June Birchbox Overview

I'm doing something a little different this month with my Birchbox products.  Instead of doing a post about each individual product I'm doing an overview post about all of the products.  The reason I am doing it this way is because I wasn't really impressed with the products in June's box so I didn't feel a need to do individual posts about each products.  So, let's get started shall we?

Apothederm™ Stretch Mark Cream

What They Say:  The lush cream tones and reduces the look of both ancient and recent stretch marks alike. Four natural moisturizers—olive oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and meadowfoam seed oils—leave skin wondrously soft. Meanwhile, the unique SmartPeptide™ system increases collagen production, while licorice root and antioxidant-rich resveratrol fade discoloration. A dose of hyaluronic acid helps with long-lasting hydration.

My Impression: I was excited to try this but I was pretty sure that my stretch marks are far beyond any kind of repair. Most of my stretch marks are from pregnancy and that was over 3 1/2 years ago so if they haven't gone away by now I'm pretty sure they are here to stay. This product didn't do anything for my stretch marks just as I suspected. Now, I'm not sure if you have "new" stretch marks if this product would help or not. The biggest problem I saw with this product is that the full-size bottle (5.7 oz) sells for $89.95! Holy cow!

John Varvatos Star U.S.A. 1.7 oz

My husband did a review of this product since it was for him and you can find it here.  I loved the smell of this stuff and I am planning on purchasing it for my husband mainly because I know he never spends money on himself so I'm going to spend it for him!

Scalisi Skincare Anti-Aging Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

What They Say:  This moisturizer uses innovative peptide technology you won’t find anywhere else—it tricks your skin into thinking a wrinkle is a cut so collagen production increases to “heal” the wrinkle. Genius, right? Add White Tea Extract for radiance and soy proteins rich in amino acids to boost cell regeneration, and you’ve got yourself an anti-aging powerhouse. Plus, it meets skin cancer prevention standards set by the FDA.

My Impression: I liked that this product included an SPF which is a necessity for any moisturizer I put on my face. The texture of this product reminded me a lot of sunscreen however it wasn't greasy when applied to my face which is a plus.  I have been using this pro a couple of weeks off an on and I haven't noticed any remarkable changes in my skin and the fine lines under my eyes.  Maybe they aren't deep enough?  I'm not sure.  Again, the price of this product, $110.00 for a 1.7 oz, blew me away!  I love that Birchbox sends out some luxury brands but in order for me to pay that much for something it better work miracles!

theBalm® cosmetics Stainiac

What They Say:  The tinted gel leaves a lasting stain on lips and cheeks. Since it’s water-based, it has a longer setting time than most quick-dry stains, which means it won’t leave any unsightly streaks behind as long as you take care to blend well. Use a single coat for a subtle look or layer it on for a more visible (yet still discreet) hue.

My Impression:  I was excited to try this product because I have heard a lot about the Balm products but I have never actually tried them.  This was one of my favorite products in the June Birchbox hands down.  I love a good lip stain and this one delivered all it promised!  It sinks right into the skin and doesn't leave any kind of residue behind.  It also stayed put for several hours.  If I were to choose I would have chosen a different color like "Homecoming Queen" that has a more brown hue to it but overall I was pleased.  The best part is that at $17.00 for .3 fl oz this product is much more affordable.  

CleanWell Hand Sanitizing Wipes

What They Say:  These alcohol-free wipes use thyme oil, a natural anti-bacterial, plus super hydrating aloe vera.

My Impression:  I don't really have much to say about these other than they seems to work well and they smelled clean and fresh.  These might be good to carry around especially if you have a little one.

BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandages by Cynthia Rowley

What They Say:  These sterile, individually sealed designer bandages will help you stay prepared for any emergencies that may arise. Keep a few in your purse for the next time you get a paper cut, or use them to cover up stiletto-induced blisters on your feet. Unlike traditional beige bandages, you won’t mind showing these little guys off.

My Impression:  The idea of fashion band-aids never appealed to me.  I hardly ever have a need for a band-aid and I'm really not worried about whether or not my band-aid is fashionable if I ever do need one.  Plus, I think these are a little pricey at $11.00 for a 40 ct box.

Well, there it is, my "just okay" June Birchbox.  I'm hoping and praying that my July box is better!

The Birchbox was purchased by me with my own money.  I am not affiliated with Birchbox or any of the brands listed above.  I am not being paid for my reviews and all opinions are my own personal opinions.  

Product Review: John Varvatos Star U.S.A. Cologne

This product goes back to the my wife's June Birchbox, and is the reason I signed up for the Birchbox Man. Good advertising on the part of Birchbox!

What They Say:

Dads and younger brothers alike dig this dapper scent. Full size product comes housed in smoky glass with a spring top reminiscent of a vintage beer bottle. John Varvatos’ cologne, like his designs, exudes a combination of off-kilter downtown cool and elegant prep.

My Opinion:

I was excited to open the package and smell this cologne.  I wasn't disappointed at all!  It has a great smell that isn't too overpowering.  The thing I hate the most is an overpowering cologne. You know, the guy that walks in the room and twenty minutes after he's left it's just as strong as when he entered?  Their description for the scent was pretty good in my opinion.  I imagined something that wasn't overpowering and a smell that makes you think stylish.  That's exactly what I got.

I've heard the John Varvatos name with working in eye care I'm familiar with the Varvatos brand eye wear.  So right away without even smelling the product I knew this cologne was going to be pricey.  After trying this product I really want to purchase it, however once I saw the price I had to take a step back.  For a 1.7oz size product you're looking at a price tag of $55.00, and for the larger 3.4oz product you're going to pay $70.00.  Now for someone like myself that doesn't like dishing out that kind of money on something that isn't a necessity, this price tag is a bit discouraging.  However, I really like the product and this may be something that I wouldn't mind purchasing in the future. Especially since my wife loved it too.

The Birchbox Man was purchased by me with my own money.  I am not affiliated with Birchbox Man or any of the brands listed above.  I am not being paid for my reviews and all opinions are my own personal opinions.