Play by Sephora: July 2017

We’re continuing the push through my backlog of reviews with my July Play by Sephora subscription.  I do post lots of sneak peeks on my Instagram, so follow me there if you want to see the boxes before I post my review.

July’s theme was “Beauty Staycation” – which is actually sort of where I’m at right now since my break before my new job starts.  Of course, the “beauty” part is more about my house than me, but it still works.
Now to the box!

Bobbi BrownEye Opening Mascara
(Full Size: $30.00)
Description: “Long-wearing mascara visibly thickness, curls, and lifts lashes with a carbon-black formula.”
Verdict: Anti-climactic
So many black mascaras, so little time.  I didn’t find anything extraordinary about this mascara although I did like the brush, which was on the larger side. Still, there’s nothing about this mascara that would be worth $30.  I also don’t think it fits in a “beauty staycation”.  That implies different treatments and pampering, and mascara is not in that category.

Fresh Rose Face Mask
(1 oz: $25.00)
Description: “Hydrating and toning gel mask refreshes tired, dull skin with a calming infusion of pure rosewater and rose petals.
Verdict: Love!
I’ve always liked the Fresh brand and a rose mask sounds perfect for a “beauty staycation”.  I’m excited to try this one out once I’m not covered in paint.

Briogeo Rosarco Milk™ Reparative Leave-In Conditioning Spray
(Full Size: $20.00)
Description: “Ultra-light leave-in conditioning spray delivers non-greasy moisture without weighing down hair.”
Verdict: Like
I’ve tried Briogeo products before and haven’t been blown away, but haven’t disliked them either.  My hair is a wreck thanks to the hard water we have at the new house, so I’m happy to try any hair treatment that might help.

Tarte Color Splash Lipstick – Rainforest of the Sea™ in “Set Sail”
(Full Size: $21.00)
Description: “Long-lasting yet moisture-rich lipstick softens and smooths lips while providing full-coverage color.”
Verdict: Love!
They describe this shade as a “dark nude” and it is lovely.  It’s a great every day color for when you want to look put together, but not like you’re wearing too much makeup.  The consistency did seem a little softer than most lipsticks, which is a bit of a problem with this small tube, but I’m sure it’s not an issue with the normal size.

CaudalieVine[Activ] Glow Activating Anti-Wrinkle Serum
(1 oz: $52.00)
Description:”Highly concentrated pollution protection serum reveals a youthful glow while helping to visibly smooth fine lines.”
Verdict: Like
Caudalie is a great brand and since it costs $52 for an ounce, I’m happy to be able to try it out.  I also like that you can use it under your makeup.

This Month’s Perfume Pick:
CLEAN Reserve Sueded Oud
(3.4 oz $95.00)
Description: “This creamy and sophisticated scent puts a new twist on a traditional heavy oud fragrance with its light, fresh notes.
Verdict: Not for me
Definitely appreciate the idea of a lighter fresher floral, but this is still too strong for me.

OVERALL
Verdict: Hit!
I loved the lipstick and the rose mask, and except for the perfume,(which I always write off anyway) I’ll use everything in this box.  I loved the theme of a “beauty staycation” but I felt like they didn’t really embrace it. Rather than lipstick and mascara which are more for going out, I think we should have seen more treatments and masks.  Still, for only $10.69, I think this was a great box.  If you’re looking for a budget friendly beauty box, Sephora is at the top of my list.

Have you ever had a “beauty staycation”?
What did you do?

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.

 

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Play by Sephora: May 2017

It’s been a rough week.  I’m not quite at the point where I can articulate something clear and thoughtful about the terrorism that shook Charlottesville.  All I can say is that we’ve beaten hate before and we will do it again, because despite everything, most people are good. (Although sometimes I know it doesn’t seem like it.) We just have to stand together and help each other, and most of all never, ever, ever let hate be the loudest voice in the room.

Now, I know sub boxes are especially frivolous at this time, but I refuse to let terror stop me from doing the things I want to do.  So today I’m going to review my damn May Play by Sephora subscription and keep on keeping on.

If you want to see my box reveals as soon as I get them, follow me on Instagram for real time spoilers.
May’s theme was “The Rising Stars” – “This month we’re taking you on a tour of cult favorites, hard-to-find formulas, and one-of-a-kind brands that are making their mark.”
This month we got a super cute plastic pouch.  Great for tucking in some toiletries when you go to the beach, pool or waterpark.

NUDESTIX Magnetic Matte Lip Color in Greystone
(Full Size: $24.00)
Description: “A three-in-one matte lip stain, lip color, and lip liner that has a long-wearing, intensely pigmented formula in a bold, dep shade.”
Verdict: Like for Fall/Winter
I didn’t swatch this one because the color seems way more suited to Fall/Winter so I’m going to save it for then.  It’s described as “griege” shade and seems like a throwback to the 90s.  Even if it doesn’t work well with my pale complexion, I’ll have some fun playing around with it.

trèStiQue – Highlight & Perfect Multipurpose Stick  Maldives Luminescent
(Full Size: $34.00)
Description: “This silk-smooth gel highlighter stick Paris a barely-there, lightweight texture with a luminous champagne pink shimmer.
Verdict: Like
Champagne pinks usually work well with my complexion.  I have so much makeup open that I wanted to save this one, so I didn’t swatch it. Unlike the matte lipstick, this felt appropriate for summer.

SUNDAY RILEY – Ceramic Slip Clay Cleanser
(Full Size: $45.00)
Description: “Luxurious clay cleanser uses potent ingredients to minimize the appearance of pores and brighten for clear, balanced skin.”
Verdict: Like
Sunday Riley is one of those brands that bloggers adore and has quite a cult following.  It’s also pretty pricey, so I’m always glad to get some samples to try out.

Grande Cosmetics – GrandeLIPS Hydrating Lip Plumper in Clear
(Full Size: $27.00)
Description: “Clear gloss uses a patented hyaluronic acid-infused formula to visibly plump lips while also softening over time.”
Verdict: On the fence
I’m not usually a fan of “plumping” lip products, but I’m willing to give it a try.  I do like that it’s clear so you can pair it with your favorite lipstick or gloss.

Christophe Robin – Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt
(Full Size: $53.00)
Description:”Cleanse, purify, and rebalance a sensitive or oily scalp with this soothing sea salt scrub that leaves hair soft and refreshed.”
Verdict: Love!
My scalp is one of my problem areas so getting a hair product to target that area is awesome.  I hope I don’t like this one too much since a full size is pretty pricey at $53.

This Month’s Perfume Pick:
MAISON MARGIELA – ’REPLICA’ Beach Walk (3.4 oz $126.00)
Description: “Transport yourself to sandy seaside memories with this radiant scent of bergamot, coconut milk, and lemon.”
Verdict: Finally!
The rare perfume that I can wear!  I love citrus scents so this was a nice surprise.

OVERALL

Verdict: Love!
This box was such a huge improvement over April’s.  I’ll use every product and there are lots of brands here that I haven’t tried before.   I also thought it had an excellent balance of products, although if I want to be nit-picky, I’d say they should have opted for a different makeup item rather than 2 lip products, and that the shade of the nudestix should have been more seasonally appropriate.  Still, this was a great box for $10, and Sephora still stands as my favorite budget beauty sub.

What type of lip colors do you wear and do you change them by season?

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

Play by Sephora: April 2017

I finally got a moment to catch a breath from the endless home renovation projects and the book release madness for my debut novel, The Ice Maiden’s Tale, to take stock of my box reviews. Unsurprisingly I’m hella behind, so today I’ve got my April Play by Sephora box.  There was a billing snafu in March, so I ended up missing that box, but I’m picking right back up with my April one.  This is one of the best budget beauty boxes at only $10 per month, so if you want to try a sub, but don’t have a lot of spare dinero, consider Sephora.

If you want to see my box reveals as soon as I get them, follow me on Instagram for real time spoilers.
April’s theme was “Step It  Up” – “Upgrade your everyday routine with best in class products to set yourself up for beauty success. Try an eyeliner beloved by makeup artists, skincare selected for your specific for your specific concerns, and more must-haves to step up your beauty game.”

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream
(Full Size: $52.00)
Description: “Lightweight moisturizer with airy formula delivers a burst of hydration with three different types of hyaluronic acid.”
Verdict: Like
“Hyaluronic Cloud Cream” sounds like a lab experiment meets an RPG game.  It sounds interesting and I’m always up to try a new night time moisturizer so I’ll happy to test it out.

philosophy Purity Made Simple Cleanser
(Full Size: $24.00)
Description: “A gentle, award-winning one-step face wash that cleans, removes makeup, tones and lightly hydrates for a fresh complexion.
Verdict: Miss
I know some people adore and swear by Philosophy products but they just never work for me.  Their “hope in a jar” cream was more like “fish on my face” and this cleanser just feels way too stripping.  It gives you that “squeaky” clean that makes your skin feel so dry.  It just didn’t work for me.

Smashbox Iconic Photo Finish Foundation Primer
(Full Size: $36.00)
Description: “This iconic primer creates the perfect canvas for make-up application while leaving skin soft and silk-smooth”
Verdict: Repeat Offender
Is there a beauty sub box or freebie bag in existence that hasn’t had a Smashbox primer in it?  I swear I think I’ve got a hundred of these over the years.  If you’re into beauty you’ve probably gotten this sample before.  I’d rather see more new and interesting products.

SEPHORA COLLECTION
Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover
(Full Size: $11.00)
Description: “A gentle, go-to waterproof makeup remover perfect for sensitive eyes and enriched with lash-strengthening vitamins and extracts.”
Verdict: Not for me
I don’t care for these type of eye removers and prefer the oil based cleansers which work better for my skin.  This one was much gentler than most eye makeup removers, but still completely great for my sensitive skin.

MAKE UP FOR EVER
Aqua XL Eye Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner

(Full Size: $21.00)
Description: Beloved by makeup professionals, this creamy, budge-proof eyeliner glides an easily and leaves an intense, jet-black color.”
Verdict: Love!
Makeup Forever is one of my favorite brands so even though a black eyeliner is a bit boring I’m still happy to have this.  It’s a great size for travel or to keep in your purse’s makeup bag.

This Month’s Perfume Pick:
Miu Miu L’Eau Bleue (1.7 oz $90.00)
Description: “This fresh, floral fragrance consists of lily of the valley and notes of honeysuckle to evoke the beginning of springtime.”
Verdict: Too floral
As usual this perfume doesn’t work for me.  The floral is too strong – I think it’s the lily that is off-putting.

OVERALL
Verdict
: Not my favorite
I found this box pretty boring.  Except for the eyeliner I didn’t really love anything.  The choices fit the “beauty routine” but there needed to be a more interesting element here.  Maybe a lip balm from a new brand instead of the tired Smashbox primer?  I paid $10.70, which is a little much since I only liked two items, but hopefully future boxes will be more interesting.

Do you like more practical items in your beauty boxes or more unique and trendy things?

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.

Play by Sephora: February 2017

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.

Play by Sephora: January 2017

I was looking down my handy dandy spreadsheet of “to do” reviews and realized I am woefully behind on my Play by Sephora subscription.  So for Throwback Thursday we’ve got my January 2017 review.  At only $10 a month, this box is a great bargain and sends a fun assortment of beauty items under a monthly theme.

January’s theme was “Beauty, Set, Go” – Stellar Products are only the Beginning.  Sephora described this as “It’s time for a fresh start: this January, detox and refuel your beauty routine with a section of super-effective, ultra-hydrating skincare, makeup, and hair care.  We’re beginning 2017 with an innovative on-the-go cleanser stick, game-changing moisturizers, and more essentials that will keep you motivated all year long.”


Tarte – FRXXXTION Stick Exfoliating Cleanser

(Full Size: $22.00)
Description: “Exfoliating gel cleanser in a unique twist-up stick format transforms from a solid gel to a cleansing lather that gently sloughs away impurities.
Verdict: Does this come in wrapped in plain brown paper?
This is such a unique product and I don’t think I’ve ever tried a stick cleanser that is exfoliating and lathers.  I’m intrigued and excited to try it out.  However, I do have a PSA – Dear Beauty Companies – stop it with the goddamn stupid names!  We just want to be able to easily google products and recommend them to our friends.  Something called “FRXXXTION Stick” does not strike up images of cleansers, nor is it something you want to recommend to the lady on the bus after she compliments your glowing skin.


Youth To The People – Age Prevention Superfood Cream
(Full Size: $48.00)
Description: “Whipped, lightweight cream restores and rejuvenates skin and deliver antioxidants with potent plant extracts.
Verdict: Like they took every hipster word they could find and put in lotion form
I love vegan and natural beauty products, but you know, enough with the goddamn Kale already.  They call this “a green smoothie for your face”.  I am firmly in the vegetables-don’t-belong-in-cold-beverages camp so this is not a selling point for me. I’m sure I’ll try this out, but I’m going to be a bit grumpy about it.


Ouai – Treatment Masque

(8 – .3 oz treatments: $32.00)
Description: “Restorative mask helps to care for damaged hair and leaves strands feeling smooth and touchably soft.”
Verdict: Hit!
My hair is getting to be ridiculously long (like Sister Wife long) and I’m putting off a haircut as long as possible to save money for my house.  This means hair masks are my savior right now.  I really need to break down and cut my hair already, but the masks help me delay the inevitable for just a tad longer.


Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey

(Full Size: $17.00)
Description: “Sheer lip color with a glossy finish in the bestselling, cult-classic Black Honey shade.”
Verdict: Hit!
This is a cult-classic and if you’re into beauty at all you’ve probably heard of it.  I didn’t swatch this because I want to save it for after I’ve used up a few more of my products. This is a great shade for days when you want a natural look.  While the product looks dark, it goes on sheer and is very wearable.


AmorePacific Color Control Cushion Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

(Full Size: $60.00)
Description: “Cushion format CC cream hydrates, protects skin, and delivers buildable weightless coverage in two blendable shades.”
Verdict: Hit!
I love that this CC cream has a pink/cool undertone option. It’s amazing how many BB/CC creams and foundations don’t.  I’m always looking for the perfect CC cream with SPF, so this is exactly the type of product I like to try out for myself. $60 is steep so I’d be leery to buy it without a sample first.

This Month’s Perfume Pick:

Tory Burch Love Relentlessy (1.7 oz $86.00)
Description: “Unabashedly feminine and tender, this delicate scent feature notes of pink pepper, orris, and patchouli.”
Verdict: Friends don’t let friends wear patchouli
You know me and perfumes don’t typically work out and Patchoui is a death knell.  If you love it and can pull it off, kudos to you, but most people end up smelling like a dirty hippie.

OVERALL

Verdict:
Hit!
I thought this box hit the January detox/new year theme very well.  It featured a lot of very practical items and the black honey lipstick was a great size that could easily be worth a couple dollars on its own. With tax, I paid $10.70 for this box and I’ll use nearly everything. If you want to try out pricier makeup and don’t know where to start, I highly recommend trying out a Sephora Play subscription.  For $10, you’ll get a chance to try out some expensive brands and products and be able to decide if they are worth the splurge.

I’ve got so many more box reviews coming up including a fun, snarky women’s box and a free goodie box so be sure to come back.

If you want a sneak peek of the full boxes, just follow me on Instagram.

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.

 

Play by Sephora: November 2016

For Throw back Thursday, I’ve got the last of my November box reviews.  Today is my budget pick: Play by Sephora.  At only $10 a month, they send a fun assortment of beauty items under a monthly theme.
open-box-1 open-box-2
November’s theme was “Best in Glow” – Meet Your Partners in Shine.  Sephora described this as “It’s love at first bright: bypass winter dullness and wake your skin up with this month’s lustrous lineup of gleam-getting, radiance-ready beauty.  We’re hitting the highlights with an ultra-shiny lip gel, refreshing face mask a, and other illuminating makeup and skincare essentials.”

cover-fx
COVER FX Illuminating Primer
(Full Size: $38.00)
Description: “Glow-inducing, silicone-free primer preps skin with a light-reflecting mineral complex and helps eliminate dullness.
Verdict: Hit!
Primers are relatively new to my beauty regimen so I’m always excited to try out new ones.  I have a couple other Cover FX products and so far it’s a brand that I really like.

caudalie
Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet
(Full Size: $39.00)
Description: “Rejuvenating and lightweight, this luscious gel cream hydrate and softens skin while visibly calming redness and congestion.
Verdict: Hit!
I really like trying out moisturizers with unique textures and I love the lightness of this cream.

laura-mercierlaura-mercier-open
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour in Rose Gold

(Full Size: $29.00)
Description: “Multi-purpose, high-pigment eyeshadow stick glides on and blends easily for transfer-proof, all-day wear.”
Verdict: A Favorite!
Laura Mercier is one of my go to makeup brands.  Their eye sticks go on so easily and have a great color payoff.  I actually already own the full size of this so I’m putting it in my makeup stash for when mine runs out.  This color looks beautiful on so many skin tones and gives that shimmery candlelit glow.  This size is also quite generous and this sample should last for a long time.

sephora-lip
SEPHORA COLLECTION Ultra Shine Lip Gel in Pin Up Pink
(Full Size: $12.00)
Description: “Hydrating, glossy lip gel visibly plumps lips with a lustrous sheen and always flattering hot pink hue.”
Verdict: Like
I like getting fun makeup samples and this is probably not a shade I’d choose on my own.  I didn’t swatch it because I have so many open products, I want to finish a few first.

glamglow
GLAMGLOW YOUTHMUD™ Tinglexfoliate Treatment

(Full Size: $69.00)
Description: “Exfoliating mud mask increases skin’s vibrancy by gently resurfacing and tightening the appearance of pores.”
Verdict: Like
I hear so many folks rave about Glamglow, but the high price tag just isn’t in my budget.   I tried this out and it definitely felt like it exfoliated my skin, but it’s worth $69.

This Month’s Perfume Pick:
perfume
Stella McCartney Pop (1.6 oz $72.00)
Description: “A celebration of self -expression and independence, this bold, contemporary scent layers birgight floral notes over a base of sandalwood.”
Verdict: Nope.
As usual it’s too strong for me.  I’ll pass it along to a friend.

OVERALL
sephora-play-11-2016
Verdict:
Hit!
With tax, I paid $10.70 for this box and I feel like I definitely got my money’s worth. The Laura Mercier eyestick is pretty much worth the price of admission.  Once again, I feel like Sephora offered a great variety of products from quality brands in generously sized samples.  Of all the budget beauty boxes in the $10 and under slot, I think this one is the best.

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.

Play by Sephora: August 2016

I was so, so close to finishing up my August reviews, and then..bam….I caught like the plague or something and I finally find a house I both love and can afford.  So in between the stacks of paperwork and endless phone calls, I’ve been trying not to hack up a lung, all the while missing my retail therapy and fun chats with all of you.    But today I’m hopped up on DayQuil and back to talk about one of my favorite budget subs: Play by Sephora.  This box is Birchbox’s direct competition in the $10 beauty box slot.
open-box
August’s theme was “The Eye Openers” – If Looks Could Thrill.  Sephora described this as “There’s more than meets the eye with this month’s selection of skincare and makeup.  After a long summer, refresh and recharge your beauty routine with the mascara for standout lashes, an energizing moisturizer, and striking looks that will put all eyes on you.”
packaging

mufe-openmufe-swatch
Make Up For Ever Artist Shadow in I-544
(Full Size: $21.00)
Description: “Highly saturated, iridescent pink granite eyeshadow made with a unique gel-powder formula and ultrafine pigments for smooth color.
Verdict: Love!
Make Up Forever (MUFE) is one of my go to brands. Their eyeshadows are amazing and go on so smoothly.  I love this color.  It’s such a pretty neutral and gives this kind of candlelit look.  I own it already in a MUFE palette I purchased back in Spring.  I use this shade a ton already and I can’t recommend this brand enough.  Click here for my review of their Artist Palette Volume 3 which includes this pink granite shade.

perversion
Urban Decay Perversion Mascara
(Full Size: $20.00)
Description: “Lengthening and volumizing mascara coats eyelashes with triple-black pigment and a buildable, creamy formula.
Verdict: Like!
Mascara isn’t exciting, but it’s the product I probably use up the fastest.  Urban Decay is a great brand and I’m pretty sure I’ve used this before.  I think I liked it, but didn’t quite love it so I’m happy to try it again and see how it works.

lancome
Lancome Energie De Vie Smoothing & Glowing Liquid Care Moisturizer
(1.69 oz: $55.00)
Description: “Concentrated energizing liquid lotion visually relieves dullness, diminishes signs of fatigue, and promotes a healthy-looking glow.”
Verdict: Like
There are a lot of words in the name of this product.  They all sound good and it never hurts to throw some French in there for good measure.  This product appears to be similar to the Korean equivalent of an “essence” which I find intriguing.  This should be fun to experiment with.

eye-balm
Caudalie Resveratrol Eye lifting Balm
(.5 oz: $62.00)
Description: “Innovative eye cream visibly lifts and smooths the eye area with a breakthrough patented formula while reducing the look of dark circles and puffiness.”
Verdict: Love!
You probably know by now that I am always a sucker for eye creams in box.  Eye creams tend to be super spendy, and to me they are an integral part of a beauty regimen.  If you do nothing else but get yourself a good anti-aging eye cream and apply it religiously you will do wonders for your skin.  This cream feels lovely going on and moisturizes without being heavy.  I’m really enjoying trying this out.

eyeliner liner-swatch
Sephora Colelction Contour Eye Pencil 12hr Wear
Waterproof in Flirting Game
(Full Size: $10.00)
Description: “Creamy-easy-to-apply pencil with long-lasting, 12 hour waterproof formula in a shimmery taupe shade that was handpicked for you.”
Verdict: Like
This pencil definitely had staying power.  This shade pairs really nicely with the shadow they included and I feel like this gives a nice subtle shimmer.

This Month’s Perfume Pick:
clean
Clean Reserve Blonde Rose (3.4 oz $90.00)
Description: “Classic yet edgy bouquet of rose, jasmine, and peony above a sandalwood base evokes feminine sophistication and allure.”
Verdict: Evokes headaches
As usual, this scent doesn’t work for me, but I really don’t expect most perfumes to.  This is an extra item so it doesn’t really impact my appreciation of the box.

OVERALL
sephora-play-august-2016
Verdict:
Love!
With tax, I paid $10.70 for this box and except for the perfume extra I will use everything in it.  Eye products tend to be where I use a wide variety of brands and items so I really love that I got to try a few new things.  I do think the products and colors in here would work for a wide variety of women so kudos to Sephora on an excellent curation.

Do you use a lot of eye products?
Which ones do you consider your holy grail items?

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.

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