LASHXTEND, French Scents, & More -Birchbox Review- Nov. 2012

 Birchbox Review - November 2012

ModelCo FIBRE LASHXTEND Lengthening Mascara

Birchbox Says:

We’ve tested many a volumizing mascara, but we’ve never found one that mimics the effect (in a good way) of falsies quite like this one. ModelCo’s innovative formula is made with tiny fibers that attach to your lashes to elongate and thicken them. You’ll be shocked at how much richness and length you can get with a single coat— apply two for serious drama. Plus, each tube features a handy built-in mirror for easy on-the-go application.

The water-resistant formula uses tiny fibers to beef up your fringe without any irritation. Nourishing beeswax and carnauba wax keep lashes plush.

Holding horizontally, wiggle the wand from base of lashes through tip. Apply two coats for extra volume. At the end of the day, use warm water and makeup remover to rinse away.

I Say:

The length this mascara creates is great, they really do look like falsies! BUT.. the brand also claims to thicken your lashes, which I did not find to be true even after putting on the recommended three coats total. They also claim to be water-resistant, and they are just that - water resistant. If you have watery eyes, are planning on sweating alot, or have contacts that get irritated easily, I'd go for something more water proof.
I'd recommend this if you're looking for long length, but not for volume. I'd use this for work, or a dinner date, but I would not recommend this for a night out dancing, you'll have raccoon eyes fairly fast! 

Feeling Smitten Bath Bomb

Birchbox Says:

The holidays can be stressful—there’s no doubt about it. Tame the tension with a relaxing bath, courtesy of Feeling Smitten’s fizzy bath bombs. Shaped and scented like mini-cupcakes, these indulgences will melt away any hint of a Grinch-like mood in no time.

These fizzy handmade treats infuse your bath with bubbles, moisturize your skin, and smell delicious. There are three serene-smelling scents: Wonderland, delectable Ribbon Candy, and spicy Rum Cake. Plus, every Feeling Smitten product is gentle enough for sensitive skin and free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, so sink back, relax, and enjoy.

Fill your tub about one-third full. With the water still running, add the bath bomb of your choice. 

I Say: 

Although part of it was crumbled in the package making me wonder how many people got theirs in tiny pieces, the scent was yummy, and my skin was left moisturized and smooth. It definitely looked cute too, almost like the real thing! I would recommend keeping it out of the reach of small children though, since it looks like a real cupcake.
This is a pretty fragile product, and they should ship it with better care. But overall, I enjoyed the scent and effects on my skin and would enjoy giving or receiving these as small holiday gifts among girlfriends. 

Oscar Blandi Pronto Texture & Volume Spray

Birchbox Says:

We love the sexy bedhead look, but our hair rarely looks hot right after we roll out of bed in the morning. That’s why we’re totally obsessed with this volumizing spray from celebrity stylist Oscar Blandi. All we have to do is lift sections of hair while spraying it from ends to roots, and voila! We’ve got sultry, tousled strands in less time than it takes to get a vanilla soymilk latte en route to the office.

There is some serious science behind this sleek spray: Zeolite, a natural volcanic mineral, actually removes toxins to keep your hair from losing volume throughout the day. Keratin proteins strengthen hair, and UV absorbers keep your color looking gorgeous.

Spray on dry hair, starting with the ends and working your way up toward the roots. Lift your hair as you spray for added volume and increased sexiness.

I Say:

 Honestly, this works more as a dry shampoo than anything. Using it on a second day blowout with get rid of access oil and give you a little lift. The volume you get is about the equivalent of the results you get from flipping your head upside down and spraying hairspray to the roots. Point is, your paying more for the name than anything. There are lots of other great (and much cheaper!) dry shampoos out there with the same, if not better results. Leave the volume and texture to a product that isn't just hairspray meets baby powder in a pretty can.

SOYJOY Cranberry Snack Packs 

Birchbox Says:

If bad memories of bland tofu turned you off soy, we don’t blame you. Erase them forever with these sweet and tart snack bars, which are a tasty way to get soy’s health benefits. They’re packed with non-GMO soy, the ingredient nutritionists love because it’s the only plant source of complete protein. Each flavor is free of artificial flavors, refined carbs, and high fructose corn syrup. At just 140 calories, these bars are a guilt-free morning, afternoon, or anytime snack. (Not that you’re counting, of course.)

Made with real dried cranberries and ground whole soy nuts, SOYJOY bars are gluten-free and completely vegetarian. They’re natural sources of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and zinc. Each pack includes five bars.

Store these bars in your pantry, or keep one in your purse to ward off hunger between meals.

I Say:

They sure will ward off hunger! Just tasting one will make you lose your appetite. The texture is hard and extremely chewy, and the flavor is just plain bland. I'm not a big fan of soy to begin with, it didn't surprise me that i disliked this product. But what made me even more less of a fan, is the fact that although they are a vegetarian snack, they still contain butter - which some vegans and vegetarians won't eat. Why make this a  'vegetarian' snack, but add butter to it?

Stella Cadente Miss Me Eau de Parfum

 

Birchbox Says:

This best-selling fragrance by French designer Stella Cadente makes us feel European chic. It blends soft, floral notes with a warm, cozy musk for a scent that is both sexy and feminine. Spritz it on and practice your best ‘Oui, oui.’

A blend of peony, orange, and silkwood blossom provides blossomy floral notes, while Siamese benzoin, tolu and peru balm add muted vanilla tones.

Spray a small amount on wrists or behind neck. One spritz should do the trick.

I Say:

With a scent that was part baby powder, part floral, this exotic scent will transport you right into the streets of Paris.  I was a huge fan of the packaging as well, very pretty and feminine. I would definitely recommend!