Birchbox September 2014

Today I have another Birchbox that arrived over the weekend. It feels like these are coming almost faster than I can keep up with them. Birchbox runs you $10US. I didn’t pay any tax, and shipping was included.

This month's theme was Fresh Paint. Fresh paint is about breathing life into a tired routine. Another batch of great products was included to help with that. It's also Birchbox's anniversary, so their packaging is extra cute this month.

Cynthia Rowley Beauty Eye Pencil in Silver

The NYC-based designer's new metallic liner goes on smoothly for long-lasting wear. Glide along lash line for a defined look or blend within 30 seconds for a smoky eye.

I have been getting slowly more adventurous about the eyeliner. Blue, green, and with this...silver. This isn't waterproof, but appears to be totally and completely smudge-proof. I’m impressed. I love the way it wears and also the wonderful silver sheen. Look out for this one in a face of the day post coming soon.

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Full size: $16

Sample size: $12

Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint in Golden

A birchbox staffer fave, this oil-free SPF 20 formula add a dewy natural-looking glow. Smooth a dime-sized amount over clean face. Layer for more coverage.

Jouer is one of those uber-coveted brands at the moment. I've heard great things about so many of their products and was ecstatic to receive one. Unfortunately, I'm not sure how much use I'll get out of this. It doesn't provide any coverage, and provides quite a lot of shine, so it's not great on its own. It also is completely covered by a layer of even my sheerest foundation, so I just don't think it's worth it. It feels great, and has tons of SPF, but it isn't special. Hopefully my next foray into Jouer is a little better.

Full size: $38

Sample size: $3.80

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Gold Couture

A newly launched, decadent blend of wild berries, honeysuckle, and warm caramel notes. Spritz onto pulse points and you're golden.

Ugh. Another fragrance sample. Another fragrance sample that I hate. Ick. Sickly sweet and cloyingly floral. Not really my thing.

Full size: $25-92

Sample size: $2.12 (ish)

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser Starter Kit

UK favorite that uses a two-step ritual to purify and exfoliate. A Birchbox exclusive! Massage into skin. With muslin cloth, wipe off gently in small circles, from the center out.

This month, as with the past several months, you can pick one of your samples. This one was my choice. I've heard great things about this cleanser and it does not disappoint. I think the whole “you must only use this immaculate muslin cloth to cleanse your awful filthy face” is gimmicky, but it does feel nice. I can see this one sticking with me for a long time.

Full size: $24.50

Sample size: $7.42

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream 

This all-over hydrator heals and softens everything from rough heels to chapped lips. Apply a thin layer to dry skin, and massage in until cream disappears.

This is...strange. It's the consistency and smell of that carmex lip balm that comes in the tub. I'm pretty sure that's all this is. It does hydrate without breaking me out, despite its thick, gloopy texture. I'm not sold though.

Full size: $16

Sample size: $1.28

Bonus

This botanical rich trio from Rogue & Co keeps locks glossy and frizz-free.

One-time-use packets of shampoo, conditioner, and styling cream. In good news, my hair was super shiny after I used these. Unfortunately that didn't last for long. Overnight (twelve hours or so), my hair became weighed down, dull, and impossible to style. I have kind of sensitive hair so I try to avoid washing it often. Shampooing every day just for the sake of that one day of shine isn't sensible for me.

Full size: $24-25

Sample size: $1.69

Box value: $28.31

This box wasn't a hit for me. While I was initially very excited to try the new things out, I'd say that only the Liz Earle cleanser and Cynthia Rowley eye pencil were worth it to me. Better luck next month.