Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Walmart Beauty Box Fall 2015 Review

My Walmart Beauty Box has arrived for the fall season, and while I am not too excited about the surprises inside, it is always nice to receive drugstore brands. This subscription box comes out every three months and only costs $5 for each one. This tends to have a ton of samples and some deluxe sizes, and the value is always greater than the cost, which isn't easy to do with drugstore samples. While I am sure I won't find anything that will change my life, I am excited to see some cheaper drugstore brands that could replace what I've already been buying. 


I really wish that Walmart Beauty Box included an itemized card with all of their samples, especially since they only send out one box. Most of these items are self explanatory, but for some of the samples, it would be nice to have some description about the product. Also, it would be nice to see the prices for the full size item. Normally, I have to look each of them up. I am still excited to see what this box has in store for me this month, and I can't wait to see what samples I get to try out this season.  



$9.06 - 3 razors   ($3.02 Value)

This is a pretty good value for this $5 box. Razors are always so expensive, especially ones with multiple blades, so this one is really nice. I didn't notice anything special with the curve, but it did leave a nice close shade. I also the like moisturizing strips. It saves me the extra step of applying shaving cream, and leaves my skin a little less dry. Even though this isn't really a new item for me, this was nice to receive because it will definitely be used.  



$4.39 - 1 oz   ($1.10 Value)

Since my acne has gotten worse over the last year, I've been really into any charcoal scrubs or face washes. In addition to that, I am a really into masks. I love how you can do these from your home with huge results in only a small amount of time. This mask was really great. It heats on your skin instantly, and while they say to only leave it on your face for one minute, I left it on my face until it was dry, about three minutes. This did seem to deep clean my face, but my acne wasn't really better. I do really like heating aspect, but I wish it did a better job at what clearing my face. 



$6.84 - 10 fl oz   ($0.34 Value)

I have been getting these shower moisturizer samples so often lately, and they really are a great idea. In the winter, my skin is so dry, and I have to apply moisturizer after every single shower, and sometimes multiple times a day. These moisturizers work really well, and they really cut down the time I spend apply lotion. The also smell great. I do still have to apply lotion to my problem areas, such as my feet and elbows, and I leave my face for my expensive lotion. I would totally purchase a full bottle of this, since it works so well, and I absolutely hate dry, itchy, winter skin. 



$12.96 - 6.3 oz    ($0.29 Value)

Besides being a really small sample, this was a nice product to try. Teeth whitening products are usually so expensive, so you either buy something that doesn't work, or you just never know. This whitening system required a normal whitening toothpaste, and a top gel that does the most work. My teeth were noticeably whiter after one use, and I also like how clean my mouth felt. This whitening duo does so much more than toothpaste, yet takes less time than your whitening strips. Also, it is a pretty great value. 


NIVEA Extended Moisture Body Lotion

$5.30 - 16.9 fl oz   ($0.04 Value)

I wasn't too excited about this product since it is a common drugstore lotion, and I know I've tried this brand a million times. That being said, I do like the scent, and I feel like this worked a little better than your normal lotion. This has kinda a freebie feel to it, since it is such a cheap sample, and the product isn't that new or exciting. At least I got a use out of it, though. 


Dove Advanced Care Beauty Finish Anti-Perspirant Deodorant

$6.68 - 2.6 oz   ($1.28 Value)

I am already a fan of Dove and their deodorants work well and leave your underarms soft. I do feel like this deodorant works a little longer than your typical deodorant, and the scent is perfect for the underarm area. This sample isn't too special, but it will definitely get used. This will be nice for travel, or one to stick in my gym bag. 




$3.97 - 13.5 fl oz   ($0.53 Value)

I've heard really great things about this body wash, but I've never been sold on their sexual branding. I should've gone in head first, because this body wash is really great for a drug store brand. It has such a luxurious smell, and I love how it lathers up, yet still feels creamy on your skin. Now that I know how great this product is, I will definitely pick it up the next time I need a body wash. 



$6.48 - 33.8 fl oz   ($0.19 Value)

This is another sample that feels like a freebie to me. It is a cheap sample, and I've tried this brand over and over before. I do like how it makes my mouth feel super clean, though, and the taste isn't too overpowering. This sample would be a great travel item to throw in my purse for those heavy garlic meals or in my overnight bag. 



$3.74 - 17 oz   ($0.33 Value)

This is another item that I've tried many times before, and really didn't care too much about. It leaves my hair way too crispy and without movement. That would be good if it is completely up, but that is rarely ever the case. I've found so many other great hairsprays that both have a strong hold and movability. This will go to a friend or my sister.  



$7.95 - 0.21 oz   ($6.06 Value) 

This is the second sample I've received of this mascara, and I am really happy about it. This mascara is really nice. It separates, lengthens, and creates major volume. I think this is a great everyday mascara, and I could use it alone it works so well. Neutrogena is such a great brand, and this mascara proves it. Once my two samples are gone, I will definitely purchase some more. It is a great price, and a great drug store item. 


Avenue Positively Radiant Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 30

$11.49 - 2.5 fl oz   ($1.38 Value)

This is finally another sample that I haven't sampled before. I am all about finding the best facial moisturizers, and this one works better than I could imagine. It is the perfect weight that moisturizes well, but doesn't leave anything too heavy on my face. Also it improves complexion and evens skin tone. I love face lotions that do double duty like that. The smell is nice and fresh, too. This is a great item to put in my makeup bag while I travel, and the next time I need a facial moisturizer, I think I will definitely be purchasing this. It isn't that cheap, but it is a good price for the product. 


I have to say, many of these samples weren't new to me, nor were they too exciting. I know that this box focuses on drug store brands, but I don't know why they are giving us items that are no way new. Many of these items I have either purchased or tried before. I estimate this box to be worth $14.56, which isn't bad for a $5 box. I think the deodorant, mascara, and razor make this box worth the price, and it was really nice to try the whitening duo, body wash, face moisturizer, and face mask. The other items were just alight for me. Since this is only $5 for a seasonal box, which is only $20 a year, I feel like it is way worth keeping it going for a while. 


If you would like to try Walmart Beauty Box for yourself, just click here. It only costs $5, and you will get a new box every season. 

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Bulu Box Weight Loss October 2015 Review

My Bulu Box is here for the month of October, and once again, I've been trying to get back into a fitness routine, so this will definitely help motivate me. Bulu Box is a health and fitness subscription box that ships to your door for $10 a month. It always has at least five items which are mostly samples, but there are sometimes full size items. There is also a Weight Loss version, which focuses solely on losing weight, which is the one I've been going with recently. Also, I found a coupon that gives me the box for $5 for the run of my subscription. That makes it so cheap and so worth the money. 


Along with the samples, each box ordered gives you reward points to spend in the shop. Also, if you rate the samples, you get an additional dollar for each review. I always save up those points and spend them on items that I loved from previous samples. It is a great way to make the most of your box, and it really makes the box worth the price. I've been able to get some great products for free from the shop that continues to push me forward with my fitness routine. 



$23.99 - 12 bars   ($2.00 Value)

I am a little disappointed in this sample for me. I received the tomato and basil bar in a previous box, and I didn't really care for it. When I reviewed the item, they asked what other flavors I'd be interested in, and I checked every flavor but this one, because I hate olives. I am not even going to try this, because I will just waste it, so instead I'll throw it in the pantry and hope that someone else goes after it. I feel like I am wasting my time reviewing these products, because they don't take in account what I have to say. At least I get reward points. Hopefully the other products will be something I'll be interested in. 


Runa Guayusa Tea Cinnamon Lemongrass

$35.99 - 96 bags   ($0.75 Value)

This was not only the perfect flavor for these cool fall months, but they produced a good solid concentrative energy that let me push through those last few hours at work. I drank this right after lunch, when my energy is a little low, and it made me feel satisfied, but also helped me concentrate through piles of work. This was a little stronger of tea than I am used to, but I do like how it is packed with antioxidants, polyphonies, and flavonoids. Not only is this drink giving me energy and curving my hunger for sweet, but it is great for me. The price is pretty decent, but I wish I could purchase them in smaller amounts. 



$59.00 - 90 capsules   ($2.00 Value)

The product promises to help your body relax after a long day, and get it ready for tomorrow. These capsules do so much: promote rest, help with mood and stress, cleanses, boosts metabolism, and controls appetite. There are so many night that I have a hard time winding down, especially when I'm out late hanging with friends, and I can always feel it in the morning. Also, I like how this has the added benefits of boosting your metabolism and suppressing appetite. I took this when I was both really hungry and wound up, and this did what it promised. I could honestly get used to taking these every night, but it is a little pricey for a one month supply. That is really too bad, because I would be so happy with a full supply of this item. 



$29.99 - 72 caplets   ($1.67 Value)

I don't normally believe in the hype of these supplements, but these really did give me great energy to complete a hard workout after a long day at work. Also, they really cut down some of my cravings. I wasn't eating everything in front of me while taking these samples. I didn't notice the supplement combating aging or stress, but I sure it does, and those are two great additional qualities. This also promises to increase your metabolism. What doesn't it do? I think this is a great all around supplement to really promote losing weight, working out, and feeling great. I really enjoyed this sample. 


Tiger Balm Ultra Strength Pain Relieving Ointment

$12.99 - 18 g   ($2.89 Value)

This had great reviews, and I really didn't understand why. But, after one try, I got it! This Tiger Balm has a texture like coconut oil, and you use it by rubbing it into any muscle aches on your body. I had a really tight and painful knot going down my back, and I rubbed this right down the muscle. It tingled at first, then my back was numb and the pain was gone. I slept so well that night without the pain, but I also woke up feeling so much better. It didn't take it away completely, but it helped so much. I used it again the next night, and it helped even more. I could totally get down with this product, and it would be the best way to get you back on your feet after a workout injury. 


Besides the nutritional bar, I love this month's box. The tea is a perfect calorie free snack, those supplements make it so easy to skip snacking and have the energy to workout, and the balm worked so well I don't know how I lived without. This box has a value of $9.31, which is great because first, I only paid $5 for this box, and second, I received an additional $7.50 to spend in the shop from purchasing the box and reviewing the products. That makes this box really worth $16.81. That is pretty good, but more than the value, this box really gets me up and moving to work towards a healthier me. 


If you would like to try Bulu Box for yourself, just click here. It's also a great gift for the athletic person in your life. 

PopSugar Must Have October 2015 Review

Yea! My PopSugar Must Have is here for the month of October, and I can't wait to see what is inside. While a little expensive, this is my favorite subscription box to receive in the mail every month. It contains the best and trendiest items in beauty, fashion, housewares, fitness, books, and food. While it is $39.95, the value is always over $100. Also, what better way to treat yourself every month with little surprises. 


The inspirations for the month of October are Autumn, Restful Nights, Cozy, Irresistible, and Breast Cancer Awareness. I really like these themes, and hope that this box is full of times that will get me really cozy for fall. Also, anything that has to do with restful nights is perfect for me. I'm guessing there are going to be a few items that will get us ready for bed. I am hoping for a lavender spray or slippers. I have never had a friend or family member impacted by breast cancer, but I am glad that PopSugar is teaming up with the cause this month, and I hope that this will bring even more attention to the disease. 


Savvy Sleepers Luxury Satin Pillowcase in White Russian

$36.00

This pillowcase isn't something I expected from this box, but something that I've both been wanting and meaning to purchase. It is super soft, and it also feels nice and cooling on my head. Also, satin is recommend to prevent night wrinkles, hair breakage, and flatness. I also feel like it helps me breath easier at night, since cotton tends to hold onto dust and mites. This will definitely help me get a more restful night, but I do have one complaint. I wish this came in a set, because I tend to sleep with two pillows. Also, it looks weird having two separate pillowcases on my bead. Maybe, I'll just buy another. 



$25.00

I love that PopSugar includes books in their boxes every once in a while. It reminds me to read, and they also tend to always be something I am interested. I love Mindy Kaling straight from The Office, and she has continued to grow on me. I love how she is so funny, yet doesn't have the "perfect" body or the ideal skin color the you normally see on TV. I have yet to read this entire book, but the few essays I've read our so funny. She is totally relatable, and I can't wait to read the rest. The value on Amazon is closer to $15, but at least this is something I'll use. Also, a book is the perfect way to get cozy on a cool fall night and the perfect way to calm your day for a restful night. 



$15.00

These socks aren't really my style, but they are super cozy. I also like that they have the no slip feature, which kinda reminds me of the hospital, but makes these socks more like slippers. I do wish these were in a different color, but I know they are pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. I will definitely wear these at night when its a little chilly, and they will do the job of keeping my feet warm. Also, since they are technically socks, I don't have to take them off when I go to bed like my slippers. 


The Honest Company Sea Salt + Sugar Body Scrub 

$16.95 - 9.5 oz

I am already a big fan of this brand, and I love any and all body scrubs. This brand only creates products that are as good for you as they are for the environment. Also, the ingredients tend to be all natural. I think that the lavender is a good touch, and is the perfect product to use at night. It will help calm you down and get you ready for a restful night. The body scrub works so well, and it also leaves your skin moisturized with a light oil finish. This is so much better that those that dry out your skin, especially during these dryer months. This body scrub leaves the skin irresistible.  



$8.00

While these are very cute, and have fun sayings, I don't really understand the need or the use. If I were to give a bottle of liquor or wine as a present, I wouldn't put it in a brown bag. I'd either leave it out, or I'd put it in something nicer. I guess these would work as a place to put a bottle of liquor when you want to shield it from others, but I just don't really see a time I would do that. I guess I will still try to use them. Maybe my friends will think they are nicer than I do. If not, I guess I will just hand them over to someone else to use. These are a complete miss for me. I also don't understand how they go along with the theme. Oh, well. I can't be completely satisfied with everything. 



$1.59 - 2 waffels

I wasn't too excited about this food item, until I gave it a try. I would have to say, I became quickly addicted, and they are so irresistible. The waffle is really thin and on the softer side, and the inside is filled with a thin layer of creamy caramel. I don't know what it is about these, but I could not stop eating them. Also, since I don't tend to eat a whole lot of sweets, this was really a treat. I would say that I prefer the healthier food items in this box, but this was so yummy. Also, you should treat yourself once in a while. 


It's a 10 Miracle Leave-in Product

$11.96 - 2 fl oz

I've seen this leave-in product everywhere lately, but I never thought to give it a shot. I just had no idea how loved of a product this was. This promises to detangle, add shine, and stop frizz. Besides the shine, I could really see this product working some magic. It also has a light, pleasant smell. This is listed as a Special Extra, but it is still such a great addition to the box. I don't see how this goes along with any of the inspirational themes, but it is a great hair product. Also, I saw this product for a much cheaper price. The suggested retail is a little high compared to even Target. I did like how this left my hair feeling soft, and it was the perfect leave-in conditioner to make brushing after the shower so much easier. 


Danielle Stevens Monogram Gift Card

$40.00

I normally don't care for any of the added gift cards, because normally you have to pay money in order to receive an item. For this card, that is not the case. There are a few items that you can purchase from the site below that amount, and while nothing is really my style, I could use this card to purchase a present for my mother or sister. While the card value is good, and the item would be a full necklace, this addition is just not for me. On the other hand, this will make someone else in my family smile for sure. 


This definitely isn't my favorite box of all time, but I still really loved a few of the items. The body scrub, the book, and those caramel waffles were amazing. The pillow is nice, the leave-in hair spray was a nice extra addition, and those socks will be so nice to get cozy in. Those liquor bags are really cute, but I just don't know when they will ever get used. I really liked the theme and felt like mostly all the items went well with the inspirations. This box has a value of $154.50, which includes the gift card. That is a really good value, but I think some of the items were priced a little higher than your average store. I do think this box was definitely worth the price, and I can't wait to see what next month has in store for me. 


If you would like to try this box, just click here. There are so many fun surprises in each month's box, and I always find great products that I just love. 

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

BoxyCharm October 2015 Review - Face of the Moon

My BoxyCharm has arrived for the month of October, and I can't wait to see all the full size beauty products it has in store for me this month. BoxyCharm is a monthly subscription box that comes with five full size products along with a theme for only $21 for each box. They tend to have a value of over $100, which is such a great value. I love the fall seasons, so I really hope that there are some fall themed products to go along with the theme. 


This month's theme is Faces of the Moon. I really like this theme and how well it goes with this month and how well you can match up beauty items to go along with the theme. We not only had a lunar eclipse this month, but a full moon is often associated with bringing the dark side out of people and is always associated with the best holiday of the fall, halloween. The theme relates to beauty products, because a part of the moon is always hidden, just like us, but this is the time to let all of our faces show. These products will allow us to really enhance our natural beauty, and really let us show off our true selves. 



$64.00 - 1.75 oz   Full Size

Wow! This mask is insane. First, this is a full size product with a great value. Second, I love face masks so much, and they are my number one favorite item to receive in my subscription boxes. Lastly, this makes smells great and leaves my skin super clean, rejuvenated, and bright. They say to layer it on thick, but you really don't need a lot to do that. It automatically goes on thick, so it will take quite a bit of time to use up this entire container. This smells like a product you would get from a health and wellness store, which makes sense, because it is cruelty free and vegan. If this were the only item in this month's box, I would be completely satisfied. This month's box is already killing it!


Lord & Berry Line/Shade Eyeliner in Dark Black

$18.00 - 0.03 oz   Full Size

I really like the Lord & Berry line, but I've already received their eyeliner in a few other subscription boxes. I guess I can't complain, because their eyeliners are really nice. They go on really smoothly, they last forever, and it gives a nice strong black line. Since I have a few of these already, I will probably just hold onto this one until my others run out, or pass it along to a friend. I really like this item, though, and it goes well with the all black theme I am starting to take notice of. Good product and great value. 


Bellapierre Cheek and Lip Stain in Coral

$19.99 - 0.176   Full Size

This is the one item that I wasn't too excited about in this month's box, but it is already growing on my. I prefer powders for my cheeks, because these stains always look a little fake on my face. This color is the perfect shade for my lips, though, and I like how the stain sticks to my lips and lasts forever. I could wear this alone, or apply lip gloss on top to give my lips a little shine. I have a few bellapierre product already, and this one goes along with their high quality and high pigmented products. Also, this full size product is such a great value. I do not understand how BoxyCharm does it. Also, this lip stain will really let a new side of me show. 



$12.00 - 0.5 oz   Full Size

I usually don't like receiving nail polishes in my subscription boxes, because I have so many, and I tend to not wear color on my nails that often. That being said, I really like this color, and is the perfect color for fall. Also, it is called Boneyards, so I just can't help but wear it this time of year. I didn't like that it took three layers to really get the color to show through on my nails, but after those three layers, my nails looked really great and ready for fall. I put this on my fingers, but I think this would look great on my toes too. Too bad no one will be seeing those again until summer. This is a great product, and goes perfectly with the theme and the black color coordinated products. 


Doucce Punk Volumizer Mascara in Black

$24.00 - 13.5 ml   Full Size

I was reading reviews on this product, and people didn't really like it too much. I have to disagree. This mascara isn't your typical separator and lengthening mascara, but instead creates some cool texture and volume. It does clump just a little, but if you brush through your lashes enough, those will go away. This "punk" mascara also goes with the theme really well and defiantly lets me show off a new side of me. October lets us show off a different and darker side, so this mascara is perfect to use all month long. Plus, it's another full size item at an excellent value. I wouldn't have paid that much, but I'm happy to have this item in my makeup collection. 


This month's box is so awesome, and BoxyCharm continues to surprise me. I really like the theme, every single one of the products, and I love how BoxyCharm knows this is the perfect month to darken things up a little. I am going to devour that face mask, and the mascara and nail polish will definitely get used all the time by me. This box has a value of $137.99. This box only costs $21, so that is the best value. I've only been receiving BoxyCharm for a few months, but it is quickly becoming one of my all favorite boxes to get in the mail each month. I can't wait to see what they have in store next month. 


If you would like to try BoxyCharm for yourself, just click here

Sunday, October 18, 2015

Ipsy Glam Bag October 2015 Review - Alter Ego

My Ipsy Glam Bag for the month of October is here, and I can't wait to see what products they have in store for me this month. Ipsy is a monthly subscription bag that offers five full size, deluxe, and sample size items in a different makeup bag for only $10 a month. These bags seem to be hits or misses for me, but the value is usually really good, and I've been introduced to a few products I really like. I hope this month is a good one. I can't wait to see what is inside.  


This month's theme is Alter Ego. I actually like this month's theme and could really see beauty products working well with this. I also like how this theme goes along with Halloween, which is my all time favorite holiday. Since the theme is Alter Ego, I am expecting makeup I would rarely use, though. I hope that this month's products are new and creative items that I would still use on a regular basis. While I do like how the bag has two different sides, I am not the biggest fan. This will be another one that I will gift or give away. There have been quite a few misses for bags for me lately, so hopefully the next one will be something I like. 


This month's bag seems pretty full with some well known brands that I really like and some new ones that seem to be organic and all-natural. I am really interested in checking out some of these products, and I can't wait to dig in. I hope that this is a good month, since Ipsy doesn't always deliver the perfect products for me. This month is looking good so far, though. 


theBalm Cosmetics Meet Matt(e) Hughes Long-Lasting Liquid Lipstick in Committed

$17.00 - 0.25 fl oz   ($2.72 Value)

theBalm is one of my all time favorite brands. Not only are the products great and the colors temporary, but they always have the most cleaver and cute designs. This lipstick acts like a moisturizing lip stain, and the color is the perfect way to enhance my normal lips without looking like I'm wearing makeup. I really like the matte effect, which can be glossed up a little bit with their read my lips lip gloss line. Since I tend to never go through an entire lip product, this sample is more than I'll ever use. The lipstick does dry out my lips a little after it dries, but not as bad as other products. It is worth it, since it lasts forever. This is a great sample for me, but not a great way to embrace my alter ego. 


Coastal Scents Xpress Line Cosmetic Pencil in Black

$4.95 - 0.04 oz   Full Size

I've received a few products from Coastal Scents in my subscription boxes before, and while I really enjoyed those last few, this liner is just not for me. The line is pretty hard and difficult to apply. It pulls at my skin when I try to dry a line. It does look nice once on, though, and it does have lasting power. That being said, I will probably never reach for this instead of any of my other eyeliners. I feel like Ipsy sends me an eyeliner almost every month, and since I only wear eyeliner once in a while, this product just won't get used by me. Since I don't love this liner, I will probably just give it away, especially since I have so many others from all my other boxes.


Balanced Guru Scrub Me Body Scrub

$22.00 - 8 oz   ($2.75 Value)

This is a surprise item from Ipsy this month. That is not a bad thing. This is a product that I would lust over from a health and wellness store, but decide not to splurge. I love all natural products, and this body scrub will defiantly go to use by me. Besides being a little dry, this scrub leaves my skin soft and cleansed. The scrub is nice and gritty and reminds me of coffee grounds, which is a natural exfoliant. I also am a fan of the natural spearmint and ginger scents. I hope Ipsy keeps it up and continues to add these products in with their normal makeup samples. This product is so fun, and I am all about the all natural elements. 


Nourish Organic Pure Hydrating Argan Face Serum

$23.99 - 0.7 oz   ($17.14 Value)

This is yet another organic product, and one that is perfect for me. I love face serums and how they hydrate, brighten, and even out my skin tone. I always apply some after I wash my face at night, right before moisturizer. This serum is a little more oily than I'm used to, but it feels like high quality. I can also notice a difference after only one use. This particular serum also helps reducing signs of stress and fatigue. While this is a deluxe sample, which will last me forever, the full size item comes in a spray bottle, which I feel would be much easier to apply the product since the oil base seems to get everywhere. I really enjoy this sample and will enjoy using it to it's last drop.   


Laura Geller New York Baked Blush-n-Brighten in Tropic Hues

$27.50 - 0.176 oz   ($6.25 Value)

I received a baked eyeshadow in a previous bag, and while the grayish tint wasn't my favorite, this blush is right up my alley. The blush looks so natural, brightens my face, and lasts all day. This color is the exact one I would've picked out for myself, too. While this isn't another deluxe sample, it is a healthy size for a blush. I couldn't use all of it up if I tried. This is another item that won't help me find my alter ego, but I'd rather have an item I can wear all the time anyways. This blush is soooo good. 


Overall, I am really liking this month's glam bag. The blush, face serum, body scrub, and liquid lipstick are perfect for me. I am not in love with the eyeliner, but that is alright. It will make a nice "just because" gift to one of my sisters or friends. I estimate this month's bag to be worth $33.84. That is a little low for the normal Ipsy bag, but still a really great value for a $10 box. Ipsy has been getting better and better every month, and I can't wait to see what products Ipsy has in store for me next month, even if the makeup bag and theme aren't the best for me. 


If you would like to try Ipsy for yourself, just click here. It is only $10 a month and is such a great value full of surprises.