Birchbox November 2014

This months' Birchbox is about AIDS awareness, and if you share a photo of your box, they'll donate towards amFAR, which is a charity I usually support anyway. This month has some really great things, but overall, it just didn't pack the impressive punch that Ipsy did.

Curl Keeper by Curly Hair Solutions Gel

This water-based gel, new from the brand, adds definition and hold to curls and waves. Comb through wet hair and let air dry. To reactivate hold later, slightly dampen hair.

I require a lot of hold for my hair, but I don't like it when it's crunchy. I like being able to touch my hair every once in a while. This is really the best of both words. It's similar to Aveda's Confixor. Great hold , but wonderfully touchable. I've already ordered this one off the Birchbox website. My favorite thing about this is that you can wet your hair down and get a second day out of it. Usually my natural curls are a one-shot deal and that's it. Not anymore! So pleased.

Full size: $17.50

Sample size: $2.19

Cynthia Rowley Beauty Creamy Lip Stain in Dahlia

A long-wearing stain from the NYC-based designer that gives unbeatable moisture and shine. Sweep over lips for a sheer, perfect-for-fall berry color. Layer on for a deeper shade.

There were a few things wrong with this. It doesn't go on equally opaque. The color is patchy and uneven. It's also dark. I'm not usually afraid of vampy dark lips, but this was just not flattering for me. I passed it on to my sister, and I'll pass on it in future.

Full size: $20

Sample size: $9.29

Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Starter Kit

This lightweight cream, half of a ceramide-packed duo, calms and deeply hydrates skin. Gently rub a nickel-sized amount onto freshly cleansed face.

I've been enjoying the Dr Jart+ products I received last month and this one is great too. It's a thin moisturizer that feels fantastic and makes my skin feel great. It's been a challenge to keep up with the winter dryness, so I'm pleased to be trying this out. I don't know what ceramide is...should I?

Full size: $48

Sample size: $4.80

Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Sensitive

An amazingly effective(and gentle!) peel with fruit-derived acids to dissolve dead skin. At night, apply a thin layer onto clean skin. Rinse after 10 minutes. Use 1-2 times a week.

I've consistently got an exfoliating product every month. This one is probably my least favorite. It smells great, but that's about the only good thing about it. No change in my skin, and left an icky residue.

Full size: $39

Sample size: $5.07

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer – Hydrating

Moisture rich primer that nourishes skin and creates a smooth, flawless base for makeup. Apply a pearl-sized amount to face, avoiding eyes. Wear alone, or follow with foundation.

This is the best product in this box by far. Not only is the size fairly generous, it's also from a great brand. As far as primers go, I like this one loads better than Smashbox. It doesn't break me out and really sinks into the skin instead of sitting on top. It's no wonder that this is a favorite.

Full size: $33

Sample size: $19.42

Bonus

Pink Himalayan Crystal Salt Caramel

Meh. Not particularly special.

Full size: $20

Sample size: $1.65

Overall great value, but not spectacular. Better luck next time Birchbox.

$42.42 Total