January 2016 - Top 5 Faves

Beginning this year I will pick my Top 5 favorite products from my subscription beauty boxes this month. The beauty boxes I received in January were IPSY, Birchbox, Glossybox and Beauty Box 5.

Here are my Top 5 favorite products --

theBalm Cosmetics- Mr. Write {Now} eyeliner pencil/ crayon eye-liner in Scott B. Bordeaux (IPSY)
Why it is a fave?
I love experimenting with different shades of eyeliner. This deep plum shade mimics a rich bordeaux wine and adds the perfect pop to your eyes. Bonus that it is a twist up so no sharpener required!

Eyeko - Fat liquid eye liner in Black (Birchbox)
Why is it a fave?
Do you ever dream of having the perfect, bold cat-eye? This eyeliner helps you flawlessly accomplish that. With one quick swipe, you achieve a thick, dark line that makes your eyes stand out.

Emite Makeup - Diamond Heart Illuminating base primer (Glossybox)
Why is it a fave?
Don't you love your primer? Don't you love your illuminator? Now what if they were combined into one, easy to use product? This Diamond Heart primer gives your face that standout illumination that we are all looking to achieve.

Nails, Inc - nail polish in Governor Crescent (Beauty Box 5)
Why is it a fave?
This dark purple hue is perfect for a mid-winter mani. It applies easily and with two coats you're ready to go!

Bodipure - Keratin gloves (Beauty Box 5)
Why it is a fave?
Dry, cracked hands are an unavoidable part of winter. This Keratin gloves help combat the winter weather woes. Put these on for a just-visited-the-spa softness on your hands.

Birchbox - January 2016 - The Year of ______

HELLO 2016 - New year to decide what you're going to do with your life. Birchbox is giving us that option with this box: The Year of ______ (you decide).

Even though the box comes with these cute stickers:

I decided that this year is : The Year of (beauty box) QUEEN

Whish: Three Wishes Body Butter in Almond

22ml/0.75 fl.oz.   value: $3.50

Beauty Protector: Leave-in conditioner

(No size on packaging).  Value: $3

The Whish body butter comes in cute packaging. I am not a fan of the almond scent, in general, but anyone who likes almond would enjoy the scent. This is parables free, sulfate free, phthalate free, DEA/TEA free and petrochemical free. Their formula moisturizes (organic Shea butter, organic raspberry butter, organic aloe), firms (organic seaweed extract), and purifies (organic rice bran oil). 

Leave-in conditioner is a necessity since curled hair has made a comeback. This protector has a pleasant, clean scent. The formula/ packaging says it protects and detangles. I always use up leave- conditioners within a month of receiving them.

Embryolisse: Lait-Creme Concentre, multi-function nourishing moisturizer

5ml/ 0.17 fl.oz.   value: $3

This little moisturizer sample comes from Embryolisse Laboratoires - a company with more than 65 years of experience of pharmaceutical skincare products. Their philosophy is to provide the skin with the essential requirements and maintaining the same demands in terms of effectiveness and tolerance. This same comes fully foiled so use the point top of the cap to open. The formula is light but it works well. There is also no noticeable scent.

Eyeko: Fat Liquid LIner in Black

*FULL SIZE* 3.5g/ 0.12oz.   Value: $16

I chose this Eyeko eyeliner for my January choice item since I am a big fan of liquid eyeliners. I have to say, I have never used a liquid liner like this before! While testing the product (shown above), I thought I was about to use a Sharpie on my eyes. The liner comes out very strong and even, almost like a fine tipped Sharpie marker. It has staying power and is easy to apply. If you don't have much experience with liquid liner, this would be a nice product to start with - just don't be too heavy handed. The easy application could influence some inexperience users to become raccoons instead of dramatic-lined goddesses.

Real Chemistry: Luminous 3-minute Peel

0.17fl.oz./ 5ml.  Value: $5

This peel works by massaging the clear liquid across your face with your fingertips. After a few swirls, it begins to become more solid/ gelatinous creating a peel that gloves your face. Leave it on for about 3 minutes and then rinse away. It removes dead skin and leaves your face re-energized.

I actually enjoyed that my Birchbox was not makeup loaded this month. The only actual makeup product I received was my monthly choice (Eyeko liquid liner). I love to try out different facial products to keep my skin fresh and I will never complain about leave in conditioners (as long as they don't smell awful). My January Birchbox had a value of $30.50 - not the highest value I've ever received but I will use all the different products.

HERE'S TO A BEAUTIFUL NEW YEAR :)

IPSY - January 2016 - All Eyes On You

The January IPSY Glam Bag is here and this month the theme is channeling "Art Deco".

With the theme "All Eyes On You" the bag is decorated with none other than.... A bunch of eyes!!

This cute multi-colored bag is adorned with mini faces, great for the inner art lover in all of us.

OFRA: Eyebrow pencil in Universal 

*FULL SIZE* 0.04oz.  Value: $13

theBalm: Mr. Write {Now} eyeliner pencil/ crayon eye-liner in Scott

*FULL SIZE* 0.28g/0.01oz      Value: $17

Top: OFRA eye-liner 

Bottom: Mr. Write {Now} 

With the on-going trend of fierce eyebrows, I'm always excited to receive pencils to define my brows. I continue to receive OFRA cosmetics products in my beauty boxes and the quality is decent. This is a regular style pencil that needs to be sharpened. It gives a nice, even color when applied and the universal color should work for almost everyone!

Eye-liner is always appearing in my beauty boxes, so I was excited to receive this trendy color instead of the typical black. This eye-liner comes wrapped in plastics, so if bold shades aren't your style, it is great for swapping. The pencil can be twisted up - so no sharpening required! The liner goes on smooth and the color pops without being overbearing. This is a great new look for my makeup collection.

Pixi by Petra: Mineral Eyeshadow Duo in Lavendar Bloom

0.75g/0.03oz each   Value: $6

This eyeshadow duo comes with a bronze shade and light purple shade. Both have a shimmery tone and complement one another. Both shades apply lightly and could work for a daily look. 

Skyn Iceland: Glacial Cleansing Cloths

10 Single-use cloths   Value: $5

I'm never a big fan of receiving cleansing cloths in my bags. I am always a fan of using good old water and actual remover, but these are good when a sink is not assessable. These are comparable to all other cleansing cloths and it says they have white willow bark and cucumber extract. 

Beau Gachis: smudge-tache brush

*FULL SIZE*.   Value: $9

You can never have too many makeup brushes. This smudge brush has bristle that are compacted together and just soft enough. So far the quality is good and it will be a welcome new addition to my morning routine.

Overall impression & Value:   $50

IPSY always provides a great value for their $10 glam bag. The bag is cute and youthful - something I can tote my art supplies around with. I enjoyed all the products I received except for the cleansing cloths - not sure why all the beauty boxes are loving them recently. My favorite product from this month is the dark purple eye-liner. I enjoy receiving shades other than the typical black. 

Like every month - I enjoyed my IPSY glam bag

Make sure to check out my Instagram @beautyboxqueen

AND Pinterest: BeautyBoxQueen :)

Beauty Box 5 - January 2016 - Ev'rythang Done

Another month, another little blue Beauty Box 5. This month's theme is "Ev'rythang Done"... Hair done, nails done...

This box is a bit special since it includes SIX items. Can't wait to dive in!

Bodipure: Keratin gloves

*FULL SIZE* one pair. Value: $5

HANDS DONE - What a great product to include to help hands recover from the cold, dry winter. These nail strengthening, skin nourishing pair of gloves leaves your hands soft and ready for the upcoming Spring.

Nails, Inc: nail polish in Governor Crescent

*FULL SIZE* 10ml/ 0.33 fl.oz.    value: $10

NAILS DONE - I have received this brand multiple times and I love the polish. This month came with a deep purple color - great for the winter season. Cannot wait to rock this rich hue.

SCRATCH: Accent manicure nail wraps

*FULL SIZE* $6

NAILS DONE - wha a cool new product! I've seen sets of nail wraps before but I've never tried any specifically for accent nails. These stylish designs come in gold and silver to provide a cute overlay on your favorite nail polish. I am excited to try these out with my next manicure.

Novex: Bamboo Sprout Deep Conditioning Treatment

30g/ 1.1oz.   Value: $0.50

HAIR DONE - "Hair Food"... I've never "fed" my hair before... This product is described as professional food therapy. I will be soon feeding my hair this new product that is made in Brazil. The packaging includes lots of information all over the packaging. This 3 minute treatment promises to strengthen my locks, I will post an update once completed!

Not Your Mother's Haircare: Plump for Joy thickening hair lifter

60ml/ 2 fl.oz.    value: $1.50

Salon Grafix: Freezing Hair Spray mega 

1.5oz/ 43g.   Value: $1.50

HAIR DONE - This month's box is filled with hair products. NYM hair products are always quality. This specific hair lifter is for fine, thin hair - the exact opposite of my mane. The packaging is cute and promises volume, strength and luminous shine. The formula gives my hair a little lift, but my hair is thick and hard to conquer. It also comes with a side of sweet scent.

HAIR DONE - This freezing hair spray now includes antioxidants, Vitamins A, B5, C and E, for healthy hair. It promises 10/10 max, mega hold strength. I can always use hairspray and this is the perfect size for travel. This aerosol spray has a light, familiar scent and does not leave your hair sticky. Bonus! It comes with a $1 off coupon for a 10oz product. 

Another month, another great box. BB5 remains one of my favorite beauty box subscriptions. This is the cheapest box I receive and it continues to impress me. While it does not have the highest value at $24.50, it included many staples that will all be ultiized. 

Glossybox - January 2016

I was so excited to see this light pink box appear this month. Even after being a subscriber for a year, Glossybox's presentation still blows me way. Between their cute boxes and amazing products, I'm going to be a subscriber for life!

This Glossybox has a great array of products for me to test - so let's dive in!

Beautiful Nutrition: Lemon Rinse Gentle Clarifying Treatment

Value: $3

I received this product in my BeautyBox5 a few months ago and fell in love with the lemony fresh scent. This is a pH balancing restorative rinse that says it "restarts the clock on healthy hair". Using the rinse cleans out all the product that builds up throughout the months. It is great to give your hair that lightweight, refreshed feel.

MeMeMe: Lip Glide in Playful Peach

*FULL SIZE*.  Value: $12.50

This lip glide goes on almost like a lip balm. It is lightweight and glides across your lips. The color provides lots of coverage and provides a nice pop of pink. It is described as a velvet finish lip color. The smooth application confirms their advertising. The packaging is also beautiful - much like everything that is given to sample by Glossybox. 

-417: Foot Nourishing Cream 

50ml/ 1.7oz.   Value:$8

Royal Apothic: Cream Creme To Go in Cutting Garden 

*FULL SIZE* 1.25fl.oz./ 35g.   Value: $14

It's not often that I receive foot cream, so this is a pleasant surprise! This product by -417 seems quite high-end. It has a thick consistency and is sure to make my little piggies soft and smooth. 

Again, another lovely packaged product. This Royal Apothic moisturizing body cream lives up to its brand. The lotion comes fully foiled, so the pointed cap is needed to open the tube. The Cutting Garden scent is floral and refreshing. And you can never complain about receiving a nice body cream during the cold, dry winter months. Plus - bonus! - full size!!

Emile Make Up: Diamond Heart Illuminating Base Primer

1.2fl.oz./ 15ml.  Value: $29

Score! A full size, illuminating base primer. This particular formula provides a soft focus. It can be worn alone or as a base for makeup. It is a light primer that makes your skin look radiant, smooth and uniform.

Another month, another great Glossybox! I love that I am able to try products that I would otherwise never find. The only product I had tried before from this box was the lemon rinse (given in Beauty Box 5). Overall, the products are high end and I will use all of them. This month's box holds a value of $66.50 - very impressive!

Walmart - Winter 2015 - Trendsetter

Walmart's quarterly beauty box is now available in two options: trendsetter and classic. I was originally subscribed to the trendsetter option because of my age. You have the option to subscribe to both, which I decided to do!!

Pure Silk - raspberry mist moisturizing shave cream
2.25 oz/ 64 g   value: $0.50

Pantene - Air Spray hairspray
1 oz/ 30 g   value: $0.50

This shave cream smells incredible, but I do tend to favor raspberry scented products. The rich lather protects against nicks and cuts while providing  close shave. The formula moisturizes, softens and nourishes you skin, leaving your skin feeling pampered.

The specialized formula for this hairspray is free from alcohol. It gives you strong hair that is still crushable. I love how lightweight it feels and the alcohol free factor does not leave your tresses dried out.

Neutrogena - healthy skin boosters facial cleanser
0.5 fl oz/ 14 ml    value: $0.50

Dial - 7 day moisturizing lotion
0.5 fl oz/ 14 ml   value: $1

I must have at least 5 of these cleansers from all my subscriptions! Luckily, I'm a fan. It is infused with antioxidant white tea and moisturizing vitamin E. The "boost" gives your skin softness, evenness and radiance.

I received the omega moisture formula. It is packed with sea berries that deeply hydrate your skin. The non-greasy formula is infused with vitamins and minerals to help make your skin healthy.

Nirvana Spa - body butter in coconut
50 ml/ 1.7 fl oz   value: $1.50

This body butter is packed with natural vitamins and real fruit goodness. The formula deeply nourishes your skin and leaves it looking healthy feeling amazingly soft. The coconut scent is heavenly and will have you dreaming of a beach.


Goody - slideproof elastics
8 elastics   value: $4

As a girl with long hair, I can never have too many elastics. These are designed with grips on the inside of the hair ties so it won't budge after styling. Great for throwing your hair in a ponytail and going about your daily activities without worry.


Ken Paves - You Are Beautiful volumizing shampoo and conditioner
7.5 ml/ 0.25 fl oz each   value: $1

Centrum - Vitamints
2 chewables   value: $0.50

Olay - Regenerist luminous tone perfect cream moisturizer

Jennifer Aniston - fragrance

This Ken Paves duo seems to be another staple I receive in beauty boxes. The shampoo has Aquaflex technology that expands your hair fiber which leaves your hair looking voluminous. The sunflower seed extracts helps protect color.  The conditioner contains oat peptide that moisturizes and repairs.

Finally, a multivitamin that you can enjoy like a mint! You can take it any time of the day without food or water. The Vitamints are packed with vitamins and minerals that support your energy, immunity, metabolism and overall well-being.

Use this Olay regenerist formula for two weeks to see a transformation. It is lightly-scented and fast-absorbing to provide you skin moisture and hydration. The formula evens your overall skin tone and can be used twice daily.

This Jennifer Aniston light scent will remind you of beach days and summer nights. It has a floral musk with hints of wood.

This Walmart beauty box has a total value of $9.50. Still a great value for only $5. This box did contain quite a few small samples, but provided a nice variety.