was soft, smooth and felt a bit tighter overall. Fine lines and wrinkles aren’t really a concern for me right now since my skin hasn’t reached the “mature” stage just yet- but I did like the way it looked and felt long after I’d used this mask!

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. With my age and skin type, I think I’ll stick to SESHA’s skin brightening masks for the time being- but this will definitely be something I’d look towards when I feel it’s time for me to switch from preventative skin care products to repairing/anti-aging ones!

Oh dear. With only one product out of the five I received in July’s GlossyBox being a definitive “yes!” to re-purchasing, I have to say I was a bit disappointed with this month’s assortment of items. The mask and the lip balm, while nice- didn’t “wow!” me the way the honey peel did- and the liner and lotion were beyond underwhelming.

Given GlossyBox’s track record of quality, especially in recent months as they’ve re-vamped their brand and drastically improved their shipping methods- July’s blasé box was surprising.

I’m hoping there’s a better selection of products in August!

xx

I’ve been a little lax with my subscription box reviews this month, and with posting in general. I’ve been putting in some overtime at work before everyone in my office takes some vacation time, helping a couple of people close to me move into a new home, and preparing plans for the coming weeks that will see me spending some time out of town. I also recently came back from a Tour de Force around NYC that has left me recovering from a touch of fatigue (I’ll be sharing that story and the photos that accompany it soon!)

I most certainly have received my usual assortment of monthly beauty products and geeky goodies- and I’ll be reviewing them in the order in which they arrived- starting with June’s GlossyBox! May’s box, which garnered a mostly positive review, had consisted of a nice arrangement of makeup, skin care, hair care, and nail polish- and June’s box was very similar to that. There was a nice mix of different things to try and the items that weren’t full-sized were still deluxe samples- so right off the bat I was pretty pleased!

What I Received:

Too Faced Cosmetics “Better Than Sex” Mascara

être belle Cosmetics Aloe Vera Ultra Moisturizing Gel (*Full Size!*)

NEXXUS New York Color Assure Restoring Conditioner

City Cosmetics City Lips Gloss – Clear Formula (*Full Size!*)

ORLY Nail Lacquer in “Red Flare”

Product # 1: Too Faced Cosmetics “Better Than Sex” Mascara ($23)

I’ve actually purchased “Better Than Sex” mascara in the past, and I’ve loved it- so receiving a travel sized tube in June’s GlossyBox was a treat (I’ve already stored it in my overnight bag for the next time I hit the road for a weekend.) This formula makes my lashes look longer, darker, fuller and more dramatic overall with just a couple of swipes of the hourglass shaped wand- and it doesn’t flake, clump, or smudge all day long.

The only downside I’ve encountered with the full-sized tube I owned was that the handle/wand somehow broke- coming loose and making it impossible to get excess mascara off of the brush. That was a bit upsetting, especially considering the product is $23 a pop- but other than that- I really like this mascara and I recommend it for those who love a good dramatic eyelash look without having to apply falsies.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I don’t think I’d be opposed to re-purchasing another full-sized tube of “Better Than Sex” (I love the name, by the way,) although I plan on using up this travel-sized one first just to see if I have a similar issue with the handle. If I don’t, then I’ll know it was just bad luck with my first tube- but if this handle comes loose, too- then Too Faced seriously needs to fix their packaging. We’ll see how it goes.

Product # 2: être belle Cosmetics Aloe Vera Ultra Moisturizing Gel ($24.95)

When I was little and took dance classes, aloe vera gel became a lifesaver to my dance troupe and I- especially around recital and competition season. My teacher at the time- bless her heart- seemed to have a penchant for putting us in the scratchiest, most uncomfortable sequined and glitter-covered costumes imaginable.  By the end of the day- our skin would be red, raw, sore and splotchy (and our faces wouldn’t look much better, since we’d be crying a lot because of it.) After years of suffering this same fate over and over- our moms FINALLY began bringing aloe vera gel to every class, every rehearsal, and every competition leading up to the final recital in the Summer. Before and after each performance, we’d line up and get some of the cooling gel rubbed onto our skin to soothe us and keep us from itching.

Since then, I’ve rarely used aloe vera gel (maybe because it gives me flashbacks to those agonizing days?) only rubbing some on after I’ve been out in the sun for a while to keep my face from looking and feeling dry- but I liked the way this product smelled (very clean and refreshing,) and felt compelled to use it on my face and neck for a few days just to try it out. Sure enough, my skin felt softer and looked more supple almost instantaneously. Even with makeup applied over it- my complexion stayed bright and youthful- and my skin felt tight but hydrated all day.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I think I’m finally over my trauma of past uses of aloe vera gel, and it’s all thanks to this product. This is a great moisturizer to keep on hand when you need a boost of hydration (especially in the Summer months when the sun is beating down) or just some fast relief when your skin gets dry or irritated. I also think that every little girl currently suffering through dance recitals in uncomfortable costumes would love this- so take notice, parents out there reading this post!

Product # 3: NEXXUS New York Color Assure Restoring Conditioner ($16.99)

I haven’t used NEXXUS shampoo or conditioner in a long time- not since my platinum blonde days, anyway- when my stylist at the time swore by them and convinced me to purchase full-sized bottles of their shampoo and conditioner set. After repeated usage, I came to the conclusion that the shampoo dried out my already-damaged hair a bit too much and that the conditioner was overpriced considering how much of it I’d use to hydrate and untangle my thick, unruly curls. I’ve steered clear since then. I always see their products at the pharmacy or at the grocery store- but I tend to skip right over them and go straight for my usual hair care arsenal that hasn’t failed me over the years.

I was surprised to see such a large sized bottle of their “Color Assure” conditioner in June’s GlossyBox, and having recently touched up the red in my hair- I figured what better time to see if this product worked better for me than the NEXXUS conditioner I’d tried in the past?

This product smelled pretty strong, and I wasn’t a fan of how overpowering it was as I worked it through my hair- but thankfully the fragrance didn’t linger for too long once I’d combed it through (with difficulty) and rinsed it out. The other downfall to this conditioner was that it didn’t really soften my hair. I still had a hard time working my comb through my curls while it was wet and my fingers through as it dried.

The perks of the “Color Assure” conditioner was that it didn’t weigh my hair down or make it feel greasy- and my color hasn’t faded since I’ve been using it- which is nice to know when I’m going over products that are safe for my hair and won’t make my red run orange.

Would I Purchase?: No. Like my first try with NEXXUS, I just wasn’t really impressed with this product. It wasn’t the worst thing I’ve ever used in my hair by any means, but it just didn’t give me the softness and manageability I would expect from something that costs close to $20 per bottle. I like that it didn’t fade my color (seriously- I’m always so happy when I find something that doesn’t!) but I can achieve similar, if not better results with what I use on a regular basis for a fraction of the price.

Product # 4: City Cosmetics City Lips Gloss – Clear Formula ($35)

There was a time- long before I settled on the good ‘ol lip liner and gloss method- where I was on the prowl for a certified “miracle in a tube” lip gloss that would give me fuller, almost cartoon-like lips in one quick, easy step. I’m not stranger to “Lip Venom” or any of it’s competitors/imitators- and I’ve toughed it through enough of the warming, tingling sensations the ingredients in plumping formulas provide, so I had no problem giving City Cosmetics’ clear formula a shot.

First, the good: the formula didn’t burn, and it also didn’t feel sticky or tacky on my lips. Because this particular color was clear, it was hard to really get an idea of it’s longevity, but I felt the gloss on my lips for quite some time after I’d first applied it- even after eating and drinking- so I think it’s safe to assume that it stays in place.

BUT (here comes the bad,) this gloss didn’t plump my lips. At all. Not even a little. You can see no difference whatsoever in the above comparative photos I took- or at least I can’t. I essentially applied clear gloss and that was it. For $35 dollars for a relatively small tube, I expected SOMETHING noticeable.

Would I Purchase?: No. This product was a let-down. While I appreciate a non-sticky gloss as much as the next person, that alone is not enough to convince me to throw away money for another tube of this. There were no results. My lips didn’t look any plumper- and I could achieve the same look and feel this gloss gave me with a significantly less expensive balm, instead.

Product # 5: ORLY Nail Lacquer in “Red Flare” ($8.50)

First, I must apologize for the state of my nails. I’m long overdue for a proper manicure and my last attempt at a DIY-job left them little more short and rounded than what I’m used to. I wanted desperately to show off this lovely shade I received in June’s GlossyBox, however- and snapped a quick photo of the color in natural lighting. Although “Red Flare” looks like a bright cherry tone, there’s a bit of purple in there too, which may be hard to notice at first glance. I’m really liking this formula so far, which has been pretty resilient. There hasn’t been any chipping or peeling or anything in the days since I’ve applied it- which is always a good thing if you don’t like doing or can’t find the time to retouch your nails every other day (which I absolutely don’t/can’t.)

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I don’t know if I’d re-purchase “Red Flare” again, not because I don’t think it’s lovely but because I already own a lot of red shades- but I’d love to try some of the different colors ORLY has available. It applies smoothly, dries quickly, and stays on strong- and for $8.50 a bottle- you can’t really go wrong!

With three out of five products being very much to my liking, June’s box- like May’s- wasn’t half bad. As noted above, the assortment of items was good and the sizes of the samples were even better. While I wasn’t a fan of the conditioner or the lip gloss- the other products I received made up for it.

I’m looking forward to seeing what GlossyBox has in store for July. I’m hoping it’s another themed box to commemorate Independence Day!

xx

The first GlossyBox that arrives after receiving an impressive curated/themed box (like the one from this past April, for example,) always has big shoes to fill- and it can be easy to get one’s hopes up that it will be equally, if not more of an incredible assortment of products- which is why I make it a point to approach each box with an open mind so I’m not left disappointed. Although May’s GlossyBox arrived in the usual (and slightly bland by comparison) pink and black box, packed with the expected ribbon and confetti- and didn’t have a particularly specific theme for the month- I did receive two full-sized products and three deluxe samples to try- meaning it’s total value surpassed the monthly $21 cost I pay for the service- which is always nice!

What I Received:

GLAMGLOW POWERMUD Dualcleanse Treatment

Doucce Mineral Matt Lipstick in “Cherry Blossom” (*Full Size!*)

Sebastian StylBrid 9 Hair Spray

teeez Head over Heels Nail Lacquer Top Coat (*Full Size!*)

Clearista Retexturizing Gel

Product # 1: GLAMGLOW POWERMUD Dualcleanse Treatment ($69)

I’ll never say no to receiving GLAMGLOW samples, since I have yet to try a product of theirs that I haven’t liked. The POWERMUD Dualcleanse is one of the newest additions to their line, and acts as a pore-refining mask when applied to clean, dry skin. After ten minutes, once the mask has set and dried- it turns into a deep-cleansing oil when met with water that doesn’t leave behind any kind of greasy residue and won’t make my skin look shiny.

I’ve used this a couple of times, spacing out the applications about 2-3 times a week, and I’ve been really happy with the results so far. My skin feels so clean and soft after I use this product- NOT dried out. It’s really refreshing and comes in handy on those days where I feel like my face just needs a little something extra in terms of deep-cleansing. GLAMGLOW has done it again!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Is it any surprise? I love how quick and easy this product is to use, and how it gives such great results in such a short amount of time. I’ll definitely be picking up a full-sized tub of this mask/cleanser combo- especially before the hotter months when I’ll need that deeper clean to rid my pores of sweat, dirt, oil, and makeup that my daily cleanser may not get rid of entirely.

Product # 2: Doucce Mineral Matt Lipstick in “Cherry Blossom” ($20)

I was ecstatic when I saw another rose-hued lipstick sitting in May’s GlossyBox and couldn’t wait to try it!

Just kidding. I was actually pretty disappointed, and not even the slick shape of the tube, the SPF it contains, or the matte finish the product’s description promised me could get me excited about it. I digress, I went ahead and tried this lipstick to see/feel the formula and longevity for reviewing purposes. The first thing I noticed was that this lipstick does not apply easily. It took multiple swipes to get the color to show up on my lips and even more swipes to get the product to look even and not patchy. The second thing I noticed was that even though the finish was matte- this lipstick didn’t feel heavy or drying (always a plus!)

Finally, this lipstick lasted a really, really, really long time before it faded. I got nearly a full day’s worth of wear with just one application and didn’t require one touch-up! That’s pretty impressive- and definitely won me over.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I might have been quick to pass judgment on this product, mainly because I’m so sick of rose tones and have been for a while now- and even though the initial application process is a bit tedious- once the lipstick is on, it’s comfortable and long-lasting. I don’t think I’d re-purchase “Cherry Blossom” again after I run out of the one I received, but I’d love to try some of the other colors Doucce has available!

Product # 3: Sebastian StylBrid 9 Hair Spray ($14)

I’ve tried some Sebastian products in the past that I’ve really enjoyed, and despite the fact that I’m not a fan of aerosol sprays that shoot out of the bottle unnecessarily  hard and feel like a sucker punch to the head- I was eager to give this multi-purpose hairspray a try to see if it met the standards set by the samples that came before it.

On damp hair, this spray held my curls in place and gave me a nice boost of volume as I let it air dry- and on already dry hair- it tamed my frizz and gave my ends a little bit of a bounce. That’s all well and good, of course- but like most aerosol sprays- this product also made my hair feel crunchy and hard in certain spots around my scalp. I can’t stand that, and sadly had to shelf this bottle for the time being and stick to my usual styling products,

Would I Purchase?: No. I have yet to find an aerosol spray that gives me fantastic results without the crunchy finish or without making my hair look/feel greasy. It’s always one or the other and for that reason, I stick to mists, creams, and/or oils. I’m still fond of my other Sebastian samples- but I’ll be skipping over this one in the future.

Product # 4: teeez Head over Heels Nail Lacquer Top Coat ($14)

It’s hard to write more than a couple of sentences about a top coat nail lacquer. I mean, what can be said that isn’t stating the obvious? It’s clear. It makes my nails shiny. It protects the polish underneath from chipping or peeling. It’s all pretty standard, really. This lacquer did it’s job- which is appreciated- and came in some bright, colorful, and cute packaging. Other than that, it wasn’t anything groundbreaking or memorable.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I think if I were ordering any other polishes from teeez, I’d probably add another bottle of this just to have in my collection where it’d be easily available for whenever I needed it- but for $5 I can buy a top coat in almost any other brand and it’d do the exact same thing as this top coat. It’s not awful by any means, but it’s not something I absolutely need to have.

Product # 5: Clearista Retexturizing Gel ($79.99)

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this sample- although it being called a “gel” made me think that it was possibly a spot-treatment for blemishes. In actuality, it’s a non-abrasive scrub that is to be used twice daily- once in the morning and then again at night- to clear pores, smooth and soften the skin, and brighten the complexion. I’ve been using this for a few days now (and a little goes a long way,) and have noticed an improvement in my skin’s overall tone and texture. My face looks brighter, clearer, and feels really soft- but I’ve also achieved similar results with similar and less-expensive scrubs, which makes the $80 price tag a little disheartening.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I think I’d splurge on this product if I had some extra cash I didn’t mind putting towards it, because it is good quality and gives very nice results- but in an attempt to be more mindful with my money- I’ll be sticking to the aforementioned similar and more affordable scrubs until that day comes.

May’s box, while not as awesome as April’s Pop Art-inspired one- wasn’t a complete disappointment. I really liked two of the products I received (one being full-sized,) and was left on the fence about another two- which leaves one sample that was underwhelming. That’s not bad at all!

I recently received my May Ipsy Bag, which is the only other beauty subscription service I’m currently subscribed to- so we’ll see how that one is. The post will be up soon!