November Luxe Box Review

After a couple months of disappointments, I was anxious to see what this month's box offered ... and admit I cheated a bit by watching some reviews on Youtube.

When my box arrived on Monday, I just had to open it right away.

This months's samples:

Lise Watier - Eye Glitter Liner
According to the information card "nothing adds glamour & sparkle to your eyes like a touch of Eye Glitter Liner.  Its non-smudging water-based formula lasts & lasts, giving your eyes a bright pop of colour that will make them twinkle."  Full size is 6 ml for $18

I don't know about you, but while the liner looks pretty, I really don't want to put any sort of glitter near my eyes ... EEK.  Additionally, this was the third sample we have received from Lise Watier.  We had also received two Lise Watier samples in the October Luxe Box.


Pur Minerals - Neutral Foundation Primer
According to the information card "the correcting primer in neutral is your go-to beauty tool for concealing minor imperfections.  Designed for all skin tones and to even out the look of your skin tone with a natural look."  Full size is 30 mls for $31

This was the third Pur Minerals product included in a Luxe Box in a few months. I have to say that I was a bit disappointed to receive, yet again, another sample from this brand. In the October and September Luxe Boxes, we had already received samples from Pur Minerals.


Moroccanoil - Styling Cream
According to the information card "the extraordinary conditioning properties of Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream are highly effective and versitile that is good for all hair types.  It provides soft-hold, adds definition, hydrates, leaves hair smooth, combats frizz and the effects of humidity."

I was very excited to receive this in my Luxe Box.  I'm not really one for putting pure Moroccanoil in my hair as it is fine and tends to be fly-away.  This may be a good alternative and am looking forward to trying this.


Benefit Cosmetics - Moisture Prep Toning Lotion
According to the information card "the special step for extra radiant skin that smooths & revitalizes, allowing skin to fully optimize benefits of your moisturizer.  Contains vitamin E, acetate, natural oat and meadow-sweet, botanical extracts known to purify & smooth while reducing fine lines.  This specialized forumla contains a blend of aloe leave & yeast extract, known to clarify & soothe the skin."

 

The first thing that I noticed in this lotion was "acetate" and the second was "yeast extract" ... .. another EEK moment ... I really don't know if I want to put either of those ingredients on my sensitive skin and I doubt I'll be trying this.


Teaopia - Cactus Fig Tea Kit
According to the information card "naturally flavoured blend of Organic Sencha Green Tea, fig pieces, aloe vera, sandalwood and orange flowers.  The combination provides an earthy yet sweet taste and awesome aroma that is perfect any time of day.  Green tea has a plethora of health benefits that's sure to leave you glowing."

Since I love tea (Idon't drink coffee), this was a welcome surprise in this month's Luxe Box.  Can't wait to try it.

One thing I didn't receive but was looking forward to trying was the ELF eye shadow.  Not a big deal as ELF products are cheap to buy (most are only $1) however, I would have preferred receiving the ELF shadow over the Pur Minerals or Lise Watier.

On their website,  Loose Button says "Discover new products" ... unfortunately they continue to send samples from brands we've previously received - which is a real pet peeve of mine.   I just signed up for a yearly subscription  as I was optimistic Loose Button would step up their game with Glymm and now Topbox providing a similar service.  Unfortunately I am seriously considering cancelling my yearly subscription.

Battle of the Canadian Beauty Sample Subscriptions

This was the first month I had received a Topbox.ca tube, and with now three beauty subscription services available to us in Canada, I thought it was appropriate to do a monthly showdown of the boxes.

Current standings, as of November:

#1 - TopBox - this box really blew me away - you can find my review here

#2 - Glymm - Glymm had knocked it out of the park with the previous two month's boxes, but unfortunately fell short this month by including a couple eye products I didn't feel were really suitable for someone over 40 - you can find my review here

#3 - Loose Button - I was so looking forward to receiving my November Luxe Box to see if Loose Button had stepped up their game with TopBox and Glymm also providing a similar service. Unfortunately, as in previous months, Loose Button continues to send samples from brands we had already previously received.  You can read my review here


How would you place each service??

November Glymm Beauty Box Review

I absolutely loved my first two Glymm Beauty boxes and was very much looking forward to receiving this month's wonderful samples.

Included in this month's box:

Rahua Shampoo/Conditioner
I always love trying out new shampoos and conditioners.  According to the information card, this shampoo and conditioner is Gwenth Paltrow's secret to luxurious hair.  The full size is 275 ml each for $32 and $34.

Orlane - Light Smoothing Cream
According to the information card "The hypoallergenic day cream is infused with rich vitamins and minerals to defend your skin against daily toxins."  Now that winter has arrived here in Canada, I am always on the lookout for a good day cream.  Looking forward to giving this a try.  The full size is 50 ml for $80

Lise Watier - Flash Lift Radiance Vial
I had received this as a sample in last month's Loose Button Luxe Box (although I still have not tried it yet).  According to the information card, this serum "erases the signs of fatigue and smooths the appearance of wrinkles."  Full size is 7-1 ml vials for $27.

Annabelle - Smudge Paint
I have been anxious to try this product for some time and was very disappointed when I saw the color I had received.  According to the information card you can use this as an eyeliner and a shadow.  I don't know about you, but I honestly don't wear either blue eye shadow or blue eye liner - especially someone who is in my age range (40+).  I know Glymm only receives so many samples but maybe they should pay attention to their subscriber's profiles more carefully to make sure they are sending a color that would be appropriate for their age range or for all ages.

RGB Nail Lacquer - Black
I was excited to see a nail polish from RGB in my box this month ... that was again until I saw the color.  I understand that black nail polish is no longer considered "goth" or "punk" but again, the color is just not right for some one in my age range.

Also included was a $10 off code for Brownshoes.com

All in all, I was very pleased with the products received, however, was disappointed in the colors of the eyeliner/shadow and polish.  Glymm had knocked it out of the park with the previous two month's boxes, but unfortunately fell short this month.  I would have definitely given this month's box higher marks if the eyeliner/shadow and nail polish colors had been different colors and more suited to "everyone".

Also, I had posted my concerns on Glymm's FB page over the colors received and received a reply that "we have taken this into consideration.  Meanwhile you can always e-mail info@glymm.com with specific preferences."  I thought that's why we filled out our beauty profile in the first place??

Hopefully next month Glymm redeems themselves.


**UPDATE** - rec'd an email from Glymm today (November 17) saying they would be sending me an RGB nail polish and a SmudgePaint in another color in my next box.  Now folks, that is what customer service is all about!!  Way to go Glymm!!

November Topbox Review

As mentioned in an earlier post, I subscribed to yet another beauty subscription service - this one by Topbox. Topbox is the new kid in Canada offering monthly beauty samples delivered to your door along side Loose Button and Glymm.

For only $10/month, you can sign up with Topbox to receive "4 carefully selected, indulgent, beauty products to test in the comfort of your own home". There are no hidden fees and no shipping costs.

Topbox only offers month to month subscriptions and if you enjoy Topbox, do nothing and your subscription will automatically continue for as long as you choose to remain a member. You can easily cancel anytime, online, 24 hours a day. There are no cancellation fees.

I was anxious to receive my box this month and according to the Topbox website and Facebook page, they ship their boxes on the 10th of every month. Now, those of you who also subscribe to either of the other two services will know that there have been some glitches in sending their monthly boxes. As promised, I received my shipping notification from Topbox on November 10th.

My box arrived today (November 14th) and I was surprised when I went to the mailbox that it wasn't the normal square box waiting for me.

Upon removing the brown paper wrapping and opening the tube ...

WOW

... along with a product card, the samples included:

Cake Velveteen Hand Creme- It's a Slice (full size sample)
I have only tried one other Cake hand cream and loved it, so am looking forward to trying this one - especially now that we're into the colder fall/winter months.

According to the information card - Velveteen Hand Creme soothes and nourishes dry hands with a luxurious and silky formation that absorbs quickly into your skin, leaving your hands feeling smooth but not greasy.  Full size is 3.4 oz for $18.00

Deborah Lippman Nail Lacquer - Some Enchanted Evening (full size sample)
I have never tried Deborah Lippman nail lacquers so was very excited to receive this as a sample this month.

According to the information card - Some Enchanted Evening nail lacquer by Deborah Lippmann's luxury line of award winning hand and foot care.  This line was created as a result of her working with some more iconic figures in fashion from Cher to Sara Jessica Parker.  Full Size is 0.50 oz for $19.95

Dr. Brandt - Time Arrest Eye Serum
Now that I am getting older (eek), I am always looking for good eye serums to try and was happy to see this sample in my Topbox this month.

According to the information card - Time Arrest Eye Serum is formulated to smooth and help prevent lines around the eyes; optimizes hydration by providing a long lasting protection from moisture loss.  Full size is 0.50 oz for $85.00.  The sample I received was 2.5 ml or 0.085 oz

Stila Lip Glaze - Raspberry
I have only ever tried one other Stila Lip Glaze (yes I know, I've been living under a rock LOL) so I am looking forward to trying this color.

According to the information card - Lip glaze adds a splash of colour to the lips.  Can be worn alone or over top of your favourite lip colour to enhance the size and texture of lips.  Full size is 0.08 oz for $22.

I must say that I was really impressed with my first Topbox.  There wasn't one product that I didn't like and  I was most excited that there were two full size samples included.  I love the packaging and will most likely reuse it for my make-up brushes.

If Topbox continues to include such great samples I think Loose Button and Glymm will definitely have a challenge keeping their subscribers.  Well done Topbox and I look forward to receiving next month's samples.

Favorite Beauty Products - October 2011

I haven't done a monthly favorites post before, but thought I would try to do one of these each month outlining the products I used most often for the previous month.

... so here we go ...

Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream
I had been reading a lot about BB creams on different blogs, and hearing about them in youtube videos so thought I would give it a try. Rather than going out and buying one (I had no clue which one was best), I searched the MUA swap database for one and was lucky to find a great MUAer to swap with.  If you're not sure what a BB cream is, check out my blog post on BB creams.

The color I received was 21 (light beige) ... and on first application, I truly loved it.  I did notice the grey cast everyone mentioned, but with adding a dusting of Stila Illuminating Powder Foundation over top, my skin was not nearly as pale.  The coverage is light, however, after watching the pros on youtube I learned the correct way to apply the BB cream to make the coverage more full coverage.

To properly apply BB cream, pump an appropriate amount of BB cream onto the back of your hand.  Apply the cream in dots to your face - do not spread the BB cream like you would when you apply foundation.  Instead, use gentle patting motions to spread and blend it into your skin - you can even use a Beauty Blender sponge.  You can then use the same technique for covering up any blemishes or marks you would like covered.

Since trying BB cream, I'm never going back to liquid foundation again.  They provide excellent coverage, won't clog pores and provide excellent sun protection (this one has 42 SPF).  One thing I should mention about BB cream is it does oxidize throughout the day and will turn a bit darker.


Stila Illuminating Powder Foundation
I really like this powder.  As mentioned, I use it over my Missha BB cream to help with coverage and as a finishing powder.  It gives my skin a nice glow too, without looking sparkly or glittery.  My summer color is 30 watts, however, for Winter, I think I will try 20 watts.

It has a nice texture and looks very natural.  However, if you are looking for a powder foundation, this probably isn't for you.  I just want a finishing powder and this is perfect.


Guerlain Meteorites Pearls - Teint Beige
I had heard so many good things about this powder and was anxious to try it, however, couldn't justify the price  ($57 US at Sephora).  I finally decided just before our annual trip to Orlando that I would bite the bullet and make the purchase.

I am so glad I purchased this ... the powder adds a slight shimmer/glow to your skin and the smell is absolutely heavenly.  Definitely an good investment so don't be intimidated by the price.


Laura Mercier Creme Brulee Souffle Body Cream
Now that the weather is getting cooler, I absolutely love this ... the scent is so decadent.  It slides on the skin nicely and is non-greasy.  It has done wonders for my dry fall/winter skin and I will never be without this.

Principessa - Pretty Piede Foot Balm
I received a sample of this in my October Glymm Beauty Box and immediately fell in love with it.

The cream is very thick and contains fruit acids, shea butter, Vitamin E and organic indulgent extracts that really seem to soften the roughest skin on my feet.  It`s scented with Bellocia which I found out is top notes of peach blossom, vanilla, middle of the night blooming jasmine, ylang-ylang and a base of sandalwood and warm amber.  Yes it sounds like a lot of notes, but it`s really subtle and pleasant.

I loved it so much, I ordered a full size from the Glymm website.


Principessa Bacio Lip Balm
Another sample I received in my October Glymm Beauty Box and fell in love with immediately.

The balm is clear with a wonderful smell and contains Vitamin E and shea butter which is absolutely perfect for those of us who suffer from dry sore lips during the colder fall/winter months in Canada.  I can definitely see this becoming a staple in my purse for fall/winter.

... and there you have it ... my first favorites post.  Hope it's been helpful to at least one person out there.

Topbox ... Another Beauty Subscription Service for Canadians

I recently came across another Beauty Box subscription service for those of us calling the Great White North home. Like Loose Button's Luxe Box and Glymm's Beauty Box, for only $10/month, you can sign up with Topbox to receive "4 carefully selected, indulgent, beauty products to test in the comfort of your own home". There are no hidden fees and no shipping costs.

Topbox only offers month to month subscriptions and if you enjoy Topbox, do nothing and your subscription will automatically continue for as long as you choose to remain a member. You can easily cancel anytime, online, 24 hours a day. There are no cancellation fees.

Topbox's first beauty box was launched in October 2011 and according to their website included brands from Benefit, Shu Uemura, Lise Watier, and SkinCeuticals. Like the Luxe Box and Glymm's Beauty Box, subscribers complete a beauty profile when signing up. Topbox's website says they will be customizing boxes for their subscribers. "In some boxes, many members will receive similar samples, while in other months you may receive very different samples. For the samples that are sent to everyone – these products are chosen carefully to ensure that they'll work for a wide range of styles, skin types, and colorings. Other samples are chosen specifically for your skin and beauty needs and style."

Also similar to Loose Button and Glymm, Topbox wants you to fill out feedback surveys for each sample within 30 days of receiving your samples. Each month, 4 lucky respondents will receive their choice of a full sized product from the most recent Topbox.

It also appears that Topbox will be offering a points reward program as well as special discounts and promotions on full sized products.

... and yes, I've signed up and am looking forward to receiving my first Topbox this month.

BB Creams

 In today's blog post, I'm going to talk about BB Creams.

First, what is a BB Cream?
Well, BB Cream (or "blemish balm" cream) is one of Asia's hottest beauty products that is slowly making it`s way to North America.  It is said that the formula originally comes from Germany where Dermatologists prescribed it for patients to heal laser skin surgery because of it`s soothing and skin-regenerating properties.  Famous Korean actresses them began using it for beauty purposes and because Asian dramas are huge, a craze was born.  The Korean cosmetics industry took the idea and ran with it, creating various different BB creams that have skin benefits such as SPF, whitening (brightening), anti-wrinkle, and nutrients to help improve the health of your skin.

What exactly does BB Cream do?
BB creams sold today are suitable for all skin types and are targeted to those who have sensitive and acne-prone skin.  BB creams have the advantages of both skin care and make-up, and improves the skin's condition and evens out the skin tone while providing coverage for dark spots and other blemishes.  BB creams provide a very natural "no make-up" look with the added benefit of UV protection.  BB cream is basically an all-in-one cosmetic beauty and skincare product and depending on the brand, can act as foundation. concealer, sunblock and moisturizer all in one.

I actually discovered BB Cream by accident - while doing a swap on MUA (Makeup Alley).  Once I tried the product (Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream in shade 21), I was definitely impressed.  My skin looked radiant yet it didn't look (or feel) like I had make-up on.  I looked like myself, only better because the little skin imperfections and discolorations were mostly covered up.

I've ordered some other brands of  BB cream and am looking forward to being able to give them a try.  Where to buy?  I would suggest either Amazon or Ebay - but if buying from Ebay be cautious as some people have reported receiving fake creams.

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