This is what the box looks like when you tear open the pretty pink box on the outside (I've actually been using these cardboard birchboxes to organize my jewelry making supplies, ha)!
Once you open the box, you'll find a card telling you about the box theme (this month was "beauty innovations). The opposite side of the card details everything you received in the box and tells you a little about the product, as well as the full size product price.
Finally, you get to all the glorious goodies inside! But there's always something special wrapped up within, so the surprise lasts just a little longer...
Here is everything I got this month: Anastasia Line Erasing Serum Packet (an extra little freebie), Earthen InstantPeel Facial Exfoliant, Amika Obliphica Hair Oil Treatment, Anastasia Lash Lifting Mascara, Atelier Orange Sanguine Cologne (which came with a cute postcard), & a Twistband Hair Tie (another little extra).
Of course, I had to give all these products a try, so last night I took a shower and got to work! First I used the Earthen Mask. It says to use it in the shower to remove dead skin cells. As I rubbed it back and forth, it clumped up and started getting flaky (supposedly this is what happens when dead skin is being removed). After I got out of the shower, my skin was a little softer, but not dramatically so. Perhaps if I used this mask a few times my skin would show greater improvement.
Next I tried the Anastasia Line Erase Serum and the Amika Hair Oil. The Anastasia Serum actually firmed up my face a little (it is supposed to reveal somewhat instant results) and made my skin look a bit younger, which is always good! As for the oil, it smelled divine, but was very hard to get out of the bottle. I ended up removing the dispenser cap and just pouring some into my hand straight from the bottle. I couldn't tell much of a difference between it and my normal Argan oil in terms of results, so I'll just stick to my cheaper version (which is $26 less).
Finally I tried out the mascara and cologne. The Anastasia mascara was pretty good, but did clump a little and left my lashes feeling a bit stiff, so it's not my favorite. It will however be a handy little sample to carry around in my handbag. As for the Atelier cologne, it was absolutely amazing! It smells of oranges, jasmine, and sandalwood, and lasted overnight! The fiance even mentioned that I smelled really good! Unfortunately, it's $145 for the 200ml bottle, so I will have to wait to buy it. :P And the hair tie, well...it's a hair tie, so it works, I guess. :) I have it in my hair right now!
So, that's my August Birchbox! What did you get in yours? Are you not a member yet? If not, you totally should be as it is a great value for the price. If you'd like to sign up, just click here! I hope you beauties have a fabulous day!
