Influenster Go Vox Box- First Impressions

Hello, my lovelies!  I received an awesome box in the mail, and can't wait to share it with you all- it's the Influenster Go Vox Box!

Not familiar with Influenster?  Influenster is a product review site, where members can ask questions or review pretty much any product or service out there!  Influenster also works with brands and sends out products in VoxBoxes, for testing purposes to members, based on the member's survey answers and ranking, and a little random luck.  If you are interested in joining Influenster, you can go HERE and sign up. Membership is free, and so are the VoxBoxes of testing products, should you be lucky enough to score one!

The box

Influenster sent me this nice, big box, full of awesome goodies!

First Peek

I love the first look in the box, and wanted to share it with you!  I see some pretty amazing things to test out!

Insert Card

I love how we get an insert card with each VoxBox- it's a fun introduction to the theme :)  The back of the card lists the products included in the Go VoxBox, and their suggested retail prices, along with Twitter and Facebook information for them.  Love it- everything is right at hand!

PROFOOT Triad Orthotic Shoe inserts, for knee, leg or back pain, size women’s 6-10, retails for $10.99, available HERE (Walgreens).

I've really gotten my use out of all of the shoe inserts that Influenster has sent me in the past, and I can't wait to put the PROFOOT Triad through the wringer, as well!  I do suffer from back and knee pain, and I'm hopeful that they will feel awesome and maybe help my poor back feel better. 

I tried these out really quick (in some old flip flops), and instantly was surprised at how much better I felt, just after a few steps.  I'll keep you posted on a full test, though, but first impressions are- amazing!  I love how these are 3/4 length- my feet are pretty big and my toes are long- not all inserts feel great on my toes- they take up necessary room :)

PROFOOT Pedi-Rock (coolest. thing. ever.), retails for $7.99 (currently on sale for $4.39), available HERE (Walgreens).

My guilty pleasure is a pedicure, but I can't always afford to go to the salon to get one.  I tend to do them at home (I even have a foot bath of my very own!), and this pumice stone is an amazing addition to my routine!  Seriously, the Pedi-Rock is a game changer- it's squishy (in a good way) and can conform to whatever contour of your foot that you need it to- and washes up easily with water.  

The PROFOOT Pedi-Rock

I tried this out and was absolutely amazed at how soft my feet were after just a few minutes of rubbing them with the Pedi-Rock- they were absolute perfection!  I definitely suggest this to anyone who does at home pedicures- and you just can't beat that sale price!

Playtex Sport Fresh Balance Lightly Scented Tampons with odor shield, 16 count, retails for $5.29, available HERE (Walgreens).

Playtex is a brand of feminine products that I trust and use, but my personal favorite is Tampax Pearl.  I haven't had the "opportunity" to test these out yet, but I am sure they work much like other applicator tampons. These tampons have a plastic applicator, are lightly scented and have something called "odor shield" technology.  The box I received is Regular absorbancy. 

Blue Diamond Almonds, Blueberry Oven Roasted Almonds, snack size (1.5 oz/43g), retail value approx. $1.01.  Sold at Walmart in 10 oz bags, for $6.74, available HERE.

I have to tell you, when I saw that these were blueberry flavored almonds, I was very scheptical.  I love almonds, but I really don't tend to like flavored nuts.  Just for you, reader, I sucked it up and gave these almonds a try.

Blue Diamond Blueberry Almonds

I was absolutely surprised at how GOOD these tasted!  The texture is of an almond, with a bit of a gritty coating, but the taste is absolutely amazing- blueberry and almond, at the same time!  Tiny love went nuts over these, and I had to hide the bag so I had enough for me to try and use to complete the brand challenge!  If you see these in the store, consider picking up a snack-sized bag and giving them a try.  Trust me.  You will be surprised.

Coupon for any Muller Yogurt Product (sold in grocery stores)

I have never tried Muller Yogurt products before, and am excited to use this coupon to pick one up.  Muller Yogurt is made by Quaker, and I'm looking forward to experiencing a new yogurt brand- we are BIG yogurt eaters in this house!  (I'll update this post once I have the yogurt and include a picture of what I picked out.  Promise.)

Aqua Spa Relax Lavender + Chamomile Body Crème, 9 oz/255 g, retails value $7.18; full size is 12 fl oz/355 ml retails for $9.99 and is available HERE.

I absolutely love body lotions and cremes, but as I'm allergic to many fragrances, it's difficult to find a favorite one.  I gave this a quick sniff, and the heavenly lavender scent did not trigger my allergies.  I gave this a quick try (on my feet, after using the Pedi Rock), and it did a great job of moisturizing without being greasy. It's a lovely lotion, and a perfect addition to my "spa moment".

Next Step Jaxx Shaker Cup, 20 oz., currently on sale for $5.99, regularly priced at $7.99, available HERE.

I have tried a couple of different shaker cups in the past, specifically one with a fan-shaped blade and one with a mixer marble inside.  This shaker is very different from these, as they have a jumbo six sided jack inside to break up powder clumps and help properly mix the drinks inside.  I gave this a try and found that it works really well mixing powder into the drinks, with no leaking.  I love this cup and have used it to mix shakes and lemonade, so far!

The Vitamin Shoppe Next Step fit n’ full shakes, (3 packettes: Fresh Berries (1.20 oz/34 g), Swiss Chocolate (1.34 oz/38 g), and French Vanilla (1.20 oz/34 g), retail value $4.02 (sale price) or $5.36 (regular price); sold in both 14-pack boxes and 544 g canisters; each currently on sale for $18.74; regularly priced at $24.99; available HERE, along with a coupon for $5 off a purchase at the Vitamin Shoppe.

I am always looking for new ways to aid me in my weight loss quest- I've tried meal replacement shakes before, and found them to be horrible tasting and not very filling.  The Vitamin Shoppe's Next Step fit n' full shakes seem to break this pattern.  I've tried (so far) the French Vanilla and Fresh Berries shakes, and they are actually quite tasty.  I'm not sure that the shakes kept my stomach feeling full longer, but I definitely enjoyed them :)

Full retail value of my Go VoxBox (not counting coupons): $45.81 (or if I use the sale prices, $38.87) 

Influenster's Go VoxBox

Here is my Go VoxBox all together- what a box of amazing finds! 

If you would like to see me unbox the Go VoxBox, feel free to watch the below video and see my initial first impressions of these awesome items :)

Until next time, my lovelies- stay Average!

Disclaimer: I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.  No links in this post are NOT referral links (except for any that are clearly marked).  All opinions in this post are my own and are my true thoughts.  I strive for honesty.

Ipsy (My Glam) Review- May 2014

Hello my lovelies!  I received my May Ipsy bag in the mail, and I can't wait to share my thoughts with you!

Not familiar with Ipsy? Ipsy is a beauty subscription service, where you are sent 4-5 deluxe sample or full sized items each month, for $10 (US subscribers), or $14.95 (Canadian subscribers).  If you would like to subscribe, and want to send some love my way, I hope you would consider using my referral link- thank you!

This month marks a year since Ipsy launched their "Ipsymatch" program, that is supposed to make bags more personalized, and provide a sample selection more focused on each subscriber's wants.  This has opened the door for Ipsy to work with more brands, since more variations mean less samples companies would need to provide for ipsy (especially indie brands- lots of small companies can't afford to give thousands of product samples away in a month!).  I can't say whether or not ipsyatch actually works, but I have to say that Ipsy has definitely come a long way in the last year- SO many more products are offered now, as opposed to a year ago!  

On to the goodies :)

Pink Envelope

I say this all the time, but I really do love these pink envelopes- it's so great to see them in the mailbox, especially since the tracking Ipsy sends out is less than reliable.  Pink envelopes are awesome, and always a welcome sight!

First Peek

I always love peeking in my Ipsy envelopes- that first look is always worth the wait!

Insert Card

This month's card is in my favorite spring color scheme- pink and spring green :)  I love the theme this month, too- Beauty's Fresh Picks- it's all about trying something new this spring!

Card Reverse

On the back of the insert card is the monthly Instagram contest, and a list of the brands that are included in this month's bag.  

The Bag

I seriously love the bag this month.  I think this may be my favorite bag.  Made of canvas, with a pretty green leaf pattern on one side, this bag is the perfect size and will be perfect to keep my touch up makeup in my purse.  Love, love, love it!

Pur~lisse Pur~moist hydra balance moisturizer, deluxe sample size (.5 oz/15 ml), retail value $16.50; full size is 1.7 oz/50 ml and retails for $55.00, available HERE. Discount code Ipsy30 will get you 30% off any purchase, until 6/15/14, valid only in US and Canada, free shipping on orders over $50.

I love moisturizers, and was very excited to try out Pur~moist from Pur~lisse this month.  This moisturizer has a light floral scent, but it wasn't enough to trigger my massive allergies.  It did a great job hydrating my skin, without being greasy.  Pur~lisse is designed for normal/dry skin, is safe for sensitive skin, and has anti-aging properties.  I will definitely use this sample up, but the regular price lotion is a bit out of my price range.

GRADE 4/5

Jersey Shore Sun Sans Tan Pure White Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 35, deluxe sample size (0.5 oz), retail value $10.00; full size is 2 oz and retails for $40.00 (or you can get a 2 pack of the deluxe samples for $25; available HERE.  Discount code Ipsy30 will get you 30% off the full size Sans Tan Anti-Aging sunscreen, until 6/15/14, worldwide shipping available, check site for details.

I religiously wear sunscreen, any time I plan on leaving the house.  This is almost every day.  While I have my favorite brands, I am always happy to try something new!  I have never heard of Jersey Shore Sun, which is kind of odd, since I live on the Delaware shore, not terribly far from the Jersey Shore.  I digress.  I gave this a try, and it works pretty much like any other sunscreen.  It was easy to work it into my skin, and I'm assuming it protected me from the sun. My little tube did need to be shaken up before use, though- the product had separated a bit, but it mixed together again quite well.  What else can I say- it's sunscreen.

GRADE 3/5
 

Hey Honey Take It Off Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask, deluxe sample size (10 ml), retail value $7.00; full size is 1.7 oz/50 ml and retails for $35.00; available HERE.  Discount code Ipsy will get you 20% off your order, (no ending date specified; it was a pop-up)

I am a face mask person.  I have a couple of them here at the house that I love- a mud mask and a thermal mask- and indulge my face in a spa treatment about once a week.  I was excited to give the Hey Honey mask a try- I love all-natural products, and this one smelled good, and sounded like it would be great for my skin.

Hey Honey Take it Off mask on my face

There are no instructions on the package for this product, but instead are referred to the product's website.  According to Hey Honey, first apply a thin layer of moisturizer, then the mask, wait 10-15 minuted, and then peel the mask off and reapply the moisturizer.  I followed these instructions to the T.  The mask went on smoothly, and dried out just like every other mask I have ever used.  Once my nose began to get itchy, I checked the timer and began to peel the mask off.  Because this mask is basically clear when it's dry, it's hard to see exactly where all the little leftover pieces are, that didn't come off with the "big" peel.  I did eventually find them all, and my skin was very soft when I was done.  I like the mask, but I think I'll stick to my mud.

GRADE: 4/5

Avene Eau Thermale Thermal Spring Water, travel size (1.76 oz/50 ml), retails for $9.00; full size is 10.58 oz/300 g and retails for $18.00; available HERE.  Discount code IPSY15 will get you 15% off any Avene product at drugstore.com, until 6/14/14, US only.

This is thermal spring water.  In a can.  With an aerosol  spray head.  I'm not entirely sure what the difference between thermal water and regular water is, but I suspect it's not much.  I read the package insert for this, and still can't figure out what exactly I can use it for.  The insert suggests spraying the product on itchy skin to relieve the itch, and I tried this, but in my case it didn't particularly help.  I'm putting this in my beach bag and going to see if it helps me cool off when I'm sun bathing.  Honestly, though, I don't see much value in this product, unless you have recently had surgery and need to cleanse an area, or wear water soluble makeup and need help removing it.  This just isn't for me.  Water in a can.  Huh.

GRADE: 1/5

Pacifica Mineral Eyeshadow Duo, Duo 1 (celestial and opal), deluxe sample size (0.07 oz/2 g), retail value $4.00; full size is 0.25 oz/7 g and retails for $14.00; available HERE.  Discount code ipsybeauty will get you 25% off your purchase, until 6/30/14, cannot be combined with other offers, valid only in US and Canada, free shipping on orders over $50.

I was super excited when I saw that everyone was getting a Pacifica eyeshadow duo- I've been eyeing up their makeup collection for a while, and have been waiting for the perfect chance to try them out!  Ipsy sent out two duos, this one and another with a purple and iridescent white shade (moonbeam and unicorn).  I would have rather received the Duo 2, but these neutral shades will go with anything, and are very wearable (even if the compact did fall apart the first time I opened it!).

Swatch of Pacifica Mineral Eyeshadow Duo no. 1

These eyeshadows are extremely soft and creamy to the touch (these feel amazing!), and swatched nicely on my hand.  The pigmentation didn't really transfer to my eyelids, though- I had to really work to create an eye look with these.  

Pacifica Mineral Eyeshadow Duo no. 1 on my eyes

I love the feel of these, I just wish I had some darker shades, as I really am stocked up on neutral shadows.  That is my fault, and not Ipsy's though!

GRADE: 3/5

BareMinerals Marvelous Moxie lipstick in Light It Up, full size (3.5g/0.12 oz), retails for $18.00; available HERE.  No discount code this time, maybe next month!

I really loved the Marvelous Moxie lipstick that I received in my March Ipsy bag, and when I saw that I had enough referral points to redeem, and that there was another shade of this awesome lipstick formula up for grabs, I jumped right on that "redeem" button faster than you can imagine.  I literally couldn't wait to receive this lipstick, as the shade on Ipsy's page looked like a perfect spring rose shade, with a bit of a melon undertone.

Swatch of BareMinerals Marvelous Moxie lipstick in Light It Up

This lipstick is NOT a pinky melon shade. It's very orange/melon.  While this bright shade might do well with someone less pale than me, this is going into my "fun" pile to wear on a night out with my girlfriends.  

BareMinerals Marvelous Moxie in Light it Up on my lips, in bad lighting

I'm very sad that the shade was misrepresented on Ipsy's page (inadvertently, I am very sure), but this formula is amazing and when I do get brave enough to rock this orange shade, I know it will be long lasting and apply smoothly.  That has to count for something, right?

GRADE: 2/5

Here are the items that * I * didn’t receive this month, but you may have:

Hang Ten Classic Sport SPF 50 Natural sunscreen, deluxe sample size (1 fl oz/30 ml), retail value approx. $2.17; full size is 6 fl oz and retails for $12.99

Available HERE.  Discount code IPSY2014 will get you 25% off your purchase, until 6/30/14, one time use only, no valid on past purchases, cannot be combined with other offers, not applied to taxes or shipping, valid only in the US.

Bare Foot Exfoliating Polish, deluxe sample size (2 packets, each 0.5 oz/15 ml), retail value approx. $1.20; full size is 5.3 oz/150 ml and retails for $5.99; available HERE.  Discount code BUFFBABE will get you 55% off the Bare Foot Better in the Buff Set and free shipping, until 7/31/14, one time use only, can’t be combined with other offers, not valid on past purchases.

Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in 205 Elusive, full size (0.095 oz/2.7 g); retails for $8.99, available HERE.  No discount code this month, maybe next time!

Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Mask, small full size (2.03 oz/60 ml), retails for $12, available HERE.  Discount code ISPY will get you 65% off your purchase, until 6/15/14, valid only in the US, shipping cost is $5.95.

Eva NYC Mane Tamer Leave In Conditioner, small full size (3.38 fl oz/100 ml), retails for $8.00, available HERE.  Discount code ISPY will get you 65% off your purchase, until 6/15/14, valid only in the US, shipping cost is $5.95.

Eva NYC Rock A Wave Curl Cream, small full size (3.38 fl oz/100 ml), retails for $8.00, available HERE.  Discount code ISPY will get you 65% off your purchase, until 6/15/14, valid only in the US, shipping cost is $5.95.

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer, deluxe sample size (2.5g), retail value $7.50; full size is 10 g/0.35 oz and retails for $30.00, available HERE.  Discount code Bronzer25 will get you 25% off any purchase, until 6/15/14, one time use only, cannot be combined with other offers, cannot be used on sale items, valid only in the US.

Balanced Guru No Frizz Organic Sesame and Lemongrass Balancing Oil, travel size (0.5 oz/15 ml), retails for $13.00; is available HERE.  Discount code nofrizz20 will get you 20% off your purchase until 6/30/14, cannot be combined with other offers, free shipping with order over $75 after code, valid in US and Canada only. 

Boo-Boo Cover Up Concealer in Medium, full size (0.34 oz/10 ml), retails for $19.99, available HERE.  Discount code RMKG9TY7 will get you 25% off any purchase, until 6/30/14, one time use only, not valid on past purchases, cannot be combined with other offers, valid only in the US and Canada.

Calvin Klein Endless Euphoria, deluxe sample size (1 fl oz/3 ml), retail value $27.60 or $22.25; full size is 2.5 oz (small) or 4 oz (large) and retails for $69.00 and $89.00, respectively, available HERE.  No discount code this month, maybe next time!

Coastal Scents Classic Blender Crease Brush with natural bristles, full size, retails for $2.49, available HERE.  Discount code BRUSH25Off will get you 25% off your purchase, until 5/31/14, cannot be applied to previous or future orders, or combined with other offers.

Derma e Microdermabrasion Scrub, deluxe sample size (1 oz), retail value $14.63; full size is 2 oz/56 g and retails for $29.25 (currently on sale, at the time this post was researched), available HERE.  Discount code IPSY0514 will get you 30% off any purchase, until 7/31/14, one time use only, not valid on past purchases, cannot be combined with other offers, valid only in the US. (I received this in a previous Ipsy bag (July 2013); you can read my review of this product HERE, if you like.)

LA Fresh Travel Lite oil free makeup remover wipes, travel size (8 wipes), retails for $2.49, available HERE.  Discount code IPSYLOVE30514 will get you 30% off any purchase, until 6/30/14, one time use only, cannot be combined with other offers, other restrictions may apply, see site for details, US only.

Lulu Blossom Dreamsicle Body Balm, travel size (2 oz), retails for $10.00; and is available HERE.  Discount code IPSY15 will get you 15% off any purchase, one time use only, not valid on past purchases, cannot be combined with other offers, valid only in the US and Canada.

Mee Beauty Bee Nourished Night Cream, deluxe sample size (7 ml/0.25 oz), retail value approx. $3.56; full size is 59 ml/2 oz and retails for $30.00; available HERE.  Discount code ipsy30 will get you 30% off of any purchase until 8/31/14, cannot be combined with other offers, $5 shipping on US orders, valid in the US only.

SWISSCO Electroplated Eyelash Curler, full size, retails for $5.00, available HERE.  No discount code this time, maybe next time!

Nailtini Straight Up Nail Lacquer, full size (15 ml/0.5 oz), retails for $13.00, available HERE.  Discount code IPSYSPRING will get you 50% off any purchase $12 or more plus a free eyeliner, until 7/10/14, not valid with any other offer or on lacquer cabinet subscriptions, eyeliner automatically added to order, valid only in the US and Canada. (I've recieved two of these shades in the past, if you like you can see my swatch of Caviar Cocktail HERE (it's the accent nail), and  Frappe HERE.)

Olive Natural Beauty The Olive Lip Balm in Refreshing Rosemary, full size (0.07 oz), retails for $5.95, available HERE.  Discount code OLIVEIPSY will get you 20% off and a free gift with purchase, until 7/15/14, one time use only, cannot be combined with other offers, $2 US shipping, $3 Canada shipping, and international shipping rates may vary.

Crown Brush Chisel Shader, full size, retails for $3.29, available HERE.  No discount code this time, maybe next time!

Crown Brush Pro Blending Fluff Brush, full size, retails for $5.49, available HERE.  No discount code this time, maybe next time!

Here is MY bag contents, for this month:

Ipsy Glam Bag May 2014

And here is the video, featuring my beautiful oldest child, as we unbox our Ipsy bags together:

Here is the look I was able to create with the little bit of makeup I received this month.  Notice the very orange lips :)

Now it’s time for the financial breakdown: but first, I’ll recap all of the items in this month’s bags, to make it easy for you to calculate YOUR bag’s value too (items with stars are the ones in my May bag):

*Pur~lisse Pur~moist hydra balance moisturizer, deluxe sample size, $16.50

*Jersey Shore Sun Sans Tan Pure White Mineral Sunscreen, deluxe sample size, $10.00

Hang Ten Classic Sport SPF 50 Natural sunscreen, deluxe sample size, $2.17

*Hey Honey Take It Off Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask, deluxe sample size, $7.00

Derma e Microdermabrasion Scrub, deluxe sample, $14.63

Lulu Blossom Dreamsicle Body Balm, travel size, $10.00

Bare Foot Exfoliating Polish, deluxe sample size (2 packets), $1.20

*Avene Eau Thermale Thermal Spring Water, travel size,  $9.00

Mee Beauty Bee Nourished Night Cream, deluxe sample size, $3.56

LA Fresh Travel Lite oil free makeup remover wipes, travel size, $2.49

Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in 205 Elusive, full size, $8.99

*Pacifica Mineral Eyeshadow Duo, deluxe sample size, $4.00

Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Mask, small full size, $12.00

Eva NYC Mane Tamer Leave In Conditioner, small full size, $8.00

Eva NYC Rock A Wave Curl Cream, small full size, $8.00

Balanced Guru No Frizz Organic Sesame and Lemongrass Balancing Oil, travel size, $13.00

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer, deluxe sample size, $7.50

Boo-Boo Cover Up Concealer in Medium, full size, $19.99

Calvin Klein Endless Euphoria, deluxe sample size, $27.60 or $22.25

Olive Natural Beauty The Olive Lip Balm in Refreshing Rosemary, full size, $5.95

Nailtini Straight Up Nail Lacquer, full size, $13.00

Coastal Scents Classic Blender Crease Brush with natural bristles, full size, $2.49

Crown Brush Chisel Shader, full size, $3.29

Crown Brush Pro Blending Fluff Brush, full size, $5.49

SWISSCO Electroplated Eyelash Curler, full size, $5.00

*BareMinerals Marvelous Moxie lipstick in Light It Up, full size, $18.00

(holy cow, that’s a LONG list!)

TOTAL RETAIL VALUE OF MY BAG (approx.): $64.50, (without referral gift: $46.50)  Although my bag has a high dollar value, I really wasn’t all that impressed by the items I was sent this month.  I love the bag itself, and am happy to be a subscriber, and willingly give Ipsy my $10 gamble money each month, but this month just wasn’t a win for me.  Some of the variations looked amazing- I would have LOVED the Revlon lip crayon, the Too Faced bronzer (even if it does look too dark for me, I would like to try it out!), or the blue Nailtini polish.  I guess you can't win them all!

Tell me- what did YOU receive in your Ipsy bag this month?  Would I have bag envy??

Until next time, my lovelies- stay Average!

Disclaimer: I purchased these items with my own money my husband's money.  I was neither requested nor required to review these items, and all links in this post are NOT referral links, except the Ipsy link.  I totally want the Ipsy points.

Ipsy (My Glam) Review- April 2014

I know I am very late to the April Ipsy party, and I am SO SO sorry, y'all.  All I can say is that my non-internet life is very, very busy right now, and we have been working on a "family project" for the last four weeks or so, and although the end isn't quite in sight yet, we are working very hard to get there.  No, I'm not pregnant, my husband is still employed, and all of us are generally healthy.  Please don't worry about us, but know that I have been spending ALL of my "offline" time working on something that will be really awesome when it is done, and that it means a pretty large change for my family :)

Ok, enough with the apologies.  On to the good stuff!

Not familiar with Ipsy?  Ipsy is a monthly beauty subscription service, and for $10 a month (plus tax is a couple states, $14.95 in Canada) they send out 4-5 full sized items or deluxe samples in a cute makeup bag.  If you would like to subscribe, and want to send some love my way, here is my referral link- thank you!

 

The Pink Envelope

Seriously, this is the best mail that I receive on a regular basis- seeing this pink envelope in my post box always makes me smile- I love knowing that something special is inside, just for me!

First Peek

Here is a quick look inside the pink envelope of goodness- I spy a purple bag!

Insert Card

Ipsy always includes lovely insert cards in our bags each month.  As always, the theme of the bag is announced on them- April's theme is "Beauty Rocks".  Yes, Ipsy, I think that beauty rocks, too!

Reverse

The back of the card announces a contest on Instagram, and lists all of the brands that will be featured in the bags this month.  I spy some great brands, and I hope I get to try out the brands that I'm lusting over!

The Bag

This month's them is Beauty Rocks, and the bag was designed to compliment that theme.  While I love the purple and the record player design, and the size; I'm still not crazy about this bag.  I think it's just okay.

Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Volumizing Spray Mousse, travel size (1.6 oz/47 g), retails for $6.00; full size is 10.6 oz/300 g, and retails for $17.95, available HERE (full size) or HERE (travel size).  Receive a 25% off code when you text the keyword IPSTER to 33233 and provide an email to use on purchases, at sexyhair.com, until 5/31/14, not valid at retail locations, or other websites, limit one per customer, not valid on prior purchases, only one promo code per purchase, valid only in US.

The first item in my bag this month is Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Volumizing Spray Mousse.  I just love the Big Sexy brand, and tend to really love their products.  This spray mousse is no exception- it definitely did a nice job or giving my hair more volume.  I love me some Big Sexy Hair!

Grade: 4/5

 

Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Pencil in Black Velvet, deluxe sample size (0.8 g/0.03 oz), retail value $13.33; full size is 1.2 g/0.04 oz. and retails for $20.00; available HERE.  Discount code UDIPSY will get you a free gift on any purchase of $35 or more, until 4/18/14, while supplies last, free gift is a deluxe sample of B6 Vitamin Infused Complexion Prep Spray, cannot be combined with other offers, not valid on past purchases, one time use only.

It's no secret that Urban Decay is my favorite makeup brand.  Seriously, I use at least one UD product, every day, and my makeup kit is chock full of their awesomely logo'd products.  I was very excited to try out their new Black Velvet eyeliners, and was thrilled to hear that everyone would receive one in their April bags!

Swatch of Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Pencil in Black Velvet

I gave this pencil a try, and found it to be a nice, quality black eyeliner. It applied very smoothly, was smudgeable for a short time, and was very long lasting.  I don't really see a difference between this and the quality of my other 24/7 eye pencils, but it's definitely a keeper, even if I do already own a mountain of black eye pencils.

Grade: 4.5/5

Cailyn Tinted Lip Balm, in Apple Pink, full size (according to Ipsy’s page, no info on packaging) (0.14 oz/4.0 g), retails for $19.00; available HERE.  Discount code IPSYGIFT will get you 20% off any purchase, and a free gift, until 5/31/14, valid only in the US and Canada, can’t be combined with other offers.

Ipsy has sent out Cailyn items several times, but has never thought that I would like to try them.  Oh, how wrong Ipsy has been, and I can't tell you how happy I am to FINALLY receive a Cailyn item in my April bag!  I love the design of this lip balm!

Cailyn Lip balm packaging

Each balm comes packed with its own little brush, tucked inside the handle of the lid.  

Swatch of Cailyn Tinted Lip Balm in Apple Pink

Ipsy sent this balm out in two shades this month: Apple Pink and Acid Pink.  Apple Pink is definitely the more "wearable" shade, and looks lovely on my lips.  I love the shade, but I found the formula to be a bit drying.  I wouldn't call this a lip balm as much as I would call it a lip tint, personally.  I do love the shade and it was very long lasting, and am SO happy to FINALLY add something from Cailyn to my collection!
Grade: 3/5

dr. brandt Microdermabrasion, deluxe sample size (7.5 g), retail value $9.75; full size is 2 oz/60 g and retails for $78.00; available HERE.  Discount code MICRO20 will get you 20% off the full size microdermabrasion and a free gift on the first 10,000 purchases, until 9/31/14, free gift is a travel size pores no more refiner and is automatically added to the cart with code while supplies last, one per customer, not valid with any other offer.

Microdermabrasion is a treatment that I do very rarely- I have very sensitive skin, and prefer to use a scrub wash, as apposed to microdermabrasion.  Microdermabrasion uses miniscule granules in a base to remove a fine layer of skin from your face, giving your skin a soft and fresh appearance.  For you, my readers, I gave dr. brandt a try, and found it to be about the same as every other microderm product that I have ever used.  I will say, that my tube, while sealed, didn't seem to be all the way filled.  I think I will get about three uses out of my little tube.

Grade: 3/5 

Elizabeth Mott Pop! Goes the Shadow in Champagne, full size (0.07 oz/2 g), retails for $12.99, available HERE.  Discount code IPSYPOP will get you 50% off any purchase, until 6/1/14, free shipping on US orders over $30, valid in US only.

Elizabeth Mott has recently launched this eye shadow line, and I am excited to give it a try!  Pop! Goes the Shadow are packaged in clear plastic, with a pan inside.  My pan sits a bit crooked in the packaging, but still works just the same as if it were in its packaging perfectly straight.

Swatch of Pop! Goes the Shadow in Champagne, by Elizabeth Mott

Champagne is a very lovely highlighting shade.  I really love this shadow, as I have been looking for a new go-to highlighter.  I'll be adding this shade to my regular rotation.

Grade: 4/5

That's all of the items that *I* received this month; here's a list of other items that Ipsy sent out,  that you may have received, even though I didn't get them:

 KISS Looks So Natural Lashes in Flirty, full size (lashes plus adhesive), retails for $3.99, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY1 will get you 25% off KISS or iEnvy lashes until 5/15/14, not valid on stock prices or clearance items, cannot be combined with other offers, valid in the US only.

Benefit Lollitint, deluxe sample size/travel size (2.5 ml/0.08 Fl oz), retails for $8.00, full size is 12.5 ml/ 0.42 fl oz and retails for $30.0; available HERE (full size) or HERE.  Discount code APRILGLAM will get you a free sample of High Beam with a minimum $30 order, until 5/15/14 or while supplies last, cannot combine with other offers except for standard shipping, not valid on purchase of Nice Package custom kits, not valid at boutiques, brow bars, counters or other websites.

 Cover FX Mattifying Primer with Anti-Acne Treatment, 15 ml/0.5 oz, retail value $19.00; full size is 30 ml/1.0 fl oz and retails for $38.00, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY20 will get you 20% off any purchase of $50 or more, until 6/30/14, valid only in the continental US, free shipping plus two free samples with every $50 order.

Rainbow Honey nail polish in Midnight Fountain, 5 ml (deluxe sample size), retail value $3.13; full size is 16 ml and retails for $10.00, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY25 will get you 25% off your order until 5/31/14, cannot be combined with other offers, valid only in the US and Canada. 

City Color White Gold Shadow & Highlighting Mousse, 0.092 oz/2.6 g (full size), retails for $3.99, available HERE.  Discount code14IPSY20WG will get you 20% off any purchase, until 6/15/14, one time use only, can't be combined with other offers, valid only in the US and Canada. 

Coastal Scents Medium Shadow brush, full size, retails for $2.49, available HERE.  Discount code BRUSH25OFF will get you 25% off your purchase, until 5/31/14, can't be applied to past or future orders, or combined with other offers.

Demeter Jasmine Roll-On Perfume Oil, full size (0.29 fl oz/8.8 ml) retails for $10.00, available HERE.  Discount code 20ipsydfl will get you 20% off any purchase, until 5/31/14, one time use only, only valid in continental US and Canada.

 Mary Kay at Play Jelly Lip Gloss in Teddy Bare or Berry Me, full size (0.32 fl oz/9.5 ml) retails for $10.00, available HERE. No discount code this time, maybe next time!      

St. Tropez Gradual Tan Plus Anti-Aging Multi-Action Face, deluxe sample size (15 ml/0.5 fl oz) retail value $10.50; full size is 50 ml/1.6 fl oz and retails for $35.00 at Sephora (couldn’t find this exact product at St. Tropez’s site- possibly it’s sold out?), available HERE.   Discount code GLOW25 will get you 25% off any purchase, until 7/5/14, valid only in the US.

Starlooks Luscious Longwear Lip Pencil in Naked, full size (0.2 oz), retails for $14.00 , available HERE.  Discount code IPSY20 will get you 20% off any purchase until 5/31/14, unlimited uses, valid worldwide.

Just a Tease So Seductive Lashes, full size, retails for $3.99; available HERE.  Discount code IPSY20 will get you 20% off any purchase until 5/25/14, $2.50 flat rate shipping on all orders or free shipping on orders $25 or over, shipping available worldwide.

Here is everything that I received in my April Ipsy Bag:

Ipsy Glam Bag, April 2014

And here is my unbagging video from April, featuring my beautiful daughter :)

Here's the part of my post where I break down this month's Ipsy bag, financially speaking.  I'll recap all of the items with their estimated retail value, to make it a little easier for you to figure out what the value of your bag is:

Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Pencil in Black Velvet, deluxe sample size, $13.33

Cailyn Tinted Lip Balm, in Apple Pink or Acid Pink, full size, $19.00

Mary Kay at Play Jelly Lip Gloss in Teddy Bare or Berry Me, full size, $10.00

Starlooks Luscious Longwear Lip Pencil in Naked, full size, $14.00

Elizabeth Mott Pop! Goes the Shadow in Champagne, full size, $12.99

City Color White Gold Shadow and Highlight Mousse, full size, $3.99

Rainbow Honey Nail Polish in Midnight Fountain, deluxe sample size, $3.13

dr, brandt Microdermabrasion, deluxe sample size, $9.75

Cover FX Mattifying Primer with Anti-Acne Treatment, deluxe sample size, $19.00

Benefit Lollitint, deluxe sample size/travel size, $8.00 (value calculated from full size version is $6.00)

St. Tropez Gradual Tan Plus Anti-Aging Multi-Action Face, deluxe sample size, $10.50

Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Volumizing Spray Mousse, travel size, $6.00

Coastal Scents Classic Medium Shadow Natural Brush, full size, $2.49

Demeter Jasmine Roll-On Perfume Oil, full size, $10.00

KISS Looks So Natural Lashes in either Shy, Pretty, Flirty, Sultry or Vamp, full size (lashes plus adhesive), $3.99

Just a Tease So Seductive Lashes, full size, retails for $3.99

Total retail value of MY bag: $61.07- this is definitely a higher valued bag, and I'm so happy with pretty much everything that I received this month.  To me, value isn't so much about dollars, as it is about whether or not I like an item, or already own it.  I'm very happy with this month's Ipsy bag, and can't wait to see what next month brings!

Tell me- what did YOU receive in your April Ipsy bag?

Until next time, my lovelies- stay Average!

Disclaimer: I purchased these items with my own money my husband's money.  I was neither requested nor required to review these items, and all links in this post are NOT referral links, except the Ipsy link.  I totally want the referral points.  I strive for honesty.