My first Birchbox

My friend David Brown suggested that I subscribe to Birchbox, a beauty product sampler box.  I love trying beauty products, so subscribing to a sample box is perfect!  This is what was in my first box:

I was surprised that there were no ingredients listed anywhere on the packaging or the printed insert, so I went to the FAQ and it said to look up each product to figure out what it has in it. I’d say this subscription is not for anyone who has allergies or who wants natural products, because you can’t just open it up and start trying things! I was actually at their FAQ to figure out how to report damage – the hair oil had leaked all over everything in the box during shipment. I emailed them and they are sending me a replacement.

These were the samples in my box. The prices listed are for the full-sized version of the products.

Beauty Protector Protect & Oil | Full-size, $21.95
WHAT Exclusive launch! This just-for-you hair oil defends against UV rays, heat, and breakage.
HOW   Work 1-3 drops into damp hair, or to the ends of dry hair. Perfect for all hair types.
My review: It works similarly and has the same texture of the Frizz-Ease hair serum I already use. I used it in place of Frizz Ease today. It contains the same first two ingredients that is in the John Freida Frizz Ease I use (Cyclomethicone and Dimethicone), plus Argan oil. It smells like super sweet cotton candy, but I think I’ll keep using Frizz Ease. Cyclomethicone is liquidy- like water, while Dimethicone has a consistency of honey or a thick syrup.

Harvey Prince Hello | Full-size, $55
WHAT Best-selling spritz that mingles cheerful citrus with floral notes. Well, hello there!
HOW   Apply to pulse points and let this upbeat scent do the talking.
My review: It reminds me of every perfume sample in a magazine. I could smell the citrus and floral notes, but maybe it’s not for me. I  sprayed it on my wrists in the afternoon, and by evening I can barely smell it on my skin.

OPl Sheer Tints in Don’t Violet Me Down | Full-size, $9
WHAT This tinted top coat gives nails a wash of high-shine, translucent color.
HOW   Wear alone for a subtle tint, or over your go-to polish for a chic shade-shifting effect.
My review: I haven’t tried it yet. It’s a tint, so I might try pairing it over silver to see what happens. Hopefully something good.

Skin&Co Roma TRUFFLE THERAPY™ SERUM Boosting Anti-Aging Serum | Full-size, $75
WHAT Antioxidant-rich truffle extract helps smooth wrinkles and restore dull, parched skin.
HOW   Once a day, apply a dime-sized amount to clean, dry skin, massaging until fully absorbed.
My review: Smells nice – like fresh cut grass, but I probably need to use it for a few more days to give a better review. It has the same texture as MAC’s Oil Control Lotion that I didn’t use today under my base. I was noticeably oilier only using the serum, so I might just apply it to my neck or on my face at night.

LIFESTYLE EXTRA
Harney & Sons Fine Teas Paris Rich and White Grapefruit Wrapped Sachets | Full-size, $9.60
WHAT Rich and flavorful tea blends from the family-owned craft brand.
HOW Steep 3-5 minutes in near-boiling water.
My review: I haven’t tried these yet, but Harney & Sons makes one of my favorite teas: Cinnamon Spice, so I’m sure these will be great.

Do you subscribe to Birchbox? Do you want to? Here’s my referral link (I think I earn points or something when you sign up.) It’s $10 a month ($10 for 4 – 5 samples that includes shipping)

I signed up for the ipsy bag this weekend too (also $10 for 4 – 5 samples) to compare boxes and because you know, I *need* more makeup.

*These reviews are my own and I haven’t been compensated for them.