I’ve been hella busy with the house, the upcoming release of “The Ice Maiden’s Tale” and the blog redesign, so as expected I’m a wee bit behind on my boxes. Today we’re heading back to February for my Play by Sephora review. This is one of the best budget beauty boxes at the $10 price point, so if you don’t have a ton of cash, but want to try out a beauty sub, check this one out.
If you want to see my box reveals as soon as I get them, follow me on Instagram for real time spoilers.
February’s theme was “The Soft Side” – Make a Radiant Understatement “Muted, mellow shade shades and skin-perfecting formulas are a never-fail way to show off your natural beauty. From a romantic lip color to a radiance-boosting eye cream, add definition and just a hint of dram with this month’s subtle-yet-stunning lineup of makeup and skincare.”
CLINIQUE Pep-Start HydroBlur Moisturizer
(Full Size: $29.50)
Description: “A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer-meets-primer instantly blurs imperfections while providing all-day hydration for a silky, soft-focus finish.”
Verdict: Like
I love trying out different primers and one that is light and moisturizing sounds particularly appealing.
Too Faced Lip Injection Glossy in Milkshake
(Full Size: $22.00)
Description: “Sheer tinted gloss uses a botanical-infused formula to visibly plump lips instantly while also hydrating and softening over time.”
Verdict: Like
I’ve been looking for some nude lip products and I like that this one is hydrating. This would look great paired with a smoky eye.
Rainforest of the Sea™ Quench Lip Rescue in Nude
(Full Size: $19.00)
Description: “Sheer ultra-moisturizing lip balm delivers vitamin-rich hydration and nurtures dry lips while providing a soft natural tint.”
Verdict: On the fence
This product is definitely moisturizing, but the color is very light and it doesn’t have much staying power. It also got very soft, pretty quickly and it didn’t go anywhere with a lot of heat. I’m thinking this product isn’t something to leave in your summer bag.
SEPHORA COLLECTION LashCraft Length & Volume Mascara
(Full Size: $12.00)
Description: “A jet-black volumizing mascara with an innovative flat paddle-shaped wand to lengthen and lift lashes.”
Verdict: Okay
I’m always on the lookout for awesome mascara, but this one is pretty ordinary. Not bad, not amazing, but perfectly adequate.
Origins GinZing™ Refreshing Eye Cream
(Full Size: $30.00)
Description: “A luminous eye cream infuse with coffee beans, ginseng, and magnolia extract ot visibly brighten and depuff the undereye area.”
Verdict: Love!
Eye creams are one of my fave items to get in sub boxes. I use them regularly and they typically cost quite a bit so sampling them in advance is super helpful. This one was really light and suitable to wear even in the morning.
This Month’s Perfume Pick:
Prada Candy (1.7 oz $90.00)
Description: “A confident, daring, and seductive fragrance, this feminine scent features caramel, benzoin, and notes of white musk.”
Verdict: Confident = way too strong
As usual this doesn’t work for me. I’m just going to pass it on to someone else who might enjoy it.
OVERALL
Verdict: A bit uneven
This box had a lot of practical items that fit the “low key” “basics” vibe, but the curation felt a bit off. There were two moisturizers and two nude lip products included. I would have liked to see a hair product and maybe a nude shadow or a natural blush. Overall, the box was still a great value since I paid $10.70 and I’ll use nearly all of the items. The Too Faced gloss was a great size and easily covered a chunk of the box cost.
I’ve got so many more box reviews coming up including some really unique subscriptions, so be sure to check back.
What types of products do you want to see in beauty boxes?
THE BACKSTORY
Each month Play by Sephora, will send you 5 deluxe samples handpicked from their shelves (plus a fragrance bonus) – all in a collectible bag.
Cost: $10 per month (plus any applicable tax)
Bonus: Each month you’ll get an included card that you can bring to Sephora for an extra 50 bonus points for any Purchase. These points are part of Sephora’s VIB program and can be traded in for an assortment of samples.
Lisa Preziosi 