October Favorites

I didn't get around to doing a September favorites so this is more of an September/October favorites post. I haven't been wearing a lot of different makeup the last few months. I did perform with my troupe a few times though. We danced a 1940s Golden Era Bellydance piece so I've been doing a retro look a lot which is where most of my favorite products come from.

If anyone is interested in a tutorial for this look let me know. It's pretty easy and always looks glamorous. Anyhoo, on to the October favorites!

Eyeko Skinny Liner, Ardell Wispies, Besame Crimson Rouge, e.l.f. Tinted Lip Moisturizer, & Benefit They're Real! Mascara

• Eyeko Skinny Eyeliner in Black I got this back in my July Birchbox it was one of the few items I got from Birchbox that I absolutely loved and one of the very few full sized items I ever got. Anyhoo, this is a felt tipped liner that glides on smoothly and is long lasting. It makes it really easy to achieve that winged liner look. It comes in several different colors. There's a purple I keep talking myself out of buying. It's gorgeous but I don't know when I'd ever wear it. You can buy it at Sephora or Birchbox for $15.
• Ardell Wispies Love love love these falsies. They're big and dramatic but still give that soft wide-eyed look. You can find Ardells in most drugstores and Target for around $4.
• Besame Crimson Rouge I got this is as a sample in my August Beauty Army kit. Besame Cosmetics is all about the vintage retro look with their products and their packaging. This cream blush is much drier than other cream blushes I've tried. It works great though. Just dab a little bit on and blend it out and you have the perfect vintage looking flush. The full size of this is $22 and you can find it at Besame Cosmetics or Beauty Army.
• e.l.f. Moisturizing Lip Tint SPF8 in Rose I usually carry around a ridiculous amount of lippies in my purse. So I've been trying to use up some products and cull the herd. I rediscovered this and have been wearing it a lot. Rose is a darker pink color. I find it much more pigmented than other tinted lip moisturizers/lip balms that I've tried. Fairly well moisturizing and the color is long lasting. These are $3 on the e.l.f. website and I think you can find these in Target.
• Benefit They're Real! Mascara I got this sample in my September Little Black Bag. I really didn't want to love it because the full size is $23. I have a hard time finding a mascara that doesn't give me panada eyes even though I only wear mascara on my top lashes. This mascara delivers length and stays put all day. Love it! I have about $10 worth of Birchbox points to cash in so I'll probably buy this. You can also find it pretty much everywhere... Benefit, Sephora, and Ulta.

I don't normally talk about music but the eagerly awaited new album from The 69 Eyes is finally out! The 69 Eyes are a Finnish Goth rock/metal band. The new album is so good. I've been listening to it two or three times a day. Here's the video for the single "Red."  My favorite track is actually "Black." You can buy this on Amazon as a CD or download. The Itunes version features a bonus track which is a duet with Kat Von D.

September Birchbox

If you've been reading my blog the last few months, you know that I've had a pretty tumultuous relationship with Birchbox. I finally decided that this month would be the month that would decide if we were going to break up or stay together.

• Vastanti Brighten Up! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator 20g deluxe sample (Full Size Retail $ 34)Vasanti’s multi-action exfoliator includes both enzymes and micro crystals, plus healing natural ingredients. The result? Renewed, decongested skin without any redness.  Wow that's a name! I thought my skin looked brighter after using this but I don't really care for the gritty texture. I'll probably finish up the tube at some point but I don't see myself buying this.
• Fekkai Technician Color Care Shampoo & Conditioner Foil packs (Full Size Retail $28 8oz)  Plant-based proteins keep color-treated looks looking true-to-hue, while moisture-restoring avocado oil hydrates dry, brittle strands. A potent blend of peach, apricot, and callendula flower extracts helps protect hair from discoloration and fading. Foil packs for shampoo are really hard to open in the shower. grr. I have actually been using this shampoo conditioner for the last month or so. I actually bought a sample kit after I fell in love with the Fekkai Gloss in my March Sample Society (that sample was a true deluxe size. I'm still using it after all these months and I use it regularly). I like this formula but I don't know if I like it enough to fork over $28 a bottle.
• Twistband Hair Tie 1 full size (Full Size Retail $18 12ct) Each Twistband is made of high-quality elastic that keeps braids, buns, and ponytails secured. Because they’re thicker than regular hair ties, they don’t leave crimps in hair.  Well that sounds nice and these may actually work if you have a normal amount of hair. Even after getting mine thinned out, I have a LOT of hair. I could only wrap this around my hair twice. Instead of a perky and cute ponytail, I got limp and sad. Some ladies mentioned that their cats loved these. Mia is just about as interested in it as am. Not to mention this is pink. I don't a single article of clothing or accessory that is pink and I'd like to keep it that way. 
• Birchbox & Color Club Custom Collection Insta This! Deluxe Sample (Full Size Retail $8) We designed this share-worthy custom collection with Color Club for all the social media addicts out there. You’ll be inspired to tweet, pin, tag, and post these four gorgeous shades with your followers.  The only thing I feel inspired to Instagram about this is a big sad face. Every time Birchbox gets a new batch of Color Club polishes, I get one. I'm really not that interested in nail polish and this color just is not something I see myself wearing. To the trade list it goes. 
• Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25+ 3ml Deluxe Sample (Full Size Retail $32 25ml) A moisturizer, sunscreen, and treatment serum all-in-one, this tinted BB cream even helps hide imperfections—so there’s no need for foundation or cover-up.  These have been making the Birchbox rounds for a few months as well. When they first started appearing, subscribers were getting near empty tubes. Mine was about three quarters full which is a decent amount for trying this out. I love Korean BBs. I wear my Holika Holika nearly everyday. I've also tried and really liked Skin79. I wasn't really into this one. The coverage wasn't as great as some of the other BBs I've tried. The color is just ever so slightly too dark. Normal people (non makeup obsessed) would probably not even notice but I do and it kinda bothers me.
• The Brush Guard Variety Pack  Lifestyle extra 3ct (Full Size $5.50 4ct) The cross-stitched plastic guard holds the shape of a makeup brush. It also protects it from dust and dirt. And the snug fit keeps all our favorite tools safe. Try the ¼” for your shadow or liner brushes, and the ⅖” size for blush accents. We like the ¾” guard for foundation brushes, and the 1” for powder or Kabuki brushes to keep your all-over application tools extra clean. I actually haven't tried these out yet. It seems like a good idea though. I can't see myself actually spending money on these though. Usually when I travel with my brushes, I put them in a case by themselves so they're already protected.

There was also a digital download for some Tristan Prettyman tracks. Pretty cool if you're into that kind of music. I listened to the previews and decided it wasn't worth the space on my hard drive. 

Birchbox teamed up with Madewell clothing and put together a little fall fashion guide. I don't take pains to be on trend every season. I like what I like and that's that. They included a $25 "gift card" (good on purchases of $75 or more) to redeem at Madewell. To me their clothing was a little pricey and boring. They also only carry up to a size 12. I can sometimes where a 12 on my top half but no way on the bottom half. My code is up for grabs if anyone wants it just leave me a message. 

So what's the final verdict?! This is definitely a better box than last month. There are some products I like but it's too little too late. This will be my last Birchbox for awhile. I'm consistently happy with Sample Society and I've liked my last two Beauty Army kits. Sure it's only $10 a month but that adds up and I'd rather save my money or buy a few products I really like instead. 

August Birchbox FAIL!

After having a fairly decent Birchbox last month, this month's box is absolute failure. This month's theme was Back To school and I'm not really sure how my box relates to that. Birchbox also partnered up with Pencils of Promise to donate 15% of the proceeds from the Birchbox shop. Pencils of Promise builds schools in Central America (and I don't mean Kansas). That's nice and all but I'm sure there are school districts here in the US that could use that donation as well. I live in county where the school district has pretty much been gutted by budget cuts. Anyhoo, enough politics, I received the dreaded Box #6.

August Birchbox

• Viva La Juicy Le Fleur Perfume sample 0.05fl oz. (Full Size Retail 2.25oz $70) The uplifting scent opens with a sparkling cascade of mandarin and wild berries. Next, sweet notes of honeysuckle, gardenia petals, and jasmine peek through, followed by a lingering trace of waterlily. This was in all the boxes this month. I don't hate it but I don't particularly love it either. This will probably go in the trade pile. 
• Beauty Fixation Make Up Remover 3 QTips (Full Size Retail 20ct $5) Each swab is soaked with an aloe vera rich formula to nourish your skin, while gently breaking up long-wear makeup. The thin swab applicator fixes minor beauty blunders in a pinch and can be tossed when you’re done. Touch up and go! Please try to hold your applause until the end. That's a whole 3 Qtips with makeup remover in them. I have a pack of these from Almay. I haven't tried these yet but really nothing to get excited about. *Added: I have learned that the boxes with the other varieties of these Qtips (nail polish remover, lip conditioner, etc) all received the full size version. What's up with that?*
• Schick Hyrdo Silk Razor (Lifestyle Extra) Oh yay a razor! Never tried one of those before. There are some coupons on the back as well. I can throw this in my bag when travelling I suppose. Again, nothing to get excited about.
• Comodynes Self-Tanning Intensive Wipes  2 ct (Full Size 8 ct $ 14.99) Made of natural viscose fibers, these napkin-sized towelettes come pre-soaked with a paraben-free, moisturizing formula that works with the natural proteins in your skin to give you a convincing tan.  I got these in my Beauty Box 5 way back in March. I am proud to be pale. I do not tan naturally. I burn to a crisp. I avoid sunlight as much as possible. People also mistakenly take me for someone much younger by about 6-8yrs. (I'm not saying this to be immodest. It just happens a lot). You can connect the dots on your own. I wish more women would accept who they are and give up this fake tan nonsense. If you can't tan naturally you look ridiculous. I find naturally darker or tan skin quite beautiful. I have to admit that every now and then I get jealous that I can't pull off some bold colors but it's all part of accepting who you are. 
• Comodynes Hydra-Tanning Face Moisturizing Summer Glow 2x Foil packs 0.10 fl oz (Full Size retail 1.35 fl oz. $20.98) Rich in vitamins E and F, this quick-absorbing lotion provides skin with continuous hydration. It gives you a buildable tan—if you use it every day, the color will progressively get more noticeable over time. Yay more self-tanner. See previous rant. This is second month in a row I've received foil packets. Foil packets are not deluxe samples. 
• DDF Brightening Cleanser 2 fl oz. (Full Size Retail 8oz $38) A cocktail of potent active ingredients works to fade the look of brown spots, scars, and redness while also leaving skin fresh and smooth. In addition to naturally brightening botanicals like mulberry bark, licorice root, and peach leaf, the formula has exfoliating glycolic and salicylic acids to refine skin’s texture and stave off blemishes. I don't have dark spots or any noticeable redness. So while this product isn't geared toward me specifically, I'll still use it. I used it last night and didn't notice anything special. I'll put it in line with the others. I have at least 7 more face wash samples from subscription boxes. *Added: Two different sizes of this were sent out as well. 2.0z and 4.0z. What's up with sending two different sizes of the same product?*

I typically keep an open mind and at least try my samples but I'm really disappointed with Birchbox this month. I'm not sure why I put up with so much disappointment from Birchbox. Maybe it's the points? I cut MyGlam off for far less. After my No-Buy, I really analyze all my purchases. Birchbox has a new feature where you can see all of your past boxes. So I decided to tally up how many products I loved and hated over the last six months to see if I'm really getting my money's worth out of Birchbox. I'm not one to do math for fun, so this should clue you in on how upset I was about this month's box. Here are the results for 32 products over six months at a total of $60. 

I used a handy online pie chart generator for this.

As you can see, products I didn't like or traded make up the majority at a combined 56% or $33.60. Products I loved came in at 16% or $9.60. So no, Birchbox, is not giving me enough value for my money. I should just cash out my points this month when I get six month 20% off coupon. Part of me wants to stick around for another month because it's Birchbox and was the pioneer in the field of beauty boxes and it should be the best. I can't really argue with the numbers though. 

July Birchbox

So I didn't blog about my May or June Birchboxes because they just were kind of "meh." I was actually thinking of cancelling my Birchbox. I was really worried for this month's box as well because there were many samples that I've already gotten from Sample Society that I wasn't really interested in. Thankfully, I got box #12 and there is only one Sample Society repeat.

• Color Club Summer Pastels in Blue Ming Deluxe Sample (Full Size Retail $8) I'm just not that into nail polish or nail art. Don't get me wrong. I admire those of you that have the patience and steady hands to do amazing nail art but I just don't go crazy for nail polish. This color is not one that I'd ever really consider wearing unfortunately. I have it up for trade.
• Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner in Black Full Size (Full Size Retail $15) The precision pen tip allows you to control the thickness of the line you create and vary the intensity of your look. Plus, the fade-proof formula will hold up all day and night. I'm so thankful I got this color in black. The olive does not appeal to me at all. I never thought that I'd be good at applying winged eyeliner or that it would look good on me. The Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner has prove me wrong on both counts. I loved this! It applied easily and was long lasting. I have a performance coming up in September where we are performing a piece from the 1940s. This will definitely help me get that 40's look down. I'd be interested in getting my hands on the purple version of this that a few people received.
• Harvey Prince Hello Perfume vial (Full Size Retail $55 50ml) Made with eco-friendly ingredients, this scent has all-day staying power. A top note of Meyer lemon captures the scent of fresh-squeezed lemonade, while Satsuma mandarin adds a double fruity note. Next up, summer forsythia and pink plumeria—traditionally found in Hawaiian leis—give the scent its heady floral layer. I really like Harvey Prince perfumes. I wound up purchasing the full size Yogini from my first Birchbox. Hello reminds me faintly of Flowerbomb but isn't quite as floral which to me is a good thing. I like Hello and will use up this sample but I don't know that I will purchase.
• Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint in Pearl (Full Size Retail $38 1.7 oz) The formula has light-diffusing minerals, which give skin a soft glow and also smooth over any fine lines. Antioxidants like ginseng and gingko biloba leaf extract help improve skin, and SPF 20 wards off UVA and UVB rays.  I also received this in my Sample Society box this month. The Sample Society was twice as big but in a color too dark for me. Pearl is the lightest color they carry. There was something about the color that still doesn't suit me. I think it is still too yellow. I thought it was a bit too shiny for my liking as well. I may be spoiled by BBs but I wanted more coverage from this.
• Larabar uber Bananas Foster (Full size retail $12.69 qty 5). I love Larabars! I have an Apple Pie bar nearly every day. I also really love Blueberry Muffin and Ginger Snap. Larabars are made from actual food ingredients. All are gluten free. Most are also soy and dairy free. I received Bananas Foster and I have to say it wasn't my favorite flavor but I'm still a big fan of the brand overall.
• Birchbox Earbuds Lifestyle Extra not for sale.   I haven't used these yet but I'm glad to have a spare pair of earbuds. This was an unexpected addition and I think these lifestyle extras really set Birchbox apart from other subscription services.
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July Sample Society

What is Sample Society? Sample Society is a monthly subscription service that is a partnership between Allure magazine and Beauty Bar. For $15 a month you get five deluxe sized samples and a one year subscription to Allure.  You also receive a $15 gift code towards the purchase of any of the brands in your box. It's nice that you have some flexibility and don't have to buy the exact product. You can also use your gift code multiple times. The booklet also includes some tips on how to use the products.

• Borghese Tono Body Lotion (Deluxe Sample. Full size retail $36.50 8.4oz) An extra-rich treatment creme that locks in hydration with moisture intensifying molecules. The body is veiled in invisible moisture, which becomes obvious in both the appearance and texture of the skin. Firms and smoothes skin tone.  I've been using this for a few days. It has a definite fragrance to it that I don't dislike but I don't care for either. I'd say it's what you expect for a lotion.
• Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint  in Golden (Deluxe Sample. Full size retail $38 1.7 oz) Jouer Cosmetics Luminizing Moisture Tint SPF 20 evens out imperfections and fades the appearance of fine lines with its light-diffusing multi-mineral formula. This lightweight, water-resistant, hypoallergenic tint features SPF 20 to protect from UVA and UVB rays while ginseng and gingko biloba leaf extract deliver antioxidants to the skin, promoting a healthy complexion. Water-resistant, hypoallergenic and oil-free.  This was also in my Birchbox this month. I got my Sample Society box first. There's quite a disparity between the two. The Sample Society  size is much more generous. Unfortunately, Golden is too yellow for me. I've arranged to trade this over on MUT for a sample in Pearl. My tiny sample from Birchbox is also in Pearl. YAY. Jouer is also sending me some samples. I've definitely been favoring my Holika Holika BB lately but I'll give this moisture tint a try. Here's a picture showing the difference in the two sizes. 

• vbeaute Eye Never Nourishing Repair Eye Cream (Deluxe Sample. Full size retail $85) VBeaute Eye Never is an age-defining, line concealing eye cream that immediately smooths and silkens the delicate skin around the eyes, minimizing the appearance of puffiness, lines and wrinkles. Formulated with the brand's powerful age-defying complexes, this eye cream boosts collagen production while protecting against free radical damage. At the same time, it helps increase moisture and relax muscle contractions to help prevent future signs of aging.  I've heard some people complain about the small size of this sample. Hello, it's an eye cream! How big are your eyes? I've gotten at least three days of morning and night time usage of this. I haven't really noticed any difference though.
• Vincent Longo Duo Lip Pencil  in Lavender Lite and Grape (Full size. Retail value $26) This smudge-resistant pencil is easy to apply and long-lasting. The soft texture and rich pigment allow for precise definition and shaping. Full sized makeup product. YAY! But I really only use lip liner when I wear red lips. So I'll probably be putting this up for trade.
• Sisley-Paris Hydra-Global Intense Anti-Aging Hydration (Deluxe Sample. Full size retail $250 1.4 oz) This formula uses botanical, mineral and aromatic extracts to replenish skin’s thirsty moisture cushion in the epidermis, dermis and stratum corneum layers of the skin. Skin is left intensely moisturized and revitalized, so that wrinkles and line lines are minimized and elasticity and youthful appearance are restored. Anti-aging aside, I live in the desert. So I'm all about products that are super hydrating. This has a slight fragrance to it that I don't really mind too much. I've been using at night since I use a BB during the day. I like it but I don't love it enough to go for the full size.

Even though there are a couple of products I'm not terribly jazzed about this month, Sample Society is definitely my favorite of my subscription boxes. I've definitely been introduced to products I never would have tried and the sizes are ample enough to really try a product out before making a purchase.  I don't mind investing in an expensive product if I know beforehand that it's going to work for me. 

April Beauty Box 5 Review

I know we're halfway through May and I still have April subs to review. In all fairness, I got this box so late in April that I thought it had been lost in the mail like my first Beauty Box 5. Since I used a code when I signed up, this box was free so I wasn't too concerned if it showed up or not. Beauty Box 5 is a monthly subscription service for $12. You get five samples of varying sizes.

April Beauty Box 5

There seems to be quite a range of products and sample sizes people are receiving. My five items this month were:

• Lavera Eye Liner in #2 Brown (full size)
• Pur-lisse Gentle Soy Milk Cleanser and Makeup Remover
• Lavera Mango Milk Hair Mask
• Freeman Dead Sea Minerals Anti-Stress Mask
• Becca Eye Tint in Pewter (full size)

I've been using the UD 24/7 liners for so long now that I forgot eye liner used to be hard. The Lavera is definitely a hard eye liner and I experienced some smudging and fading.  I tried the Pur-lisse a few times and I don't care for the texture or the fragrance. Something about it is a bit too menthol for my liking.  The Lavera hair mask interested me because I've never tried a hair mask before but I didn't see any real difference in my hair. My hair is generally healthy and shiny anyway. *shrug*  The Freeman mask was OK. I liked it better than the Freeman Mask I had in my February MyGlam bag but still I wouldn't go out and buy a Freeman mask. The Becca Eye Tint in Pewter is the only product I haven't had a chance to try out yet. Becca describes it as a rich gray black. We'll see what I think when I finally get around to giving it a test drive.

I had decided to cancel BB5 even before I got this box and I don't regret it. For $3 more I get Sample Society which came with a year subscription to Allure and offers $15 off coupons at Beauty Bar. For $2 less I get Birchbox which has an extensive online store and rewards points system. I don't dislike Beauty Box 5 but there's nothing about it that wows me or that sets it apart from any of the other beauty subscription services out there. 

April Favorites

I haven't been wearing as much makeup this month as I usually do. I've also been trying not to buy anything makeup wise unless I really have a need. I really need to use up some products and samples. I've been somewhat successful so far.  Two of my favorites this month came from my March Birchbox

• MAC 217 Brush I had quit using this for awhile in favor of the MUG Crease Brush but I've been reaching for it a lot lately. This is a great brush fir getting into the crease or blending. I've had mine for years and it's held up nicely.
• Harvey Prince Yogini Perfume There was a sample of this in my Birchbox last month. I loved it so much I had to order the full size bottle. The light, clean fragrance features top notes of purifying sandalwood, refreshing grapefruit, and sensual Egyptian myrrh. Subtle cues of golden amber, incense, and star jasmine.
• Kerastase Elixir Ultime Was also from my Birchbox last month. This mixture of hair oils is lightweight. The scent is a bit herbal but the shine payoff is great! If I could get the fragrance of the Oscar Blandi Jasmine Oil serum and the effectiveness of the Kerastase in one serum I would be a happy Bat indeed.
• Almay Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover I've long been on the hunt for an eye makeup remover that I liked. I've tried the Clinique Take the Day off and MAC's makeup remover. Neither compares to this drugstore find. It removes eye makeup easily.
• NYX Blush in Pinched I love the cream blushes from NYX that I have so I picked up Pinched when Ulta was having their NYX sale. It's a perfect peach color for summer with just a hint of shimmer.

What are your April favorites? Is there anything you can't wait to try in May?

What's in My Travel Bag?

I just got back from a four day/three night business trip to Burbank, CA. My makeup collection and skincare routine have changed drastically since I last traveled for business in September. I decided that I didn't want to deal with the hassle of checking my luggage so this was all in my carry on luggage. It was really difficult for me to decide what would stay and what would go and I was really trying to pack light.

Makeup Remover Wipes, 3-1-1 Liquids Bag, Cosmetics Bag

The makeup remover wipes and my cosmetic bag were in my carry on suitcase and I wasn't required to pull them out for inspection.  I was able to fit a lot of products in my one quart sized bag for liquids.  I also took a full sized bottle of contact solution which doesn't count as part of your liquids. So don't waste valuable real estate in your liquids bag on those small bottles of contact solution. In the US this is considered a medication, you have to pull it out to be scanned with the rest of your liquids but it doesn't have to be 3oz. When I left Vegas, they pulled me aside and did an additional scan on my contact solution to confirm it wasn't anything dangerous. When I went through security at Burbank, they didn't care. 

Contents of my 3-1-1 liquids bag

I got all of this in my bag of liquids and had a little bit of room to spare. Oh thank you subscription services! 

• Crest Toothpaste
• UD Lip Junkie Lip Gloss in Wallflower (free w/purchase)
• NYX Xtreme Lip Cream in Buttery Nude reviewed here
• Lorac Lip Gloss in Rich Garnet reviewed here
• Maybelline Dream Lumi Concealer in Ivory
• Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Mascara in Extreme Black (free w/purchase)
• Kerastase Elixir hair serum (Birchbox)
• UD Primer Potion in Original 
• Lancome Teint Miracle Foundation in Buff 4C (free sample from Ulta)
• Harvey Prince Yogini Perfume (Birchbox)
• Inglot YSM Foundation in 41  (free w/purchase)
• Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer (free sample from Ulta)
• Regenepure DR Shampoo (My scalp is super sensitive so no using the hotel shampoo for me)
• Regenpure NT Conditioner
• Boscia Cleansing Gel (Sample Society)
• Mac Fix+
• Ahava Essential Day Moisturizer (Birchbox)
• Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Liner in Charcoal 

Cosmetics bag contents

• UD 24/7 Eyeliner in Whiskey
• UD 24/7 Eyeliner in Peversion
• Almay brown eyeliner (I use this to dip in my gel liner to apply to the waterline)
• My Inglot Neutral palette ( #353, 341, 337)
• My Inglot Smokey eye palette (# 324M, AMC #36, 387M, 348M, 391)
• Milani Baked Blush Luminoso
• Dermalogica Microfoliant (Sample Society)
• MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Light
• Cover Girl Powder Natural Ivory
• compact mirror

Travel Tools

This case is the one the e.l.f. 11 piece Studio Set comes in. I like it because it's super flat and fits easily in a suitcase.

• Estee Lauder Powder Brush
• e.l.f. Powder Brush
• e.l.f.. Blush Brush
• e.l.f Fan Brush
• e.l.f Mineral Concealer Brush (free w/purchase)
• MAC 217
• MAC 239SE
• e.l.f. Contour Brush
• MAC 219SE
• e.l.f Small Smudge Brush
• Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge

So that's pretty much what I can't leave home without for a few days. I could do a nice neutral day look or a dramatic smokey eye for evening. What can't you leave home without?

Update on April's Birchbox: Expired Befine Samples

*A quick note. I will be very busy with work this week and I will also be rebuilding the Batmachine to make it faster.  I will try to post once more this week but I may not be back until next week*

If you read my blog about my April Birchbox you know I was really excited about the Befine moisturizer. Well it turns out it's expired.  Not just a little passed the use by date..Mine expired in 07/2009.

Befine Expiration Date

These samples were in several of the April boxes. So check your dates. It's on stamped on the side and can be a bit hard to read.

Birchbox became aware of the issue on Thursday and by Friday issued the following statement:


Dear Birchbox Customer,


It has come to our attention that a small number of the Befine Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15 samples included in our April boxes may have passed their expiration dates. Please check the stamp on the outside of your packet of Befine Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15. If your sample has expired, we advise you not to use the product, as the SPF is not guaranteed to be effective after the stated expiration date.


If you received an expired sample of the moisturizer, we would like to deposit 100 Birchbox Points in your account. Please complete this survey by April 27 to request the points award; your account will be updated by May 1.


We take pride in sending you high-quality products from great brands, typically their newest and best selling products. This situation is unacceptable and not representative of the Birchbox standard for product quality. We are working with Befine to determine the root cause of the error, and we deeply apologize for this experience.


All the best,
Hayley and Katia
Co-founders of Birchbox


I'm disappointed that these are expired.  I was really excited about trying them out. I may go ahead and buy the moisturizer. It's also disappointing because it only leaves me two items in my box that are useful to me the MicroMitt and the Wei face mask.

I'm pleased that Birchbox has acted swiftly and honorably during this situation. If you received expired samples and have not heard from Birchbox, contact customer service: info@birchbox.com or on Twitter @BirchboxOps

April Birchbox

Birchbox is a monthly beauty sample service for  $10 a month. They are now offering a Birchbox for men. April was my second Birchbox. I received Box # 10. I've been pretty happy with both boxes I've received so far. The April boxes gave a nod to Earth Day and featured products made from natural ingredients.

• Befine Skincare Sampler  Moisturizer and Gentle Cleanser .34 oz sample (Retail Full size 4oz $25 each)  Revive dull skin with this gentle cleanser and moisturizer duo. Both use rice extracts to restore skin's natural barrier.  I received three packs of moisturizer and two packs of the cleanser. These are very generously sized samples. I can easily get multiple uses out of the moisturizer. I've lost count on the first pack. I think I've gotten six uses so far. The cleanser is liquid which I didn't realize when I first opened it and spilled all over my counter. Normally this is the part where I say, 'eh it's a moisturizer" but I actually really liked the moisturizer and would consider buying it. There is only a light fragrance. It applies smoothly and doesn't feel greasy or heavy. I was a bit underwhelmed by the cleanser but I'll give it another go.  

Befine Skincare Sampler. 3 x Moisturizer, 2 x Cleanser

• Wonderstruck by Taylor Swift  Perfume Sample .04 oz (Retail Full size 3.4 oz $59.50) Inspiration for Wonderstruck came from Taylor’s favorite memories and scents. The fragrance is a gourmand floral; a charming and sparkling surprise of vibrant fruits, kissed by a bouquet of soft petals and a touch of sweet indulgence.  I don't typically go floral or fruity .
• Zoya TRUE Spring Collection Nail Polish in Bevin .25oz sample (Retail Full Size .5 oz $8) Lighten up fprr spring with this fresh shade. The non-toxic formula goes on opaque and lasts 50% longer than traditional polishes. Bevin is a sage green with faint teal undertones. I'm not a big nail polish person. I don't see myself ever wearing this color. I think it would just come out sickly with my pale complexion. I'd be willing to trade this for Cho.

Zoya TRUE Spring Collection in Bevin

• WEI White Lotus Hydrating Face Treatment Pad Single Sheet Sample (Full Size 6 sheets $68) This single-use face mask is soaked with a blend of Eastern botanicals and hyaluronic acid to give skin an instant moisture boost.  Hopefully, I don't like this too much because $68 is probably stretching what even I would be willing to pay for skincare. 
• MicrodermaMitt Face Mitt  Full Size (Retail $28.50) This all-natural silk mitt gently exfoliates away dead skin cells and pore-clogging debris.

Overall I'm pretty impressed with this month's box. I will probably try to trade the Zoya polish and the Wonderstruck. I know a lot of people get caught up on the monetary value of their sample boxes. This particular box has been judged one of the better boxes $$ wise. I'm not one to place value strictly based on the dollar amount. I judge the value based on how useful the products are to me. 

My First Birchbox

After being on the waiting list about a month, I finally got my first Birchbox,  Birchbox is considered to be the original monthly beauty sample service and by many it is considered the best. A monthly subscription is $10 a month.  I received Box #19.

• AHAVA Essential Day Moisturizer - Normal to Dry Skin I used this moisturizer for a few days but even though it claims to sink right in making it safe to wear under makeup, my makeup definitely didn't last nearly as long as it does with my usual moisturizer. I've been using it before going to bed. I also wish it were unscented. I've also yet to be wowed by any moisturizer.
• Kusmi Tea Paris - I Love My Detox Tea Since I quit drinking coffee, I drink green tea every day. I enjoyed this tea but the lemongrass is just a touch too dominant for me to drink this every day. I actually love the "lifestyle" category of samples.
• Supergoop!Sunscreen Swipes I know some of you may faint when I say this but I don't wear sunscreen on a daily basis. I might see 15 minutes of sunlight on a good day and most of that time I'm in my car.  Not only that but a couple of years ago my doctor told me I was severely Vitamin D deficient. So I try to get at least a few minutes of exposure a day so I don't have to take Vitamin D daily. Now if I know I'm going to be out in the sunlight for any length of time, no one is more vigilant about sunscreen. I burn and I burn quickly. I like these because I can throw these in my bag in case of unexpected sun exposure and be ready to go.
• Color Club Neon Nail Polish  in Peace out Purple I know neon colors are all the rage this season. I'm just not a neon colors kind of girl. I might wear something this bright on my toenails but not on my fingernails.  Wouldn't mind trading for Jackie-Oh! or Mrs. Robinson. 
• Kérastase Elixir Ultime Can be used on wet or dry hair. I didn't notice much difference when I massaged it into my hair after washing it.  I noticed a slight difference using it dry. It definitely helps tame some frizziness too. My hair is freshly colored so it's hard to tell if this is really adding any shine. I do love that sample has a tiny little pump dispenser. Genius!  Not sold on the scent yet. I'm 50/50 on it.
• Harvey Prince Yogini - I'm in the market for a new fragrance so I'm actually seeking out perfume samples. This reminds of DKNY Pure which I've been testing for the last few weeks. I actually like it.

Overall, I'm pretty happy with my first box. I just wish shipping to the west coast didn't take FOREVER. I also love the reward points system on Birchbox. You get 1 point for every dollar you spend either in the store or for your subscription. You can also get 10 points for leaving feedback for the items in your box. It's really a quick and easy way to start racking up the points. I love that whatever is in your box is available for sale in their store. If you find a product you love, you don't have to scour the internet for it. I will definitely be keeping Birchbox for awhile.

MyGlam March Bag

March was second month for MyGlam and the end of their probationary period with me. I've been giving all my subscription services two months before I decide whether to cancel or continue. This month there were three standard samples and a mix of three items as deluxe sample. Those were the 3Lab cleanser, Pur-lisse Lip Comfort, and Murad Absolute Bronzing Boost.  I would have preferred the Pur-lisse but anything is better than the bronzing boost for me.

I had heard online that some people received bags that stunk. I thought last month's bag was stinky so I was somewhat prepared when I opened my package or so I thought..The smell was strong and noxious and somewhere between moth balls and gasoline. Maybe gasoline soaked moth balls? All of the samples inside were tainted by the smell but the bag itself was the worst! I took all the samples out and filled a bag with baking soda and left it to air out. The next day my samples had aired out enough to handle them but the bag was still awful. I couldn't get within two feet of it without being hit by the fumes. More on that later. First the samples.

• Keracolor Color Enhancing Leave In Treatment "This leave-in treatment is especially designed to enhance, protect, strengthen, and hydrate all hair types."  You mix the two sides together and work into damp hair. They also claim this sample will be enough for 2-4 applications. I'm pretty sure I'd get one use out of it.  I haven't tried this yet. Experimenting with skincare products is one thing. I'm not so sure I want to experiment with hair color treatments. If anyone has tried this, I'd like to know how it worked for you.
• Pur-lisse Pur-Protect SPF 30 Essential Daily Moisturizer " ... delivers reliable broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection plus rich hydration, thanks to a couple of exclusive complexes, vitamin E, soy protein and calming antioxidant white tea. Skin is left calm and smooth."  It's a moisturizer. I was neither wowed or disappointed by it. I did get about four uses out of this. I probably could have gotten five but I was tired of dealing with the foil packet. 
• Murad Eye Lift Perfector "Increase your skin's firmness by 50% in as little as 15 minutes with this revolutionary product, which relies on exclusive firming and luminating complexes to address dark circles, both instantly and long-term. A subtle tint adds just the right amount of coverage.  I tend to get dark circles. I used this once and didn't really notice a difference. I think I have enough left to give it another shot.
• MyGlam Classic Crease Brush & Case "Hand selected by Michelle from her recent trip to Hong Kong...Freshen up your spring makeup routine with this MyGlam exclusive classic crease brush and case."  This seems rather large for a crease brush. It also seems like a lower quality than even my e.l.f brushes. At first I suspected the brush case as the culprit for the horrible smell. So I threw it in the trash can beside my desk. I'm not a pink kind of girl. I think the only other pink item I own is my MAC Brush Cleaner. So no big loss.  I may give this brush a good wash and see how it holds up. Mine still smells and already looks a bit frayed. 
• DermStore $25 Gift Card On purchases over $50. Not a gift card. A coupon code.
• 3Lab Perfect Cleansing Foam "Using only the highest-grade botanicals and state of the art technologies, 3LAB aims to perfect skin by firming, smoothing and evening the complexion."  I tried this a few times. I liked the way my skin felt afterwards. I will have to use it more to see if it causes any issues with my skin. Do not get this anywhere near your eyes or it will sting! There are also several ingredients that are known pore clogging ingredients including the very first ingredient. So if your skin is prone to breaking out you may want to avoid this. 

So back to the mystery toxic cloud. Let me start of by saying I don't have any respiratory issues nor am I overly sensitive to chemicals. But I could still sit at my desk and smell the brush holder. If I sat here too long I would start to get a headache. I finally took the trash out. My bag itself has been airing out since Monday when I unpacked it and it smells just as bad as it did when I first took it out of the bag. MyGlam's official response has been that is the glue used to construct the brushes. 1. That makes me not want to use the brush at all 2. It's my actual bag that still reeks after being out for five days. I'm not buying it.  I've read about other ladies getting migraines from the smell or even those with respiratory issues needing breathing treatments. This is no exaggeration on how noxious this thing is. I couldn't get within two feet of my bag without being hit by the fumes for four days.

I was going to give MyGlam one more month because overall the samples in this month's bag are better than February's Bag even though there were no makeup samples. The longer it took my bag to air out, the more disenchanted I became. So I cancelled my account yesterday. I felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. There just seems to be so much drama and disappointment surrounding this service.  I hope in the future they improve on quality. Until then I have my Sample Society and Birchbox.