Ipsy April 2015

It’s a gorgeous Monday today, and it’s time to review this month’s Ipsy Glam Bag. This month’s theme was more Coachella-y, with bohemian themed makeup and bag. That’s not really my style. I’m a lot more polished, but I was hopeful that some of these things would work out for me.

In the bag:

Theorie Argan Oil Ultimate Reform Hair Serum

This luxurious hair serum penetrates deep into hair follicles to restore moisture and impart brilliance to lackluster hair. Apply to soften the cuticle, strengthen brittleness and protect from heat styling and environmental stress.

The Argan Oil Ultimate Reform Hair Serum is safe for Normal, Color and Keratin Treated Hair and contains natural ingredients including Moroccan Argan Oil and Bitter Orange Flower Extract.

The Serum is free from sodium lauryl sulfate, laureth sulfate, mineral oil, paraffin oil, petroleum and propylene glycol products.

Still putting off a haircut, and dealing with some little split ends. I’ve been using this hair serum on days when I’m going to be using a lot of heat on my hair because it makes it feel healthier and less frizzy after the heat. I still prefer to use my Glossybox Marrakesh Endz hair cream for curly days though. I find that this weighs on my curls if I’m not doing a lot of heat-processing.

Full size: $32.99

Sample size: $4.85

Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner in Shimmering Black

Starlight Liners glide on easily without a shadow base, yet last all day. They are rich, full, and give a strong coverage. They can be used over, under, or in the inner rim of the eye.

I’ve never used anything from this brand. I always cruise past the “celebrity” brands when I’m at Ulta. I really like this. The texture of this is amazing. It glides on neatly. My only complaint is really with the color. If I’m wearing black liner, I want it to be as dark as satan’s soul. This comes off a lot less opaque and dark than I prefer. The formula is great though, so maybe in a different color.

Full size: $18

Sample size: $18

Hikari Cosmetics Blush in Tango

What it is: Vibrant, easy to blend color that highlights the cheekbones.

What it does: Designed to highlight your complexion, this weightless blush can be used lightly for a fresh look or layered for a dramatic look. An effortless application to the cheekbones that lasts all day!

Well. This one was totally smashed when I got it. Totally smashed. I liked the color too, which was a disappointment. I sent ipsy an email, and they have really great customer service, so they’ve sent me something else. I’m not sure if it’s the same product or not, but they did take care of it quickly and easily. The color and texture of this seemed really nice, but it was totally unusuable.

Full size: $15

Sample size: Weight: $15

theBalm Cosmetics NUDE Dude Eyeshadow Single in Fit

Introducing theBalm's latest addition to the Nude series... Nude Dude! Get a quick look using any combination of these triple-milled shadows or dress up your look by adding water to transform your favorite shades into loyal liners. The shadows can be worn wet or dry and alone or layered for added intensity, so go ahead and cover (or uncover) your eyes.

I was disappointed by how small this was. I think I was just expecting something a little grander. This is a good eyeshadow though. It looks much browner than it comes off, because it’s definitely more of a golden color on the lid. I think my disappointment is that it just isn’t special. I know that it’s easy for Ipsy to give out neutral shadows because everyone likes them, but I only need so many brown neutral shadows. It’s a problem, but not one I can easily solve.

Full size: $36 (palette of 12 colors)

Sample size: $3

Mullein & Sparrow Mini Lip & Cheek Tint

The Mullein & Sparrow Mini Lip & Cheek Tint is an all-natural, sheer, tinted balm that gives your lips and cheeks a slight flush and dewy finish. Apply desired amount to lips for nourishment, protection, and color. Dab a small amount on cheeks as a light cream blush. It’s perfect for beauty on-the-go; it brightens the whole face with a sheer rosey flush for the cheeks, gloss for the lips, and a sweet orange scent!

I love the packaging of this. It’s pretty and vintage and lovely. The tint inside makes a great balm. It’s pleasantly moisturizing, and delightful. Unfortunately, the problem is that there isn’t any tint to this tint. It’s nearly entirely colorless. This doesn’t help me hardly at all. Was hoping for a little bit more color, so this one is going to go down as a failure.

Full size: $10

Sample size: $10

Fit on the lid, with Mally eyeliner

Fit on the lid, with Mally eyeliner

Well. This bag was good, just a little…off. Things were good, but not great. Better luck next time, Ipsy. Still, a great value at $50.85, when I only paid $10. If you’re interested in trying out ipsy, check them out here!