Beauty Box 5 -- December 2013 Review

If you're not yet familiar with Beauty Box 5, it is a beauty subscription that brings 5 samples (sometimes full size products) right to your door mailbox each month. My subscription cost $10/month because I paid for three up front. If you do it month to month, it is $12/box; if you do a full year ($99), it's only $8.25/box. This is only my second box and since my first box turned out pretty great, I had some high expectations this month.

Open Box

1. NYX Cosmetics Love in Rio Eyeshadow Palette 

Description: Seriously pretty, this trio can be as sexy or subtle as you want. Perfect for for fans of matte shadows and the slightest shimmers, it's easy to dress your eyes up or down. Bonus: One side of the dual applicator is more narrow for fun line work and precision.
Cost: $6.00 One Size (full size)
Review: I still have not used this as the colors aren't very appealing to me. As you can see in the swatch below, they're actually pretty light (and that was with several coats), but the only one I will even consider using is the brown.

2. Body Drench Daily Moisturizing Lotion 

Description: Moisturizer and aroma therapy in one? We'll take it! With a silky emollient rich formula, this fast-absorbing lotion is the perfect way to end your night, or the first step to seize the day. 
Cost: $8.99 for 16.9oz (Sample is 2oz, so worth $1.06)
Review: I got lip drench from this brand last month and thought it was pretty quality, so I was pleased to see this brand again. (Many people get irritated by repeat brands, but if it's a good one, why get mad?) I got the "Original" scent, and when I first smelled this from the bottle, I was super disappointed. It reminded me of old lady lotion. I tried it after my shower today and was pleasantly surprised. The lotion made my skin super soft and smooth and it smelled more like baby powder than the old lady smell I was anticipating. Many other reviewers say they got Sugar Cane and Mango scents, and while I would much rather have one of those two than baby powder, it is still better than my first whiff. I doubt this sample will last long.

3. Ofra Cosmetics Sultry Lipgloss Plumper 

Description: Winter is the perfect time for vampy, dark lips, so why not let out your inner vixen? This perfectly pigmented gloss is sure to add a little romance to the holidays and fullness to your pucker with a slightly minty flavor and touch of plumper. 
Cost: $12.95 for .34oz (full size)
Review: I was nervous about this from the start. It's super dark and lip color is the last item to make it in my make up routine. (In other words, it's a rare occurrence.) First, it comes out very thick, not like typical lip gloss. It was very dark and made my lips sting. I'm guessing that's the plumper, but not worth it for me. Anyone want this? NOT for me!

4. Clean & Clear Morning Burst Hydrating Gel Moisturizer 

Description: Let us introduce you to one of the best moisturizers on the market! This product is water-based and great for all skin types, so it feels light, but keeps you from getting oily or drying out. Gentle and refreshing, it also contains cucumber and green mango extract. 
Cost: $6.99 for 3oz (sample is .5oz, so $1.17)
Review: I am already a user of Clean & Clear face cleansers, so I was very interested to try this. I currently use another drugstore moisturizer that is a bit more expensive than this one, so I'm also up for finding a cheaper, just as great or better, product. When I first put it on, I was a bit surprised that it was scented. Guess I should've read the description that said "contains cucumber and green mango extract." It smells just like that. Not a bad smell, just used to my current one that is unscented. It is very lightweight, actually to the point where I needed to add a bit more after the first application. That was probably user error though. I'm going to continue to use the rest of the sample before deciding if this will be my official moisturizer or if I'll stick with what I have.

5. Every Beauty Flexible Foot Smoother 

Description: Treat yourself to smooth and supple feet by using this pliable scrubber. use dry to briskly rub away rough spots, or go spa-style and soak your feet in warm water for 15 minutes beforehand. Don't forget to slather on thick lotion afterward! 
Cost: $4.99 One Size (full size)
Review: I still haven't gotten around to using this yet. Since it's been cold, it's not appealing to remove my socks unless I absolutely have to. This product will have to wait.

Total Value: $26.28! I paid $10, so I'm pleased with this value. Even though I don't love all the products this month, it still was a fun box to receive!

If you're interested in starting a Beauty Box 5 subscription, please use my referral link: http://www.beautybox5.com/?u=861 It will help me earn points that I can use toward full size products. Thanks!