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.

Ipsy (My Glam) Review- March 2014

Hello my lovelies!  I’m so happy you stopped by to visit today, because I have lots of fun things to share with you!  I received my March Ipsy bag, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it!

Not familiar with Ipsy?  Ipsy is a monthly beauty subscription service, and for $10 a month (plus tax in a couple of 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.

pink envelope

While pink isn’t my favorite color, this IS my favorite site to see in my post box each month.  Seriously, these shiny pink envelopes invoke an excitement rarely seen in my boring, grown up life!

first peek

Here’s the first peek inside the pink envelope of goodness.  I spy something fabulous!

the bag

This month, Ipsy has enlisted an artist in San Francisco to design the bag.  I love the texture of this bag- plastic waterproof feeling- and the pattern is fun.  It’s a representation of a street map of San Fran- a place I very much would love to visit!  Artist Klari Reis did an amazing job and I’m loving how Ipsy is branching out and giving a talented artist some exposure!  

bag interior

The inside liner is a pretty blue- and has Klari’s name above the Ipsy label.  Love it!

insert card

This month’s theme is Destination Beauty.  I love the resort scene on the card- many of you know that in the summer I’m a beach bum- living 10 minutes from a premier beach resort has it’s perks! 

reverse of card

The back of the card has the monthly facebook/instagram contest, and lists all the awesome brands that Ipsy has partnered with this month.

bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Get Ready, deluxe sample size (1.5 g/0.05 oz), retail value $7.50.  Full size is 3.5 ml/0.12 fl oz and retails for $18.00; available HERE.  Discount code included is a unique code so I can’t share; it gives a free Lash Domination volumizing mascara sample and free shipping on a purchase, until 4/30/14.

I love lipstick, and bareMinerals.  This pint size sample packs a big punch!  The shade Get Ready isn’t red (like you would gather by the name) but a pretty dusty rose that is quite flattering on me.

swatch of Get Ready lipstick from bareMinerals

I gave this lipstick a try, and it applies smoothly and is long lasting.  While I have tried bareMinerals’ lip gloss, this is my first experience with the lipstick, and I’ll definitely be checking them out very soon!
GRADE: 5/5

Pixi Beauty Flawless Beauty Primer, deluxe sample size (12 ml/0.4 fl oz), retail value $8.80; full size is 30 ml/1.01 fl oz, and retails for $22.00; available HERE.   Discount code FlawlessPixi gets you 25% off any purchase, until 4/15/14, free shipping on orders over $50.

I occasionally use face primers under my foundation, and like the results I tend to get from them.  Pixi’s Poreless and Flawless primer caused me to break out a bit, so I’ve been very cautious about using this Flawless Beauty primer.  This primer has a darkish hugh when first squeezed out of the tube, but blends to a lighter shade, with a dewy finish.

swatch of Pixi Beauty Flawless Beauty Primer- left is blended, right is unblended

I tried this under my Urban Decay foundation, and didn’t really see a big difference in my skin tone, or longevity of my makeup application. Perhaps when the weather warms up, I might try this on its own, without foundation, but as of right now, I’m not overly impressed.  I currently am experiencing a small breakout, and I'm pretty sure it's from this primer.  

GRADE: 2/5

Be A Bombshell Eyeshadow Quad in Bora Bora, full size (4.8 g/0.17 oz), retails for $16.00, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY40 will get you 40% off any purchase and a FREE Fuchsia Lip Crayon, until 4/15/14, can’t be combined with other offers, free item automatically added to shipment, US only, $2 flat shipping fee.

I have a serious eye shadow addiction.  I’m always excited to receive new eye shadows and see how well they work for me.  Be A Bombshell’s eye shadow quads have four cutely divided sections, and the Bora Bora set contains the shades Starlet (a rich, chocolate brown), Bora Bora (gorgeous teal), Risky Business (sandy golden brown) and Rock Bottom (metallic copper).

swatches of Bora Bora eyeshadow quad from Be A Bombshell

I have never had the chance to try out Be A Bombshell’s eye shadows before, and I am pleasantly surprised with my experience.  The pigmentation is acceptable, they blended easily, and lasted all day, on top of my eyeshadow primer (Urban Decay Primer Potion in Greed).  I love teal (and color!), and this quad is a perfect match for me.

GRADE: 4/5

Nicole by OPI Roughles polish in On What Grounds?, full size (15 ml/0.5 fl oz), will retail for approx. $7.99; store list HERE (not sure it’s in stores yet!).  No discount code available this time, sorry!  This photo isn't best for color correctness- the swatch picture below is much better.

I used to be a total nail polish addict, and kicked the habit.  Ipsy has helped re-enable my former addiction, and my polish collection has grown by leaps and bounds in the last year!  I have tried (and love!) several shades of Nicole by OPI, and was excited to received this turquoise textured polish this month.  I’m a huge fan of Zoya’s Pixie Dust polishes, and thought that this would be similar.  Roughles (pronounced “ruffles”) polish has a sand-like texture, with flecks of color mixed in.

Swatch of On What Grounds?, Nicole by OPI Roughles collection; 2 coats, no top or base coat.

Turquoise is a favorite color of mine, and this polish is the perfect shade  Textured polish doesn’t require a top coat, and it makes for a fast and easy manicure.  I really love how the textured polish makes it harder to flub up your nails when you paint them (it is quite forgiving), and the texture and shade of the polish.  I used a base coat and the polish chipped very quickly.  I tried this again with no base, and it stayed for several days.  I’m going to add some specks of pastel colors to create Easter Egg nails for my Easter look. 

GRADE: 4/5

That’s all of the items that I received in my March Ipsy bag- 4 nice sized items this month.  BUT- because of lovely readers like you (thank you!), I was able to cash in some ipsyPoints for a referral gift! 

Benefit Cosmetics High Beam, full size (13.0 ml/0.45 fl oz), retails for $26.00, available HERE.  No discount code available this time, sorry!

Benefit is one of my very favorite makeup brands.  I’ve tried Benefit’s High Beam before, and absolutely loved it, so I was excited that I could cash my points in for a full sized bottle!

swatch of Benefit Cosmetics High Beam

High Beam is a beautiful liquid highlighter that bathes your cheekbones in moonlight.  Ok, not really, but it’s pretty amazing.  I love the formula- just dot a bit on, and blend it in.  Benefit has highlighters down to a T- between this and their Watt’s Up!, I’ll never shop for highlighters again!

GRADE: 5/5

And that, my friends is everything that I received this month from Ipsy.  Ipsy sent out a large variety of items this month, though, so here are the items that I didn’t receive but YOU might have:

NYX Cosmetics Love In Rio Eye Shadow palette (variety of shades), full size (0.105 oz/3 g), retails for $6.00 (currently on sale for $4.20), available HERE.  Discount code IPSYBB will get you 25% off NYX Butter Lip Balm, until 4/15/14, cannot be combined with other offers, valid in US only, free shipping on orders over $25.

Pacifica Body Butter in Indian Coconut Nectar, travel size (2.5 fl oz/73 ml), retails for $7.00, available HERE.  Discount code ipsygirl will get you 20% off any purchase, until 4/16/14, one time use only, can’t be combined with other offers, valid only in continental US and Canada, free shipping on orders over $50.

BareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss in Rebel, deluxe sample size (2.25 mL/0.7 fl oz), retail value $9.00.  Full size is 4.5 mL/0.15 fl oz, and retails for $18.00, available HERE.  Discount code included is a unique code so I can’t share; it gives a free Lash Domination volumizing mascara sample and free shipping on a purchase, until 4/30/14.

Chella Eyeliner in Indigo Blue, full size (1 ml), retails for $24.00, available HERE.  Discount code EYELINER will get you 25% off any purchase, until 4/15/14, free shipping on orders over $50, valid in US and Canada only.

Klorane smoothing and relaxing patches with soothing cornflower, deluxe sample size (2 pairs), retail value $5.14.  Full size is 7 pairs, retails for $18.00, and is available HERE.  Discount code IPSY will get you 15% off any Klorane purchase until 4/30/15, US only.

Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream with SPF 42, deluxe sample size (10 ml), retail value $4.40.  Full size is 50 ml/1.69 oz., retails for $22.00, and is available HERE.  Discount code IPSY will get you a free gift with purchase until 4/15/14, one time use only, valid only in US, gift is a free M Boomer 10 mL with any purchase, subject to change without notice.

Vita Liberata pHenomenal 2-3 Week Tan Lotion, deluxe sample size (20 ml/0.67 fl oz), retail value $7.20.  Full size is 150 ml/5.07 fl oz, retails for $54.00, and is available HERE.  Discount code IPSY gets you 3 free gifts and free shipping when you purchase the pHenominal 2-3 Week Tan lotion, until 4/30/14, free gifts include travel size pHenominal 2-3 Week Tan mousse, travel size tanning mitt, and full size tanning mitt, gifts automatically added to order, valid in US only.

March 2014 Ipsy Bag

Here is my awesome March Ipsy bag- Destination Beauty.  I’m seriously loving the theme this month, and the fun pops of color!


If you would like to see my real time, first impressions of my March Ipsy bag, here is my Unboxing video. I always post these to my youTube channel first (since I have to test the products before I write a post!), so if you are dying to see what I think of my Ipsy bag right away, feel free to subscribe to my channel :)

 

My March 2014 Ipsy Look

And here is the look that I created with my March Ipsy bag.  I’m loving the eyeshadow quad- these are perfect colors for me!  The lipstick and highlighter are amazing too- the only thing I’m not crazy about is the primer.  Guess you can’t win them all!

Here’s the part of the post where I list the financial breakdown. We all know that cost and value are two different things- if you love something it has much more value than something you hate, no matter how much it costs.  First, I’ll recap the retail values of everything that Ipsy sent this month:

bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Get Ready (deluxe sample), $7.50

bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss in Rebel (deluxe sample), $9.00

Pixi Beauty Flawless Beauty Primer (deluxe sample) $8.80

Pacifica Body Butter in Indian Coconut Nectar (travel size) $7.00

Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream with SPF 42 (deluxe sample size), $4.40

Vita Liberata pHenomenal 2-3 Week Tan Lotion (deluxe sample size), $7.20

Be A Bombshell Eyeshadow Quad in Bora Bora (full size), $16.00

NYX Cosmetics Love in Rio Eyeshadow Trio (full size), $6.00 (on sale for $4.50)

Nicole by OPI Roughles polish in On What Grounds?, (full size), $7.99

Chella Eyeliner in Indigo Blue (full size), $24.00

Klorane Smoothing and Relaxing patches (deluxe sample size), $5.14

Benefit Cosmetics High Beam (full size) $26.00 (referral gift)

Total retail value of my bag (approx.): $66.29  (without referral gift, $40.29) All in all, I think this was a great month for Ipsy, even if they only sent out 4 items.  I think we have all been spoiled with bigger 5 item bags for so long, it was a shock to only receive 4 (well, I received 5 because of my referral gift-thanks again- but you know what I mean).  I can’t wait to see what NEXT month holds for Ipsy!
So, tell me- what did YOU receive in your March Ipsy bag?

Until next time, my lovelies- stay Average!

DISCLAIMER: This post contains products that I purchased with my own my husband’s money.  I was not asked nor requested by any company to review/unbox these items, and all opinions are true and my own.  No links are referral or paid links, except the Ipsy link.  I totally want the Ipsy points.