January Battle of the Boxes| Ipsy vs. Play by Sephora

Hey Guys!

Today I am unboxing my January Play By Sephora and Ipsy boxes/bags. Both are $10 a month! Ipsy promises 4-5 deluxe sized samples with at least 1 being full sized and Sephora offers 6 mini-deluxe sized samples with 1 always being a fragrance. Check out my Unboxing video below as well as direct links and reviews of products mentioned along with coupon codes! Subscribe to Ipsy HERE and Sephora HERE.

Ipsy theme: Metropolis Items: 6 Full sized: 4

The first items I received from Ipsy were 2 sheet masks from the Brand Sally’s Box which retail for $1.50 each. One of the things I love about Ipsy is that they always send out multiples of some products such as sheet masks and count it as 1 product! When ever I get sheet masks or eye masks from Ipsy there are usually multiples and different types for me to try. The 2 I got this month were Blueberry and Aloe masks. The blueberry is supposed to help firm and hydrate while the aloe soothes and hydrates. I used the Aloe one last night and loved that it didn’t slip down my face while wearing it and my face felt balanced and smooth when I woke up. Check them out HERE.

The next product I got was a full sized nail polish from Pretty Woman in “I Can’t Deal”. This is a grey nude shade and retails for $7.99. This shade is a great take on the nude/pastel nails that usually happen in the spring months. I have never had grey nails before but can’t wait to see what this shade looks like on! Get 30% off HERE with code “IPSY30”.

The next item I got was the full sized Coloured Raine Cosmetics Matte Lip Paint in the color Mars. This retails for $17 and is a beautiful dusty rose shade. This is the perfect deep nude color that can be worn either day or night. The formula is matte but not drying or sticky and stays on all day! I wore it all day at work and through lunch and I didn’t even need a touch up! I am really tempted to pick up more shades because they have such a wide variety of colors! They have a metallic red shade that I can’t get out of my mind! Check them out HERE.

Next I received a sample of the ModelCo blush in Peach Bellini. This is a beautiful peach blush with slight shimmer that gives cheeks a luminous glow without having to apply highlighter and blush. If you like a subtle glow I recommend giving this a try. It would also make a beautiful eye shadow! The formula is creamy and pigmented and doesn’t have leave powder every where. Check it out HERE.

The final product I received was a sample of the Smashbox Cosmetics Cameral Ready BB Cream in the Color Light. I don’t really wear BB creams because I find that they leave my skin greasy and with little to no coverage. If I want light coverage I just go bare faced most of the time. This was a tad too orange for my skin and after a couple hours it looked patchy and left my skin feeling dirty. I wouldn't recommend this. Check it out HERE.

BONUS: I did receive a FULL SIZED Limecrime Metallic Liquid Lipstick in the color Blondie after redeeming some of my Ipsy points. I love that you can earn points from reviewing products and people using your sign up link. I have gotten a ton of full sized goodies and this latest one is awesome.

 

Overall I think the products in this bag were amazing. The Matte Lip Paint was a hidden gem from a brand that I have never heard from and I love it! Subscribe to Ipsy HERE.

This month’s Play by Sephora’s theme was Beauty, Set, Go! The drawstring bag was made of cloth and mesh to look like a gym bag which was super cute! We got 5 deluxe sized samples with 1 fragrance.

The first item I got was Amore Pacific Color Control Compact Foundation which is a cushion foundation that is supposed to provide build able coverage, hydrates skin and protects with SPF. The samples Sephora sent out included 2 foundation shades and 1 mini sponge. Unfortunately the shades they sent me were way to dark. I am not sure why they sent me those. I tried to use the lightest of the too but it was very orange and streaky. I didn’t like the cushion that it came with and it seemed to take too long to apply. I am not sure that this formula would have worked for my oily skin either. Check it out HERE.

The fragrance this month was Love Relentlessly by Tory Burch. The notes in this are pink pepper, orris, and patchuli. This smells nice and fresh and light. Perfect for the upcoming spring months! I also saw a picture of the bottle and it is stunning! I probably won’t go out and buy this as the scent wasn’t very unique but I would love the bottle for my vanity. Check it out HERE.

Next I got a sample of the Tarte Frixxxtion Stick. I have been wanting to try this for so long and was so excited to see it! First of all the packaging is so cute! This is a twist up glue stick like cleanser that is a dark black with tiny microdermabrasion scrubs. You put it all over your face and cleanse. Perfect for traveling since it isn’t a liquid. I love the stick form it comes in and it leaves my skin feeling so smooth and clean. I recommend checking this out HERE.

The next product I received was the Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey. Apparently this formula and color are a cult favorite and I can see why! First off the size of this sample is amazing! The color is the perfect wash of “just ate a Popsicle and now it stained my lips”. The color this product gives is a deeper “my lips but better color” with high shine and feels super moisturizing and nourishing. I couldn’t stop putting it on my lips! It also fades really well throughout the day to a nice stain. I want to buy these in every color! Check it out HERE.

The next product I pulled out was the Treatment Masque from Ouai. This is a hair mask to help repair breakage, and make hair stronger. I used it last night and the formula is a little watery for me. Usually hair masks are thick and creamy but this one almost had the watery consistency similar to watered down leave in conditioner. I didn’t see it do amazing things for my hair. It didn’t have a strong scent either. Check it out HERE.

The final product I received was the Youth to the People Prevention Cream. This is a night time moisturizer that uses kale, spinach, and hylauranic acid to deliver antioxidants to the skin and lightly hydrate it. This feels nice and lightweight on my skin which is great and makes my skin glow when I wake up! Check it out HERE.

Overall I loved this month’s bag. The Clinique Lipstick and the Tarte Stick made the box worth it for $10! I love Play because I get to try out higher end products before I spend the money. Subscribe to Play by Sephora HERE.

December Battle of the Boxes: Play by Sephora Vs. Ipsy

Hey Guys! 

It has been a crazy hectic month for me! I was out for 1 whole week from work with the flu/Laryngitis :( But I am back with my December Battle of the Boxes! Both are $10 a month and AMAZING! Check out my video below where I show the products and under the video I have a blurb about each product as well as direct links and coupon codes if they are available.

 

Ipsy: Bag: Hot pink Faux Fur Doubles as a Clutch

Theme: Carpe P.M

Items: 5 Full sized: 1

The first item is a sample of the REN Clear Skincare Glycol Lactic Radience Renewel Mask. This is an exfoliating mask that contains lactic acids and fruits. It also minimizes pores and hyperpigmentation. I have yet to use this but sounds like something right up my ally! According to reviews this is great so I am super excited! Get 20% off HERE with code "Ipsy20". 

Next I received the Marc Anthony Nourishing Argan Oil Hydrating Treatment. This is a hair mask you leave on for 5 minutes and it helps repair breakage, and add strength. Exactly what I need for my long hair! This smells amazing and leaves my skin so soft and smooth. Get it HERE. 

The next item I pulled out was a sample of the Benefit POREfessional primer. This is supposed to fill in pores and is oil free. I have tried this many times and am not a fan because it breaks me out. So I am not even opening this and will be passing this on to someone else. Get it HERE.

Next I received a NYX Prismatic Shadow in Bedroom Eyes. This shadow is super pigmented, buttery and beautiful! It is a satin finish that goes on super smooth and lasts all day. It can go from day to night and is stunning! I want to try out other colors. Get it HERE.

The final item I received was the Ciate Liquid Velvet Matte Lip Color in Pin Up. This is a purple/pink color that comes off darker then it seems in the tube. It is the perfect dark nude color for the winter. The formula is long lasting and doesn't dry my lips out. I want to get more! I LOVE IT! Get 30% off HERE with code "IPSTER". 

Overall I loved the variety of this bag. I love the lip color and can't wait to continue to use the face mask. Get IPSY HERE.

 

Sephora: Theme: The Partygoers

Items: 6

The first item was the Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red. This is a BEAUTIFUL rich red lip color. The stain is super pigmented, creamy, and long lasting. It is opaque in one coat and feels comfortable on the lips. Get it HERE. 

The fragrance is Elizabeth and James in Nirvana Rose. This is a very rose heavy scent but also has a citrusy undertone. It isn't too heavy so it can be worn day or night. Get it HERE. 

The next item I got was the Make Up Forever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Smoothing Primer. This is supposed to help makeup last longer, mattify skin and fill in pores. I used it today and didn't notice my skin not being any less oily. It did make my makeup go on smoother and my pores looked a tiny but smaller. Nothing dramatic. Get it HERE. 

The next item I got was the Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray. I have always wanted to try a setting spray from Urban Decay. I recently bought the De-Slick spray but haven't used it yet. I can't wait to try this one because it is supposed to keep makeup from settling into fine lines and is good for all climates. Get it HERE. 

Next I pulled out a sample of the Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo. I have gotten this in a Birchbox and I enjoy it. It leaves my hair feeling soft and smelling light and fresh. It does leave a tiny white cast on my hair but I just brush through it a couple times and it get it HERE. 

The final item I recieved was a sample of the Lancome Hypnose Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara. This is supposed to give lashes a full effect This is apparently a cult favorite mascara and is supposed to work really well. I haven't had time to try this out yet but I can't wait. Check it out HERE. 

Overall I loved the variety I got in my Sephora bag/box. It contained lots of new items I have been wanting to try and great formulas! I HIGHLY recommend this subscription. Get it HERE. 

August Battle of the Boxes | Ipsy Vs. Play by Sephora

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Hey Guys!

Today I have my August Battle of the Boxes Ipsy vs. Play by Sephora for you. Both are $10 a month subscription services that let you try out the latest makeup and skincare products. Ipsy guarantees 4-5 deluxe sized samples with at least 1 being full sized while Sephora usually has 5-6 sample sizes with 1 always being a fragrance.

Ipsy’s theme this month was Sugar Highness and you could get 2 different bag designs. Both were designed by Ipsy co-founder Michelle Phan which is really awesome! I got 6 items with 4 being full sized! I will also have coupon codes for the brands in this months bag. The codes don’t have to be used on the items I mention.

The first item I received was a full sized Dermelect 'ME' Peptide Infused Lacquer in UNSCRIPTED nail polish. This retails for $14 and is infused with ingredients to help weak brittle nails stay strong and healthy. Here are some of the other claims from their site:

·         strengthens weak, brittle nails

·         restores flexibility

·         helps resist chipping and splitting

·         superior extended wear

·         water and detergent resistant

·         UV protected

·         DBP, Toluene & Formaldehyde free

·         cruelty free- no animal testing, ever!

 The color I got is a beautiful medium toned Lilac! I actually have a similar color to this that I love! I think it is perfect for spring/summer so I will be holding on to this till next season. If I didn’t just wear this color I would have put it one! Get 20% off HERE with code Ipsy-20.

The next items I received were 2 Sally's Box Secret Garden Ampoule Masks. One of the things I love about Ipsy is they not only count sending 2 of the same thing as 1 product but the fact that they send multiples of things that need more than one try before you can see if it works or not. These retail for $6 each and the 2 I got were the Olive Oil Mask which nourishes skin and helps diminish the look of fine lines and the Camellia Oil Mask which gives you a radiant glow. These masks are cool because they are 2 step sheet masks. You first rip the top open and pat the serum all over your face. Then you put the sheet mask that is also damp with ingredients over your face to help really seal in the skincare benefits. After you take it off you pat the remaining products into your skin and you’re done! I used the Olive Oil one and my skin instantly felt soft, smooth and radiant! Check them out HERE.

The next item I received was a travel size of the Sympan Beauty ONE Moisture Cream which retails for $20. According to their site, these are tested on every skin type, is great at wrinkle reduction, increases skin firmness and brightens! Check out the other benefits below:

·         Bendable with all foundations, powders and primers

·         Instantly evens skin tone

·         Chocked-full of super succulent aloe–ultra moisturizing and calming

I use this cream at night because it doesn’t have SPF in it. It has an interesting scent that is neither good nor bad. It is a super rich cream that just melts into my skin. I feel like it is super moisturizing but as someone with oily skin I do notice my skin feeling a little greasier in the morning after I have used it. This doesn’t bother me too much as I wash my face off in the morning but if you have oily skin I wouldn’t recommend using this during the day. I also haven’t seen any improvement with my skin tone yet. Fingers crossed! Get 30% off HERE with the code IPSY30.

The next product I received was a sample size of the IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Mini Gel Eyeliner in black. As someone who suffers from year round allergies and sneezes a lot I have been on the hunt for an eyeliner that I can tight line my top lashes without it smudging to my bottom ones. Their website says it is a smooth formula that glides on without damaging delicate lids. I would have to agree that this glides on so smooth and is super pigmented! I usually find that super creamy formulas tend to move around on my eyes but this one stays put! It only transfers to my lower lash line a tiny bit but if you don’t sneeze a million times a day like I do I think you will find that it stays put all day! It also removes easily with waterproof eye makeup remover. Check it out HERE.

The final product in my Ipsy bag this month was a full sized Beau Gachis Paris Pro Series Applicator Sponge. This retails for $12 and is comparable to the BeautyBlender. I recently got into using my beloved BeautyBlender for foundation so I was excited to try this one out and see how they compare. Here are some of their claims from their website: This latex-free wonder is stiff enough for precise application of cream blushes and highlighters, as well as foundation. It is also safe for anyone allergic or sensitive to latex, blends better than a brush or your fingers and has a unique teardrop shape is easy to hold and maneuver. I found that this does apply foundation great but not as great as my BeautyBlender. What I actually find this perfect for is patting powder on my face. I cover one side in powder then press it on my skin and I find this makes my large pores smaller and helps set everything nicely. It also cleans easily and can be used damp or dry. Get 25% off HERE with code beautifulipster25.

Overall my Ipsy this month had a great variety. One of my favorite things about Ipsy is all the different items you try out are so diverse and at many different price points. My favorite item is the sponge. Subscribe to Ipsy HERE

This month’s Play by Sephora theme was The Eye Openers and we receive 6 samples. None are full sized which is OK with me. I know that Sephora has higher priced items so as long as the samples are big enough to try I don’t mind them being smaller.

The first item was the Lancôme Énergie de Vie The Smoothing & Glow Boosting Liquid Moisturizer. The website claims this is good for all skin types and refreshes, protects and hydrates skin to get rid of uneven skin tone and dryness. I like to pat this on in the evenings as my serum before moisturizer so it can really sink in over time. I don’t use it during the day because I don’t like to add more products to my oily skin during the day. I find that when I wake up after using this I have a glow! A little goes along way with this as well. It smells clean and fresh and feels luxurious on the skin. Check it out HERE.

 

The next item was a sample of the Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Eye Lifting Balm. For an expensive eye cream sample I must say this is a great size! I use this eye cream at night and find that it sinks in really well and doesn’t leave a heavy sticky feeling behind that I find a lot of other eye creams do. This one is supposed to quickly reduce dark circles, puffiness, and smooth the appearance of wrinkles. This sinks in quickly and has a nice pleasant scent. I haven’t seen results yet but I know with skincare it can take a while. Check it out HERE.

The next item was a sample size of the SEPHORA COLLECTION Contour Eye Pencil 12hr Wear Waterproof in the color flirting game. This is a super creamy eye pencil and the color is a purplely taupe color. Super beautiful! I am excited to use it to create a smokey eye which I learned how to do in my latest FREE Sephora class! Check out my write up HERE. I find that this is super long wearing and highly pigmented. The color also goes perfectly with the next item from the box. Check it out HERE.

The next item was a sample size of the MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Shadow Eye shadowin the color I-544. This can be depotted an put into a Z pallet which I plan to do. It is a perfect brownish purple that goes perfectly with the liner above. I think both would create an amazing smokey eye together. I also like wearing this lighting on my lip during the day. It blends out beautifully and doesn’t crease when using a primer! This formula comes in a ton of different shades so check them out HERE.

To finish off the look I received a baby sample of the Urban Decay Perversion mascara in black. I have tried this mascara before and honestly love it! It has a medium dry/wet formula and grabs on and plumps up every lash creating volume and length. It is also a super black color and doesn’t flake off during the day. It also removed easily at night. It gives the perfect false lash effect as well. Check it out HERE.

The fragrance we received this month was CLEAN Reserve Blonde Rose. This is a very classic feminine scent that leans a bit too mature for me. I wasn’t a fan of this scent because it was too heavy. If you are into mature rose scents you might like this! Check it out HERE.

Overall I feel the sample sizes in Play by Sephora were great and I loved all the items. I liked the focus on the eyes this month especially after going to my Sephora makeup class. Check my review out HERE. My favorite item is the eye shadow. Sign up for Play by Sephora HERE. 

Overall I think both boxes/bags were great. I wasn’t disappointed in anything except the fragrance. Both had such a great variety and I got to try out some awesome things!

Subscribe to Ipsy HERE and Play by Sephora HERE 

What is your favorite Subscription Service? XOX Chan

 

 

 

 

 

Battle of the Boxes: Ipsy vs. Play by Sephora | July 2016

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Hey Guys!

Today I have my July Battle of the Boxes to share with you. Both are $10 a month and are full of makeup, skincare, and other beauty goodies.

Ipsy promises 4-5 deluxe sized samples with at least 1 being full sized. It also comes in a cute cosmetic bag. This month we received 5 items with 3 being full sized!

The theme for this month was Hot Summer nights and the bag was silver holographic with beach umbrellas printed on the front.

The first item I received was a full sized nail polish from Trust Fund Beauty in the color No Filter. This item retails for $15. This is a nice greige neutral color. I don't normally wear nudes but I like this one! It is sophisticated and super opaque. It is free of harsh chemicals and covers in 1 coat. Get 35% off HERE with code IPSY35. 

The next item was also full sized and it is the Perfect Duo Brow Pencil from J. Cat Beauty. It retails for $3.99. I like this because it has the spooly on the back. I think this color is too dark for me though. It also transfers a bit. I wish it was a bit lighter but I will still use it. Use code ipsy716 HERE and get 25% off a purchase of $30. 

The next full sized item was a Baked Eyeshadow from Mellow in the color Coco. This retails for $8. This is beautiful! It is super buttery and pigmented and has a slight shimmer. I love it and highly recommend it. Get 15% off of any order of $40+ HERE with code Ipsy15. 

The next item was a small sample of the Get Glossed Hair Serum from Eva NYC. This smells amazing and a little goes along way. This helps to strengthen the hair, instantly adds shine, tames frizz, and protects against heat! Get 15% off HERE with code GetGlossedIpsy15. 

The final item was a sample of the Make up Forever Excessive Lash Mascara. I love this mascara! The brush isn't very bushy but it coats each lashI  and gives it volume, length and definition! It doesn't clump and lasts all day! I am addicted! Get it HERE. 

Overall this month had an AMAZING value and variety of items! Sign up HERE.

This month's Play by Sephora contained 6 products. Unlike Ipsy, Sephora always contains 1 fragrance sample. This is the one thing I don't like about it. 

This month's theme was Effortless Summer and came in a cute white bag with a Popsicles on the front. 

The fragrance this month was the Nest Fragrance in the scent Citrine. This smells fresh and fruity. The description of this is lotus flower, freesia, and sparkling citrus notes. I really like this and the packaging looks really cool! To keep your fragrance lasting longer on the skin make sure you are freshly moisturized with either an unscented lotion or one in the same scent. Check it out HERE. 

The next item was the Wave Spray from OUAI. This is a weightless texture mist that is supposed to add volume, texture, and shape to the hair. This stuff smells DELICIOUS! I want to get it in a body spray! Not sure how it works as a wave spray since I don't usually have luck with these but I might use it as a body spray hahah. Check it out HERE. 

Next was the Bloterazzi from Beautyblender. I actually own this already but I was happy to get another one. The full sized one has 2 sponges and a case. The sample just had one full sized facial sponge. I am keeping this as a backup in case any of my sponges gets torn or worn out. This item is designed to be like blotting sheets but instead of being disposable you can wash it and keep using it. Since it is made of the same spongy material as a BeautyBlender it doesn't disturb your makeup and soaks up oil. I love it. I highly recommend. Check it out HERE. 

Next up was the First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser with Red Clay. This is a foaming cleanser that uses red clay to purify and cleanse the skin and get rid of oil. I only use Proactiv so I won't be using this. I might try it once. Check it out HERE. 

The next time was my favorite! It is the Smashbox Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer. This is a mattifying and smooth primer for combo and oily skin. This is supposed to minimize shine, and pores and help makeup last. It feels like the Porefessional by Benefit. It smooths out my large pores on my cheeks and makes my skin so soft. I highly recommend!! Check it out HERE. 

The final product is the Too Faced Soleil Matte Bronzer in Chocolate. This is a matte bronzer that smells like delicious chocolate. This bronzer build able and perfect for contouring. I don't contour so I will be adding this to my giveaway pile. Check it out HERE. 

Overall I loved my Play by Sephora! The Primer is amazing and I am thinking about buying the full size! Sign up HERE. 

What is your favorite monthly subscription? XOX Chan