So it’s almost time for the August Birchboxes to ship, so that means it’s time to get my July Birchbox review posted. This month’s theme was “Power up” and featured a free Women’s Health magazine subscription (or rebate) and some “Power up Challenges” that are supposed to inspire us to “maximize your workouts, sleep, and everything in between.”
So the usual cute Birchbox has been spruced up with a cute theme.
Now for what’s inside.
The offer card and little booklet of challenges. I appreciate that if you don’t want the magazine, Birchbox will send you a rebate instead. I opted for the latter since I already get some great magazines that I never get around to reading.
Let’s move onto the products…
Juice Beauty® Stem Cellular™ Repair Moisturizer
(1 oz. Retail: $65.00)
Description: “This organic hydrator uses fruit stem cells to firm as it smooths fine lines and wrinkles…”
Verdict: Like
I thought this moisturizer went on nicely, but I found it to be slightly heavy for this time of year. I think it will work better for fall as we’re heading into cooler weather. But I did find that it hydrated my skin and the scent was pleasant.
Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream in Acai Grapefrui
(150 mL Retail: $20.00)
Description: “A shea butter packed shaving cream in a pick-me up grapefruit scent..”
Verdict: Like
Lately I seem to be getting a lot of shaving cream in my sub boxes. I actually love the size of this since it will fit in my shower without taking up too much space. I’m still working my way through a giant container of Eos, so I haven’t given this a shot yet but I’m doubtful it will wow me enough to go from my under $4 purchase to $20. But hey, it could end up being the bestest shave cream ever and then I’ll have to fork over the dough.
Marcelle New Age 8 in 1 Power Serum
(1 oz Retail: $34.00)
Description: “This peptide-packed antiaging gel hydrates, irms, lifts a, and plumps fine lines.”
Verdict: On the Fence
I don’t know, do I really want my fine lines “plumped”? I’d rather just have them go away, thank you very much. I generally like getting serums since you can change them up in your beauty routine and it’s nice to have a variety for different purposes (like when you need extra moisture or brightening or targeted anti-aging). I didn’t really notice much of a change when I used this one, but I may just have to use it a bit longer.
RUFFIAN Nail Lacquer – Rosary
(Retail: $11.00)
Description: “”Streak-free metallic polish in a trendy, summer-perfect shade.”
Verdict: Like
I got to try Ruffian for the first time with my Birchbox LE Mermaid box and I liked the formula. I actually got to choose this shade, since Birchbox sent me an email with a couple options. I really like the rose-gold color and I think it’s actually a nice transitional shade for fall. I enjoy getting these polishes in my box, but I probably won’t purchase them on my own at the $11 pricetag. I feel like Zoya has a better formula and so many more interesting color options and their polish retails at only $10.
RUFFIAN Dressing Room Nail Lacquer Remover Towelettes
(Set of 10 – Retail: $12.00)
Description: “These black wipes will brighten up your next polish change. Free of acetone, they have a subtle lily scent that’s fresh and elegantly floral. Bonus: They’re infused with vitamin E to strengthen nails.”
Verdict: Hit!
I keep a ton of different types of polish remover and I love wipes. I try to keep a few in my work bag so when I end up chipping my nails horrifically I can run to the bathroom and remove my polish, so I don’t spend the day with a hot mess on my nails. I love that these don’t have acetone and they contain vitamin E. I haven’t had a chance to try them, but if they work well I could easily see myself picking up a set.
Coastal Scents® Revealed 2 Palette Set
(Retail: $34.00)
Description: “From the just-launched palette, these matte and shimmery shades will have you tickled pink.”
Verdict: Love!
I’ve seen a lot of bloggers review different Coastal Scents palettes (particularly as dupes for the ubiquitous and pricey Urban Decay “Naked” palettes) so I was psyched to try this out. This little quad was ballerina inspired and I actually loved the shades. They applied easily although the lightest shade blended right into my skin. I found the shades not to be super pigmented, but nicely blendable. I have a ton of palettes I am working my way through so I won’t be buying the full size of this, but if I had space I would definitely consider it.
OVERALL
Verdict: Hit!
Everything in this box was an item I could use and most were new brands for me. I’m quite happy with the selections and can’t wait to see what August includes.
With tax I paid $10.70 and after reviewing each item, my points earned me the equivalent of $6.00 which I think is a steal for the items I received. And that’s not counting the $10.00 rebate from the magazine offer, which means I made some money this month.
What did you get in your July Birchbox? Did you opt for the magazine sub or the rebate?
THE BACKSTORY
Birchbox subscriptions cost $10 per month or $110 per year.
Your options: Women’s Box or Men’s Box
Points System:
Whenever you buy something at Birchbox they give you Birchbox points. $1.00 = 1 Birchbox Point.
Each 100 Birchbox reward points can be redeemed for $10.00.
You can also earn points by reviewing the samples they send you (10 points per sample) and referring/subscribing friends. If your review all the items you receive in your box each month, you’ll receive 50 Birchbox rewards points!
If you purchase a full size of one of the sample items they sent you in that same month, you receive free shipping on them and often extra points.
Lisa Preziosi 