This month Birchbox’s theme this month is “Spring Forward”. Let’s get into the box and see if Spring has finally arrived.
COOLA Tinted Matte SPF 30 for Face
(Full Size Retail – 1.7 oz. : $36.00)
Description: “COOLA suspended two skin-safe mineral sunblocks—titanium and zinc dioxide—in a moisturizing base to ensure a smooth, even application. Shea butter naturally softens skin. Age-reversing antioxidants like evening primrose extract and borage seed oil deflect free radicals, while naturally water-resistant plankton makes the formula extra-durable.”
Verdict: Miss
I am a pale redhead who burns at the idea of sunshine, so SPF 35 is just not strong enough for my face. My daily routine includes a CC cream with SPF 50. Maybe for someone who’s not translucent.
Mighty Leaf Tea Pouches
(Full Size Retail – 15 Bags: $9.95)
Description: “All five flavors are made with natural ingredients, and packed with antioxidants, blending organic tea leaves, dried fruits, and spices in a silken biodegradable pouch. Each satchel is cleverly marked with its caffeine content and brew time, ensuring you always make the perfect cup.”
Verdict: Love!
I am not really much of a tea drinker. I usually reserve it for times when I’m not feeling well or I’m freezing at work. Since it’s been super cold, I took these to work and gave the Earl Gray (hot) a try. First of all the bags are super fancy (some type of silky fabric) and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. They also had instructions on each bag for how long you need to steep them.
Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator
(Full Size Retail 4.23 oz: $34)
Description: “This powerful exfoliator mimics the results of professional microdermabrasion, minus the potential for redness and sensitivity. First, papaya enzymes break down dead cells while evening out your skin tone. Next, dermatologist-approved microderm crystals fade the appearance of fine lines and acne scars, leaving skin smooth and free of imperfections. Finally, aloe vera, coconut, and vitamins B and E nourish and soothe skin.
Verdict: Hit!
I love trying out different scrubs and exfoliators so I was happy to see this sample in the box.
Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper
(Full Size Retail – 100 mL: $10.00)
Description: “Curls and waves are notoriously temperamental, and this hardworking serum fights off the frizz-inducing effects of humidity and dryness alike. The water-activated formula provides weightless hold and brings misbehaving strands into line.
Verdict: On the Fence
I saw the word “curly” and I got a little nervous. I have wavy hair. How wavy it is depends on the weather, my haircut and the product I use. When I read the description on the birchbox site it included “waves” with the curls so I’m going to have to see if this product will do much for me. My other issue is I hate the packaging on this. The size seems quite generous – way more than you would use on one application of medium length hair. I don’t know how I’m supposed to store the excess when I’ve got this one time use container.
Air Repair Rescue Balm
(Full Size Retail – .9 oz: $12.00)
Description: “This ultrarestorative salve works its magic by preventing transepidermal water loss, a primary cause of dry skin. Sweet almond oil, fatty-acid rich lanolin, and vitamin E hydrate and nourish skin upon contact. Anti-inflammatory lavender helps quell irritation, while geranium promotes circulation and rejuvenates skin.
Verdict: On the Fence
I have a lot of balms and salves already and I’m not sure how this one differs. I also think that item feels a bit “winter” to me, like this would have been much more helpful going into December than April.
FREE TREAT:
Ghirardelli Intense Dark Cherry Tango
Description: “These delicious chocolate squares are filled with cherry and almond bits, offering rich, no-holds-barred flavor.”
Verdict: Hit
Dark Chocolate, cherry and almonds. I don’t think I need to say much else.
OVERALL
Verdict: Miss
This box was way too unbalanced for me. My Birchbox profile has skincare unselected and I received THREE skincare items and two food items.
I understand that they have a lot of skincare and I truly don’t mind one with each box, but this was overkill.
With tax I paid $10.70 and after reviewing each item, my points got me the equivalent of $6.00. I hope next month’s box has some makeup and a better balance of products.
How does your Birchbox stand up to your profile preferences? Are your products fairly balanced or do you end up getting a plethora of the same stuff over and over?
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 extra points.
Lisa Preziosi 