March Ipsy Sneak Peeks

Hey y'all! It's time again for some more amazing Ipsy sneak peeks for the upcoming March bag. After seeing this sneak peek, I am even more excited than I was before. Keep reading below to see what you could possibly be receiving!! This post contains referral links.

 For those that don't know, Ipsy is a $10/month beauty subscription service that mails out 4-5 makeup, hair-care, and skincare products every month. The products can either be full size, deluxe sized, or sample size items. Upon subscribing to Ipsy, you have the option to fill out a beauty profile, that will help customize the products that you will receive. With Ipsy you not only receive your 4-5 beauty items, but you will also receive a beautiful makeup bag to store all of your things in. With Ipsy, you are able to review the items that you receive for points to use on redeemable items on their website. You can earn up to 15 points for reviewing each item, plus you earn points for friend referrals.  It is very easy to earn points, and the redeemable items can be pretty amazing! Ipsy does have a wait list; however, after completing a few simple steps it is very easy to get off the wait list, and get on to receiving some pretty awesome products!

Hoping for either the Colour Pop or one of those gorgeous lip glosses!

LOVE!

I love NYX products, so I hope I get one of those in my Ipsy bag this month!

Say what!?!?! Three different bags for this month!?!?! I love all of them!

I love how they are putting the product that are going to sent out this month on Instagram!

For the month of March, all subscribers will be receiving one of the products below in their glambag.

NYX Liquid Suede Lipstick

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye

Colour Pop Eyeshadow

Make Up For Ever Step 1 Primer

NUDESTIX Lip + Cheek Pencil

Illamasqua eyeliner?

What are you hoping to receive in your Ipsy bag for the month of March?? I'm kinda loving everything except for the IT Cosmetics, only because I already own it. 

There is still time to subscribe to Ipsy in time to get the March bag.  Click the link below to get started now!

https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=vhsxq

March Birchbox Curated Box and Sample Choice + Coupon Codes

Alright everyone, it is nearly time to make decisions on sample choice and/or the curated box for Birchbox for the month of March. Judging by the 3 items that are available for sample choice, I'm assuming that the theme for this month has a lot to do with hair??  I'm personally torn between whether to pick the curated box or go for a sample choice.  Keep reading below to found out more. This post contains referral links. 

Birchbox is a $10/ month subscription service that mails out 5-7 sample size beauty products every month. You can opt to purchase a one year subscription service, as well. When you sign up for Birchbox, there is a beauty quiz that you can fill out, which will catalog all of your beauty preferences, hair color, skin color, etc. This helps Birchbox tailor the monthly boxes just for you. A major bonus to signing up for Birchbox is their online store and point system. You are able to review the products that you receive in your boxes. For every product that you review, you will receive 10 Birchbox points. After receiving 100 points, you will then have $10 to spend in the online store. You also earn points for friends that use your referral link, and purchases made in the online shop. It is VERY easy to earn points, and their product offerings in the shop are pretty amazing! I have discovered many wonderful products thanks to Birchbox.. Also, near the end of every month Birchbox will send out emails that will allow you to custom pick either one sample or a curated box for the upcoming month.

The sample choices for this month include:

PARLOR By Jeff Chastain Volumizing & Texturizing Shampoo & Conditioner

Number 4 Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner

Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo

I have personally been wanting to try the Amika dry shampoo for the longest!!

Below is the curated box for March, and it is called Ready For Anything. It looks amazing y'all!!

The curated box will include:

PARLOR by Jeff Chastain Smoothing Blowout Spray (This stuff is flipping amazing for those that haven't tried it before!!)

MILK Makeup Lip Color in C.R.E.A.M.

Smashbox Photo Op Eyeshadow Trio in Filter

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

Wilma Schumann Skincare Hydrating Collagen Eye Pads( I'm obsessed with these eye pads. They really do work wonders!)

I've tried several of the items in the curated box before, and I love them. This is why I'm on the fence about which to choose. I'm thinking I will just purchase the curated box once it pops up in the online Birchbox shop, and just go with the Amika dry shampoo as my sample choice for this month. What is everyone else choosing? Let me know in the comments section below!!

If you’re a subscriber, you will receive an email to choose your sample choice or the curated box on February 25th.  Birchbox Aces will receive their email on February 24th.

If you are not subscribed then click below to sign up now so you don't miss out on sample choice!

https://www.birchbox.com/invite/katiebb

Some promo codes that you can use upon checking out include:

SUBSCRIBENOW50 - This will give you $5 to spend in the online Birchbox shop.

MALLYGIFT:  Receive a FREE Mally Everycolor Shadow Stick in Copper Rose.

February Boxycharm Unboxing

Oh how I love unboxings, and I love sharing them with everyone just as much. This is just my second time receiving Boxycharm, and while it seems the majority of people weren't too excited about this month's box, I honestly liked nearly everything that I received. For those that don't know, Boxycharm is a $21/month beauty subscription service that sends 5-6  FULL SIZE beauty products each month. Nearly every box has a total value of over $100 worth of product in it. They also offer a rewards program where you can earn full sized products for free. This box does lean more towards the makeup side of beauty; however, they do include skincare/haircare, as well. Keep reading below to see what I received this month. This post does contain referral links. 

This month, all subscribers received: 

Beauty for Real Blush + Glo Blush and Highlighter Duo: ($24)  I really like this product. I'm usually not one to like cream makeup products, but these apply very easily, and blend like a dream. I received mine in the color Coral Crush + Hi Beam. The colors work great for my skin tone. Right out of the gate, the first product is already valued at more than the cost of the box :)

Spongelle You Have My Heart On A String All-In-One Buffer + Polish: ($15)  I was really excited to try this product, because it isn't something that you would normally see in a subscription box. The scent is wonderful, and the website says that it will last for up to 14+ uses. Because I like a really rich lather when I shower, I do add a small drop of my shower gel to it, and it works perfectly!!

Ofra Cosmetics Banana Powder Godet: ($12)  I am a huge fan of banana powders, and I will typically use them to set my under eye area after applying concealer. I had never tried this particular banana powder before, but it works great! The packaging that is being sent to subscribers is very lackluster though. It will only work well if you have a Z palette to place it in. Looks like it's time for me to do a little bit of shopping :)

Boxycharm Limited Edition- Mrs. Amazing Gift Kit Moisturizing Mask: ($12)  This is probably the one product that I am not excited about. The packaging says that is it suitable for dry, sensitive skin. I have acne prone, oily skin, so I feel like this will break me out. I haven't tried it, and I'm very hesitant to do so. Has anyone with oily skin tried this product? If so, how did it work for you? Please let me know in the comment section below.

Realtree for Her Travel Size Perfume: ($12.99)  I am one of those rare people that actually enjoy getting perfumes in my subscription boxes. It gives me the chance to try out different scents that I may not have thought to try out myself. This particular perfume has hints of pomegranate, persimmon and orchid. It is a sweet, yet floral scent which I do like. Is it my favorite scent? No, but it is definitely something that I will use until it is all gone.

Freeze 24-7 Anti-Aging Eye Serum: ($58)  I am always down to try new eye serums and creams. I guess I'm just trying to find my Holy Grail product, which I haven't been able to do so far. I've only been using this particular product for a few days now, so I can't say if it has done anything to help out my dark under eye circles or fine lines yet. I do feel like it has helped a little with the puffiness under my eyes though, so already I can say that I like it. 

The overall value for this month's Boxycharm is $133.99. I only paid $21 for it. I would say that it is a steal; however, like I said before, a lot of people seemed to dislike this month's box. To me, subscription box services are something that gives you the opportunity to try things that you would normally not think to buy. This box did it for me. I would never purchase any of these products on my own, but I'm very glad to have received them in my Boxycharm. If you are like me, and want to try new things, click the link below to sign up for Boxycharm today!!  Plus there is still time to receive this months box!

https://boxycharm.com/refer/Katie-NXJHUJFS

February Subscription Battle: Ipsy Vs. Birchbox

It's finally that time of the month where I compare both my Birchbox and my Ipsy subscriptions to see which one is the best. Both subscription services are only $10/month, and they both send out 5-6 sample or deluxe sized samples each month. Both offer reward points for reviewing the items that you receive, which in turn you can use to cash in on some pretty amazing products. Anyways, enough with the rambling, lets get to the good stuff.This post contains referral links.

This month in Birchbox, I decided to go with the Hey Honey Peel Off Mask as my sample choice. I'm glad I went this route versus choosing the curated box, because I received some products that I have been wanting to try for quite a while. This month I received:

Juara Candlenut Body Creme: I absolutely loved this body creme. It was so creamy, and it left my skin feeling so nice and soft. Plus it smelled AMAZING!! I only wish the sample was bigger. I used this up in one go!

Hey Honey Take It Off Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask:  I'm not really sure what to think about this product. I feel like it did immediately something for my skin; however, I'm not sure what. It did not peel off evenly, and it was actually very messy. It did make me break out a couple of days after using it. If you have sensitive skin at all, I would not recommend this. 

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk:  I love dry shampoos, because lets face, who really has time to wash and style their hair every. single. day?  Especially a nurse that is working 12 hour shifts several days in a row. I really liked this one. Would I say it's my absolute favorite? No. But it does get the job done. You definitely have to use a light hand when applying it, because it WILL leave a white residue if you use too much. 

POP Beauty Matte Velvet Lipstick in Satin Rose:  I really wanted to love this lipstick, because I have been eyeing the trio for months; however, when I finally received it and tried it out, I was less than impressed. I really liked the color, but the formula seemed old and dried out. Plus the color didn't last very long on the lips. 

ARROW REVIVE Cooling Cheek Tint:  I have tried this product several times since receiving it, and I just don't understand the hype. I love blush, but I'm not the biggest fan of tints. I'm a powder kinda gal. This was a definite miss for me.

Ya'll. This Ipsy bag was AHHHMAZING!! I received my 5 regular items, plus I decided to cash in some of my points that I had saved up for some other amazing products.  This month I received:

Trust Fund Beauty Nail Polish in I'm Kind Of A Big Deal: ($15)  I absolutely love this nail polish. It's a beautiful color, it doesn't chip as quickly as other nail polishes tend to do. It's opaque with just one coat. Plus it is a FULL SIZE item! 

Luxie Beauty Flat Definer Brush 221: ($12)  I'm sorry, but I will NEVER get tired of receiving brushes in my subscription boxes. Everyone can use a good brush, plus this one is pink. HELLO GORGEOUS!!

Vintage by Jessica Liebeskind Sparkling Lipgloss in Pink Sequin: (~$10)  I am totally a glossy gloss kinda girl, and this product delivers. It's a beautiful sheer pink with TONS of glitter in it. While this is not a full size product, the size I received is definitely enough to last for quite a while!

Bella Pierre Cosmetics Mineral Blush in Desert Rose: (~$20)  Like I stated above, I love powder blushes. However, I do prefer a PRESSED powder versus a loose powder. Things can get messy very quickly with these types of products. With that being said, I adore this color, and it's totally buildable. 

OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Extra Strength Miracle In-Shower Oil: ($8.99)  I have VERY long, thick, frizzy hair, and this product really helped to tame my wild hair. PLUS you can mix it with your body wash of choice to get even more moisturizing benefits. I love a multi purpose product that actually works, and this one definitely does.

The total cost of this month's bag is $65.99, which is such a steal considering I only paid $10!!

The products that I cashed in some of my Ipsy points on this month are:

Eylure Natural No. 020 Strip Lashes: ($4.99)  I have literally only worn false lashes one time in my life, and that was on my wedding day. I think they are beautiful, and I would love to play with them more. That's why when I saw this as a redeemable item on Ipsy's website, I snapped them up.

Perfectly Posh Healer In A Tin: I have heard nothing but good things about Perfectly Posh; however, I have never tried any of their products. So when I saw this on Ipsy, of course I had to get it. It smells great, and I can't wait to see what all the hype is about!

EM Cosmetics The Life Palette Moment Winter Life: Ice Bunny Edition: I tried looking up the price of this palette, and it seems that the prices vary anywhere from $10- $34. Either way, this was a total steal, and I'm SOO glad I snapped it up before it sold out. The eyeshadow colors are gorgeous and pigmented. Plus it comes with a blush and TWO lipglosses. A wonderful palette to travel with!

Without a doubt, Ipsy blew it out of the water this month! I honestly loved everything that I received, and they happen to be products that will last me quite a while!  Plus that bag is just absolutely adorable! What did you all receive this month?? Let me know in the comments section, and if you haven't signed up for either Birchbox or Ipsy...Go. Now! Click below to sign up today!

https://www.birchbox.com/invite/katiebb

https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=vhsxq

February Boxycharm Sneak Peeks!

It's finally time for Boxycharm Sneak Peeks! Are y'all as excited as I am!?!?  This month EVERYONE will be receiving 6 items in their Boxycharm!  Keep reading below to see what you will be getting this month! 

Boxycharm is a $21/month beauty subscription service that sends 5-6  FULL SIZE beauty products each month. Nearly every box has a total value of over $100 worth of product in it. They also offer a rewards program where you can earn full sized products for free. This box does lean more towards the makeup side of beauty; however, they do include skincare/haircare, as well. 

This month all subscribers will be receiving the Ofra banana powder in their box. I love setting my under eye area with these types of powders!!

This month all subscribers will be receiving the Spongelle You Have My Heart On A String Body Wash Buffer + Polish.  The website states "Spongellé's heart shaped body wash infused buffer is dual sided & enriched with hydrating olive oil & a blend of energizing and toning extracts. Use the soft side to cleanse & tone the skin, & use the textured side in a gentle circular motion to exfoliate & stimulate circulation. This All-In-One Buffer + Polish is infused with subtle, yet energetic peony fragrance. 14+ washes per item." It retails for $15.

This month ALL subscribers will be receiving the Beauty for Real Blush + Glo Blush and Highlighter Duo.  The website says that "Blush + Glow is a 2 in 1 blush and highlighter created to not only color and highlight, but to also provide anti-aging benefits. This cream to powder long wear formula delivers light reflecting benefits and glowing radiance, which ensures a smooth, beautiful, flawless finish. This multifunctional product renders a more youthful, even toned and healthy appearance."  It retails for $24, which already, is more than you are paying for the box. 

If you are not already subscribed to Boxycharm, it's not too late to get this box! Just click the link below to sign up now! These boxes do sell out from time to time. so don't miss out!  

https://boxycharm.com/refer/Katie-NXJHUJFS

My February Birchbox Reveal

So I was bad, (who am I kidding, I'm always bad when it comes to peeking), and I used the cheat link to see if I could find out what I was getting in my February Birchbox, and IT WORKED!!  Ladies...I'm REALLY excited about my Birchbox this month!

This month I will be receiving:

Juara Candlenut Body Creme

Hey Honey Take It Off Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

POP Beauty Matte Velvet Lipstick Trio

ARROW REVIVE Cooling Cheek Tint

The only thing I'm a little iffy on is the cheek tint, but I will definitely give it a try. What does your cheat link say you're getting this month? Click here to see https://www.birchbox.com/me/boxes/women/2016/2

Like what you see, but not subscribed? Click here and sign up today!! https://www.birchbox.com/invite/katiebb

If you are a new subscriber, then here are a few promo codes to use when checking out.

Receive the Date Night Featured box for Free when you use the code DATENIGHT

Get a free full sized Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick in the color Copper Rose when you use code MALLYGIFT

Get $5 to use in the online Birchbox store when you use code SUBSCRIBENOW50