Glam Bag/Ipsy August and September 2012 Shipments

The August Glam Bag, themed "Endless Summer," was an orange mesh zipper bag that was trimmed in hot pink with skincare, fragrance, eyeshadow, and nail products as well as a bonus lip product from My Glam.  (Incidentally, My Glam has become Ipsy so all references to the program and website will refer to their new name.)

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

Eclos - Moisture Therapy Regenerative Cream - 7 ml/.25 fl oz deluxe sample; Full size 60g/2 oz; $24.99 - This medium-weight moisturizer with restorative benefits helps smooth and brighten for a youthful finish. Hydration replenishes dry, dulling skin suffering from the signs of aging. Powerful extracts and antioxidants boost collagen levels for noticeable tightening and firming. Exclusively formulated with rejuvenating Apple Stem Cells, clinically proven to significantly reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture in two weeks. Formulated without parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances or dyes, mineral oil or petroleum. Directions for use: Apply to clean skin day and night. Can also be applied over EclosTM Cellular Activator Face Serum for optimal results.  My thoughts: I liked the feel of this product but didn't find the sample large enough to result in a firmer skin or a reduction in my fine lines.  For a drugstore product, I did like the formula though.  There is mild fragrance to the cream. There is an offer code for $10 off as well as a free cleanser on ipsy.com.

Eclos - Cellular Activator Facial Serum - 15 ml/.5 fl oz. deluxe sample; Full size 50ml/1.7 fl oz. $24.99 - This lightweight serum from Eclos helps wake up skin's self-renewal process to revitalize fatigued, stressed skin. Unique plant extracts help boost firmness and tone to smooth out fine lines and damage. Exclusively formulated with rejuvenating Apple Stem Cells, clinically proven to significantly reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture in two weeks. Comfrey, Gotu Kola, Tumeric and Green Tea antioxidants shield against skin aging environment assaults, helping to prolong a youthful appearance. Formulated without parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances or dyes, mineral oil or petroleum.  Directions for use:  After cleansing, lightly smooth a thin layer over skin in the morning and at night. May be used underneath EclosTM Moisture Therapy Regenerative Cream for optimal results.  My thoughts: I liked the texture of this serum.  There is a mild fragrance to it though.

Demeter - Roll On Perfume Oil - Clean Skin - Full size .29 fl oz/$10 - Simple. Subtle. Singular scents. Each Day. Everywhere. Demeter Perfume Oils are long-lasting and formulated with Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E to pamper and soften the skin. The convenient roll-on applicator is perfect for anyone looking for a great scent on the go. Apply to pulse points, wrists, and neck. Use as needed to refresh fragrance. Or, mix, match and layer them directly on the skin to create your own personal fragrance experience.  What's sexier than clean, post bubble-bath skin? A blend of orange, lemon, white rose, bergamot peach and vanilla, make for the perfect shower-fresh scent.  Clean Skin by Demeter is a virtually transparent and delicate fragrance. Smells like the best version of you - just better.  My thoughts: This fragrance was very mild and pleasant.  Great for my gym bag as it is a workout-friendly scent.  There is also a 20% off coupon code on the ipsy website.

Circus by Andrea's Choice - Nailcolor - Spectacle - 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.  Spectacle is a bright, orange shade more suited for my tootsies as I prefer neutral shades on my hands.

S.A.L.T.Y Cosmetics - Eye Shadow - Glama-ZOID! - 1 g jar; Small size 1.25 g/$4.50 - S.A.L.T.Y. Cosmetics is dedicated to producing a line of loose mineral, luxury eyeshadows, custom blended by hand. The array of colors and shades is designed to help you express your inner diva! Glama-ZOID!, an iridescent violet pink satin has a sexy touch of light reflecting sparkle. This shadow is perfect for all skin tones and works as an amazing highlighter for brow bone and inner corners. Best of all, this shade was created exclusively for the myglam community. We hope you glam it up and enjoy.  My thoughts: This opalescent shadow is finely milled and makes a nice highlighter not just for the brow bone and inner corners of the eyes, but a light application along the bridge of the nose, top of the cheekbones and over the cupid's bow provides a nice luminescent effect.

myglam - Glam Gloss - 01 - 7 ml/.23 fl oz - My thoughts: This light pink lip gloss is very smooth and not too sticky.  I love the texture of it.  Unfortunately, there wasn't any information on ipsy.com.  Wondering if there are more to come.

Overall rating:  Booyah!  for value of the product contents and introducing me to Eclos skincare products, the lovely, wearable Glam Gloss, lovely highlighter and the full size Clean Skin perfume oil.  These made up for the BOO-BOO! polish shade which did not suit me.

***** 

The September Ipsy Glam Bag, was a sleek, black zipper bag with a wristlet handle that contained hair care, nail, eye and lip products as well as a bonus $20 promo code for Just FAB.

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

SOHO - Smudge Brush  - Full size $5.97 at walmart.com - The SOHO Smudge Brush is the perfect tool for creating a modern smoky eye and works great for smudging liner, blending colors, and for applying shadow directly into the lash line. The brush has a sleek, lightweight aluminum handle with a dense, contoured brush head for superior application. My thoughts: I find the handle too long but like the feel of the brush as well as the bristles.

Carol's Daughter - Monoi Repairing Split End Sealer - 10 ml/.38 oz. deluxe sample; Full size 1.7 fl oz; $25 - A repairing lotion that instantly binds the frayed and separated ends of your hair so you can skip the trim and keep your length. For over 2,000 years, Tahitians have used Monoi Oil for its natural reparative properties that undo and prevent damage from the sun, sea and surf. Made of ingredients that only grow in Tahiti, Monoi Oil is made in a 15-day ritual using Tiare Gardenia Flower blossoms and Coprah Coconut Oil. Apply a pea-sized amount to wet or dry hair. Make sure to smooth completely through to the ends. Style as usual.   My thoughts: As I have dry, color-treated curly hair, this repairing treatment is right up my alley. There is a $5 off code on ipsy.com that I will definitely be taking advantage of.

Jane - Sparkle Gloss - Sparkle Pink - 6 ml/.2 fl oz;  1/3rd of the Friends of Jane Collection (3 tubes for $9.99) - Shimmer Gloss offers moisturizing, light reflecting medium coverage for your lips. Your lips will relish in the moisture-rich, Vitamin E infused formulas for a variety of gorgeous lip looks. Wear alone, over lipstick or mix and match to create custom shades.  My thoughts: The gloss has a nice texture but as I found that I needed to be careful when applying to be sure that the rich, deep pink color was evenly distributed.  There is a promotion code for 20% off a future purchase of $14.99 or more on ipsy.com.

Mirabella - Eye Colour - Semiformal - Full Size 2g/.07 oz; $10 - Eye Colour mineral eye shadows create flawless, long-lasting looks with an alluring array of shimmer, sheen and matte formulations. Semiformal Eye Colour, one of 40 shades available, contains a lightly pearlized sheen to softly illuminate the eyes. This talc-free formula gives smooth application and beautiful, pure color. The formula is also paraben-free, gluten-free, fragrance-free as well as D4 and D5 free.  My thoughts: Semiformal is a shimmery medium brown shade that is perfect for a transition shade.  There is a promotion code for 30% off on ipsy.com.

Circus by Andrea's Choice - Nail Color - Tightrope - 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.  Tightrope is a vibrant purple-fuschsia  shade more suited for my tootsies as I prefer neutral shades on my hands.  I will say of all the Circus shades I have received, I did like this one the most.

Overall rating:  Booyah!  for value of the product contents and introducing me to Carol's Daughter products; can't wait to try the other products in this line.  

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.

May 2012 Glam Bag

This month's Glam bag, a blue case with a pink "lips" pattern, contained a full-size lipstick, a fragrance sample, 2 cosmetic brushes and a package of Nail Bling.

Contents were as follows:

• Zippered case
• Studio Gear Lipstick in Caramel
• Philosophy Fragrance Vial sample - Love Sweet Love
• Miss Beauty Nail Bling stickers
• My Glam Concealer Brush
• My Glam Defining Eyeliner Brush

Here's a close-up of the brushes as well as the lipstick:

While I can always find use for the monthly zippered cases I receive, other than the cosmetic brushes, I didn't find this month's shipment as great as past installments.

Overall rating: Boo-Hiss!

The nail bling stickers, lipstick shade and fragrance are not items I will use so other than the case and brushes, this month's shipment was a miss!  I am starting to question if the stylists at My Glam paid attention to the answers I provided to their quiz when I joined.  

Glam Bag is a monthly beauty sampling program (myglam.com) and membership costs $10 per month or $110 a year (one bag free).  As always, shipping is free.

Hoping that June's bag brings me some goodies I can use.