Ipsy Glam Bag June 2014

Evening Sirens! Tonight, I'm excited to share all the goodies I got in this month's Ipsy bag!

June Glam Bag

This month Rebecca Minkoff collaborated with Ipsy to bring us this Hawaiian-printed glam bag!

This month's theme is Pretty in Paradise!

NYX Cosmetics Butter Gloss (Éclair)

Full Size(0.27 fl oz)-$5.00 Value!

Every Ipster got one of these. You could have also received this in Crème Brulee, or Apple Strudel. I love NYX Cosmetics, so I was super excited to hear we would be getting one of these in our bags! It did in fact feel buttery on my lips while giving a nice soft color. 

Nicka K New York Shimmer Eyeliner in green
 Full Size (0.1 oz)-$4.99 Value!

You could have instead received this in blue, Jesse's Girl Waterproof Eyeliner or Ofra Universal Eyebrow Pencil. Some Ipsters received a nail polish from this brand in a previous bag, but I haven't had the chance to try any of their products until now. I actually really liked this liner-the color is perfect for summer and the packaging is cool. I just wish the brush was a little bit easier to work with, but overall it's a good liquid liner. I'm definitely more interested in trying other items from this brand now!

Laneige BB Cushion (Light, Medium, Dark)

Sample Size (0.21 oz)-$6.80 Value!

This was one of the variation items in which we received two. You could have also received Ole Henriksen Truth To Go Wipes, Be A Bombshell Lash Out Mascara, Ofra Universal Eyebrow Pencil, ClariSEA Sea Salt Solutions Rapid Detox Charcoal Exfoliant, MD Solar Sciences Mineral Tinted Crème Broad Spectrum SPF 30 UVA-UVB Sunscreen, Skinn Olive & Enzyme Cleanser, Essence of Beauty Fine Fragrance Body Mist in Wind Kissed or Forever Paris, DERMAdoctor DD Cream Dermatologically Defining BB Cream with Broad Spectrum SPF 30, or Realtree for Her perfume.

I loved this foundation, but I wish they had sent a deluxe sized sample of my shade instead of a sampler pack of three shades. I especially loved the puff applicator that came with the foundation-it felt silky smooth on the skin and made the foundation easy to apply. Among the product's 5 attributes, I particularly like that it contains SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection. I would definitely consider purchasing this in the future.

Skinn Olive & Enzyme Cleanser
Deluxe Size (2 oz)-$15.00 Value!

This was the other variation item I received. I would have been super psyched to try this out if the product actually did what it states. But according to Beautipeida, while this cleanser will remove makeup, it can not exfoliate or purify skin. Apparently this cleanser only contains a small amount of papain from papaya and the amount is likely too low to be able to exfoliate. It's also disappointing to note that there is no research proving that orange oil can purify skin as this cleanser claims, but it may potentially cause skin irritation. 

Marc Anthony Dream Waves Beach Spray

Size (1.52 oz)-$3.18 Value!

You could have instead received Dove Pure Care Dry Oil Nourishing Treatment with African Macadamia Oil or Carol's Daughter Sacred Tiare Anti-Breakage & Anti-Frizz Styling Cream.

I didn't need another texturizing spray since I haven't used much of the Toni & Guy Casual Sea Salt Texturizing Spray from my January Glossybox. But I tried this one out anyway, and I absolutely love the way it smells-it reminds me of coconuts! I will definitely be reaching for this product all summer long!

Total Cost: $10.00
Total Value: $34.97!

This was another great month for Ipsy! I love that this month's bag was designed by Rebecca Minkoff and can double as a clutch! Plus, I got to try some great beauty items this month, most of which I wouldn't have tried on my own.

If you would like to sign up for Ipsy, I'd love it if you would use my referral link!
By doing so I can earn credit towards receiving an additional product in my bag to review for you!



Birchbox June 2014

Morning Sirens! Today, I have this month's Birchbox to show you!

June Birchbox

First Look!

This month's theme is Away We Go!

Birchbox included a quiz you can take to win a Travel Certificate!

Number 4 Super Comb Prep & Protect

Deluxe Size (1 oz)-$4.54 Value!

I couldn't find the size listed on this sample, so I compared it to the Volumizing Shampoo I got in last month's Birchbox. It seemed just a bit taller but just as wide in size. Since the shampoo was measured at an ounce, I am assuming this sample contains at least an ounce worth of product and will base it's value as such. I really liked this detangle spray-though I don't typically buy a product like this, it comes in handy once in a while.

Folle de Joie eau de parfum

Sample Size (0.06 fl oz)-$1.73 Value!

This fragrance expresses the carefree SoCal beach vibe and sophistication of Parisian Cafés. It makes a great Summer scent and the full size bottle would look lovely on a vanity!

Supergoop! Everyday SPF 30 with Cellular Response Technology

Deluxe Size (0.34 fl oz)- $2.69 Value!

I love getting sunscreen! I'm especially excited to try this broad-spectrum sunscreen because it's oil-free and contains antioxidants!

Coastal Scents Revealed 2 Palette Set (Sunset)

Deluxe Size (2.4 g)- $3.61 Value!

I haven't had the chance to try Coastal Scents until now, but I've heard of the Revealed 2 palette. I'm glad I got to try this sample because I absolutely love these shadows! They are so buttery and gorgeous! I definitely want to add this palette to my collection and check out the original Revealed palette! 

Lifestyle Extra: Jasmine Seven Wipes
Deluxe Size (1 Pack-10 Wipes)-$3.32 Value!

This isn't something I would typically buy for myself, but they might come in handy this Summer!

Total Cost: $10.00

Total Value: 15.89!

This was one of the lowest valued boxes we've had, but I will get use out of all the products. Sometimes it's not about how much everything costs, but how much use it'd be. I'd rather have an inexpensive product that I know I will use to the last drop, than an expensive one that I won't even touch.

What do you think of the Revealed 2 Palette?
 Are you a Coastal Scents fan? If so, what are some of your favorite products from the line?

If you would like to sign up for Birchbox, I'd love it if you'd use my referral link!

Color Me Monthly June 2014

Today I have my last Color Me Monthly box to show you!

June CMM

sweet and delicious

simmered in sugar crystals

yet stunningly tart

Candied Clementine

As you know, I was debating about canceling my subscription last month due to the fact that I can get a salon quality nail polish (in a color I know I will love) for less than the cost of this subscription. I was pleasantly surprised with the polish I received in last month's box, but I wondered how often they would send a color I would have picked out for myself. So upon receiving this month's polish, I decided  to cancel. Not only wasn't I in love with the color, but more than that I didn't care for how it applied. I felt the application was more difficult compared to the other two polishes I had received from this subscription service. It was so bad that I had to totally redo my whole manicure. I ended up trading the polish in for a Morgan Taylor polish at a Trade-In Event at Cosmo Prof earlier this month (which I will show swatches of at a later date). Ultimately, I felt I could get more for my money elsewhere, so I will be reviewing some new subscription boxes soon!!

Total Cost: $7.00

What subscription box would you recommend I check out next?

If you would like to sign up for Color me Monthly for $7/ Month visit ColorMeMonthly.com.

New Beauty Test Tube May/June 2014

Hello Sirens! I have so many subscription boxes to review, but tonight I'm sharing my May/June New Beauty Test Tube!

May/June Test Tube

Tan Towel Classic Self-Tan Towelettes Half Body Application For Face & Body

Full Size (5 Towelettes, Each 0.25 fl oz)-$24.00 Value!

Since I try to stay out of the sun as much as I can, I use a self tanner or get a spray tan if I want to darken my skin color. But I'm not typically a big fan of towelettes because it can be difficult to get an even application. Plus, I think it's kind of expensive per use compared to buying a bottle of tanning lotion. But I'll give these a shot since they are highly rated.

Macadamia Natural Oil Flawless Cleansing Conditioner

Deluxe Size (3 oz)-$12.38 Value!

This is the first conditioner I've seen that cleans hair by conditioning! I am really excited to try this shampoo alternative because if I don't wash my hair every day it ends up looking greasy. I usually try to utilize dry shampoo in between washings to give my hair a break, so I'm intrigued to see how this product will work.

Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick (Cobalt)

Full Size (0.06 oz)-$25.00 Value!

I love the lasting color of this eye shadow! The color is so pigmented, plus the stick makes for easy application. I am definitely interested in trying this in other shades. 

Revision Skincare Intellishade Broad-Spectrum SPF 45

Deluxe Size (Unknown)-Unknown Value

I couldn't find a size listed anywhere on the sample or its packaging, so I can't determine the correct value of this sample. However, the full size is 1.7 fl oz and retails for $52.00. I liked both of these tinted moisturizers, but lean more toward the matte finish. 

Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair!

Deluxe Size (1 fl oz)-$4.95 Value!

I got one of these in my January Ipsy bag, and really liked it. I don't have a lot of hair masks and it smells really good, so I haven't decided if I am going to pass it on to a friend or keep the extra. 

Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream

Deluxe Size (1 fl oz)-$1.73 Value!

I've been seeing this everywhere and have been wanting to try it, so I'm happy to have it included. But at this price point I feel they could have included the full size.

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream

Deluxe Size (0.1 oz)-$1.60 Value!

This cream had a similar consistency to Vaseline to me, but it was nice to use on my lips and cuticles. I am curious to see how well it works on hands or cracked feet.

Beauty To-Go Extras:

Camille Beckman Glycerine Hand Therapy (Tuscan Honey)

Deluxe Size(1.35 oz)-$4.95 Value!

This hand cream contains a top not of honey comb, heart notes of brown sugar fig, and base notes of vanilla absolute and amber. I love the smell of this hand cream and can't wait to try other products from this brand!

Ban Total Refresh Cooling Body Cloths

Sample Size (1 Cloth)~$0.30 Value!

I've never used a product like this before, and this isn't something I would think to purchase for myself. But I will keep it in my bag to refresh on a hot day or to use after a workout.

CoTZ Face, for Natural Skintones, SPF 40 Sunscreen

Sample Size (1.0 g)-0.47 Value!

I don't know why people complain of getting too much sunscreen because most people aren't using enough! Sun protection is so important, so I am always happy to receive sunscreen, especially one I can use on the face!

FY Face Wraps (Avocado & Vitamin E)

(1 Facial Wrap, 0.81 oz)-$5.00 Value!

I love face masks because I feel like I'm getting a spa treatment while doing my skin good. While I'm use to using clay masks, I don't typically get to try these types of masks, so it's fun to receive.

Total Cost: $38.90 (29.95 plus $8.95 shipping)

Total Value: $80.38 not including the Intellishade!

This tube was kind of a mixed bag. Not only was it not valued as highly as the last tube, but it just didn't seem to have that wow factor. But despite this, I will use a lot of the items this summer.

What did you think of this tube? What kind of product would you like to see in a future tube?

If you would like to subscribe to New Beauty Test Tube and get $5 off of your first tube, send me an email with your first name at AquaticAllure@gmail.com requesting the discount. I will plug in your email address and first name into their website and they will send you information about how to get $5 off of your first tube.

Glossybox May 2014

Evening Sirens! Sorry it's been so long since my last post!! I recently moved and have been having a hard time finding good lighting in the new apartment. But I think I finally found a decent spot to take my blog photos. Tonight I am so excited to share with you my May box because Glossybox partnered with Bergdorf Goodman!

 

 

 May Glossybox

Last month we got a purple custom-designed box!!

 

First peak inside the Bergdorf Goodman box!

Lots of luxurious goodies inside!!

 

AERIN Beauty (Rose Hand & Body Cream)

Deluxe Size (0.5 fl oz)-$4.76 Value!

 

I just love rose scented products, so I was ecstatic to get this in my box! I really like that this cream can be used on the body in addition to the hands. Plus, the packaging is really lovely. This was one of my favorite products in the box and I am now interested in trying other items from this line.

 

ALTERNA HAIRCARE (CAVIAR CC Cream)

Size (0.85 fl oz)-$8.50 Value!

 

I am a huge Alterna fan, but since I already have two of these I wasn't too excited to get this in my box. But this hair cream is an excellent product, so I'm happy to have an extra.
 

 

LANCER SKINCARE (Lift Serum Intense)

Deluxe Size (0.17 fl oz)-$55.00 Value!

  

It's ridiculous how expensive this product is-the full size costs $275.00! I feel that this product is overpriced-I would never spend that kind of money on a product like this when there are so many great products on the market that give you more for less.

 

NAPOLEON PERDIS (Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Skin Primer)

Deluxe Size (0.5 fl oz)-$13.24 Value!

 

I can not express enough how much I love this primer! This was my absolute favorite item from the box. I am just so blown away with the texture of this product. I can't get over how light weight it is and how easily it glides on the skin. I've never had a foundation primer feel like this before! I highly recommend this primer-it's worth every penny!!

 

SULWHASOO (Timetreasure Renovating Cream)

Deluxe Size (0.16 fl oz)-$32.00 Value!

 

This is such a waste of money because of the jar packaging. Please don't spend $400 on the full size of this product! It makes me sick that products like this are being sold when there are much better alternatives on the market for way less.

 

REVIVE SKINCARE (Intensité Volumizing Eye Serum)

Deluxe Size (0.1 fl oz)- $70.00 Value!

 

It's outrageous how expensive this eye cream is-the full size goes for $350.00! There's no reason why an eye cream should cost that much especially considering the amount of product you get!

Bonus: $25.00 Gift Card to Bergdorf Goodman!!

This was a nice bonus seeing as we already got an extra item! I loved having the option to try another beauty product of my choice using this gift card!

 

Agraria Bitter Orange Bath Salts in Collectable Box

Retail: $45.00 ($20 with Gift Certificate)

 

 

 I wanted to share with you what I purchased using my gift card since my order just arrived in the mail today! I decided upon these bath salts because I couldn't resist the gorgeous packaging. I will keep the box and sea scallop long after I've used all the salts. I am in love with the scent-the bitter orange smells amazing. I definitely plan on purchasing the other scents!

 

Total Cost: $18.33 (With Annual Subscription)
Total Value: $208.50!!

 

While I wasn't thrilled with everything I received, I still thought this was a great box. I loved that we got an extra item and a $25 gift certificate to Bergdorf Goodman! I also got to try out some high end beauty products that I would never have purchased for myself. While I won't be buying any overpriced skincare products, I found a plethora of other beauty items that will get me to continue shopping at Bergdorf Goodman.

 

What do you think of the May box?
 

If you would like to subscribe to Glossybox, email me at AquaticAllure@gmail.com and I will be happy to send you an invite!