So today is the end of an era, where I’m reviewing my very last Birchbox. Now, I may decide to one day give it another try, but for now I just found that the value wasn’t there for me. That doesn’t mean I won’t try out their Limited Edition boxes, so don’t be surprised if you see Birchbox pop back up here again. Speaking of which, Birchbox introduced a new Limited Edition box:
Limited Edition: Cheers to You!
Cost: $50.00
Description: “Birthday? Engagement? Got the job, aced that exam, or conquered a 5K? Whatever the “woohoo!” moment, this box is filled with products and keepsakes to help you—or someone special—celebrate. Think: a gem-inspired palette, a soothing gel mask, a gold-accented tray, and much more. Planning on gifting the box to a rockstar in your life? There’s a matching, festive card (ready to be filled in by you).”
This box looks like it’s got some great items (I’m loving the little tray) but for me it’s a bit pricey. (I expect a higher end brand than Pixi for a $50 box). I’m opting out of this one, but hoping that we see some other great Fall inspired LE box.
Now let’ see what my last Birchbox included:
I think I’ll miss the cute boxes most of all!
Balance Me Radiance Face Mask (Full Size $34.00)
Description: “Suitable for all skin types, the clay-based formula cleanses, exfoliates, and brightens skin.”
Verdict: Like
I enjoy trying out different types of masks and this is a new brand for me.
Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara (Full Size: $24.00)
Description: “Formula with all-day wear for lashes so long and thick, you may be accused of fakery.”
Verdict: Like
This was the sample I chose from the mascaras that were up for grabs. This is one of my favorite mascaras (right after It Cosmetic’s “Hello Lashes”), so I figured I’d just stock up.
Cartier Baiser Volé Lys Rose Eau de Toilette Spray (1.7 oz: $90.00)
Description: ”This sweet, subtle scent comes from a captivating cocktail of crystallized pink lily petals and hints of raspberry.”
Verdict: Who wants to pay $90 for a headache? Any takers?
So we get to one of the most compelling reasons I canceled this box. The damn perfume samples. I cannot use 99% of perfume samples and yet I can’t opt out of them. They are also free everywhere – magazines, makeup counters. They should not be included as one of the main items in the box. An extra item? Sure, why not. But as one of 5 samples. Nope. This year, I chose the curated box twice. That leaves 5 remaining boxes with unknown samples, out of which 3 included fragrance. I chose the option for the “least” amount of perfumes in my box and I still got them over half the time. Unless Birchbox changes the perfume situation, I doubt I will re-subscribe.
Clinique City Block™ Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel (5 oz: $20.00)
Description: ”A detoxifying cleansing gel with charcoal to zap pores of dirt, oil and makeup.”
Verdict: Hit!
I’m not particularly into Clinique skincare but I’m intrigued by a Charcoal Cleansing gel so this one will be fun to try out.
LOC Ultra-Gloss Lip Pencil in Punch Line
(Full Size: $12.00)
Description: “From the Birchbox brand: A hydrating, lasting, and glossy lip pencial in a sheer watermelon pink that flatters everyone.”
Verdict: Like
First, after getting some super small samples in past boxes, I’m really liking this full size. This felt nice going on and the color is a nice cheerful hue. I like the sheer consistency which makes it a lot more wearable than more opaque lip products.
OVERALL
Verdict: Like
This box came while Birchbox’s old review policy was in place so I paid $10.70 for this box and received $5.00 in Birchbox points with my reviews. If it weren’t for the perfume sample, I would have given this one a “hit”. I will use all the items in the box, and the size of the samples was definitely an improvement over previous boxes. I’m interested to see if Birchbox works on improving their sample curation now that they’ve lost a significant number of subscribers.
How do you feel about perfume samples in your beauty box?
Do you love them? Hate them?
Think they should only be bonus items?
Dish!
THE BACKSTORY
Birchbox subscriptions cost $10 per month or $110 per year (Women’s Sub)
$20 per month or $195 per year (Men’s Sub)
Points System:
Whenever you buy something at Birchbox they give you Birchbox points. $1.00 = 1 Birchbox Point.
You can redeem reward points for money toward your Birchbox purchases.
You can also earn points by referring/subscribing friends.
Lisa Preziosi 