It’s July Birchbox time again! And the boxes keep getting cooler and cooler! I mean, for real. I love the geographic print and bright colors of the July Birchbox. I actually bought a romper from Target that kind of looked like that because I thought it would make me look hip but it actually looked really bad so I took it back. But I love the idea of that. It has that festival/tribal thing going on and while it truly isn’t my own style, I do like it! 
The theme for this month is “Go Bold” which I like. Birchbox tells us that summer is not the time to hold back. We should be wearing brights (maybe I should go back for that romper?), driving with the windows down (but my hair!) and eating popsicles for breakfast. I’m totally down for popsicles for breakfast. I like where you’re head’s at, Birchbox.
For those of you just joining us, Birchbox is the grandaddy of all subscription boxes, sending deluxe beauty samples to your door for the low price of $10/month. The samples they send you are loosely based on a beauty profile you fill out when you sign up but… it can be pretty hit or miss. But hey– the boxes are pretty.
Birchbox also included a little extra from Benefit, advertising their new colorful “They’re Real” eyeliners and mascaras. They even included a little extra if you purchase a full size Benefit product at Birchbox.com, you get a choice of a free They’re Real mini mascara or liner. Cool! I really like Benefit’s Roller Lash Mascara myself… 
Let’s see what Birchbox bestowed upon me this month!
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick ($20/set of 3): I was REALLY impressed with this sample. First, it’s a great size for a liquid lip product. I don’t know about you, but I rarely finish a full size anyway so these smaller sizes are just perfect for throwing in your pocket or purse. But what really impressed me was the product itself. This stuff was the real-deal red. Totally opaque. However, it is a LITTLE messy to apply. I would almost suggest using a lip brush because this stuff could get Why So Serious quickly. But once it’s on, it dries matte and it won’t go anywhere for awhile. However, I don’t want you to excuse this for a longwear lipstick, as it didn’t last through dinner. But the color and sample get an A+ from me.
Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray ($39/full size): Oribe is one of my favorite hair brands and so I was excited to receive this product in my box this month. It’s also not something I’ve ever tried before. It didn’t do much on my straight, dry hair… definitely didn’t notice any beach waves or even much shine. I might try it when I wear my hair curly an see if it adds anything. I’m glad I got the opportunity to try a product like this in my Birchbox since the full-size versions are so $$$.
Coola Makeup Setting Spray ($36/full size): I’ve been getting a bunch of sunscreen type setting sprays in boxes lately. (Seriously, I’ve gotten 3 in two days. My makeup ain’t going anywhere.) This setting spray has SPF 30 in it. And while this isn’t meant to replace your actual sunscreen, it definitely doesn’t hurt. I have heard that you should pull your hair back when using these types of sprays because they can make hair really ratty.
MDSolarSciences Mineral Creme ($30/full size): I was really confused about what this was until I actually used some and realized it was a sunblock. Duh. It is SPF 50 sunblock. I thought it was going to be a bb cream or something but then it came out white like a sunblock. The good thing is that this isn’t like a “real” sunblock. It’s more like skincare. It’s for all skin types including sensitive or acne/rosacea-prone, it’s also non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog your pores) and it has a matte finish. It isn’t entirely waterproof but it’s water resistant up to 80 minutes. I’m totally throwing this in my swim bag so I remember to wear it when I’m sitting by the pool versus in it.
Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion Skin Exfoliant ($78/full size): I am interested in trying this sample as the full size version is very pricy and I’m curious as to why I should spend $78 on a full-size version. I suppose this is a bargain version of going to a dermatologist? But seriously. In the words of Kathleen Lights— “Das expensive.”
Final Grade: A+
This was such a great Birchbox this month, even for the Stila liquid lipstick alone. I also loved trying the Oribe spray even though I am sort of indifferent to the results. I’m interested to try the Dr. Brandt exfoliator and let you know if it’s worth doling out the money for. And I think it’s nice and timely to receive sunblock and setting sprays. It’s July. In Texas. I need all the help I can get.
Lauren pays for this subscription. Post contains referral and affiliate links.