Friday, February 20, 2015

BIRCHBOX CANADA . FEBRUAR¥ EDITION

The arrival of Birchbox to Canada was meant to be exciting and fun, yet here I am three months into the service with little desire for beauty boxes in general. I've been slowly giving the axe to these subscription services since September after realizing how much money I was shamelessly throwing away. Despite collecting a lot of samples through these programs, the majority of the products simply didn't interest me, and therefore wound up in the bin of cosmetics I keep for friends. And now I may have to end my relationship with Birchbox, which is ironic given that the February Edition is inspired by our 'buddies, pals, partners-in-crime, and BFFs.' Well Birchbox, despite your pretty packaging this month we may no longer friends. #sorrynotsorry

THE PRODUCTS
Tocca | Eau de Parfum in Florence – Full Size 1.7oz ($82)
When it comes to perfume I typically gravitate towards sensual, slightly masculine scents, steering clear of anything that evokes the slightest feeling of elegance. And somehow, given my luck, Florence happens to embody elegance at it's finest. 'Notes of bergamot, gardenia, and jasmine create a floral scent with an old world charm', which suits my roommate seamlessly, yet smells foreign and ill-convincing on me. 

derma e | Anti-Wrinkle Vitamin A Glycolic Scrub  – Full Size 4oz ($13.50)
I am always on the look out for the next scrub, mask or peel that is going to help lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation found around my lips, and ultimately reveal a more radiant complexion. However, given the abundance of prestige and natural skincare options I currently have in my vanity, and the fact that this scrub is best suited for normal/oily skin, I'll be passing on this sample. I don't think that my dry skin would approve, especially given the weather. 

Number 4 | Clarifying Shampoo – Full Size 8.5oz ($36)
I've always been a fan of clarifying shampoos, especially come Sunday – they remove build up, amp up volume, and leave your hair feeling squeaky clean. The Number 4 Clarifying Shampoo contains: 'black currant and soy to restore vibrancy; acai berry and vitamin C to deliver youth-boosting antioxidants; oolong tea and Irish moss to defend against environmental damage; and lemongrass and oatmeal to gently cleanse and purify.' Plus the full-sized version is held within a stunning minimalistic bottle, and features a blissful scent of white freesia, golden amber, and warm musk. Needless to say I'm ready for my Sunday shower. 

Whish | Three Whishes Body Butter in Pomegranate – Full Size 150mL ($26.75)
If it wasn't for a long second glance I would have sworn that this body butter hailed from Be Delectable from Cake Beauty – the aesthetic and fonts used by both companies are astonishingly similar! Luckily the formula held within couldn't be more different. The Three Whishes Body Butter is one that truly surprised me with it's non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula, However, given the high price point, and a scent you'd expect from a Walmart body wash, it probably isn't a product I'll be reaching for. 

The Cynthia Rowley Creamy Lip Stain was the only product within this month's Birchbox that elicited some level excitement when I saw it. Cynthia Rowley packaging always leaves me smitten, and this tester did not disappoint. And although I anticipate losing this trial-sized lip stain in my bag all too frequently, I know that it won't be long before I hit pan and order the full size. The shade Heartthrob is the perfect bright red for my skin tone. The orange undertones help to warm my complexion, and the stain imparts serious pigment and lasting power, while remaining comfortable and creamy on the lips. A product worth checking out!

At the end of the day I commend Birchbox for portraying February as a month to celebrate all those we love, not simply a significant other – us single ladies need love too. But no matter how much love was poured into the making of the box itself or curating the products found inside, it simply wasn't worth the $15. Next month I plan to save my $15 and invest in another shade of the Cynthia Rowley Beauty Creamy Lip Stain, which ironically I suppose is what these boxes are for?    

Do you still subscribe to a beauty box? Do you think I should end things with Birchbox?

AM¥     XO

2 comments:

  1. Gosh I am still on the fence with these monthly boxes. I still don't see the money value in getting samples.

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    1. Honestly, I think you've been one of the smart ones. All I can think of is the other products I could have purchased using this money :(. So heart broken.

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