Birchbox Canada February 2016 The Final Birchbox

           Well if you are not aware Birchbox is pulling out of the Canadian Market. When you log on to Birchbox.ca you see this message:

        I am pretty disappointed they have decided to leave us but lately there have been a few Canadian subscription boxes popping up lately that look pretty great.
        Originally Birchbox was going to turn any leftover payments for annual subscriptions into Birchbox points but then changed the message to offer refunds as an option. I imagine a number of people were not impressed they would not be able to get a refund. I do believe you have to contact them to get an actual refund.
       Let's talk about my very last Birchbox:

       Not going to lie I was kind of hoping they would throw a little something extra into the box to apologize for abandoning us but since they are clearly not making enough money in the Canadian market I was not expecting it.

Cynthia Rowley Beauty Eyeliner in Black
          I was not excited for another black eyeliner but I figured at least it is in a colour I will use. I was so impressed by this eyeliner! Other than a small amount of it gathering in my inner corner (I have watery eyes, every eyeliner on the planet does this) it did not budge all day. It is very pigmented, goes on smooth and may very well be a new favourite.

Number 4 Fluoro5 Elixer Restore & Repair Oil
          Well that is a hell of a name eh? Goodness. I am not over the moon about this product, at the risk of sounding like a broken record I am trying to convince my hair it only needs washed twice a week so hair oils aren't something I am really into right now. That being said I do really like this brand and the oil is very lightweight but delivers some serious shine. Apparently it has all sorts of reparative benefits so I have been putting it in my hair overnight if I am not going anywhere the next day or the night before I wash my hair.

Clean White Woods Perfume
         I am not at all interested in this sample. I don't mind getting perfume samples as long as they are packaged in a way that I can throw them into my purse or gym bag. This has a nice scent that is very natural in a non patchouli kind of way. I cant wear perfume during the week so nothing about this is exciting.

Naobay HydraPlus Cream 
         This "ultra rich face cream" isn't exactly the product I would pick for my oily skin but I love Naobay moisturizers so I was excited all the same. I have not worn it under makeup but I have been applying it before bed and on no make up days. I find it absorbs quickly without making my skin feel greasy or tacky. I am really impressed. I also used my Birchbox points to order the Mattifying Cream which will likely be a better match for me.

Obsessive Cosmetics Lip Tar Liquid Lipstick in Black Metal Dahlia
          I have only worn this once for about an hour and while I really like the colour and I lasted through dinner and tea I can't see myself reaching for it just because of packaging. The full size comes with an applicator but this sample is just in a squeezy tube. I will try it out a few more times but if I don't love it I know I wont put the effort into wearing it.
**Update: this last so long on my lips! I lasted through multiple cups of tea, a breakfast biscuit and only started to fail at lunch. That is about five hours of wear without damage. I might have to use this after all.

         Overall I am kind of disappointed in my very last Birchbox, I did not bother calculating the value of this box as it seems a waste of time since no one in Canada can sign up and Americans get different boxes. There isn't anything in here that really thrilled me. I will use and enjoy the eyeliner, the lotion is alright but not suited for my skin type, the hair oil is something I will use once in a while, the perfume I will likely throw out and the lip tar is nice but inconveniently packaged.  I guess it makes the breakup easier but hasn't Birchbox ever heard of "always leave them wanting more"?

Thanks for Reading!

A.

 

@dirty_cupcake

 

Birchbox Canada January 2016

           I only saw the contents of my Birchbox a day or two before it arrived and I am glad because I was so excited that waiting would have been painful. This month aligned with the whole New Years resolution thing which, while I don't do resolutions in any serious way, I can appreciate. Let's talk about the products:

            The cover of the box says "2016 The Year of:____________" and inside came these little stickers for you to complete the phrase. Super cute idea and if you keep your boxes it would be a great little affirmation on your makeup table or dresser. I love the colour and pattern so I am sure it will find its way to my makeup area or my office at work.

Tonymoly Delight Tony Tint Full Size $6 Sample Value ~$3 (total guess)

         I had actually just added this to my wish list on Birchbox.ca so I am excited to try it out. I just love mini size lip products. I rarely use a full lip stick/gloss/stain up so I prefer the sample sizes, plus how cute is this? I find with one coat it gets patchy a wears off weird but if you let the first coat dry and apply a second you get a really nice red stain that lasts alright. I did have to do a little touch up after my tea and snack. I think I will try using it under some glosses to give them more colour. The first swatch is one swip and the second is a couple layers.

Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse Water-Full Hydrogel Mask Full size $25
        This mask is supposed to hydrate your skin while boosting elasticity and minimize fine lines. For $25 a pop it better be good. Well damn it's amazing, I was not sure how I would like it since I have such oily skin but since my skin has been having a rough time this winter I decided I would give it a try and I was so impressed. First the actual construction of the mask is great, it comes in two pieces so it fits much better than most sheet masks and it isn't goopy or dripping with product. The side you put on your face is a gel as the name suggests and the mask really sticks to your face, I was able to drink a cup of tea and read without the mask moving at all. Afterwards I could not stop touching my face, there was not sticky serum left behind or anything to wash off just soft and firm skin. I have never had a mask work so well.

derma e Hydrating Scrub Full Size $20 Sample Value $5.08
          This product is for normal to dry skin, which I don't have but I love facial scrubs and derma e so I will give it a try. If nothing else I can exfoliate before bed.

gorge* I'll Make You Look Amazing Daily Spray Full Size $40 Sample Value $10
           Normally I am all about the hair products but as I am trying to "train" my hair to not need to be shampooed everyday I have been avoiding using too many hair products so I haven't used this much. I have been using on my ends to keep them hydrated and it seems to be doing a good job and makes an excellent detangler. It smells a little like coconuts and vacation.

Ursa Major Fortifying Face Balm Full size $36 Sample Value $10? 
           This was my sample choice for this month but I was not overly excited about it. The Canadian options for sample choice don't seem to be as nice as our American counterparts. I did find it did a good job of moisturizing without leaving me greasy and did notice my skin felt slightly firmer after application. My makeup went on nicely and it did reduce shine to some degree but I am not about to rush out and buy the full size. I guestimated the value since the sample has no measurement on it.


          Overall I am very happy with my box, I like the mix of three skin care, one makeup item and one hair item. The value this month is $53.08 which is great for a $15 box. I am happy to receive more skin or hair care than makeup for a while since I just decluttered my makeup and want to use up some of the products I have.

Thanks for reading!

A.

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Birchbox Canada December 2015

           This month's box has a knitted sweater look to it that is super cute and included in this month's box, beside the usual product card there is a $10 off coupon for any order over $35.

            One difference on the product card this month was that it is missing the section on how to use each product. I hope this is just a fluke, since some of the sample sizes do not include instructions it is convenient to have the directions on the card rather than having to go online. Not a big deal but I thought I would mention it. 

Salon Giojé Protein Mask Full Size $40

          I am always happy to receive hair products, between Ipsy and Birchbox I haven't had to buy anything but shampoo and conditioner. I especially love hair masks, I have dry and damaged hair that also gets weighed down easy so the occasional deep repair mask is a life saver. If you are sensitive to scents this might not be the product for you, it has a very strong masculine scent. I am excited to give this a try, I have had good results with other protein masks so this should be a good product for me. 

RUSK Heatshift Re-Styling Cream Full Size $22

           Another hair product? Sounds good to me. I don't do much "re-styling" but I like the idea of a cream that both holds your style but will let you heatstyle it again without washing your hair. I have yet to find my holy grail styling product so I am always down to try another. 

Update: I love this. It does not feel like I have a bunch of goop in my hair and it helps my hair keep from being so tangly and stringy throughout the day. 

Kate Spade Walk on Air Eau du Parfume Spray Full Size $33-$115

           I find many people dislike recieving perfume samples, they are not my favorite things to receive but since I can not wear perfume to work it's nice to try difference scents without wasting money on a whole bottle. At first this was a meh item for me but then I realized it was a Kate Spade perfume and I was sold. It is descibed as a " fragrance that celebrates the graceful confidence of its wearer. Sweet and tender layers of lily of the valley - the flower of happiness and joy - magnolia and crinum lily envelope the skin like a breath of fresh air." I love the scent and the little spray bottle with a cap is perfect to toss in my purse. 

Coastal Scents styleEyes Eyeshadow Palette - SocialEYES Full Size $16

           I do like costal scents eyeshadows but I am amassing quite a collection of little eyeshadow sample palettes. At first I thought I would just pass this on as I don't go for the dark, smokey eye much anymore even thought it used to mpbe my jam. When I Swatched these I changed my mind, they go on beautifully and blend so easily. In the swatches below the dark shade looks a little brown but they are both beautiful grey colours. 

Lord and Berry Pailettes Glitter Eye Pencil in Black Full Size $22

          I had a sample of plain black eye pencil from Lord and Berry months ago and was not a huge fan, it went on so smooth but it did not stay put at all. This one had little, tiny bits of glitter in it so it does not go on as smoothly, I was expecting it to irritate my eyes but I've been wearing it for four hours so far with no issues.  I don't know if I will bother keeping it, I just won't use it.

 

 

          Overall I am happy with my Birchbox this month. Even though two of the items I will likely give away or toss I love the other three enough that it makes up for it.

 

Thanks for reading!

A.

 

 

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LOC - Love of Color with Tati Westbrook Ultimate Collection

             

            Tati Westbrook is a beauty YouTuber and has been for the last five years. She consistently posts five videos a week that range from tutorials, reviews, Hot or Not on new releases/products, and hauls for both high end and drugstore beauty products. Before starting you tube Tati was an Image Consultant which she describes as a 9-5 desk job putting together programs with makeup, health and fashion items. Tati is in her early thirties therefore a little older than most of the beauty YouTubers which I love. She has the knowledge and experience to recommend products that I know are going to work. I would love to have her makeup skills and her hair is just always perfect, Tati is easily in my top 3 YouTubers.  Recently Tati has collaborated with Birchbox to put out the first collection from the Birchbox line Love of Color. She was also a guest editor for the November 2015 Birchbox, curating both a US box and Canadian box.
             The LOC Ultimate Collection includes three vibrant matte lipsticks, five one & done shadow sticks and a sharpener for $57 Canadian.

            

      One & done shadow sticks in On Point, Day Trip, Impress Me, Nite Owl, Smoke Screen

           These shadows go on unbelievably creamy and blends beautifully but you have to be quick. Once these set they are there all day, honestly all day. They are completely smudge proof and water proof, I have even washed my hair with swatches on my hand and they barely budged. I have oily skin and often wear my makeup for upwards of 12-14 hours and at hour 14 there was barely a crease at all. My favourite use for them is on my waterline since I can apply it and know it will not move. When they set I can feel them drying on my eyelids but it is not enough to bother me.

             

                Vibrant matte lipstick in Wildest Dreams, First Kiss, Glam Life

          I am all about lip products and I am so happy to say I love these. I was surprised by how creamy and moisturizing they felt when I first applied them, they do dry down but not so much that my lips actually felt dry. These do not have the same staying power as the shadow sticks, certainly not transfer proof but after a cup of tea and lunch I still had a surprising amount of colour left on my lips without it being all over my face. The way in which these fade and wear really impressed me, they do so evenly and leave a little stain of colour behind. I love the red and purple shades but the nude does not really look right on me. It is a beautiful shade I just struggle to pull off nude shades, I have used it as a base for my nude or light pink glosses so I am still getting some use out of it.

            I love this collection and I wish it was permanent but at the same time I can't wait to see what comes next for LOC.

                                                      Thanks for reading!

                                                                   A.

                                                        @dirty_cupcake 

                                            Check out Tati's YouTube Channel

Birchbox Canada November 2015 GlamLifeGuru Box

                    

          Let me start by fangirling just a little bit. I adore Tati Westbrook and when I saw that she was curating a box there was no question, I was getting it. Tati is a beauty YouTuber and has been for the last five years. She consistently posts five videos a week that range from tutorials, reviews, Hot or Not on new releases/products, and hauls for both high end and drugstore beauty products. Before starting you tube Tati was an Image Consultant which she describes as a 9-5 desk job putting together programs with makeup, health and fashion items. Tati is in her early thirties and a little older than most of the beauty YouTubers, which I love. She has the knowledge and experience to recommend products that I know are going to work. I would love to have her makeup skills and her hair is just always perfect, Tati is easily in my top 3 YouTubers.  OK, embarrassing gushing done. If Tati was to read this, unlikely, I would probably die of embarrassment and hope to god I had my facts straight. Lets talk about the actual products in the box.

            

Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels Full Size 8 for $33, Sample Value $4.13
           These are not my favourite eye pads on the market but I can not deny that they work to reduce puffiness and are a great pampering item. I am currently on vacation so these will be great to help me unwind. I think I will take Tati's suggestion and put them in the fridge for a little bit first.


Living Proof Perfect hair Day PhD. Dry Shampoo Full Size $28, Sample Value $13.01
          I am not one of those lucky girls that can wash their hair every few days or even every other day. I have tried a few different dry shampoos without much luck, mostly I use them to make my hair less disgusting for the gym, to run quick errands or if I use too much product in my hair. I am not ready to give up on day two hair and based on the reviews from Tati and others this is an amazing dry shampoo. 


theBalm Cosmetics Frat Boy Blush/Shadow Full Size $27 Value $1.69ish
           I have tried a few things from theBalm and love everything I have tried. Check out this haul for more. Lately I have also been looking to expand my blush collection so I am quite excited to try this out. The only issue I can foresee is that my blush brush is much too large for the pan. Swatch below.


LOC One & Done Shadow Stick in Day Trip Full Size $12
            Love of Color is Birchbox's new makeup line and Tati collaborated with them to make this first collection. I bought the Ultimate Collection so I already have this but I am still glad to have another as it is not a permanent collection. These shadow sticks are amazing, I normally avoid cream shadows but these do not budge at all. For a full review of these and the the matte lipsticks check this out.

                           

Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre (24 hour miricle cream) Full Size $28 Sample Value $1.87
          I received this in either my last Birchbox or Ipsy bag and I don't hate having another sample. I have very oily skin so finding a moisturizer to wear under my makeup can be a challenge. I find this one absorbs quickly and does not leave my face feeling any greasier than normal. The sample may look tiny but you need such a small amount that I have not even used half of the first sample I have and I use it at least five days a week.


           Overall this box has a value of $32.70, not huge but a good value for a $10/$15 box. A couple of items are not items I would choose myself but I am glad to receive them all the same. I think I am most excited about the blush and shadow stick. 

Check out Tati's YouTube Channel

Thanks for reading!

A.

@dirty_cupcake

Check out my last Birchbox

Birchbox Canada - October 2015

          This month Birchbox partnered with an organization called Look good, Feel Good that helps Canadian women with cancer feel beautiful and confident. The US Birchbox partnered with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. I like that they chose a Canadian organization rather than just go with the US for all boxes.

            Also on our information card is a "Beauty PSA" that informs us that us Canadian subscribers will be able to take part in sample choice that they have offered in the US for a while. I also believe that we are going to be able to choose curated boxes based on this video by Tati Westbrook of Glam Life Guru. I will be choosing the curated box as I am a huge fan of Tati and want to support her. I am glad to see that they are bringing some of the perks available in the US to Canada.

             I was looking forward to my Birchbox this month and I was happy to see that I had a little bonus sample of conditioner to match the shampoo received. Let's get into it:

ModelCo Ultra Long-Lasting Lipstick in Stiletto Full Size $17 Trio for $23

Highly-pigmented colour that glides on effortlessly, hydrating lips without the hassle of touch-ups.

         This is RED lipstick, it is certainly season appropriate. I have not worn it for a long time but it does go on smooth, dries without drying out my lips and really feels like I am not wearing lipstick at all. I do feel like it makes my teeth look a little yellow so I am pulling out the white strips before I wear this again.

Beauty Protector Protect & Detangle Full Size $26  Sample Value $3.25

Best-selling elixir that locks in colour, protects from heat damage, and adds silkiness.

          Beauty Protector is a common brand featured in Birchboxes but this is the first item I have received. I have heard so many rave reviews about this product, especially the scent. I am not a huge fan of the scent but as far as detangling it works wonderfully. My hair was left soft and manageable. I have been looking for a heat protectant so this is something I am looking forward to trying this out.

Davines LOVE Smoothing Shampoo Full Size $28  Sample Value $8.25

Enriched with olive oil and rice protein, this formula smooths frizzed-out and tangle-prone hair.

Bonus: Davines LOVE Smoothing Conditioner Full Size $32 Sample Value $1.54

           I was a little skeptical about this shampoo working for me, the bottle says it if for frizzy and coarse hair. While my hair can be frizzy it is quite fine rather than coarse. I am not 100% sold on it until I use it for a while to see if it builds up on my hair but the two times I have used it people have stopped me mid sentence to comment on how good of a hair day I was having. If you have coarse, frizzy, dry hair I really think you should try this shampoo and conditioner.

Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Full Size $28 Sample Value $2.60

A makeup artist fave, the French moisturizer heals dryness and preps skin for foundation.

          This seems like a small sample but you need so little that it is actually a decent amount of product. I am often guilty of not putting on moisturizer on under my makeup since I have such oily skin but this absorbs so quickly and just leaves my skin so smooth. If I choose the curated box by Tati I will get another sample of this product.

Eyeko Black Magic Mascara Full Size $32 Sample Value $15.06

Water-resistant formula that curls, adds volume, and has major staying power.

           I was hoping for this sample when I saw some spoilers since the packaging is so different from most mascaras and has a curved brush. I do find that it curls my lashes more than most other mascaras, makes them very long and defined and really does have some serious staying power. Would I pay $32 for it? Absolutely not, it was a decent mascara but does not compare to others around the same price point.

Total Value: $46.16

          Pretty decent value in this Birchbox, plus the bonus item is another 10 points for reviewing and that works out to a dollar in the Birchbox shop. I am seriously considering using the my points to get the complete LOC collection by Tati.

Thanks for reading!

A.

@dirty_cupcake

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Birchbox Canada September 2015

             The box this month was designed based on artwork sent in by two or three subscribers. Birchbox combined them to make this abstract design, they also included the ladies names on the inside of the box which is pretty neat.

          Now the important part is what is actually in the box. I was not over the moon about my samples this month. One product I was very happy to receive, three were ok and one I have already given away. Let's get into it:

100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream Sample Value $7.80 Full size $26

          This was one of the ok items, not a very exciting product but I have used it everyday and enjoy it. This is an all natural product that uses caffeine from green tea and unroasted coffee beans to improve circulation and reduce puffiness, dark circles and fine lines. I frequently work 10-14 hour days on not enough sleep so I immediately started using this every morning. I don't use it at night as it says just because I already have so much goop to put on my face before bed. I did find it reduced puffiness right away and soothes my tired eyes. I will use this all up but it isn't something I would go out and purchase.

POP Beauty POP Portfolio Eyeshadow Palette  Sample Value $2.17 Full Size $26 (36 pan palette) 

            I was not excited about getting another eyeshadow but these are beautiful. They definitely have a shimmer/glitter to them but not in a way that you can feel the bits. I was surprised how little fall out there was after I applied them. I had received a similar sample from Ipsy and I liked those shadows from POP Beauty as well. They are very pigmented and long lasting, not something I would wear everyday but for when I feel like being a little more dramatic I will open this up. I think I was not overly excited because I am just on eyeshadow overload, I need to start using up my single shadows.

Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Volumizing Blow Dry Spray Sample Value $4.50  Full Size $23

          I am just going to copy and paste the description from Birchbox because if I start raving about this I will be writing this post until I get my next box.

"Our quick fix for sinking energy levels? A double shot of espresso. Our go-to solution for limp, lackluster strands? This follicle-stimulating spray that enhances hair’s thickness and encourages natural, healthy growth over time. From ginseng and biotin to b-vitamins and ginger root, the cruelty-free formula is packed with an energizing blend of hair-loving nutrients, plus a secret ingredient (okay, we’ll tell you: maltodextrin, a natural sugar starch) that coats each individual strand to create a fuller appearance."

          I got the same sample in my August Ipsy bag and was almost out when I saw my Birchbox, I could not be happier about receiving it again. I even read, and can attest to, that it has something in it that breaks down oil to make your hair look clean longer. I am all about that. I use this everyday even if I do not blow dry. If you are looking for amazing volume this is not the ticket but it does make my hair far less limp and stringy. The best part is that it does not feel like I have added any styling products to my hair. I will be purchasing this before I run out.

Cynthia Rowley Beauty Liquid Liner in Cobalt Full Size $21  

          I would have been excited about this if it was not blue. I would take purple, brown, grey, black but blue makes me look so trashy. I am just too pale or something to pull it off. I have a friend who can rock blue eyeliner like it is her job so it is going to her. I will say the formula is impressive though, it glides on beautifully, dries almost immediately and I really had to work at smudging it. Next time I need to purchase eyeliner this will be the one I look for, just not in this colour.



TOCCA Crema da Mano Luxe - Hand Cream Sample Value $5 Full Size $20

            I am always open to receiving lotion in my subscription boxes, I prefer to have lots of small tubes rather than the big giant ones I never end up using. I got the Cleopatra lotion, love the names, (Stella, Florence) it just makes it seem extra fancy to me. It is grapefruit and cucumber scented which is a rather odd combo but it works, I like using it in the morning as it is such an uplifting and fresh scent. It is not my favourite lotion ever but I am glad to have it and it does make my hands very soft without being greasy.

           While it is not my favourite box ever I am not complaining. I use the under eye cream and hand lotion every morning, the eyeshadow is gorgeous, I already love the hair product and Melly will look great in the eyeliner. Even though I am giving the eyeliner away I am glad I got to swatch it to see the amazing formula.

Total Value of the Box: $40.47



Thanks for reading!

A.

@dirty_cupcake

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Birchbox Canada - August 2015

          I loved my Birchbox this month! It is probably the first box where everything is really suited for me. This month it seems like products I have wanted to try just appeared in my subscription boxes. 

          First, look how cute the box is under there, it's just a cute little pool. I can't bear to throw any of the boxes out because they are so cute. I have re-purposed some and I am sure around Christmas time I will find uses for them. Enough about the box lets move on to the samples inside. 

St. Tropez Gradual Tan In Shower Sample Value $7.75 Full Size $31

This convenient, innovative self-tanner delivers buildable Color for a natural-looking glow 

        I was so excited to see this sample in my box, I had seen this in a friends shower and was considering giving it a try. I am terrified of self tanner, I am next level pale so I need something that is not going to be dramatic at the first application and this is perfect! To use it you shower like normal and after you are all scrubbed, turn off the shower, put this lotion on while you are still wet and standing in the shower, wait for three minutes and then rinse it off with just water. I tried this today and I was just going to put it on my legs in case I messed it up or it just turned out horrible. It was so easy to apply so I just used it all over and most surprisingly it smells nice! It rinsed off easily and left my skin so soft. There was no immediate colour but over time a very gradual and natural looking change occurred without streaks or spots. The colour is very light, almost unnoticeable but I think it would be very buildable. I think this is perfect for someone like me who is very pale and inexperienced with self tanner. 

Balance Me Congested Skin Serum Sample Value $15.86 Full Sized $34 

Calming spot treatment that fights blemishes, refines pores, and balances skin without drying.

           Lately I have been struggling with many more blemishes than I have ever had in my life so this was another welcome product. It has a very natural scent and is 99% natural. I am currently using the Clinique Acne Solutions System (review to come) but I will add this in there as an extra measure.  I have used it a couple times and I do like it but haven't noticed a huge difference, I doubt it's worth the price tag.

amika Un.done Texture Spray Sample Value $4.82 Full Sized $26.50

Styling spray that gives hair effortless, tousled volume, loads of shine and a dreamy scent.

           This is a nothing product I was looking to try before I found it in the box this month. I'm looking for a texture spray and this is a brand I have heard a lot about from different blogs and YouTube. I have not yet had a chance to try this as it is far to hot to do anything but stick my hair in a bun or clip immediately after brushing it out. It does smell nice which is not something I can say about most hair sprays. 

LAQA & Co. Cheeky Lip Crayon in Cray Cray Sample Value $5? Set of 3 $26

This creamy crayon delivers a rich, easy to apply color for both lips and cheeks. 

            I am always happy to receive lips products and I have another lip colour from the brand that I love. This was a little bit of a disappointment, as I find the lip and cheek combos usually are, it doesn't go on the lips well, has spotty coverage and just looks cheap. I habve not tried it as a cheek colour but I don't have high hopes. Also the sample size is rather deceiving, it looks like a full sized crayon but there is only about an inch, if that, of product. It's a waste of packaging, it would look so cute if it was packaged relative to the amount of product. I am going to play around with it and might be able to make it work but it is not an immediate favourite. 

Crabtree & Evelyn Ultra-Moisturizing Hand Therapy Sample Value $5.50 Full Sized $32

Made with macadamia oil and shea butter, this ultra-nourishing cream hydrates and protects hands. 

          On the packaging it says "gardeners" and has a little person planting something, this really is the perfect lotion for someone working with their hands. It is insanely moisturizing but absorbs quickly doesn't leave a greasy film at all. It has a spicy sent that is almost masculine. This is a lotion I am going to keep in my purse over the winter as it will have no problem combating dry winter skin. 

Value of the box $38.93

          As I said before I love my Birchbox and the products were all items that seem tailored for me. The value is not amazing but I will use at least four out of the five products regularly and if I do not use the fifth it will go to my sister.

Check out my last Birchbox post

Try it out for yourself!

Thanks for reading!

A.

@dirty_cupcake

Birchbox Canada July 2015

          This month Birchbox partnered with Best Health and along with the usual product card we got a subscription offer for a discounted price. If nothing else the box is pretty and will make nice storage for something or other.

          I am very happy with my box this month and there isn't anything I wont use. I enjoy getting a mix of items, I have a couple hair items, a couple skin care and a makeup item.

Gilchrist & Soames Spa Therapy Body Lotion    Full size $18   Sample value $3

Rich in marine extracts, this paraben-free moisturizer leaves skin smooth, soft and calm.

          I so love getting moisturizers and this one is no different. I have received lotion from this brand before and loved that one as well. Apparently it contains "relaxing sea fennel" That does not mean much to me but it does smell fresh and light. 

Vasanti Cosmetics BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator   Full size $34  Sample value $5.67

This customer fave mimics the effects of microdermabrasion for glowing smooth skin.

          The best products I have ever discovered from beauty subscription boxes are microdernabrasion scrubs. That is until I received this little guy. I massage a small amount in a circular motion to get the microdermabrasion effects and then when I add water it lathers up like a face wash. I will be using Birchbox points to get this in a few months, if I can wait that long. Love this.

Bain de Terre Argan Oil Passion Flower Color Therapy Styling Oil   Full size $14.65  Sample value $2.25

A lightweight blend of essential oils that nourishes hair and adds megawatt shine.

          This is a hair oil meant for colour treated hair, apparently you can also add 10-15 drops to your hair dye to make it extra brilliant. I typically use foam hair dye but if it is interesting that you could add this to a liquid mix. 

Benefit Cosmetics They're Real! Mascara  Full size $29  Sample value $9.67

Formula with all-day wear for lashes so long and thick, you may be accused of fakery.

          Of course I have heard people rave about this mascara but never tried it. I love it, it really does give me amazing length and volume. The brush really grabs all your lashes and the little spikes on the end help to get all the lashes in the corner as long as you do not poke your eye out. Certainly in my top five mascaras, my only complaint is that it is a bitch to get off at the end of the day.

Fekkai Technician Color Care Shampoo  Full size $28  Sample value $7

Hydrating cleanser that uses plant proteins to keep color-treated hair looking true-to-hue. 

          I have heard people complain that Canadians always get shampoo but that really works for me. It gives me a chance to try new shampoos without buying full sized ones and filling my shower. This brand however is not my favorite, I have tried other products from Fekkai and have never been impressed. This shampoo is alright, it did not amaze me but I am always willing to use shampoo specifically made for colour treated hair.

          Like I said I am happy with my box this month, not a huge value but it is all products I will get lots of use out of.

Total value: $27.59

Thanks for reading!

A.

Check out last months Birchbox