When I read Lauren’s Birchbox post, I thought for a second that we had the same box sent to each of us. Which is nearly impossible, since Birchbox sends a ton of different variations between the boxes. Turns out we had the same brands but really different products. Phew, close call.
For the uninitiated, Birchbox sends 5-6 deluxe samples each month ($10/month) and now offers an upgraded box with 2 full sized luxury products if you’re so inclined ($30/month). I think the upgrade is an add-on each month, but I can’t be sure because I’m afraid to commit to $30 for unknown products.
My box, while similar to Lauren’s, is way more in tuned to what I like. Each month seems to be getting better and better with Birchbox, which is awesome.
Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray ($24-$42/full size): While Lauren got the Oribe beach wave spray, I got the texturizing spray. I totally win. This texturizing spray is the bomb. It’s volumizing and makes your locks perfectly choppy without being sticky or drying. I know, it’s hard to believe.
Benefit They’re Real! Mascara ($24/full size): I love this mascara, but since I have lash extensions I don’t need mascara (and weird things happen when you put mascara on these bad boys). This stuff is legit though. I’m going to add it to the Boxy Ladies Store (where we are selling items from our many subscription boxes!), so it will make someone’s eyes quite luscious.
COOLA Classic SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer for Face ($32/full size): I use SPF on my face every day, so I love moisturizers that include it. The cucumber scent is pleasant and the formula is moisturizing, as it is meant to be. All in all a great moisturizer.
Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion Skin Exfoliant ($78/full size): LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS. I am so glad I got a sample of this, it is amazing. I told my husband that I will never need to buy face exfoliant ever again because I get so many samples in my subscription boxes, but once I tried it I realized how wrong I was. They are not created equally – this one is so much better than any other I’ve tried. It’s not drying, it leaves my skin smooth and even, and I can’t stop touching my face after. (Lauren’s note: I received this sample too but upon trying it later, I found that this tube wasn’t completely filled up at all. It was barely enough for me to try it once. This really annoyed me because a sample like this should last at least a few washes. Disappointed, Birchbox!)
Stila Look at Me Liquid Lipstick ($20/set of 3): Like Lauren, I got this in Venizia (bright red) and also like Lauren, I was super impressed with it. It’s a great size (I mean, how much do you need?) and the formula is choice. It goes on thick, coats evenly and opaquely, dries so it’s not shiny or sticky, and stays put for hours. I agree with her in that you should use a brush because this is not a gloss, but it’s got a gloss applicator – meaning, you’re gonna smear it on and look like a clown.
Final Rating: A+
This was a great box, among the best I’ve gotten from Birchbox. All of the products were solid items and good sized samples. Birchbox is growing on me for sure, plus if you give feedback on the items you’ve received you earn points very quickly that can be turned into cash to be used in the Birchbox store (i.e. you can get full-sized items from the boxes for cheap). I’ve got about $20 in credit after just a couple of months, so I’m already eyeing a few products that are total splurges!
If you want to check out Birchbox, use my referral link here! It helps me afford all these boxes I review for you!
xo
Jill