1st Place:
Befine Exfoliating Brown Sugar Cleanser - 1.5 fl oz.
Birchbox Claims: "A foaming face cleanser that gently sloughs away dead skin using natural brown sugar and oats to leave skin super soft"
My Opinion: I ABSOLUTELY ADORE this cleanser. My sample is well past gone but I do have another full size one coming already in the mail! I like this for a couple reasons. First, the smell! It smells very natural like something I SHOULD be putting on my face, or even in my mouth. Personally, I think it smells like nutty sugary lemons. The brown sugar and oatmeal calms my senses, perfect for right before bed. I suffer from adult acne and I don't see any immediate changes to my scars but it does help oncoming acne and any open sores do heal quicker. If you have read my previous post I recommend cleansing and exfoliate as two steps in the four step skin care regimen... well, this takes care of both. It starts off as a heavy potent scrub but as you work it into your skin it turns into a cleanser. The sugar cane extract is extremely moisturizing. The best way I can explain myself is that it just. feels. so. good.
CAUTION: I do not use this more than 5 times a week. It is a heavy duty scrub and I don't want to scrub my skin raw. Also, make sure to use warm water and gentle circular motions.
A Very Close 2nd Place:
Bare Escentuals Flawless Definition Voluming Mascara - 0.16 fl oz.
Birchbox Claims: "This star mascara fattens up lashes to give you serious volume and intensity. Plus, the smudge-proof formula stays put all day"
My Opinion: First of all I am shocked and pleased that I still have some of this sample left. Now I will say that I didn't use it everyday; reason being, it's not labeled as waterproof. However I did not test it's waterproof ability. When it was snowing/sleeting outside I would wear my Maybelline waterproof Falsies because I do walk to school.
I LOVE this product, it does what it says it will. It gives "serious" volume and intensity. The black is very dark in color and I noticed no smudging or fall out. Easy to build up, separates, and doesn't clump on lashes. Not once while using this mascara did I have to use my eyelash comb. Contains no parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances or dyes.
I LOVE this product, it does what it says it will. It gives "serious" volume and intensity. The black is very dark in color and I noticed no smudging or fall out. Easy to build up, separates, and doesn't clump on lashes. Not once while using this mascara did I have to use my eyelash comb. Contains no parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances or dyes.
It will be hard for me to purchase the full size considering it is $18 and money is tight. Nevertheless, if you do have the funds, this has become my favorite mascara and I highly recommend it. I would like to try it in the other color Espresso and a waterproof formula.
3rd Place:
Pomega5 Green Tea Mattifying Moisurizer - small (about the size of a quarter)
Birchbox Claims: "Get a triple does of antioxidants from this light cream, which uses Omega 5 fatty acids, green tea, and verbena to hydrate and brighten skin"
My Opinion: This sample didn't last long for me. It was a very small sample, but I did get a solid 8 days out of it. It smells very citrus-y. Goes on very smooth and dries into skin fast. I do like how glowy the skin looks right away however it is a matte finish after it completely dries. I honestly thought this product was good but I've been using Neutrogena's Oil Free Moisturizer and I think it works just as good, plus it is formulated for my skin type. I didn't break out at all with Pomega5 but I only used it for 8 days... It's very lightweight and the skin does feel hydrated all day. Like I said, not a bad product, I enjoyed using it but it cost $35 at the cheapest and I already love my Neutrogena mosturizer.
4th Place:
NARS Orgasm Illuminator - 0.29 oz.
Birchbox Claims: "This peachy pink highlighter adds a subtle gleam to your favorite features - swipe it on cheeks, browbones, anywhere!"
My Opinion: I think some of you are going to hate me... :( I didn't like this product. I will start by saying I have never tried a liquid illuminator before, so I'm new to it. Honestly, the colors pretty but I could not for the life of me figure out how to get this thing to work for me. I tried using my fingers, I tried multiple brushes, I tried applying it before liquid foundation, after liquid foundation. I'm just at a loss... Now I am willing to keep trying it so if you have any advice or tips PLEASE help a sister out!
Honorable Mention:
Sweetriot Chocolate-Covered Cacao Nibs - 1 oz.
Birchbox Claims: "Tiny treats with a big conscience. All ingredients are responsibly sourced, and the recyclable tins feature limited edition artwork"
My Opinion: Because this wasn't a beauty product and I didn't LOVE it, I put it here under Honorable Mention. These were a pleasant surprise when opening my Birchbox. I absolutely love coffee and dark chocolate and when the two combine, Oh Lordy! I still have some left. I just put it in my purse and pick away at them. A few does the job, I only ever eat four at a time and my craving is satisfied. Extra Plus: cute packaging!
Stay Smart, Stay Beautiful
♥Danielle
