Birchbox July Unboxing ♡ First Impression

I am a little emotional because I cancelled my Birchbox beauty subscription last month...  I cancelled the subscription not because I didn't like the items received, but I cancelled because I get my Birchbox via YouShop (parcel forwarding service) and upon receiving my July box, I was told that it contains dangerous item that cannot be shipped to New Zealand, it was a dry shampoo and I had two options, either pay extra to send the box back to Birchbox, or disposed of the item.

There was no way for me to pay extra to return the box, so I chose to disposed of the dry shampoo and shipped the rest of the box. So instead of getting five samples, I got four for July.

LEFT TO RIGHT:

 BALANCE ME RADIANCE FACE MASK is described as a lightweight mask that can boost the luminosity of skin in just five minutes, it is suitable for all skin types and the formula cleanses, exfoliates and brightens skin, leaving your complexion softer and more radiant.

Balance Me has suggested to apply the face mask to clean face then leave for 5 minutes and wipe off with a damp washcloth. I have used as instructed, but instead of wiping off with a face towel, I washed my face with warm water. My face did appeared a lot brighter and smoother after used, I like that the texture is like an exfoliator and it smells like herbs. 

 SUPERGOOP! DAILY CORRECT CC CREAM SPF 35+ is described as a lightweight, easy to blend and fragrance-free formula that acts as a primer and a foundation. It claims to improves the appearance of pores and wrinkles, and smooths fine lines and repair uneven skin to deliver a flawless complexion.

 SMASHBOX COSMETICS X-RATED MASCARA features tripod fibbers that stack on lashes for endless volume, it has a build-able and long wearing formula that ensures the mascara won't smudge throughout the day. This mascara claims to turn your lashes from classic to bold in a snap.

 DR. BRANDT POREDERMABRASION is described as a rinse off cream that aims to cleanse and unclog pores and deliver an ultra smooth skin after used.

This exfoliator has a sand-like texture, it feels nice when scrubbing on my skin and my skin feels like baby soft after used, but I didn't see any difference with the pores.

SaveSave

Birchbox June ♡ Unboxing + First Impression

Birchbox June 2016

Birchbox June 2016

Birchbox must have known that I wasn't so impressed with the items received in the May's Birchbox that they have packed my June box with all amazing goodies! I admit, I cheated a little and viewed my June box on the website before it arrived on my doorstep; I mainly wanted to see if I should cancel these subscription boxes because the past few months has been not-so-impressive. As soon as I saw what I was getting in the June box, I was over the moon!

♥ LAURA GELLER New York Baked Gelato Swirl Illuminator

Full Sized | USD $26.00

Laura Geller New York Baked Gelato Swirl Illuminator is a luminous, warm highlighter that has an Italian dessert's rich texture with a formula that applies like powders but feels like a cream. Its' formula claims to be blendable and it is ideal for building to your perfect coverage.

I have never tried Laura Geller makeup, but I have always been curious about the brand and their products. I am so glad that Birchbox has packed my beauty box with a Laura Geller highlighter this month! As you can see in my swatch photo below, the highlighter is very pigmented and the colour is absolutely gorgeous. The sample is tiny, but you do get a lot of product and it can last you for a long time.

 Birchbox June 2016

 Birchbox June 2016

 Birchbox June 2016

 Birchbox June 2016

Birchbox June 2016

♥ BENEFIT Gimme Brow Volumizing Fibre Gel
Full Sized | USD $24.00

Benefit Gimme Brow Volumizing Fibre Gel is one of the new products that Benefit has recently launched. It claims to turn your messy brows into full, defined and even brows with just a few stroked. The product has volumizing microfibres and exclusive water-resistance gel that adheres to skin and hair, the brow gel is designed with a precision tip that lets you shape and blend effortlessly.

This sample is sooooo tiny, but it is THE MOST AMAZING PRODUCT IN THIS BOX! I already have plans of buying the full sized when I use up the sample. My favourite thing about this brow gel is the brush is not too big and the gel instantly set my brows, covers the hairless gaps and make my brows looks fuller.

I am currently using the Kiss Me Heavy Rotation brow gel and it has given me daily headaches, for example, I had to tie my hair back when I applied the brow gel or else my hair touch my brows and the brow gel smears everywhere. Also, when I brush the Heavy Rotation one through my brows, after applying brow pencils, the brow gel tends to wipe off some of the brow products that I have already put on the brows and sometimes I walked out of the house without realising there's weird gaps here and there on my brows.

Heavy Rotation is a complicated brow situation, but Benefit Gimme Brow is non of that and I am glad.

 Birchbox June 2016

 Birchbox June 2016

Birchbox June 2016

♥ BALANCE ME Congested Skin Serum
Full Sized | USD $30.00

Balance Me Congested Skin Serum is lightweight daily serum as well as a spot-treatment. Its' intention is to battle against stubborn troubled areas with the smooth application and divine scent. The claiming serum refines pores and balances skin without drying.

Birchbox June 2016

♥ LAVANILA The Healthy Sunscreen Sport Luxe SPF 30
Full Sized | USD $22.00

Lavanila The Healthy Sunscreen Sport Luxe SPF 30 is an all natural formula that works to shield every inch of skin while replenishing and nourishing it with antioxidants. Zinc oxide products from the sun's harsh rays while African shea butter moisturize and claims irritated patches. The sunscreen goes on sheer to protect without the streaks, it is water and sweat resistant and long lasting.

=.= another sunscreen products...

Birchbox June 2016

♥ MARCELLE BB Cream Golden Glow
Full Sized | USD $28.00

Marcelle BB Cream Golden Glow is a multitasking BB Cream that hydrates, calms skin, even skintone, control shine and lightly masked imperfection. It claims with deliver smooth and dewy skin with its effortless application, it is perfume-free and and oil-free, perfect for those with sensitive skin.

I would have loved this BB Cream sample if the colour matches me, too bad the shade given is a little too golden and too dark.

 Birchbox June 2016

Birchbox June 2016

have you tried any of the products included?

what products did you received in your June Birchbox?

Birchbox May ♡ Unboxing + First Impression

May's Birchbox arrived super late, and at first glance, it seemed to be such a disappointment, I have received products that I wish I would never get in a beauty subscription box, for example: self tanning lotions and hair products; but I end up really enjoying the items received when I actually had a chance to use them.

Birchbox May 2016 Unboxing

Birchbox May 2016 Unboxing

Birchbox May 2016 Unboxing

DAVINES LOVE Smoothing Shampoo

Full Sized, USD $25.00 

Davine LOVE Smoothing Shampoo is specially formulated to tame frizzed-out and tangle-prone hair. It is enriched with olive oil and rice protein and it is claimed to leave hair stronger, softer and silky-smooth.

I have naturally straight, smooth and shiny hair, apart from my long hair sometimes weight down and makes it looks zero-volume-ness, my hair is actually in perfect condition right now. I tried the Davine LOVE Shampoo even though it's not designed for my non-frizz hair and while washing my hair I felt like my hair was so squeaky clean as if washing your body with soaps. The shampoo has an overpowering flora scent that I can hardly stand and the morning after my hair was all tangled up, it was harder to brush through than normal.

Birchbox May 2016 Unboxing

DAVINES LOVE Smoothing Conditioners
Full Sized, USD $29.00 

Davines LOVE Smoothing Conditioners is a specialized smoothing conditioner that calms frizz and loosens tangles, it has a creamy consistency and it claims to be one of those products you apply before rushing out the door.

The Davines LOVE Conditioners is like the better half of the shampoo, it is so smooth and moisturizing, it makes my hair looks so straight and flow-y and it feels so soft when I run my hands through. The conditioner also has that very strong flora scent that I cannot stand, and when using with the shampoo, I woke up the next morning with my hair all tangled!

I can't imagine it being "a product you apply before rushing out the door" as this conditioner requires you to wash your hair thoroughly after application and if having to wash my hair in the morning, I would be totally to work!

Birchbox May 2016 Unboxing

MODELCO Lip Lacquer "Morocco" 
Full Sized Trio, USD $16.00 

ModelCo Lip Lacquer is a long-lasting gloss that provides a rich, very pigmented color and major shine in just one swipe. It is described as a non-sticky, moisturizing formula that delivers a totally fuss-free wear. The trio includes three colors in Brulee, Mororcco and Vita, I believe the trio are all mini sized as the one I have received and I have the color Mororcco, it's a pink-ish brown shade that is totally on trend right now.

Birchbox May 2016 Unboxing

SUPERGOOP! Everyday SPF 50 With Cellular Response Technology
Full Sized, USD $48.00 

Supergoop! Everyday SPF 50 with Cellular Response Technology is a lightweight sunscreen that provides water resistant, SPF 50 + protection anywhere you need it. It is rich in antioxidants that will repair and nourish skin while blocking UV rays to prevent further damage. The oil-free formula instantly absorbs into skin for breathable, non-greasy protection making it ideal for daily wear.

It is winter in New Zealand at the moment, but the sun is always strong here, it doesn't matter what season we are in. I am not too much of a sunscreen wearer unless if I go out on a day where I would be fully exposed to the sun. I dislike that sunscreens are always so greasy and oily and they always smells so weird. Although I haven't tried the Supergoop yet, I think it could be a good one to try out on a next day-out trip. If it is as the description says, non-greasy, oily-free and can protect my skin, I cannot wait to try.

Birchbox May 2016 Unboxing

VITA LIBERATA Fabulous Self Tanning Gradual Lotion
Full Sized, USD $30.00 

Vita Liberata Fabulous Self Tanning Gradual Lotion is a nourishing, hydrating, untinted lotion that first applies clear, then develops color over 48 hours. This self tanner lotion claims to create a gorgeous sun-kissed glow that hydrates, nourishes and conditions your skin with certified organic ingredients.

My most dislike items to be received in a subscription box, but I am willing to give this a try because it sounds amazing. Would love to see the process of the color develops from clear to a sun-kissed glow as it claims. Hmmm is it weird to self tan in winter? Heheh.

Birchbox May 2016 Unboxing

W3LL PEOPLE Bio Correct Multi-Action Concealer "Light"
Full Sized, USD $22.50 

W3ll People Bio Correct Multi-Action Concealer is an ultralight, full coverage concealer that blends easily while hiding imperfections and providing a bright look. It is described as a "correcting while covering" concealer that will depuff, brighten and smooth skin.

I have been loving this concealer and it's my favourite item received in the May Birchbox. It has a mousse-y texture that is so lightweight and blends beautifully. The concealer has a weight 'concealer' scent and it creased after long hours of wearing, but I still really enjoyed using it as the concealers covers my imperfections such un-even skin tones, red marks and at the same time it brightens up my under eye area.

have you tried any of the products mentioned?

did you received similar items in your May Birchbox?

Birchbox April ♡ Unboxing + First Impression

Birchbox April 2016

Birchbox April, not completely disappointed nor super impressed with the items received.

This month I have received a total of six sample sized products, which includes two foiled packets of makeup wipes and a oh-so-mini primer. I wasn't mad about the foil packets, but the hair products included wasn't what I had expected.

Birchbox April 2016

Birchbox teamed up with Rifle Paper Co. (a stationery boutique) to create the April beauty box. The box includes six sampled products from five different brands, it also comes with a 20% off coupon code for your next order at riflepaperco.com.

I had a look at the Rifle Paper Co. website and almost everything is out of my price range; haha. I love cute stationery, but stationery are just... stationery. In my opinion, there is no point spending twenty dollars on a calendar with a pretty flora print as a cover. I mean, don't we all get calendars for free at the end of the year?

Anyway, below are the products I have received in my April Birchbox. For the ones that I have already tried and tested, I will share with you more thoughts on the item.

Birchbox April 2016

 PARLOR BY JEFF CHASTAIN VOLUMIZING LIFTING SPRAY | Full Sized USD $24.00 is described as an innovative body-enhancing spray that will give your weighted hair an instant volume and lift.

I have read both positive and negative review of this volumizing hair spray, some says it smells so amazing and it instantly lift up your flat hair, while some says it made their hair so greasy. I have semi-flat hair as my hair are so thick, I will probably give this a go, but I am afraid that it will turn my hair into a grease ball >.< ~

Birchbox April 2016

 LIVING PROOF PERFECT HAIR DAY DRY SHAMPOO | Full Sized USD $22.00 is described as a dry shampoo that cleans hair using fast-acting powders that soak up oil, sweat and odor. It claims hair will looks, feels and smells cleaner.

I tried this dry shampoo on a third day of my no-wash-hair-day and my first impression upon the first few spray was, it smells flora and fresh. I find that the Living Proof dry shampoo works okay, it's not perfect, my hair looked as if I haven't washed it for too long and it doesn't feel clean throughout the day. Comparing to the Batiste dry shampoos that I always use, I wouldn't spend $22 on the Living Proof one.

Birchbox April 2016

 BENEFIT THE POREFESSIONAL FACE PRIMER | Full Sized USD $31.00, really Birchbox?! The sample sized I have received is small enough to fit into my palm and for your reference I have very small hands. I am sure that you already know what the Benefit Poressional Primer is and what it does etc... It is one of the most hyped up primer in the beauty community; and it is a primer that will minimizes pores and smooth skin.

I have tried the POREfessional primer prior to receiving this sample and it's not a primer that I love so much. I like that it smooth skin and minimizes pores, but this function seems to work best for other primers I own like the Guerlain Meteorites Light-Diffusing Primer and the MAC Prep + Prime Skin Base Visage.

Birchbox April 2016

 RMS BEAUTY THE ULTIMATE MAKEUP REMOVER WIPES | Full Sized USD $16.00 is my number one favourite item from the April Birchbox! It was disappointing when seeing that foil packets were included in the April box, but as soon as I used these makeup wipes, it instantly makes me want to place an order for the full sized.

These RMS makeup wipes are made with pure, naturally antibacterial coconut oil that melts away even the most stubborn makeup, it is recommended to have the packets warm up in your palm for 10-20 seconds before opening for use. I did as instructed and I was surprised to see that it instantly removes the toughest lip stains that I own! Also, the makeup wipes smells so yummy, just like coconut!

Birchbox April 2016

 POP BEAUTY MATTE VELVET "COZY CRIMSON" LIPSTIX | Full Sized Trio USD $24.00 is described as a vitamin-rich formula with high pigmentation that delivers gorgeous hues while hydrates and protects lips.

The shade Cozy Crimson is described as a deep magenta, in real life swatches, it is a true red with a hint of pink. The formula is smooth, it glides on the lips effortlessly with a full opaque coverage and it smells sweet like candy. I wish that Birchbox has added a more neutral shade for me, as I rarely wears red, but I love that the color I have received is so vibrant and pretty.

are you getting the monthly Birchbox?

what interesting items did you received this month?