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!

September’s Glossybox, packed with essentials for the Fall season, had the delightful distinction from other beauty boxes by featuring five full-sized products, putting it’s value at over $100. Not bad, considering the subscription service costs only $21 a month. Of course, I wanted to try everything I received before I reached a final verdict- but that alone already had me impressed.

What I Received:

NIOXIN Diamax Hair Treatment

BCBG Max Azria Bon Genre Eau de Parfum Spray

Emite Makeup Eyelash Curler

Oceane Makeup Remover Pen

Be A Bombshell Eyeliner Pen in “Onyx”

Product # 1: NIOXIN Diamax Hair Treatment ($50)

With my hair being as course and as curly as it is- thickness has, thankfully, never been an issue or a concern for me. Even still, I was curious about this serum I’ve heard and read so many good reviews for, and massaged it generously from my scalp to my ends after a shower to see whether or not I’d notice any immediate results. As my hair dried, I saw some frizz and fly-aways near my hairline, and applied a light curl cream to keep everything in place before finishing my makeup and heading out to start my day.

By afternoon, my hair looked and felt fuller and more volumized- more so than usual. I wasn’t the only one who noticed, either. My co-worker remarked that my hair had more body to it- and that was only after one use! Like most treatments, you have to use it continuously for maximum results.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I’m already very, very pleased with the results I’ve seen from this product with only a couple of uses so far, and I have a feeling that after a few weeks, my hair and I will be even more satisfied. This serum may not be ideal for just styling your hair, but it doesn’t seem to lose it’s thickening and conditioning power even when mixed with a light cream or mousse, so you don’t have to compromise volumizing results for being frizz-free.

Product # 2: BCBG Max Azria Bon Genre Eau de Parfum Spray ($75)

Out of the five products I received in September’s Glossybox, I was most excited for this BCBG perfume spray that came in a travel-sized tube that is ideal to put in my purse. This particular fragrance, a heavier (but still pretty!) mix of florals, vanilla, and sandalwood, is perfect for the Autumn and Winter months. It lasts all day without fading, so a couple of spritzes on your wrists/pulse points and you’re good from morning ’til night.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This fragrance is so intoxicating, and, dare I say it, sexy. I would absolutely add another bottle of this to my collection of perfumes.

Product # 3: Emite Makeup Eyelash Curler ($30.50)

I’ve only ever used an eyelash curler a handful of times in my life, and each time, I never noticed any dramatic results- at least nothing that a decent mascara couldn’t do for me without putting a contraption dangerously close to my eyeball. I tried this curler, which was well-made and came with replacement pads, a few times, but the results were still lackluster.

Would I Purchase?: No. I don’t think eyelash curlers are for me, period. I’ll probably end up gifting this to someone since it’s a good quality, and they might see better, more noticeable results than I did.

Product # 4: Oceane Makeup Remover Pen ($5.30)

When applying eyeliner, I have a tendency to screw it up. One eye comes out lined thicker than the other, I miss a spot, my cat-eye smudges with the wrong flick of my wrist, etc. and I’m left frantically looking for a cotton swap to try and fix it before it dries and I have to take it off and start over completely. This small, purse-appropriate-sized pen is a Godsend. With soft, replaceable tips, this product applies a small amount of makeup remover to the affected area without leaving the skin feeling greasy or making eye or lip makeup look runny.

This morning, as usual, I smudged a bit of my eyeliner, and quickly reached for this pen to see if it worked as well as the packaging suggested. Sure enough, my small error was gone in seconds and I was able to easily fix my eye makeup with less hassle than usual. Consider me sold.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This is one of those products that should always be in your purse. It’s small, lightweight, reasonably priced, and ever so convenient for fixing little makeup mistakes or for touch-ups if anything falls out of place in the course of the day.

Product # 5: Be A Bombshell Eyeliner Pen in “Onyx” ($14)

The aforementioned botched eye liner I was using (and needed to fix) happened to be this fine, felt-tip, and fast-drying liquid-esque liner from Be A Bombshell, which looked and felt like I was lining my eyes with a Sharpie marker. The liner didn’t exactly apply smoothly for me. I had to go back and go over a couple of areas that looked patchy more than once before my eyes looked even, and although it’s highly pigmented and supposedly waterproof, I noticed that it smudged a LOT throughout the day. By the time I left work, I had a bad case of unintentional raccoon eyes.

Would I Purchase?: No. I feel like I say it every time I venture outside of my eyeliner comfort zone- but I’ll stick with my gel liners. This particular brand, although an interesting concept, just wasn’t for me. Not only that, but my concern would be how long it would last- considering it does not need to be sharpened or twisted up, and markers can sometimes dry out rather quickly.

Two products I didn’t like out of five full-sized products? That’s fine! The value of the three products I really enjoyed more than made up for my disappointment with the eyelash curler and eyeliner.  September’s Glossybox was a pleasant surprise. Major kudos.

Let me just start this post off by saying this review almost didn’t happen. The August Glossybox, which I was actually supposed to get for free after redeeming my accrued Glossydots (a reward points system,) was briefly lost in the mail. After contacting both Glossybox customer support, and then the USPS itself- the package was eventually located at a facility in Pennsylvania and shipped to me immediately. Better late than never, of course.

The theme for this box, “Bohemian Summer,” included products fit for the transition from the last hot, humid days of Summer into the chillier, crisp early weeks of Fall, and included skincare, hair care, and makeup. I also received a cute denim pouch from GUESS as a bonus item, as well as a 30% off coupon that can be used in-store or on Guess.com. I’m in the market for some new jeans- so it should come in handy.

What I Received:

Sue Devitt Triple C-Weed Pressed Powder (*Full Size!*)

ModelCo Eyeshadow Duo in “Bronzed Goddess”

Anatomicals “Spray Misty For Me” Facial Spritz

Jelly Pong Pong Lip Blush (*Full Size!*)

Novex Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Cream

Product # 1: Sue Devitt Triple C-Weed Pressed Powder ($28)

When it comes to setting powders, I’ve always preferred loose powders to pressed ones. From past experiences, loose powders give me better coverage and provide longer staying power for my makeup without looking caked on or chalky. However, when I’m traveling or in a rush, those neat little compacts can certainly come in handy. When I read that this particular brand of pressed powder was infused with green tea and vitamin C, both of which are good for my skin, I bit the bullet and decided to give it a try.

Unlike other powders I’ve received in the past, this one matched my skin tone perfectly. It applied evenly, smoothly, and gave decent coverage with a lovely matte finish. My skin looked and felt soft to the touch. Any shine in my T-zone was quickly covered- however- after only a couple of hours- that very same area began to look as though the powder had been caked on and I quickly had to reapply more to correct it.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. While I do still prefer loose powders, a product like this is great for quick, mess-free touch-ups. While I was disappointed with how quickly I had to re-apply more of the powder, I could see myself putting some of this on if I wanted to run out to do some errands without putting a full face of makeup on.

In other words, this powder is great for quick coverage for a short amount of time, but if you’re looking for something to give you consistent coverage for the whole day- skip this product.

Product # 2: ModelCo Eyeshadow Duo in “Bronzed Goddess” ($25)

Summer 2013 was definitely my season of neutral tones, and I was ready to go out this weekend to pick up a couple of violets, greens, and blues for my eyes for the Fall/Winter until I saw this shimmery eye shadow compact in my Glossybox, and opted to give neutrals a couple more weeks. Although it’s hard to tell in the photograph (and it was hard for me to tell in the packaging, as well,) this eye shadow duo- which includes a rich chocolate brown and a light cream color- is VERY sparkly. I actually did a double take after I’d finished applying it to one eye because the amount of sparkle caught me off guard. It’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s not like applying globs of glitter to your eyelid or anything. This shadow actually goes on easily without flaking or clumping together. After I adjusted to the sparkle, I thought it looked rather pretty on my eyes, especially out in the sunlight.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I’d actually love to try more color combinations of this formula of shadow. The colors in “Bronzed Goddess” were very nice, especially for the Summer, but I’d love to see the same amount of sparkle and pigmentation in a rich plum shade or an olive green sometime.

Product # 3: Anatomicals “Spray Misty For Me” Facial Spritz ($9)

As the temperatures begin to drop, keeping my skin hydrated against frigid climates definitely becomes a priority. I use stronger moisturizers, and more often throughout the day. Unfortunately, with my work schedule, stopping to take my makeup off, reapply moisturizer, and then reapply my makeup is simply out of the question. Enter facial sprays- which I am a big fan of- not only because of the results I get from them, but also because of the convenience. Whether sprayed on over makeup or on a bare, clean face- these spritzers offer instant cooling hydration to skin without ruining cosmetics or making your face feel greasy.

“Spray Misty For Me” from Anatomicals gave me all the aforementioned perks, and then some. Packed with lavender, peppermint, aloe, and witch hazel- this spray smelled amazing on top of being incredibly refreshing. Also, a but unrelated, but the packaging, which included a cartoon drawing of Clint Eastwood on the back, was very entertaining:

See?!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! The refreshing, cooling feeling on my skin, the relaxing fragrance, and the quirky packaging had me sold on this facial spritz. This is my new “must have” in my purse for the Fall. It’s just a great product overall, and for $9 a bottle, you really can’t go wrong.

Product # 4: Jelly Pong Pong Lip Blush ($18)

Ever the lip color addict, this bold berry/red balm was the first product from the August Glossybox I tried. Although the packaging has this color listed as “cranberry,” it applied as a bright pink, almost neon purple tone on my lips- which, while sounding cool on paper, didn’t really suit my skin tone all that well. I looked washed out the few times I wore this, since it was so bright that it pretty much drained the rest of the color out of my face.

Longevity wise, this balm didn’t last at all. After a few sips of coffee, resulting in numerous lip prints all over the rim of my cup, and this balm’s color completely disappeared, as did it’s moisturizing benefits.

Would I Purchase?: No. I think I’ll stick to other balms I’ve used in the past, or moisturizer enriched long-wear lipsticks. Between the weird and unflattering color, the speed in which it vanished after I applied it, and the lack of long-lasting hydration benefits for my lips, this product was unfortunately a let-down.

Product # 5: Novex Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment Cream ($4.99)

Keratin treatments at the salon where I typically touch up my red cost a pretty penny, so when I saw this otherwise inexpensive container of “Brazil’s #1 keratin treatment,” I was a little skeptical. The directions say to leave the pleasant scented cream in slightly dry hair, from root to tip, for three minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Not entirely sure how many miracles this could work in a mere three minutes, I left the cream on for five, and then rinsed- and what a difference! Once my hair dried, it felt softer, smoother, and looked a lot shinier. I was very surprised, to say the least. For $4.99 a jar, and with what I achieved after just one use (so far,) I think I’ve found the perfect, cheaper alternative to the expensive treatments I’ve paid for to get similar results in the past.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This would make an incredible weekly treatment for dry, damaged hair- especially in the colder months. Each one of my curls was nourished through and through and best of all- they stayed that way long after I applied and rinsed the cream out.

Despite the delay in receiving my August Glossybox, overall I was very pleased with it. The facial spritz and the keratin hair treatment cream were fantastic Fall finds, and the eye shadow and denim GUESS pouch were fun bonuses. I’m looking forward to continuing to use up what’s left of my samples, sans-lip balm, while I wait for my September box!

The theme for July’s GlossyBox, “Le Grand Bleu,” was inspired by Summer beauty and frolicking on faraway, exotic beaches in crisp, cool water while under a beautiful blue sky. Sounds fabulous, doesn’t it?  With products for face, hair, body, and nails- including a bonus sample- I was quick to dive in to try everything.

What I Received:

BVLGARI ‘Eau Parfumée au thé blanc’ Shampoo & Shower Gel

evologie Intensive Blemish Serum

Figs & Rouge Cherry Blossom Tinted Lip Balm (*FULL SIZE*)

Brazilian Blowout Acai Deep Conditioning Masque

Nicka K. New York ABSOLUTE! Make-up Cleaning Tissues (*BONUS SAMPLE*)

nails, inc. Nail Polish in “Baker Street”

Product # 1: BVLGARI ‘Eau Parfumée au thé blanc’ Shampoo & Shower Gel ($42)

For those of you keeping score, this is the third Eau Parfumée Au Thé Blanc sample I’ve received from GlossyBox. The first, a soap sample, I didn’t like at all, but the second, a bath tea- was surprisingly indulgent. The fragrance is a hit-or-miss for me, and unfortunately in this particular shampoo/shower gel combo, it was another miss. I didn’t use this product in my hair (I’m weary about the shampoos I use since my strands are color-treated and it’s easy for my red to turn orange-y,) so I can’t comment on how it works as a hair cleanser, but as a body wash- this product left a lot to be desired. The gel lathered up nicely enough, but the smell, much like the bar soap sample, was kind of gross on me- and it lingered on my skin for a long time.

Would I Purchase?: No. This particular fragrance is just not for me at all. It stays with you, which might be great for people who enjoy the smell, but I’m not a fan, and I found myself trying to mask it hours after my shower with a spritz of perfume.

Product # 2: evologie Intensive Blemish Serum ($35)

I actually received a sample of this blemish serum as part of a duo with a clarifying moisturizer in a GlossyBox from a couple of months ago. I wasn’t a fan of the moisturizer at all, and at the time, I was on the fence about whether or not I liked the serum enough to purchase it. After using it for a few days, I’m still not completely blown away with the results. While the size and redness of imperfections was somewhat reduced with continued use, it’s not a miracle blemish-blaster that warrants a $35 price tag.

Would I Purchase?: No. I’ve found that I achieve the same, if not better and faster results with my facial mask and exfoliating scrub than I do with this serum. I’m going to have to pass on this one.

Product # 3: Figs & Rouge Cherry Blossom Tinted Lip Balm ($9)

Hello Mick!

First of all- the packaging of this lip balm is so bright, colorful and cute. It sort of reminds me of a prettier tube of Marvis toothpaste. Secondly, it’s made from all natural ingredients- so there’s no petroleum or parabens or other weird add-ins that can make lips feel waxy or sticky. This bright pink/reddish tinted balm that smelled faintly of cherries immediately hydrated and smoothed my lips when I applied it, and although the color lacks staying power- the moisturizing effect lasted for hours.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I don’t think this is a “gotta’ have it A.S.A.P.” kind of product, but it was definitely nice, and I wouldn’t be opposed to picking up another tube for myself or for someone else as a gift.

Product # 4: Brazilian Blowout Acai Deep Conditioning Masque ($40)

I’ve heard a lot of good things about Brazilian Blowout products, but up until now, I had yet to try any of them. I applied this color-safe and lightly citrus-scented masque all over my still damp hair after a pre-bedtime shower from root to tip, tied my hair back, and let it air-dry while I slept. When I woke up the following morning, my hair was unbelievably soft and shiny, and my usually tight curls had relaxed into gorgeous waves. I didn’t even need to rinse the product out, as it didn’t leave any sort of residue after it had dried, and my hair remained in silky, lightweight condition for days following the initial application.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This product worked wonders for me, and now I can absolutely see why people love Brazilian Blowout so much. The directions to this masque say it should be used as a weekly treatment, and I intend to purchase a full-fized bottle as soon as possible to add it to my hair care regime. I loved it!

Product # 5: Nicka K. New York ABSOLUTE! Make-up Cleaning Tissues ($6.99 for 60 Sheets)

This was a bonus sample in the July GlossyBox, and I’m never one to turn down makeup remover towelettes (I go through them like crazy.) I’m nearly done with my sample packet, and there’s not a whole lot to say about them. These water-based towelettes smell refreshing, they’re very soft, and they do a well enough job at getting all of my makeup off with only one sheet. It’s a very basic product, which isn’t a bad thing at all.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! For the price and the amount of tissues per package, these are a steal. They do what they’re supposed to, and would be convenient to carry in your purse for a quick refresher or if you need to re-do your makeup all together when you’re on the go.

Product # 6: nails, inc. Nail Polish in “Baker Street” ($9.50)

This bold cobalt blue nail polish was the first thing to catch my eye when I unwrapped July’s GlossyBox. I’m so used to receiving neutral colors for my nails in beauty boxes- pinks and reds, mostly- that this unconventional color was a much needed breath of fresh air. The photos above were taken after two coats, and as you can see, two was enough to give me a beautiful result that is eye-catching without looking tacky.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I love this polish (and the name is perfect, too,) and I would love to experiment more with it by creating designs or patterns with some of the other nail polish colors I have in my collection.

Overall, I was very pleased with July’s GlossyBox. The lip balm, the hair masque, and the nail polish completely made up for the couple of products I had received that I didn’t quite care for. Very well done!

xox

I’ve just recently finished trying the products in my June GlossyBox, and what a box it was! Last month, the service collaborated with fashion illustrator, Dallas Shaw, to put together a collection of some of her favorite products ranging from hair care to fragrance to nails. I was so impressed that I received not one, but two full-sized products- and the quality of each of the samples was superb. Not only that, but Dallas designed a special illustration for the cover of the box as well, which was absolutely adorable.

This is exactly the kind of effort and originality that I look for in a beauty box service.

What I Received:

Phillip B. African Shea Butter Shampoo

Tarte Complexion-Enhancing Lipstick (*FULL SIZE*)

c.Booth Honey Almond Nourishing Dry Oil Mist

Oscar de la Renta “Essential Luxuries” Fragrance Collection (includes a sample of each of the six perfumes)

SpaRitual Nail Polish in “Spice of Life” (*FULL SIZE*)

Product #1: Phillip B. African Shea Butter Shampoo ($8 – $90)

Ah, yes. Another shampoo sample. I was starting to wonder if the higher powers of beauty box subscriptions were trying to subtly tell me something with all the hair cleansing products they offer me, but paranoia that my hair looked/smelled bad aside, I tried this nourishing, fragrance-free, and color-safe shampoo regardless- and I was very pleased with the results. Not only did the lather thoroughly and gently cleanse my hair without stripping it of moisture, but it also de-tangled and softened my curls while adding a bit of shine to them- which cuts my conditioner costs in half. I loved the way my hair felt after my shower, and the feeling lasted all day.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This product was lovely- a breath of fresh air compared to other shampoo samples I’ve received in the past. A couple of drops (about a nickel-sized amount) was enough to wash all of my hair and left me with great, long-lasting results. Best of all? It’s safe for my color-treated red hair, and isn’t loaded with fragrances or chemicals- so my hair felt light and not weighed down.

Product #2: Tarte Complexion-Enhancing Lipstick ($29)

When I first opened this colorfully packaged lipstick, I was a little concerned. There are two variations of the product- one for fair skin, and one for medium & darker toned skin. It’s no secret that I’m on the pale side, but it seemed GlossyBox had sent me the medium/darker shade in error. A deep nude with a reddish-pink glossy core to add fullness and shine, I was worried it would appear too brown on my lips.

I applied sparingly, and was surprised by how bright the color actually looked. The picture above doesn’t really do it justice (shoddy lighting- my apologies), but the lipstick was a more rosy/fuchsia-tone than a nude or brown. I don’t know if it necessarily enhanced my complexion, but it was moisturizing and long-lasting, which was definitely a perk.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I have a lot of rosy/nude lipsticks and lip glosses, but this is a nice addition to my ever growing collection. I liked the built-in gloss core (very cool idea), the smooth and hydrating feeling of this product on my lips, and the fact that I didn’t have to frequently re-apply throughout the day.

Product #3: c.Booth Honey Almond Nourishing Dry Oil Mist ($7.99)

I own a couple of cooling aloe vera sprays for hot days or post-workout skin refreshment. For maximum results, I keep them stored in my refrigerator, but they can be used and still give relief without being chilled. When I saw this oil spray, I had assumed it was along the same lines, and last weekend I packed it in my purse when I headed to NYC.

Some of you may remember my mentioning that the temperatures were scorching in Manhattan, and at one point, when I had descended into the subway and was sweating bullets from the lack of air below ground, I whipped out this spray hoping for just a spritz of something cold on my face and neck.

To my dismay, this spray wasn’t intended to be cooling as I had originally thought, so I was still uncomfortably hot while I waited for the train. It was, however, so, so, SO moisturizing on my skin (without making it look shiny or leaving any of kind of greasy film on me), and smelled delicious. I may have not felt cooled down, but my face was touch-ably soft for the rest of the afternoon, even after my makeup had melted off.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I love my aloe vera sprays, and I’ll still use them, but this product is a wonderful treat on days when my skin needs a little pick-me-up or feels a little dry.

Product #4: Oscar de la Renta “Essential Luxuries” Fragrance Collection ($150 per bottle)

When I first saw the Oscar de la Renta pouch in my box, I had expected one, maybe two samples of perfume at the most. When I realized I had a sample of each of the six perfumes in the “Essential Luxuries” collection, I was ecstatic and couldn’t wait to try them. I limited myself to one sample per day so I could evaluate how long each scent lasted, and whether or not I still enjoyed having it on me by the end of the day. In terms of longevity, the perfume lasted me from the early hours of the morning until late in the afternoon without having to be reapplied once, which is one of the most important things to me. For $150 a bottle, I wouldn’t want to run out of the fragrance so quickly because it doesn’t last.

In terms of the scents, each one was so different from the others, so unique- and they all smelled so good- that it was hard to pick a favorite out of the bunch:

Coralina: A lovely and light floral bouquet scent.

Oriental Lace: A rich, sweet chocolate scent.

Sargasso: A crisp ocean/beachy scent.

Mi Corazón: A clean, refreshing floral scent.

Santo Domingo: An intoxicating smoky, spicy scent.

Granada: An invigorating citrus, floral scent.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Ideally, I would love to purchase every single one of these fragrances, because I enjoyed each of them immensely, but since that would get costly awfully quick, I’ve decided to add “Oriental Lace”, the sweet mocha-scent, to my must-have list for the next time I shop for perfume.

Product #5: SpaRitual Nail Polish in “Spice of Life” ($12)

The first thing I spotted when I opened my June 2013 GlossyBox for the first time was this full-sized bottle of shimmery, candy apple red nail polish. After NYC last weekend, I was in need of some serious nail maintenance. My avocado-inspired polish had chipped and faded, so this arrived at the perfect time. Made without harsh chemicals, this lacquer gave amazing, vibrant color with just one coat (the pictures above were taken with two coats of the color and a clear top coat) and quickly dried to a beautiful shine.

I love the color, although I think it’d be more appropriate for the Fall or Winter.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I’ve browsed some of the polish collections on SpaRitual’s website and I would love to try so many of them. Their metallics and highly pigmented colors are gorgeous.

I believe  this is the first beauty box I’ve received since I started reviewing them where I have loved, and would purchase a full-size of every product included. Major kudos to GlossyBox and to Dallas Shaw for this fun, well organized collaboration. It was fantastic.

xx

To commemorate a successful first year of operation in the United States, May’s GlossyBox was a celebratory one, featuring some samples coveted in past boxes, as well as a couple of new items to keep long-time subscribers’ curiosity piqued. With the samples, I also received a couple of vouchers- one for a free product from Sebastian Professional with a purchase, and one for a free waxing at any one of the 447 European Wax Center locations around the country.

What I Received:

être belle Collagen and Aloe Vera Hydro Mask

Sebastian Professional Volupt Spray

MY Multi-Purpose Mattifying Moisturizer

AmorePacific Color Control Cushion Compact

Nicka K New York Absolute! Perfume Stick in “Parc de 59”

European Wax Center’s “The Exfoliate” and “Slow It Body Wash”

Product #1: être belle Collagen and Aloe Vera Hydro Mask ($39.50 for 10 Masks)

Wanting to unwind after a particularly exhausting day at the office, I decided to use this mask before bed last week to see how my skin would look and feel in the morning. One thing that threw me off was how MESSY it was getting the mask out of the package since it is pretty much dripping with the collagen and aloe vera. Once I got a handle on it and rested it on my face, it stayed in place fairly well- although a quick glance in the mirror made me think I looked eerily similar to Leatherface from “Texas Chainsaw Massacre”. Regardless, I left the mask on for twenty minutes.

When I peeled the mask off, and rubbed the excess collagen and aloe vera into my skin, I was pleased with how soft and smooth my face looked and felt- the effects lasting well into the following day, even after I’d done my usual morning skin care regime and applied makeup.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I was really impressed with the results I got just after one use. The instructions on the packaging recommended using one mask every three days for upkeep, and although I don’t think I would do it that often (mainly because it’d get expensive awfully quick), I think using one mask per week or every couple of weeks would be just as effective and even more cost-efficient.

Product #2: Sebastian Professional Volupt Spray ($19.95)

I tried two different methods of application with this volumizing gel-spray- once right after my morning shower while my hair was still damp, and once while my hair was dry. Both times, my hair definitely looked bigger and the hold was strong enough to last the whole day, through work, humidity, and driving with my windows rolled down- which was great- but unfortunately with both application attempts, my hair was left feeling stiff and crunchy. I try to avoid this at all costs when I’m considering hair products, so I was a little disappointed in that aspect.

Would I Purchase?: No. As much as I loved the volume and the long-lasting hold of this spray, the way it left my hair feeling was just a bit too much for me. I just kept feeling like I had to wash my hair again and again to get the stiffness out.

Product #3: MY Multi-Purpose Mattifying Moisturizer ($68)

This moisturizer already had a possible disadvantage in it’s path to winning me over since I started using it when the temperatures were soaring into the 80’s and 90’s, and when my makeup is usually melting off of my face by noon- but I’m happy to report this product rose to the challenge and delivered phenomenal results. Not only did my skin stay fresh, hydrated (without feeling greasy!), and surprisingly shine-free despite surface of the sun temps outside, but after a few days of continued use, my face looked like it was glowing- in the healthy way, not the radioactive way. I’m completely smitten!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Sure, the price point is a little steep- but a little goes a long way and in the end, it’s paying for a quality product that works well. The benefits of this moisturizer are worth the cost. Not only does it keep it’s all-day mattifying promise, but it has anti-aging benefits, too- which are always a plus.

Product #4: AmorePacific Color Control Cushion Compact ($60)

I was really curious to try this product since I’d read it not only provided fantastic coverage with a broad-spectrum SPF, but also kept skin hydrated while fighting free-radicals all in one application. There was one problem, however- the color of the sample I received was nowhere close to matching my skin tone.

I applied a little swab of the powder near my jawline, just to see if I even liked the feeling of it on my skin before I wiped it off. The coverage was decent on the area I designated as my “tester” spot, and my skin felt pretty silky. I wish I had gotten a lighter shade so I could have applied it all over and given it a proper all-day, multi-day test, but oh well. I’m sure I can use this as a bronzer or something this Summer.

Would I Purchase?: It’s a maybe for me. I’d really love to try this product in a shade that better matches my fair skin tone, but I’m not in any rush to run out and spend the money on it- just in case it turns out I don’t like it after all.

Product #5: Nicka K New York Absolute! Perfume Stick in “Parc de 59” ($14.99)

The last perfume sticks I owned were a limited edition trio of Clinique’s three variations of their “Happy” fragrance, and I loved them. They were easy to apply, mess-free, and the scent wasn’t overpowering like it could sometimes be with sprays or roll-ons. They weren’t particularly long-lasting, but they came in handy after the gym or when I needed a quick refresher on a date. Most of my perfumes are in spray form, however, and rarely come in stick form unless they’re being sold in a department store as a gift set or something.

I was so pleased with this chic packaged perfume when I opened it. It was light, and crisp- a very pleasant, clean, floral fragrance. Like the Clinique “Happy” sticks, the scent didn’t last all day, but again, this would be something I would carry in my bag for post-workout and emergency touch-ups, and you can’t beat the price.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I think “Parc de 59” is perfect, but I really would love to check out the other fragrances in the collection.

Product #6: European Wax Center’s “The Exfoliate” and “Slow It Body Wash” ($38 for The Exfoliate, $20 for the Body Wash)

Last but not least, I received two out of three samples from the European Wax Center line (the third was a body lotion) containing just enough product to try one-time in the shower. The first, “The Exfoliator”, a body polish, was unlike any body scrub I’ve ever used since it didn’t feel like it had any actual exfoliants in it- no salts, no sugars, no abrasive anything- and yet my skin felt very smooth once I rinsed it off.

The second, “Slow It Body Wash”, was the product packed with light exfoliants. I had briefly thought maybe there had been a mistake in the packaging or labeling, but the wash, meant to scrub away bumps, blemishes, and prevent ingrown hairs, foamed up nicely and left my skin feeling very clean.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe to “The Exfoliator”, because even though I liked the results, I also like a bit of grit with my body scrubs- but yes to the body wash! It cleansed thoroughly and sloughed away dry, dead skin cells without irritation. I was left with soft, smooth arms and legs with no dry patches or bumps.

May marked my fifth month of experimenting and reviewing GlossyBoxes, and despite a couple of products I didn’t particularly care for here and there, overall I’ve been very satisfied with the service and look forward to trying future boxes. Congratulations to everyone at GlossyBox on their first year!

I love natural beauty and wellness products. The less harsh, hard-to-pronounce chemicals and the more organic ingredients, the better. I also love having a more subtle look with my makeup in the Spring and Summer months, especially since I’m so active in the warmer weather. April’s GlossyBox, which I just finished playing around with, was inspired by Earth Day and was right up my alley- delivering luxury sized, good-for-me samples to indulge myself with and to help me achieve a fresh-faced finish.

What I Received:

Alterna Haircare’s “Bamboo Style Boho Waves Tousled Texture Mist”

The Honest Company Organic Lip Balm

TIGI Cosmetics Glow Blush (Full Size!)

Le Métier de Beauté Replenishing Daily Solution

WASH WITH JOE Coffeemint Invigorating Body Wash

Bulgari Eau Parfumée au thé Blanc Tea Bag for Bath

Product #1: Alterna Haircare’s “Bamboo Style Boho Waves Tousled Texture Mist” ($22)

If you’ve been reading this blog for any considerable amount of time, you’re probably well aware by now that I have naturally thick, curly, often unruly hair, and that trying to tame it is a challenge in itself. Creams, serums, sprays- I do it all, mixing and matching depending on my mood and how well my hair is behaving, if it’s even behaving at all. When I read the instructions to this light, clean-smelling spray- simply spritz some on from the root to the ends of damp hair and let air dry- I was a bit skeptical. Usually in order for me to obtain “just left the beach” waves, I need an arsenal of product, a flat-iron, a curling iron, and a lot of time and patience.

I was blown away by the results of this spray, however. While my hair wasn’t particularly wavy, my curls were touchably soft, considerably defined, and frizz-free. The spray cut my styling time in half, and the results were phenomenal.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I love this spray. It’s perfect for the Spring and Summer when all I want to do is get up and go. It’s lightly scented, it’s effective, and it doesn’t weigh my hair down or leave any kind of greasy residue. I’m completely smitten.

Product #2: The Honest Company Organic Lip Balm ($10.95 for a 3 Pack)

I have a few Spring & Summer lip looks. I love a good coral tint on some days, or a bold pop of neon pink on other days, but my go-to, always-in-my-purse standby is just a classic, clear, moisturizing lip balm. When I’m out in the sun or sipping on an iced GTL (green tea lemonade, and my warm weather on-the-go drink of choice), the only thing I’m concerned with when it comes to my lips is that they’re staying hydrated and smooth. This balm, loaded with olive, sunflower, and coconut oils, applied nicely, didn’t feel thick or sticky, and didn’t slide off too easily. It’s a nice and simple.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I don’t think I would go out of my way to purchase a pack of 3, since I have so many lip products already, but if I saw this in a store, I’d probably pick one up to keep in my purse. These would make a great gift for someone, too.

Product #3: TIGI Cosmetics Glow Blush ($22)

It took me a couple of tries to get acclimated with using a powder blush again since I’ve been using cream blushes for so long, but once I got the hang of this beautiful, flattering, flushed-pink shade, I knew there was no turning back. The color may look dark in the container, but it applies lighter and has a touch of shimmer to really highlight cheekbones. It lasts for a long time, so re-applying throughout the day isn’t necessary unless you want to gradually build up the color, and a little goes a long way, so you won’t be using a ton of it to get the desired look.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I never thought I’d stray from cream blushes, but this one has changed my mind completely. I love it, and I’d love to try a more nude-tone shade of it, as well.

Product #4: Le Métier de Beauté Replenishing Daily Solution ($225)

This is actually my second sample of this particular product. My first, received back in January, had yet to be reviewed at the time I posted the entry. Since then, my opinion of the product hasn’t really changed all that much. The price point to the moisturizer is a little shocking, even with a $75 voucher that GlossyBox included in this month’s package to apply towards the purchase of a jar of it. It wasn’t exactly a miracle product. Sure, it was hydrating, the SPF was a perk, and my skin felt soft all day, but I still don’t think I’d ever pay that much for it when I can achieve similar results with other products.

Would I Purchase?: No. The first “no” so far in this month’s GlossyBox. I’m all for splurging and treating yourself, but to me, this particular moisturizer just isn’t worth the price. That’s not to say it isn’t a good product, because it is, but it definitely shouldn’t be marked at $225.

Product #5: WASH WITH JOE Coffeemint Invigorating Body Wash ($28)

Two things I realized as soon as I poured some of this product onto a wash cloth in the shower: 1. It smelled delicious (think a peppermint mocha latte), and 2. It had the color and consistency of chocolate syrup, which I was NOT expecting. The unusual coloring and texture aside, this wash was really nice. It didn’t lather up particularly well, but my skin still felt soft, clean, refreshed and tingly after I rinsed it off. Just a reminder that when you’re done using it- it’s a good idea to rinse around your shower, just in case some of the product splattered against the walls. My shower curtain looked like I had been messily baking a chocolate cake after the first time I used this.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! If you want a really bubbly, sudsy body wash, this isn’t the product for you- but this product does thoroughly clean your skin without drying you out, and it smells so, so good.

Product #6: Bulgari Eau Parfumée au thé Blanc Tea Bag for Bath (9.50 per bag)

Some of you may remember my review of Bulgari’s Eau Parfumée Au Thé Blanc Soap from the GlossyBox I received in February, where although I was more than satisfied with the result the soap gave me, I was completely put off by the fragrance. When I saw I had received another product infused with the same perfume, this time a teabagged version of a bath bomb, I was a little disappointed. I decided to give it a try anyway, and took a nice hot soak earlier this morning before I got going for the day. Unrelated note: I think I need a bigger bathtub, but that’s a whole other story.

To my surprise, the scent in this adorable little white tea packed bag, although the same as the soap, was a LOT less overpowering. Even better? My skin was left with the same smooth, silky feeling that I had coveted with the soap sample. I couldn’t think of a more relaxing way to spend twenty minutes on a Saturday morning than with this soak, a good book, and the window open to let in some fresh air and listen to the birds chirping outside. I’m still in a zen state of mind.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Absolutely. This is such a treat for myself, and would make a great gift for others. I loved the results, the scent was infinitely nicer than the soap from the same fragrance line, and unlike the clean-up with most bath bombs, this product was mess-free.

With the exception of one product that just didn’t “wow” me, I was so pleased with April’s GlossyBox. The samples were fun to try and gave great results, and now I have a few more full-sized products  to add to my “must buy” list.

A few days before I left for California, I received my March 2013 GlossyBox in the mail. I packed a couple of the samples in my suitcase to try while I was out West, and recently finished the others now that I’m back home. The theme for this month’s box, “Spring Fling”, revolved around products to help the transition from cold and bleak winter into the warmer, sunnier Spring season that seems to have finally arrived here in New England!

What I Received:

Sebastian Professional “Shaper Fierce” Hairspray

ModelCo Cheek + Lip Tint in “Rosy Red”

Elite Models Intensity Eye Pencil (Full Size!)

Prestiche Essential Oil Bar Soap

Koh Gen Do Oriental Plants Emollient Cream

I also received a $40 voucher valid for Prestiche’s online store, which I’m planning on applying towards one of their “Wonder Body Polishes”. With warmer weather on it’s way, that means I have to keep my skin exfoliated and smooth for when I break out the flirty dresses and shorter skirts.

Product #1: Sebastian Professional “Shaper Fierce” Hairspray ($17.00)

Curly hair + hairspray is a tricky combination. In some cases, hairsprays can smooth down frizz and help keeps curls defined. In other cases, they only succeed in making curls crunchy and weighed down. Over the years, I’ve found only a couple of hairsprays that have been lightweight enough to keep the bounce in my curls but still strong enough to tame any flyaway strands.

In January’s GlossyBox, I was introduced to Sebastian Professional’s “Potion 9” Styling Cream and had loved it- so I had my expectations pretty high when I received this spray that promised to not only give my hair a flexible hold, but would also add a “high shine gloss” effect as well.

Unfortunately, this spray was one of the crunch-creators, and no matter how many times I tried to brush or tousle my hair to break up the product, if only a little, it built up fast and dried heavy, making my hair and scalp feel anything but soft. The spray also smelled HORRIBLE. Seriously nauseating. I ended up feeling really self-conscious about how crunchy my hair looked and the way it smelled most of the morning after I’d spritzed some on before work.

Would I Purchase?: No. I’ll be sticking to the aforementioned lightweight sprays (one of which is made by Garnier Fructis and not only smells delicious- but makes my hair so soft and shiny) the next time I need a little extra hold. This stuff was just too heavy for me, and I can’t get over how bad the scent was.

Product #2: ModelCo Cheek + Lip Tint in “Rosy Red” ($24.00)

Considering how much I loved the cheek, eye, and lip tint cream I received in my March BeautyArmy kit, I was open to try this gel, packaged in a precision point tube, which claimed to give a natural, “freshly pinched” look to my cheeks.  Upon applying a couple of drops to my fingertips to tap onto my face, I was immediately concerned with how dark the color appeared. The only way I could describe it was that it had the same look and consistency of food coloring. When I began blending, however, the dark red faded into a rosy pink.

While the consistency was nice and very lightweight, it took a few more drops than I expected to get a noticeable flush to my cheeks- and even after that, the tint ended up making my cheeks look more like I had a patchy case of rosacea instead of a beautiful, natural blush.

My lips didn’t fare much better. Not only was the tint drying to the point of it being painful, but it didn’t spread evenly at all, and my pout looked chapped and dry.

Would I Purchase?: No. As unique as the texture of the tint formula was, This product just didn’t work well for me at all. I’ll stick to my cream or powder blushes for my cheeks, and with more moisturizing colors and balms for my lips.

Product #3: Elite Models Intensity Eye Pencil ($14)

This soft, creamy pencil eyeliner applied like a dream, giving me an even, precise, and mess-free application along my upper lid. This particular brand is long-lasting and waterproof, but is formulated with Shea butter and vitamin E, making it safe and non-drying for the sensitive eye area- even after wearing it for hours. Although I experienced a little fading in the outer corners of my eyes as the day wore on, for the most part the liner didn’t budge and didn’t irritate my lids the way other pencil liners have done in the past.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Absolutely!  This is such a quality product. It’s gentle and easy to apply, gives a great amount of color, stays in place all day, but comes off easily with no fuss with a basic makeup remover. I’d love to try more of these in different shades!

Product #4: Prestiche Essential Oil Bar Soap (16.99)

I’m sure I’ve mentioned before how much I love all-natural soaps. I don’t like putting anything loaded with chemicals on my skin, as I find it will either be extremely drying, or the complete opposite of the spectrum- and make me feel super greasy. This hypoallergenic soap, loaded with antioxidants, essential oils, moisturizers, and vitamins not only smelled wonderful, but lathered nicely, and made my skin feel so, so soft and conditioned without leaving any kind of oily residue behind.

Also, unlike some other all-natural soaps, this bar didn’t disintegrate after one use. I still have plenty left over to last me a while, meaning that this product also gives you your money’s worth, too.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I liked this soap the second I felt how silky it made my skin during the very first use- and how it stayed that way long after my shower. It’s made of really great ingredients, and should last a while.

Product #5: Koh Gen Do Oriental Plants Emollient Cream ($123)

For $123 a pop, I expected this botanical extract cream to be nothing short of a miracle in a jar. I applied it before bed, and hoped to wake up with a glowing, radiant, flawless complexion. The cream absorbed quickly, felt lovely, and didn’t have any artificial fragrances to it, which was definitely a plus- but I didn’t see or feel a significant difference to my skin, even after using it for another few days. It certainly didn’t do anything that any less-expensive creams couldn’t do.

Would I Purchase?: No. This cream, as nice as it felt, isn’t worth the money, in my opinion. There are so many other alternatives out there that could not only give me better results, but wouldn’t cost as much, either.

2 out of 5 products in the March GlossyBox were fantastic and were definitely things I’d purchase in the future. The other 3, not so much. I’d say the box was a bust, but the $40 Prestiche voucher was a pleasant surprise and definitely made up for the lackluster hairspray, cheek + lip tint, and moisturizer.