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PopSugar Must Have Unboxing September 2015!

September 22, 2015

Disclaimer: This post contains a referral link.

PS Main

Hi guys!  How was your weekend?  I spent my Sunday at the International Congress of Esthetics and in Long Beach which is a trade show heaven for skincare professionals.  I picked up a few items which I’ll be posting on Instagram so follow me if you’re interested to see what I picked up. 🙂  I also attended a conference on makeup for acne-prone skin taught by celebrity makeup artist Angelica Itomura so that was exciting and very informative.  All right, let’s get to today’s post.

September’s PopSugar Must Have box has arrived and if you haven’t heard of this it’s a monthly box whose items range from fashion, beauty, home, fitness and food, making it a well rounded subscription box. Subscription plans start at $39.95, all items are full size and are valued at over $100.

The inspiration behind this month’s box.

Sept Inspi

 

Hudson + Bleecker Labyrinth Onyx Travel Trio, $42

This travel friendly and TSA-friendly clear pouch holds your items while there are two printed drawstring bags that can be used to store shoes.

Briogeo Rosarco Milk Reparative Leave-In Conditioning Spray, $20

This leave in conditioning spray is infused with argan, rose hip and coconut oils that help protect against heat and nourish your hair.  This did not weigh my hair down nor did it feel heavy.  I feel leave-in conditioners are a must for my curly hair and this one is a good one to try.

Kris Nations “XO” Stud Earrings, $35

These handmade California stud earrings are “cut from recycled brass and plated with 14k gold.”  I think the little XO design is cute and although I hardly wear earrings, I’ll give these a try.  Plus, I love the little glass container packaging it came in, perhaps more than the earrings, haha.

HB

NCLA So Rich Vitamin-E Enriched Cuticle Oil, $18

An oil that softens and conditions cuticles with just a drop.  This strengthening oil is said to “keep nails moisturized and smelling divine” and I love the smell.  To me, it’s reminiscent of almonds and cherries or something among those lines.

Nourish Snacks Almond to Cherries, $2

A healthy, well-proportioned snack that contains six grams of protein and three grams of fiber to give you energy throughout the day.  Almonds are one of my favorite snacks and combined with cherries-yum!

Too Faced Cosmetics Brow Envy Brow Shaping & Defining Kit, $39

In my opinion the star product in this box is this brow kit.  Included are two customizable brow powders, a highlighter, a setting wax, a mini spoolie and brow brush, eyebrow stencils and a small set of tweezers.  Full review to come later on this one.

Almonds

A closer look at the cuticle oil, earrings and brow kit.

Brows

Other goodies included that are not pictured were 20% off coupons for Too Faced and Kris Nations along with two, $10 coupon codes to share PopSugar with friends and family. Overall, another great box and one of my favorites so far.

If you’re interested in trying out PopSugar Must Have, click here and use coupon code MUSTHAVE5 for $5 off your first subscription box.

Have a great Tuesday,

Stephanie

 

CATEGORIES // Subscription Boxes, Uncategorized

September Birchbox Unboxing 2015!

September 17, 2015

Disclosure: This post contains a referral link.

Sept Birchbox

September’s Birchbox is here and this month they’re celebrating their subscribers.  Take a look at what was included in my box.

Sept BB

L’Artisan Parfumeur Mure et Musc Eau de Toilette 

Described as having notes of blackberry, rich musk and wood, this sample perfume smells like men’s cologne and I don’t like it at all.  The blackberry and musk scent combination doesn’t mesh well with me.  Sorry to say but I will be discarding this immediately.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Perfect Brow Pencil

The sample choices this month were between Pop Beauty Eyeshadow Trio, Davine’s LoveShampoo and packet conditoner and Anastasia Beverly Hills Perfect Brow Pencil. I picked the eyebrow pencil as I needed one and I’m already a fan of the powder duo.  Personally, I prefer powder over pencil because I feel it gives a softer effect but this will do for now. I can always blend it out. 🙂

ABH

TOCCA Esfoliante de Corpo in Bianca 

I’m happy this sugar based body exfoliant was included since it  has two of my favorite scents: lemon and green tea.  I tried a little bit on my hands and the word luxurious came to mind.  Seriously a must try for the cooler months ahead as it leaves skin feeling hydrated and silky. *Note: Sensitive skin should tread with caution as it is fragrant.

treStiQue Correct & Cover Concealer Crayon in Bisque

I haven’t tried this concealer yet but I love the packaging.  The top portion is the cap, shaped like the tip of the concealer-how cute is that.  I’m a little nervous testing this because it’s infused with coconut oil and I’m worried it may be too heavy for the eye area.  We’ll see.

Rene Furterer Absolue Keratine Sublime Renewal Leave-in Cream

This “keratin-rich cream smoothes, restores, and protects even the most damaged strands.”  It’s heavily fragranced but I don’t find it overpowering.  It is a rich, heavy cream that feels soft  but I need more time to really see if it makes a difference.  Having curly, color treated hair, I feel I am a perfect candidate. Stay tuned for a review.

Tocca

Overall, it was a good box and although I won’t be using the fragrance sample, the Tocca exfoliant made it worth it.

Curious to try out Birchbox? You can subscribe to Birchbox for $10.00 per month and receive 50 bonus points to use towards a purchase by clicking here .  If you subscribe before October 9th, you’ll receive your first box for only $5.00.

What are your thoughts on this month’s box?

Stephanie

CATEGORIES // Subscription Boxes, Uncategorized

PopSugar Must Have Unboxing August 2015!

August 20, 2015

PSMH August

Hi guys!  August’s PopSugar Must Have box has arrived and if you haven’t heard of this it’s a monthly box whose items range from fashion, beauty, home, fitness and food, making it a well rounded subscription box.  Subscription plans start at $39.95, all items are full size and are valued at over $100. Curious to see what was included?  Keep reading!

The inspiration behind the box

August Insp

Contents of the box + Description

Happy Jackson Yay Lunch! Lunch Box, $10 

Step aside ziplock bags, there’s a cute yellow box that will now be used to store my snacks.

Meri Meri Toot Sweet Stripe Napkins, $5.95

Chic pink striped napkins that are versatile enough to use for birthdays, baby showers or picnics.

Folgers Iced Cafe Caramel Macchiato Flavored Coffee Drink Concentrate, $4.99

Perfect for those days when you’re craving an iced coffee but a trip to Starbucks is out of the question. This item was considered a ‘special extra’.

Pastel Best Day Ever Mug, $12

A dishwasher and microwave-safe mug that starts you off on a positive note whether you’re enjoying coffee or tea.

Royal Apothic Tea Balm Firming Eye Treatment, $36

An eye cream containing peptides that is said to smooth fine lines while “super extracts banish dark circles.”  I’m not entirely convinced of banishing dark circle claim but excited to try this out anyway.

Southern Culture Shortstacks Pancake and Waffle Mix, $7.99

A pancake and waffle mix that is birthday cake flavored?  The weekend can’t come soon enough!

American Colors Mediterranean Plaid Scarf, $79

With fall around the corner, a scarf made from 100% cotton gauze was included as our go-to accessory. We’ll see if California weather will allow for scarfs.

August Im

 

Not pictured

MyYogaWorks 3-Month Trial, $45 

A 3-month online trial that let’s you practice yoga with over 700 online classes available to choose from.

Overall, I will be making use of all the products here so I’m happy with the contents of the box.

What are your thoughts?

Stephanie

CATEGORIES // Subscription Boxes

PopSugar Must Have Unboxing July 2015!

July 15, 2015

PSMH July

Happy hump day everyone!  July’s PopSugar Must Have box has arrived and if you haven’t heard of this it’s a monthly box whose items range from fashion, beauty, home, fitness and food, making it a well rounded subscription box.  Subscription plans start at $39.95, all items are full size and are valued at over $100. Curious to see what was included?  Keep reading!

The inspiration behind this months box.

July PS Insp

On to the box.

PSMH 2

 

 

PopDental Portable Toothbrush, $19.99

A portable electric toothbrush that, “delivers 22,000 brush strokes per minute.” A great and practical item.

Henri Bendel Signature Stripe Canvas Dopp Kit, $28

A water-resistant, sturdy and stylish pouch to store all of your travel/on-the go necessities.  Also included is a 20% coupon to use on the Henri Bendel website.  Don’t mind if I do. 🙂

Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50, $28

Excited to try this skincare goody!  It’s a mist that, “delivers SPF 50 protection, sets your morning makeup and controls oil and shine, giving your skin a flawless matte finish.” *Note: I’ll still recommend wearing your normal sunscreen underneath to ensure adequate protection.
PSMH 1Yes To Blueberries Cleansing Facial Wipes, $5.99

Great to have makeup wipes handy as prelude to help remove the day’s toll on your face.

The Good Bean Fruit & No-Nut Bar, Chocolate Berry, $1.99

A protein bar that has blueberries, cherries, dark chocolate chunks (yum!) and roasted chickpeas instead of nuts.  “Lower in fat and calories, it’s entirely vegan, non-GMO, and gluten free.”

Hallmark Signature Greeting Cards, $14.97+

Considered a ‘special extra’, this set includes cards to cover any special occasion, whether it be a wedding, birthday or just because.  Each are individually wrapped in plastic to keep them protected and they truly are beautiful.  Below is the wedding one.

Wedding Card

Sorial Card Case, $28

A chic alternative to a wallet that’s perfect for a night out, there’s, “plenty of space to hold your ID, credit cards and some cash.”

Overall, I am happy with the box as it has practical and travel friendly items. 🙂

What are your thoughts on the box?

Stephanie

 

 

CATEGORIES // Subscription Boxes

July Birchbox Unboxing!

July 13, 2015

Birchbox July

Hi everyone!  Hope your weekend was great.  🙂  Today’s post will be a quick run through of  July’s Birchbox with my first impressions so let’s get to it!

Juara Radiance Enzyme Scrub

This milky white scrub utilizes bamboo, tiny  jojoba beads and apple enzymes to exfoliate.  Compared to the Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser, this feels more gentle and hydrating.  According to the instructions, this can be used as a mask and left on for 1-3 minutes.  So far I like it.  Haven’t noticed any dramatic effects but it leaves skin smoother. *Note: this has cinnamon, clove and ginger extract so it may be a bit stimulating for sensitive skin.  Always conduct a patch test.

Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray 

If you’ve followed my blog for awhile, you’ll know I really love this spray and I was excited this was featured in July’s box.  It’s a smaller sample than the purse size option but is enough to give you a feel for the product.  I love using this product when I use a curling wand to curl my hair as it sets the style, adds texture without a sticky or stiff feel and smells ah-mazing.

Supergoop! Anti-Aging City Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 

Love that a sunscreen was included in this box as it’s essential for skin health.  Like the name implies, this feels like a serum which is so light-weight and absorbs quickly into the skin.  It’s a chemical based sunscreen which you can read about here. Definitely an easy sunscreen to work with underneath makeup as it doesn’t pill.  Best part?  Toss it in your bag to carry with you on the go or if it irritates your skin, try using it as hand sunscreen protection when you’re driving. Yes, our hands and body need protection too!

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Bella 

I call this lipstick my ‘sitting pretty’ lipstick.  You know how you have those high heels that are so beautiful to look at but killer to wear so you use them only when you’re not going to be walking much? Well, the same concept applies to this lipstick.  It is a gorgeous, bright pink color that provides intense (and I mean intense) color in one stroke.  It does stain lips but it tends to move and transfers so if you’re planning on going out to eat while using this or are wearing white, I’d skip this or a least, use caution. Removing it with an oil based makeup remover works best.

theBalm cosmetics Balm Desert Bronzer/Blush 

I was surprised by how tiny this  sample is-a little bigger than my thumb.  You’re still able to pick up enough product with your brush but it takes a bit more effort.  The consistency is creamy and blends nicely but I think this is more bronzer than blush.  You can use this as blush-I love using bronzer as blush- but compared to the Too Faced Pink Leopard Blushing Bronzer, which has a lot more pink undertones, this one is a dusty rose shade that leans more towards tan.  Makes a great pick for summer.

JB Swatches

L-R: Bronzer/Blush and Bella

That’s it for today!

What did you think of this month’s Birchbox? 

Stephanie 

CATEGORIES // Product Reviews, Product Reviews: Make-Up, Subscription Boxes, Sunscreen

PopSugar Must Have Unboxing June 2015!

June 23, 2015

PSMH Main

Hi everyone!  Hope all of you had a great Father’s Day with all of your loved ones. 🙂

Aside from Birchbox (check out the latest unboxing here), I also subscribed to the PopSugar Must Have Box.  While a beauty enthusiast can never (never!) have too much items, this box has ranges from fashion, beauty, home, fitness and food, making it a well rounded subscription box.  Subscription plans start at $39.95 which is more than Birchbox’s $10 but all items are full size and are valued at over $100.

Each month, the editors are inspired by certain themes and/or phrases, and June’s box was inspired by these:

PSMH Insp

Except for the candy, I haven’t had much time to experiment with the box but I’ll provide some pictures and brief descriptions to give you an idea of what the box contains.

PSMH 1

Quay Australia Mandate Sunglasses (Retail $45)

A celebrity favorite, these matte black Mandate sunglasses were designed “with your active lifestyle in mind.”

SNAP Infusion SuperCandy (retail $4)

Candy in form of gummies that “are packed with B vitamin that boost your energy, antioxidants that will keep your immune system strong and electrolytes that help you stay hydrated.”  Not sure about the claims but they do taste good-almost like Sour Patch Kids.

Spongelle Boxed Flowers-Fluer en Boite (retail $16)

A sponge/buffer that is infused with body wash that yuzu, edelweiss and vetiver extracts to “massage, smooth and rejuvenate the skin.”  This also comes with a little card that offers 30% off the entire site and $5 flat shipping. Smells divine with papaya and yuzu scents.

Judy Blume In the Unlikely Event (retail $27.95)

This new novel written by Judy Blume “takes us on the journey of a disaster-stricken town where an unlikely group copes together-reminding us all that life goes on.”  I love reading so as soon as I finish the current novel I am reading, this will be next.

PSMH 2

Pacifica Enlighten Eye Brightening Shadow Palette (retail $14)

Of course one of my favorite items in this box, this stunning eyeshadow palette is coconut-water-infused and 100% vegan and cruelty free.

Yogitoes Peacock hBand (retail $4)

I’ll preface this by saying this headband is huge but it might be because it “acts as both a headband and an eye mask during Savasana.” Can’t wait to put it to the test in my next yoga class though I’m not sure I’d want to place this over my eyes after a session.

Sweet & Spark $30 Gift Card (retail $30)

A gift card we can use to purchase one-of-a-kind vintage jewelry to find timeless pieces “like those featured on the Zoe Report and in InStyle.”  Truth be told, I am not much of a jewelry/accessory person-or rather I tend to forget I have any of these items- but I’ll see what they have to offer.

That completes the box and overall I am happy with the variety they provide. Comment below with your thoughts on the box.

Have a great Tuesday everyone!

Stephanie

 

 

CATEGORIES // Subscription Boxes

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