Hello Summer, you’ve been missed! Although, after the 105° temp yesterday, I think you could probably tone it down a little! So, it’s the end of June, which means another battle between Ipsy and Birchbox. Which one do you think came out on top this time? Here’s the Birchbox vs. Ipsy – June 2015 battle…..
Birchbox vs. Ipsy – June
W3LL PEOPLE | The Expressionist Mascara
A cruelty-free mascara that adds length, lifts, and builds volume without clumping. It’s a decent mascara that defines my lashes. It doesn’t add enough volume for me though. I don’t typically buy mascaras that cost over $12 unless they’re amazing anyway. I don’t think I’ll be getting the full size.
$23.50, w3llpeople.com
Supergoop! | Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50
Oil-free, lightweight sunscreen for face and body. I had a sunscreen sample in one of my last subscription boxes and my reaction was this: snooze. Yes, sunscreen is an important product. No, I don’t want it in my subscription boxes nor do I want to pay $20 or more for the full size. I’ve got some Coppertone in my cabinet – I’m good.
$19-$48, supergoop.com
Temple Spa | Good Hair Day Shampoo
Shampoo that not only cleans, but also conditions and prevents split ends. This could possibly be a great shampoo, but I can smell it without even opening the lid and it’s not pleasant! It has a really spicy herbal scent (eucalyptus and patchouli) that I can’t stand. I refuse to use it.
$14, templespa-usa.com
Temple Spa | In Good Condition Conditioner
Conditioner that softens, adds shine, hydrates, helps split ends, and reduces fly-aways. The scent of this conditioner is slightly different; It’s minty and a lot more tolerable. I could probably use it. I’m glad to see less packets in my boxes!
$14, templespa-usa.com
Marcelle | Waterproof Eyeliner
Long-lasting eyeliner that’s resistant to heat, water, and humidity. It’s available in 16 different colors. Mine is a glimmering teal shade. While it’s not a color I’d use often, it seems to be really creamy and smooth. It would be nice if it was comparable to the Urban Decay 24/7 liner because it’s about half the price!
$10.95, marcelle.com
L. Erickson | Narrow Grab and Go Ponytail Holder
Elastic metal-free hairtie for holding your hair up. At first, I wasn’t thrilled about getting a hairtie in my box, but this is considered the bonus product and I can always use an extra hairtie. It actually might be the best thing in my box this month, but that’s not saying a whole lot. [Cue sad trombone noises]
Set of 6 for $12, birchbox.com
Ipsy
Dr. Brandt Skincare | Pores No More Vacuum Cleaner
An exfoliating mask that helps extract blackheads and tightens pores. I’ve received this sample before and it didn’t impress me. For $45, I don’t think I’m going to find any great qualities to make me want to buy it. I feel like I’m saying mostly negative things in this post so far!!
$45, drbrandtskincare.com
Pure Brazillian | Miracle Leave-in Conditioner
A Keratin infused reparative leave-in conditioner that hydrates, replenishes, and re-constructs. Now this is something I could get excited about! I love leave-in conditioners. Not to mention, it smells amazing with its warm floral, beachy scent. I think it’s a winner and I can’t wait to use it.
SheaMoisture | Shea Butter Lip Crayon
Lip color combined with hydration to make a moisturizing lipstick and liner in one. The color is pretty vibrant and it glides on smoothly. The only complaint I have is that it sort of has that cheap makeup smell.
$9.99, target.com
Smashbox Cosmetics | Photo Finish Foundation Primer
A lightweight, oil-free primer to prep skin for foundation while reducing the appearance of fine lines and pores. I’ve had numerous samples of this primer over the years and have used it a lot. I’m indifferent about it – I don’t love or hate it. It’s not a must-have for me, especially for the price.
$36, smashbox.com
treS’tiQue | Mini Shadow Crayon
A 12-hour crease-free eyeshadow with buildable color and a smooth finish. My crayon is a nice shimmery gunmetal color. I haven’t used this on my eyes yet, but the swatch had me impressed! Normally, these kinds of shadow crayon products apply in a sheer, washed out layer. This one, however, builds into an opaque shadow that could be used alone or with other shadows. I like it!
$26, trestique.com
Battle Rundown
I have to say, neither subscription left me overly impressed. I was underwhelmed this month. Birchbox disappointed me. The eyeliner, hairtie, and mascara were okay products, but nothing to get excited over. I really disliked the shampoo and I deemed the conditioner usable, but not great. For Ipsy, the mask, lip crayon, and primer were just so-so. The shadow crayon and leave-in conditioner excited me more than anything else I got.
Who Wins?
I almost made this a draw, but I think Ipsy had a slight upper hand this time! Ipsy wins!
The Score
Birchbox – 1 | Ipsy – 5 | Draw – 3
Birchbox better catch up! It’s done well throughout the battles, but Ipsy tends to go above and beyond most times.
Join the fun and hold your own subscription battles! Both Birchbox and Ipsy are just $10 a month.
Sign up for Birchbox here and sign up for Ipsy here.
Check out the last Birchbox vs. Ipsy battle here.
Contact: ashley@peekandponder.com
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