July 2012 GLOSSYBOX Shipment

I know it's the beginning of August but, believe it or not, my July 2012 GLOSSYBOX arrived today.  The July 2012 installment, entitled Summer Nights offered the most variety I've ever seen in a beauty sampling program.  The insert card reads, "After a sizzling day in the sun, there is nothing better than a cool summer night.  This month's GLOSSYBOX offers you the essentials you'll need to indulge in products that show off your sun kissed skin and hair and enhance sultry eyes.  Afterwards, thrown on your sexy sandals and dance the night away under the shimmering summer sky."

The contents of my July shipment were as follows:

Alessandro International - Pedix Heel Rescue Balm - Sample size: 30 ml; Full size: 100 ml/$18.50 - This foot cream oil imported exclusively from Germany provides intensive protection and nourishes skin, leaving it soft and supple.

Ofra Cosmetics - Universal Eyebrow Pencil - Full size: 0.04 oz/$10 - Created with a beeswax base for an effortless and long lasting application, this water resistant pencil is perfect for even the most sensitive eyes.

Sebastian - Color Ignite Multi Tone Shampoo - Sample size: 50 ml/1.7 fl oz; Full size: 8.4 oz/$14.95 - Smart color moisture complex that targets your color-treated strands, to deeply moisturize and restructure hair fibers wherever needed most.

Sebastian - Color Ignite Multi Tone Conditioner - Sample size: 47 g/1.65 fl oz; Full size: 6.6 oz/$16.95 - This micro-bubble conditioner whips, wraps and wows your strands leaving your hair with long-lasting color and vibrant shine.

Senna Cosmetics - Double Dose Lip Lacquer - Chocolate Cherry - Full size: 0.34 oz/9.65 g/$22 - This extremely shiny gloss formula contains light reflecting pigments that make your lips appear fuller and hydrated.  Vitamins and Jojoba Oil add extra conditioning to your pout.

Chocolate

Cherry

Bonus: Caswell-Massey - Almond & Aloe Hand & Body Emulsion - 2 samples 5 ml/.17 fl oz; Full size: 10 oz./$24 - Softens and moisturizes dehydrated skin.  The pure sweet almond oil will leave your skin as smooth as velvet.

July 2012 GLOSSY Mag - A mini-magazine with brief articles on Trends, News and Wellness.

Here are swatches of the eyebrow pencil and lip lacquer shades:

Top to Bottom: Brow Pencil (strokes), Brow Pencil (as a liner); Chocolate Lip Lacquer; Cherry Lip Lacquer

Here are the lacquer shades on my lips:

Chocolate (darker shade)

Cherry (Lighter Shade)

Cherry over Chocolate

Overall rating:  Booyah!  I loved the mix of products I received this month.  The insert card led me to expect an eyeshadow or liner rather than an eyebrow pencil as it mentioned sultry eyes but I can always use the pencil as a liner.

June 2012 GLOSSYBOX Contents

Since Glossybox launched in the USA in April, I have been looking forward to receiving my monthly shipments.  My June 2012 installment, entitled Summer Simplicity, included an insert card that reads, "As the weather heats up and you head to the beach, it's time to get back to basics and let your natural skin glow.  This month's GLOSSYBOX allows you to do so; treat yourself to lush products that will revitalize your face, pamper the body, enrich your locks and add a luxurious aroma of summer notes.  With your natural beauty restored, all you'll need to worry about is which bikini to wear."

The contents of my June shipment were as follows:

BeautyADDICTS Show-off Mascara - Full size: 0.39 oz/$20.00 - This unique formula with argan oil will give your lashes an intense, dramatic look without clumps or smudges.

First Aid Beauty Smooth Shave Cream - Deluxe Sample 2.0 fl oz; Full size 6.8 oz/$16.50 - Smooth Shave Cream is a gentle, non-irritating formula containing everything you need to obtain a close, long-lasting shave.  Keep your legs looking smooth and sexy all summer long.

Kinerase Restructure Firming Cream - Deluxe Sample 0.24 oz; Full size 1.7 oz/$98.00 - Erase the years from your face with elastin-strengthening technology that visibly transforms and contours your skin.

Shea Terra Organics Ultimate Moisturizing Body Crème - Deluxe sample 1 oz; Full size 9.0 oz/$18.00 - This moisturizing cream for the whole body is made with 30% organic shea butter, leaving your skin smooth and soft.

Wella Professionals Enrich Moisturizing Treatment - Deluxe Sample 0.84 fl oz; Full size 5.07 oz/$12.00 - Create free flowing hair with this lightweight treatment containing silk extract that instantly restores your mane.

A Perfume Organic Urban Organic Fragrance - Sample vial; Full size 0.41 oz/$65.00 - The combination of lavender and grapefruit makes for a fresh and citric scent.

July 2012 GLOSSY Mag - A mini-magazine with brief articles on Trends, News and Wellness.  Found it a bit unusual that the July edition was included with the June box.

Overall rating: Booyah!  This box was much better than the one I received last month.  The products were perfect for my skin and hair type and I was able to make use of them.

Beauty Box 5 July 2012 Shipment

Beauty Box 5 is a new beauty sampling program that costs $12 a month, $30 per quarter or $100 per year (www.beautybox5.com).  I received my first shipment which contained 4 items in a drawstring pouch.

Here is a list of my July 2012 shipment contents and descriptions as reflected in the insert card:

Blinc - Mascara - Black - Sample .7 g/.02 oz - Full size .21 oz; Retail $26 - Defy the summer heat and the swimming pool with this water-resistent, no-smudge, flake-free mascara that surrounds your lashes with little tubes of love.

Spongeables - Pedi-Scrub Foot Buffer - Lavender-Tea Tree Oil Aromatherapy - Trial size: 28 g/1 oz (good for 5+ washes); Retail $2.99 - Nourish, invigorate, and revitalize with this foot buffer for an at-home spa experience.  Use soft side to cleanse and moisturize and flip over to scruffy side to exfoliate and massage.

Hollyren - Eyelashes - 1 pair - Retail $7 - These easy to apply lashes give you the perfect full-lash effect for a night out on the town.

Bodyography - Makeup Primer - Sample 15 ml/.53 oz - Full size 1 oz; Retail $30 - Erase the look of fine lines, prolong the wear of your favorite foundation and help prevent collagen breakdown with this oil-free, anti-aging primer.

Overall rating: Booyah! for the variety of items this box included, not to mention the value.  From what I have gathered, it appears that the contents can vary for each monthly shipment, as I have seen reviews of other July 2012 boxes with different contents.

Have you tried Beauty Box 5?  What are your thoughts?

Book Review - Unsaid by Neil Abramson

I have had pets all my life and my earliest recollection of true grief and loss was when our beloved German Shepherd, Dodge, passed away when I was eight years old.  Dodge was a lovely companion and rather intelligent.  She used to accompany my cousin and me to the bus stop every morning and then make her way back home once we safely boarded the bus.


When Dodge passed away, my grandmother told me that pets were God's angels, sent here to watch over us and then, when their assignment runs out, they return home to give God a report on how we are doing.  That explanation has stayed with me all my life.  Since Dodge's passing, I and my family have been blessed with many "angels" with which to share life's many milestones.  Those of us that have been fortunate enough to have pets in our lives, can also attest to the special bond that forms between mankind and animals.  In "Unsaid," Neil Abramson writes about this bond in the unique voice of Helena, a recently deceased veterinarian, who observes the happenings of her husband, David and those she left behind, both human and not (www.neilabramsonauthor.com).

Picture from Author's Website

Overall rating: Booyah!  The novel is a wonderful read and a poignant love story.  I could not put it down, nor could I stop showering my pets with affection after finishing it (as if I needed an excuse).


A portion of the author proceeds from the book are being forwarded to Finally Home, a not-for-profit animal sanctuary founded by Mr. Abramson (www.finallyhomeanimalsanctuary.org).

Glam Bag July 2012 Shipment

The July Glam Bag, themed "The Land of Beauty," was a hot pink mesh, striped zipper bag that contained skincare, hair care, nail and lip products as well as two bonus offers from Nu-Me (Glammies can choose one of the two).

Here's a review of the items I received and descriptions as reflected on the brand websites:

Juice Beauty - Green Apple SPF 15 Moisturizer - 15 ml/.5 fl oz deluxe sample; Full size 1.7 oz; $38 - Revitalize with optimum anti-aging benefits and protect with full-spectrum chemical-free protection. With a blend of brightening hydroxy acid, certified organic apple and lemon juices, age-defying peptides, DMAE, alpha lipoic acid, Co Q10 and vitamin antioxidants, this is the optimum dual purpose moisturizer.  The Green Apple Age-Defy Collection is designed for mature and all skin types (except very sensitive or rosacea skin due to the alpha/beta hydroxy fruit acids). This Collection is particularly effective for hyperpigmentation, dark spots, uneven skin tone and texture.  A blend of brightening hydroxy acid, certified organic apple and lemon juices, age-defying peptides, DMAE, alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10 and vitamin antioxidants makes this an optimum dual purpose moisturizer. My thoughts: As I have dry, sensitive skin, the lemon juice included in the formula irritated my skin.

NU-ME - HydroPunch Hydrating Conditioner - 20 ml/.67 oz. deluxe sample; Full size $24.99 - Introducing Hydro-Punch, a revolutionary synergy between traditional Moroccan Berber, Moroccan Argan Oil, and the SERATIN-K Protein Complex (patented technology).  Made with naturally strengthening Bamboo, your hair is instantly detangled as sage extract and Jojoba oil increase the softness level of your hair.  This formula is enriched with the SERATIN-K Patented Technology, an active, protein-based complex shown to provide excellent moisture, binding capacity, and hair follicle nourishment for a smooth and silky feel.  Natural Argan oil from Morocco contains exceptionally high levels of essential fatty acids, such as linoleic acid (omega-6), for countering dryness in hair and loss of elasticity while preventing dull hair and split ends. A powerful antioxidant agent mends damage caused by weather or harsh chemicals. Healthy Vitamin E helps to regain shine and a gorgeous, vibrant look.  Bonus offers are $49 for a set of HydroPunch or Pure Remedy products or 50% off a styling product on numestyle.com expiring on October 31, 2012.  My thoughts: As I have dry, color-treated curly hair, this conditioner is right up my alley.  Sounds like I'll be taking advantage of the HydroPunch product offer.

Yes to Cucumbers - On-The-Go Facial Towelettes - 10 travel towelettes; Full size 30 wipes; $5.99 - Yes To Cucumbers Hypoallergenic Facial Towelettes gently remove dirt, sweat and makeup (eye makeup too!) without the need to rinse. Whether you're out and about, going for a run, or having a late night, these towelettes make it a snap to refresh on-the-go. Packed with green superfoods these all-natural, biodegradable towelettes naturally exfoliate, detoxify, and rejuvenate all-in-one. Stay gorgeous, and go from zero to clean in seconds!  My thoughts: I do like these towelettes but I find that it leaves a residue on my skin which requires rinsing.  Otherwise, they are not irritating in anyway to my dry, sensitive skin.

Buxom - Big & Healthy Lip Polish - Leslie - Deluxe Sample; Full Size $18 - Tingle, plump & shine your pout to super-sexy proportions. This shimmering, sheer lip polish instantly creates the look of fuller, more voluptuous lips with luminous shine. Vitamins A & E help keep lips soft, smooth and protected with a refreshing tingling sensation.  My thoughts: This lip gloss is very smooth and hydrating but the fragrance is bothersome for me and I'm not a fan of anything that makes my lips tingle that much.  It makes me think that there's something that I should not have applied to my lips.  Leslie is a shimmery peach neutral shade.

Circus by Andrea's Choice - Nail Color - Somersault - 13.2 ml/.45 fl oz; Full Size price unavailable as product launches Fall 2012 - The Circus Collection includes: Reverso, Ringmaster,Spectacle, Somersault & Tightrope. Each chip-resistant shade is vegan, cruelty free and free of Formaldehyde, Toluene and DBP.  My thoughts: This polish applies somewhat streaky so it requires several coats, though it dries to a glossy finish.  Somersault is a bright, yellow shade more suited for my tootsies as I prefer neutral shades on my hands.

Overall rating:  Booyah!  for value of the product contents and introducing me to NU-ME HydroPunch products; can't wait to try the other products in this line.  Overall, however, this Glam Bag was a Boo-Boo! for me as the formulation of the lip gloss and moisturizer, and the shade of nail polish did not suit me.

Glam Bag June 2012 Shipment

The June 2012 "Out All Night" Glam Bag, a gold glittered clutch, contained a mix of skincare, hair care, and makeup products, all for a $10 price tag.  The envelope, snap closure clutch featured items from Philosophy, NYX, Living Proof and Marbella as well as bonus offers from Living Proof and Philosophy.

The contents were as follows:

• Philosophy - Take a Deep Breath Oil-Free Energizing Oxygen Gel Cream Moisturizer - 12 ml/0.4 fl oz deluxe sample; Full size 2 oz.; $34 - This lightweight moisturizer detoxifies and helps protect for a healthy-looking glow. Bonus promo code for free shipping on a future order through 7/15/2012 on philosophy.com. My thoughts: I am glad the deluxe sample came in a tube as I don't really like products in jar containers as they often lose their potency as the air hits the contents.  I like this moisturizer as my dry skin tends to lean towards normal during the warmer summer months so this lightweight product fits the bill nicely.  I would definitely re-purchase a full size if Philosophy repackages in a tube so the product properties can remain stable.

• NYX - Round Lipstick - Iced Honey (556) - 4 g/.14 oz - Full size; $5 - Incredible color that resists wear and smudging, let your lipstick last all night with an amazing velvety smooth, mineral formula. My thoughts: I liked this formula but have never been a fan of frosty lipstick shades.  Otherwise, I would have kept this full-sized lippie instead of passing it along to a friend.

• Living Proof - frizz Nourishing Styling Cream - 60 ml/2 fl oz deluxe sample; Full size 4 oz.; $26 - Stops frizz in its tracks, keeping all styles frizz-free, soft and smooth.  Living Proof's miracle molecule OFPMA, conquers frizz by blocking humidity without silicone or heavy oils.  Bonus offer for a frizz Shampoo (2 oz.), Conditioner (2 oz.) and Nourishing Cream (4 oz.) or Weightless Spray (4 oz.) for $35 with free shipping and free sample at checkout.  There does not appear to be an expiration date on this offer.  My thoughts: I loved this styling cream.  It worked nicely on my dry, color-treated curly hair.  I used it after my regular leave-in conditioner and styled my curls.  I also used it before blowing out my hair and I noticed a nice, smooth finish on my hair, even on humid days.

• Marbella Permanent Eyeliner Pen - Black - Full size; Retail $19 - Master the art of beautiful eyes with this unique waterproof, smudge free, and long-lasting semi-permanent eyeliner pen.  My thoughts: I really liked this felt-tip liner pen, though the color payoff left much to be desired.  I prefer darker blacks, like the finish on my L'Oreal Carbon Black Lineur Intense.  I liked the staying power but I didn't get the results I expected as it didn't last all night.  I suspect that the formula didn't "agree" with my under-eye products so I will need to experiment with application techniques to see if I can maximize the longevity of this product.  One downside was that the ingredients of this product were not provided.  I had to research the ingredients online.

Here are swatches of the lipstick and eyeliner pen:

Overall rating:  Booyah!  The cost of a monthly Glam Bag is $10 so June was worth the price.

Tarte - The Miracle of Maracuja Collection Summer 2012

Earlier this year, Tarte and QVC followed up their Glow Your Way to Gorgeous sets with The Miracle of Maracuja.  The first set launched in March of this year. For details on the first set, please click here.  I recently received the second installment of The Miracle of Maracuja Collection, an 8-piece set exclusive to QVC (www.qvc.com; Retail $59.96). 

• Beauty & the Box Amazonian Clay Eye Shadow Quad in Brewed Awakening (6.8 g) - Includes Foam, Raw Sugar, Espresso and Roast shadows in a lovely floral-patterned box.  Shadows apply very smoothly and have good color payoff and work nicely together.  This box offers more neutral shades while the first installment offered more pink, plum smokey shades. 

Left to Right: Foam, Raw Sugar, Espresso, Roast

• Cashmere Waterproof Gliding Liner (0.28 g) - In Dewy Green - Similar to the SmolderEyes liners, this pencil has some staying power once you give it some time to set.  I wore it layered under the Roast shadow and I liked the effect.

• Airblush Maracuja Bouncy Blush (5.3 g) - In Shimmering Peach - This is a lovely smooth blush with very nice pigmentation that is easy to blend!  I just love this formulation.  Again, I would have liked the ability to pop the pan out of the compact like their Amazonian Clay blushes but this purple, mirrored compact is sleek enough to throw in my purse.  Also, unlike the Amazonian Clay blushes, it's easy to tell which shade is which.  With the bouncy blushes, it appears all are packaged in the same compact so I have to be sure I am selecting the correct shade when pulling it from my vanity and dropping it in my purse.

• Blush Brush - This soft brush applies the blush nicely, though I prefer the Airbrush Finish Bamboo Blush Brush that came with the first Miracle of Maracuja set.  The brush is very similar to the brush included in the Glow Your Way to Gorgeous Set #1 except the handle is purple and not bamboo.

• Maracuja Divine Shine Lip Gloss (3.6 ml) - Ethereal - A nice, sheer, neutral peachy-pink color, I just love the floral packaging.  It took a while for the product to "click up" through the bristles but I love the formula.  The mint-scented gloss includes maracuja oil for hydrating your pucker while glistening your lips with a nice gloss.

• Lights, Camera, Lashes! Mascara (7 ml) - Black - The same tube offered in the Glow Your Way to Gorgeous Sets.  Would love to try the Waterproof formula one of these days.  (Tarte!  hint!  hint! - Any chance you will include in one of your future collections?)

• Maracuja Creaseless Concealer (8 g) - Medium - The collection can be ordered with any one of 4 shades of concealers.  A little of this concealer goes a long way so don't fret the fact that not a lot of product comes out when you squeeze the tube.  Personally, I like that the product doesn't easily ooze out of the tube so there's no waste and I can build the coverage as I need to.

• Pure Maracuja Oil (50 ml) - This oil is absolutely awesome!  I have used it as my night-time moisturizer since I first received my first Glow Your Way to Gorgeous Set.  It has definitely improved the condition of my skin.  This versatile oil can be used on cuticles, hands, and face.  I have have been known to smooth a drop or two in my palms for a nice shiny, lustre to my hair.  I have also added a few drops to my body lotion after a long day in the sun as maracuja oil has vitamin C and essential fatty acids which promote radiant skin.  This same size retails for $46 on QVC.

Here are some swatches:

Top to Bottom: Foam, Raw Sugar, Espresso, Roast, Shimmering Peach Blush; Ethereal Gloss, Dewy Green Liner

As in previous sets, there is a "Get The Look" guide:

Unlike the first set, there were no sneak-peek bonus items but I am pleased with this set, nonetheless.

Overall rating:  Booyah!

This set is well worth the $59.96 price tag.  If you get a chance to snatch one up, I highly recommend it and can't wait until the last and final installment, set to ship in November, just in time for the Holidays.

Have you tried any of these items?  What are your thoughts?