January was a rough month for GlossyBox. After a December box that fell a little flat, the subscription service was plagued with weather-related problems throughout January, resulting in delayed shipments. A peek at any of GlossyBox’s social media accounts revealed a flood of angry customers demanding to know where their boxes were and complaints from people who weren’t satisfied with what they’d received in the shipments that had gone out on time (although that happens to pretty much every subscription service EVERY month no matter what.)

I received my GlossyBox earlier last week, but it typically arrives near the end of the month, anyway- so I wasn’t too displeased. At first glance, it looked as though the company had made every effort with the products they picked and packed to make up for any inconvenience.

But I have to try them, of course.

What I Received:

Balance Me Super Toning Body Wash

TONI&GUY Casual Sea Salt Texturising Spray

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Cream

beautyblender.pure (with cleanser)

Bellápierre Cosmetics Mineral Blush in “Desert Rose”

Product # 1: Balance Me Super Toning Body Wash ($14)

If you’ve been following Legally Redhead for any amount of time, or at the least if you’ve been reading my cosmetics/beauty boxes posts, you’re probably aware that I’m kinda’ selective when it comes to my bath/shower products. I’m never opposed to trying new things, but I know what I like and what I don’t like because I know what works for me- and what doesn’t. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this lightly fruit scented body wash, which is described as being able to improve skin’s texture, tone, and encourage good circulation while still being gentle enough for everyday use.

I can’t say much about improving my skin’s tone, texture, or my circulation- since it looks the same to me, but I did like the way this body wash made my skin feel squeaky clean without drying it out or leaving behind any kind of residue on the surface. The fragrance doesn’t last very long after the shower, but my skin feels nice all day after I use this.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. This is a quality body wash for sure- but nothing about it really struck me as extraordinary to the point where I’d feel like I had to run out and buy it immediately. I’d probably pick up a bottle as a treat to myself for when I travel (because hotel soaps are hit or miss,) since it does a good job at deeply cleaning and conditioning my skin, and doesn’t overpower me with fragrance.

Product # 2: TONI&GUY Casual Sea Salt Texturising Spray ($14.99)

I don’t care if it’s the middle of winter and “beachy waves” in New England aren’t technically “in,” I love sea salt sprays and the way they make my hair look, regardless of the season. This fresh smelling spray softens my curls and gives my hair a little bit more volume without making it feel crunchy or dry- which is super important with curly hair since dryness usually accentuates frizz and/or split ends. I usually use Bumble & Bumble’s “Surf Spray” in the Summertime, but this is just as good. I’ve been spraying it into my towel-dried hair (see: still damp,) and letting it air dry to get the most desirable results. Best of all? It seems to be safe for color treated hair- which means no strawberry blonde ends for me!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Again, sea salt sprays are one of my favorite hair styling products. They give me the “spent all day surfing” hair I love but can’t achieve without risking hypothermia from diving into the ocean this time of year.

Product # 3: Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Cream ($31)

I was pretty excited to try a moisturizer that apparently gives 48 hours of continuous hydration, especially since some areas of my skin can be a bit dry and patchy in the winter. The first thing I noticed about this cream was that it had added fragrance to it- which immediately made me nervous since my skin can be sensitive at times, and anything with perfume in it is usually a one way ticket to breakout-ville. Thankfully, I haven’t had any kind of bad reaction to this moisturizer thus far- and it definitely keeps my skin soft and supple for hours at a time. It’s very rich, but it absorbs quickly into my skin and doesn’t feel greasy afterwards.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. While I’m getting decent results with this cream, the fragrance is still a cause for concern for me. I may not have experienced any kind of breakout yet, but there’s always the possibility. If this came fragrance-free, I’d buy it for sure.

Product # 4: beautyblender.pure ($19.95)

While I’ve heard nothing but good things about the Beauty Blender, I’ve never actually tried it for myself. I’m a stickler for my makeup brushes, and truthfully, I just assumed the Beauty Blender was an over-hyped, overpriced sponge. I wasn’t expecting much, but decided to give this squishy white egg a whirl anyway. I followed the directions laid out on GlossyBox’s website (I also watched a couple of tutorials on YouTube just to play it safe,) and after wetting the sponge and having entirely too much fun watching it double in size with water- I got to work with applying my foundation- and wow.

I was pleasantly surprised with how well the Beauty Blender worked. Not only did it help me achieve good, even, and natural looking coverage quickly- but the tipped end made applying foundation around my nose and mouth a lot easier. Afterwards, I went to clean the Beauty Blender using the small bottle of cleanser that came with it, not entirely sure how well it would work considering past makeup sponge-cleansing attempts rarely ended well, but I was even surprised at the cleanser and how efficient it was. While my sponge does still have the faintest of foundation tint on it that wouldn’t wash out after a couple of attempts, it was nowhere near as bad or as messy as I thought it would be.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! While I still consider myself loyal to my brushes, this was a great product that I’d definitely re-purchase in the future. I got great results from this and I can absolutely see myself alternating back and forth between this and my foundation brush depending on how much time I have to do my makeup in the morning. Now I finally see why all the beauty bloggers and gurus rave about this thing.

Product # 5: Bellápierre Cosmetics Mineral Blush in “Desert Rose” ($20)

In the container, this loose powder blush looked a little dark- at least darker than what I’d normally wear on my cheeks, but it applied as a very pretty, very natural (and sheer) rose/peach tone with build-able color that I think will be my go-to in the Spring. I set this blush with my finishing powder and the final result was a flattering flush of pink in my cheeks. In the photo above, I’m wearing “Desert Rose” with my foundation, finishing powder, mascara, and a nude lip balm.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This is such a beautiful color that blends really, really nicely and doesn’t give any unnecessary sparkle or sheen to my face. It lasts all day and feels nice and lightweight on my skin. I can easily see this becoming one of my favorite blushes in my collection.

Shipping issues aside, I was really pleased with January’s GlossyBox. Although I was on the fence about a couple of products, there wasn’t one that I disliked entirely. In fact, I was a big fan of most of them- which is always a good thing. I definitely got my money’s worth in this box, and I’m hoping they keep up the good work in February’s, too. This was a great way for them to start the new year.

As is the usual tradition when it comes to GlossyBox, I received mine near the end of December, and just recently finished playing around with the samples included. After a somewhat anti-climactic year-end Ipsy Bag last month, I was hoping that GlossyBox would make up for it with their holiday-themed box.

What I Received:

ARDENCY INN – “PUNKER” – World’s Baddest Eyeliner (*Full Size!*)

ANATOMICALS “You Need A Blooming Shower” Body Cleanser

NAOBAY Oxygenating Cream Moisturizer

Nails, Inc. “Victoria” Polish (*Full Size!*)

Michael Todd True Organics Pumpkin Nutrient Rich Facial Mask

Product # 1: ARDENCY INN – “PUNKER” – World’s Baddest Eyeliner ($19)

I received a similar marker style eyeliner by Be A Bombshell in an Ipsy bag a couple months ago, and even though I liked the concept, I was concerned about how long the liner would last in terms of not drying out over time since it’s not something that can be sharpened down or easily salvaged.

As far as this product goes- I really did enjoy this liner. The fine point made application incredibly easy, and I was able to go from subtle to dramatic with the flick of my wrist in little to no time at all. It lasts for hours (and hours!) without flaking off or smudging. Case in point: I wore this liner on New Years Eve under my masquerade mask, and even after sweating on the dance floor for hours, and the fabric from my mask rubbing against my face-  including my eye area on more than one occasion- my cat-eye was still flawless when I finally got back to my hotel room.

But again- the question of the marker possibly drying out with daily uncappings/re-cappings comes into question. Although my liner is still fresh, meaning it still has a slightly wet feel to it when I use it- I’m curious how long that will last.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. This liner really is a fantastic quality, but I’m cautious when it comes to the Sharpie-esque texture of this product. $19 is a lot to spend on a black eye liner, so I’d want to be sure I was getting my money’s worth and not wasting cash on something that may not last me more than a few weeks.

Product # 2: ANATOMICALS “You Need A Blooming Shower” Body Cleanser ($9.50)

I love ANATOMICALS’ products- the results I get when I use them, their more than reasonable pricing, and their cute and clever packaging. I was really excited to try this rose-scented (and pink!) body wash, since it smelled absolutely lovely in the neon colored tube. In the shower, this body cleanser lathered up really, really well- and it made my skin feel squeaky clean without drying it out or causing any kind of reaction.

Initially, the scent wasn’t overpowering the way some florals can be- but my only gripe is that it didn’t last long on my skin at all. No sooner had I dried off when it all but disappeared, which was a little disappointing.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. Although the fragrance-fading was a bit of a let-down, I still liked the other aspects of this body wash- especially how nice and clean my skin felt after I used it. I figure that feeling alone could possibly be worth purchasing a full-sized bottle- even if I won’t smell like a bouquet of roses for long.

Product # 3: NAOBAY Oxygenating Cream Moisturizer ($45)

The first thing I noticed about this lightweight moisturizer is that it smelled like a greenhouse, if that makes any sense. It’s made from plant extracts, which is awesome, but I really hadn’t expected it to remind me of vegetables. As far as hydrating my skin, I’ve been using it for a few days now, and I haven’t noticed any significant difference in how my skin feels or it’s tone and texture. It looks and feels the same as it did before I started using this product. The only thing I like about this particular moisturizer is that it absorbs quickly into my skin, and can act as a makeup primer- but my current foundation already has primer in it- so that’s not necessarily needed.

Would I Purchase?: No. For $45 a bottle, I wasn’t blown away by this moisturizer at all. It was pretty basic, and I’ve tried other creams (for a fraction of the cost) that have given me much better and more noticeable results than this. I’ll pass.

Product # 4: Nails, Inc. “Victoria” Polish ($9.50)

I have to apologize for how bad my nails look. I’ve decided to take a break from acrylics and gel manicures for a few weeks to give my tips a long overdue and much needed break, and the brittle, damaged ends are in the process of growing out.

I’ve received the “Baker Street” polish from Nails, Inc. in a past GlossyBox, and I loved it. This deep cherry red lacquer was no exception. The formula applies smoothly, dries quickly, and doesn’t chip or smudge easily. The color is beautiful- a perfect dark shade for the Winter- and it lasts a long time.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I received a full-sized bottle in December’s GlossyBox, and it should last me for a very long time, but I really love the color and the formula, so I’d probably re-purchase this one whenever I run out of it.

Product # 5: Michael Todd True Organics Pumpkin Nutrient Rich Facial Mask ($34)

I wish I had known about this product back when I compiled my “Autumn Essentials” post last year, because it’s the first and only face mask that I’ve ever tried that has smelled like a delicious pumpkin spice latte. This all-natural mask does a bit of everything: it unclogs pores, improves skin’s texture, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. I applied a generous amount (and amused myself more than I care to admit with how it turned my skin into the color of an Oompa-Loompa’s,) and waited 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off. Immediately, I saw and felt how much smoother my skin was, and noticed that it had a bit of a glow to it. I can’t say much about whether or not it drastically unclogged my pores with just a couple of uses so far, but I’m hoping to see more definitive results in the coming weeks.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I think this was my favorite product in December’s GlossyBox. I loved this mask, and I would absolutely purchase a full-sized bottle. The results were great, it smells amazing, and it’s loaded with all natural ingredients that are actually good for my skin. I’m sold.

Much like Ipsy’s year-end bag, I wasn’t completely blown away with December’s GlossyBox. It wasn’t horrible by any means, but nothing- with the exception of the pumpkin mask- really impressed me. I’m hoping with a new year, both subscription services come up with some new, innovative ideas to really make their boxes/bags stand out among their competitors.

This is one of first times in recent memory where I’ve received my GlossyBox kind of early. Typically, it arrives at my door during the last few days of the month, leaving me to write a review a little late. I’m hoping this is a continuing trend- since I’m a tad impatient when it comes to receiving my Beauty Boxes.

This month’s theme is “Holiday Romance,” and features products to get those of us in colder climates looking and feeling flawless throughout the chillier months- from smooth, polished skin, to hydrated, healthy hair, all the way to bold and dramatic colors for the eyes.  I’ve been playing around with what I received for a few days now, and am eager to share the results.

What I Received:

The Aloe Source Jojoba Radiance Cleansing Polish

Mastey Color Protection ‘Color Protecting Leave-In Oil Treatment’

Vincent Longo Duo Eye Pencil (*FULL SIZE*)

Nicka K New York Professional Eye Shadow Brush (*FULL SIZE*)

Emite Makeup Micronized Eye Shadow in ‘Dams’ (*FULL SIZE*)

Product # 1: The Aloe Source Jojoba Radiance Cleansing Polish ($30)

Come November/December, my skin regime gets switched up a bit. My usual cleansers, typically for oily skin, get put aside to make room for more mild formulas since my face- especially in New England where I frequently go between the bitter cold outdoors to the often overly-heated indoors (usually in my office-) has a tendency to get a little dry. The first thing I noticed about this sulfate-free cleanser was how delicious it smelled, like a combination of different citruses. The second thing I noticed was the texture. This cleanser is loaded with jojoba microbeads that gently exfoliated my skin without stripping it down. Lastly, I noticed how much softer and smoother my skin felt after each use. This product is like a two-in-one, a gentle facial wash and an even gentler scrub.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I loved the results I got with this cleansing polish. It buffed my skin painlessly and thoroughly cleansed my face without over-drying it. Plus, it smells yummy. The price is a little steep, but a little goes a long way, so if you use it sparingly- it will last you a long time.

Product # 2: Mastey Color Protection ‘Color Protecting Leave-In Oil Treatment’ ($25)

I’ve been soaking my hair with coconut oil a couple of times a week as an overnight/rinse-out treatment, and have seen phenomenal results from my scalp to my ends. I was curious about this leave-in oil, however- created especially for those with color treated hair- and I have been using it before styling as usual for the past few days. The oil itself is 100% vegan and free of harmful, drying, or color-fading chemicals. Another pro to this formula is that it doesn’t feel greasy to the touch, despite being an oil- and it smells strongly of berries, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s actually nice. My hair may not have been as frizz-free as I would have liked, but it looked so shiny and felt so soft after I applied the oil, and it stayed that way all day.

Would I Purchase? Yes! I think this would be a great extra step to add to my hair styling routine in the morning. This product, combined with my coconut oil treatment, means shinier, smoother, and more importantly- healthy hair- around the clock. Much like the jojoba cleanser I received, a little of this product goes a long way. A nickel-sized drop, give or take, should be enough to massage into your scalp and work down to your ends- and that’s coming from someone with impossibly thick hair.

“Aura Chic”

“Rich Topaz”

Product # 3: Vincent Longo Duo Eye Pencil ($26)

Just when I was starting to come back around to being open to using pencil liners, I tried this duo eyeliner from Vincent Longo and was immediately put off of them again. Although this particular pencil was advertised as being the type to glide on, and, I quote: “prevents any tugging of the delicate eye area,” it was actually quite painful to use. Neither end of the liner applied easily, or evenly- and scratched my lids even when I wasn’t pressing down harder than I would have liked to get it to show up. As for the colors, the lighter shade- ‘Aura Chic-‘ barely showed up on my lids. It was a slightly shimmery flesh color that could be a beautiful highlighter for darker shades of skin, but on me, it just looked transparent. The darker shade, ”Rich Topaz,’ was a deep brown with no shimmer that showed up better than the lighter shade, but was still nothing WOW!-worthy. The only good thing about this liner, in my opinion, was that it was long-lasting. It stayed in place from morning until late at night without smudging or fading. Overall, though- it was disappointing.

Would I Purchase?: No. The colors, and especially the brutal application process- were hardly worth the costly price point of this liner. I’ll stick to my Urban Decay pencils and gel liners, which last just as long, are much more pigmented, and are less painful to apply.

Product # 4: Nicka K New York Professional Eye Shadow Brush ($5)

I’ve mentioned in the past that I’ve had the same makeup brushes for years. They’ve held up well through months and months of different products, color combinations, and sometimes questionable makeup choices. I tried this lightweight round eyeshadow brush recently just to see how it felt, and I was immediately impressed with how soft the bristles were on my eyelid (it’s made from pony hair, which may explain it.) My shadow applied neatly in just a couple of sweeps.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. If I was ever looking to replace any or all of my brushes sometime in the future, I would definitely consider this brand since they seem to be well-made and durable, and for the price- which is a lot more reasonable than other brushes I’ve seen of similar quality- you can’t go wrong.

Blended with Urban Decay’s “Mildew” shadow.

Product # 5: Emite Makeup Micronized Eye Shadow in ‘Dams’ ($27)

I was pretty anxious to play around with this black matte-finish eye shadow when I heard it’d be included in this month’s GlossyBox. I love a good smokey eye look in the winter, but black shadows I’ve tried in the past have had a lot of glitter/sparkle to them, sometimes making them hard to blend and resulting in them flaking down along my cheekbones throughout the course of the day/night. I’ve been blending this shadow with greens, golds, and purples to create dramatic and different looks- and I’ve been happy each time. The shadow is definitely dark and highly pigmented, so be sure to blend if you use it to avoid raccoon eyes- but it stays in place for all day/night wear and doesn’t flake all over the place.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Although I think this black shadow will last me for a lifetime and a half (you don’t need a lot of it at all to create an effective smokey eye,) I’ve found a couple of other colors in Emite’s collection that are really, really pretty that I wouldn’t be opposed to taking a chance on purchasing- especially if they have the same pigmented, long-lasting formula as ‘Dams.’

Three products I enjoyed, one I liked but wouldn’t purchase just yet, and one Godawful eyeliner. Overall, November’s GlossyBox was a good one. I had said it after reviewing Ipsy’s November bag, too- but I’m looking forward to seeing what GlossyBox has planned for their final box of 2013!