Lip Factory Boxes - November & December 2013

Due to the end of year rush (finalising work, marking external exams, interviews, etc...) I did not get the time to write about my Lip Factory November box. What I have done is combined the 2 in this blog and noted which box items came from (I hope it is not too confusing). I have made an effort to do this simply because I have been so thrilled about all the fabulous goodies I have been receiving in my boxes.

Lip factory advertises itself as:

Lip Factory Inc is an exclusive, affordable, makeup subscription service. 

We provide the easiest and most economical way to explore the makeup brands that you have always wanted to try.

New brands and color palettes are dedicated to your door each month.

Although this is a U.S based box I find my subscription arrives much faster than the Australian ones (WTF? how do they manage that?) and - so far- it has been far superiors in regards to variety and quality of products. It is more expensive than the Australian boxes ($US32.00), however I have so far found it to be value for money as I am receiving items/products which are tailored to my skin tone and style.

So what did I receive these last two months?

Model Co. 

Lip Couture Lipstick

RRP $US17.00

RRP $AU16.95

FULL SIZE ITEM

(November box)

I love Models Co. and fell in love with the colour as soon as I opened the lid. The colour is definitely me - I love these lippies that appear to have a blue under-tone - they look fab with my skin tone. This lipstick offers a satin finish and has a highly moisturising formula.

I love the unbuilt mirror - very funky, and useful too!

Will definitely be testing this lipstick out.

Palladio

Herbal Lipstick

RRP $US6.99

FULL SIZE ITEM

(November box)

I purchased this brand of lipstick from TVSN about 10-13 years ago - and really loved it (colour was very similar to this one). Since then I have not noticed this brand in store so I was pleasantly surprised to receive one in my November box. 

This is a full-coverage lipstick and is very hydrating to wear.

As I previously said I loved my last encounter with this brand and look forward to testing this one. Once again the colour is my 'colour' - so very happy here.

 Medusa's Makeup 

Lipstick

'Miami'

RRP $US12.00

FULL SIZE ITEM

(November box)

This is a new brand to me and what a stunner it is. The packaging is absolutely gorgeous - beautiful box and gorgeous tube (love the rose motif on the top). Miami is not normally my colour (not a pink person) but there is no way I'm giving this away with packaging this gorgeous!.

I did try this lipstick, and believe it or not I love it!. It is the perfect summer shade. 

 

 Medusa's Makeup 

Lipgloss

RRP $US8.00

FULL SIZE ITEM

(November box)

Another lovely item from the Medusa line, this time a lipgloss. As you can see by the far right photograph I received a beautiful purple/pink gloss. The gloss is highly pigmented, applies beautifully and looks gorgeous on. It has won me over even with the fact that it is cruelty-free and PETA certified.

 Designer Skin 

Fall Lip Shimmer

RRP $US7.30

FULL SIZE ITEM

(November box)

The fifth lip product from the November box. This product drenches your lips while nourishing and conditioning them with vitamin E and essential fatty acids - excellent for those dry summer days!.

This shimmer is formulated to be high shine, long-wearing and non-sticky. It comes as a click pen package and is purse-friendly and allows for precise application. WOW! can't wait to give this one a go. Plus it is a lovely pale shade, suitable for anywhere and anytime.

 Retractable Lip Brush 

RRP $US3.88

FULL SIZE ITEM

(November box)

The sixth and final product from my November box is this cute retractable lip brush. I am not normally a brush person - I prefer to use my finger, but my daughter has already snaffled this item and loves it - so it was not wasted.

Michael Marcus 

Plump Lip Plumper

RRP $US20.00

FULL SIZE ITEM

(December box)

A new brand to me, this lip plumper is enriched with natural emollients, which increasing lip shine, hydration and volume.

I love, love, love these type of products and have a number of them. Unlike many plumper this does not sting when applied - my lips do feel a little tingly but it is not an unpleasant sensation. I love the cool and 'wet' feel of this plumper - my lips feel hydrated while being slightly glossy..... and plumped!. 

Very, very pleased with this product and I have been using it most days, either alone or under lip glosses or lipstick (for that extra bit of plumpness). 

NCLA 

Nail laquer

"Emerald Bay'

RRP $US16.00

FULL SIZE ITEM

(December box)

Oh lordy me is this nail polish divine or what?, I nearly swooned when I opened my December box and so this (as you can see it didn't take me long to 'test' this product out!)

This is another brand I have never heard of, however since seeing this I have done some research and found websites where I can purchase more - NCLA has a huge range of nail enamels and nail stickers (I feel I am in heaven!).

MeMeMe 

Boho Balm 

Lip & Cheek Tint

'Pink Rouge'

RRP $US10.34

RRP $AU18.95

11g

FULL SIZE ITEM

(December box)

This is another brand I love and am familiar with (and have purchased from their website this last year). This is a dual colour, blendable lip and cheek balm which comes in a sweetly decorated tin. The tints are lovely and it smells divine. I have previously eyed this product off on the website, and am so happy I received one in my December box.
  

JCat Fab Five 

Eye Shadow Palette

RRP $US4.00

5g

FULL SIZE ITEM

(December box)

This is the third new brand to me in my December box....and it has a cat on it (so it must be fabulous!). 

The colours in this palette are perfect for me - I love neutral tones and find they are great for every day wear. This palette of 5 brown shades compliment each other while highlighting my eyes. The shadows apply beautifully and are long-lasting...all for only $US4.00!.

My December box also included a PureCeuticals Pumpkin Enzyme Cleanse (RRP $US3.00). Of all the products this was the only sample.

I also received an Essence Lash & Brow Gel Mascara (RRP $US2.99) - and was a FULL SIZE ITEM. For some reason I cannot find the photograph I took of it (weird!).

My Thoughts on the Boxes:

The November box was dedicated to all things lips - so as I love lip products I was extremely happy with this box. I have been/will be using all items (bar the brush). All up I received $US57.15 (approx. $64.50 Australian) worth of items/products.

The December box was a mixture of colour products. I thought it was a fabulous box and will/have use all products. All up I received $US56.33 (approx. $AU63.60) worth of items/products.

I have found the Lip Factory boxes to be spot on, really tailored to suit my skin tone and style. I love that each box is full of surprise and I have not been disappointed with any item - that in itself means I am getting great value for my money. Even when I check out the website I do not feel cheated with what I received in my personal box compared to what other received (which happens regularly with the Australian ones).

I look forward to seeing what January brings.

Wantable Box - December 2013

This month I decided to try the new 'Wantable' Box to see what it was like - I have read some great reviews and thought 'why not?'. This is the Limited Edition Holiday Box and included some great goodies.

Wantable advertises itself as 'navigating the world of fashion and beauty to bring you the latest trends' You select from either a makeup, accessories or intimates box. Then fill out a quiz which (hopefully) enables your chosen box to be suited to your own style/skin tone/preferences.

Japonesque

travel Smudger Brush

RRP $14.50

FULL SIZE ITEM

I have never heard of this brand before - Japonesque products are made with the professional in mind and are precision crafted, using only the highest quality materials.This smudger brush is intended as a versatile brush - smudging edges, softening lines and blending out colour. 

I really love this brush as it is multi-talented (meaning I only need the one brush) and makes application of my shadows a breeze.

 Girlactick Beauty

Star Gloss

"Just Nude"

RRP $18.00

FULL SIZE ITEM

Another brand which is new to me (and a recent addition to the Wantable box). Apparently it is one of Jennifer Loe Hewitt's favourite brands (so it must be good - LOL! - sorry I'm not into celebrity branding). 

It is long lasting and the nude tint is perfect for me - especially on days when I don't want too much colour. So loving this lip gloss already (even despite the celebrities!)

 FACE Stockholm

Corrector Quad Ljus (lights)

RRP $32.00

FULL SIZE ITEM

This is the third brand (in this box) I have never heard of before - I love being introduced to new friends!.

Apparently the colour selection in each corrector quad is carefully developed to create the ideal palette for concealing and camouflaging blemishes, discolourations and other imperfections for all skin tones. You can use each tone straight from the quad or custom mix to suit - very versatile.

I love these types of products and am eager to give this one a go. I have nearly finished my current concealer so have put this one aside for the moment.

Color Club

Nail Polish

"Baldwin Blues"

RRP $8.00

FULL SIZE ITEM

Another newbies (I'm on a roll  here!). This indigo blue shade is very vibrant and great for summer. Although not my taste (in colour) my daughter loves it and has already been using it. She says it applies beautifully (great consistency) and has great staying power (she has been wearing it all week). So although not for me, it's still a winner!. 

Skiin

Instant Skin Tightener & Line Filler

Sample

WOW that makes it 5 out of 5 products which I have never heard of!. That is great!.

This product apparently tightens and lifts skin and wrinkles in a matter of minutes and is a natural alternative to cosmetic surgery.

As yet I have not tried this product (I recently had a bad reaction to another product and my skin needs a little rest at present), however I am eager to give this one ago and see if it holds up  to the claims. 

My Thoughts on this Box:

Well it is my first box and I could not be happier - out of the 5 items 4 were full sized with a total value of $72.50 - so I really feel as though I got my moneys worth. Added to that all but one item I will (or have) use. So I am eagerly awaiting my next Wantable Box.............. 

I also like that I can go into my account and track my box once ordered - so giving me and idea of where it is and (hopefully) when it should arrive. (apparently my next box is now in transit...excited!)

Although more expensive than other boxes ($36) I have found the products to be of excellent quality and very suited to my style and skin tone. So the extra cost (for me) is worth it). However I will see how things progress over the next few months and see if this quality continues.

Beauty Bay Haul - December 2013

Just before Christmas I received my November Beauty Bay purchase - and boy am I excited!

I have been lusting after the Too Faced 'The Return of Sexy' for ages. At the end of November I finally relented and treated myself to the palette (early Christmas present).

Bellabox - December 2013

I had a glut of boxes arriving all on the same day (24th December) and with the festive season am only now had the opportunity to have a look-see. 

Unfortunately Bellabox appears to have given away the concept of the 'box', for a bag. Something I am very disappointed about as I loved the boxes and found them fantastic for storing things and using them as gift boxes (decorated of course)

Romy

Hand & Nail Cream

Eucalyptus & Lemongrass

RRP $33.50 for 100ml

FULL SIZE ITEM

I have never heard of this brand before, but as I love hand cream I am happy to test this product out!. This cream is a plant-derived product from Sydney and is enriched with super anti-oxidant Australian bush fruit extracts and essential oils. This product contains eucalyptus, lemongrass, avocado oil and apricot kernel oil.

The product is thick and creamy, but quickly absorbs into my skin leaving a lovely lemony-eucalyptus scent. I did find it left my hands a bit sticky and had to wait a few minutes before touching anything.

Bellabox Bag

Oh no not another bag...I am sorry but that is just how I feel. I have no use for this bag (and would prefer the box). Added to that it is a strange size - not big enough to be useful (i.e. shopping) but too big to keep small items in. I have no use for it. I will be adding it to my bag collection at school.

A*S*A*P

Clearskin Gel

15ml

RRP $59.00 for 120ml

NOT FULL SIZE ITEM

This product contains a strong blend of AHAs & BHA complexes to scrub off dead cells to improve skin tone, while creating a layer of protection against environmental stresses. It is suitable for acne prone and dull skin.

St Tropez

Gradual Tan

Medium/Dark

30ml

RRP $33.95 for 200ml

NOT FULL SIZE ITEM

I must admit I am not a fan of this type of product and no matter what the label (or advertising  says I still make a huge mess with unsatisfactory results. I have used this product before and found this shade way to dark for me so I will be donating it to my daughter (who it will be mush more suitable for)

Avene

D-Pigment

Rich Dark Spot Lightener

3ml

RRP $59.95 for 30ml

NOT FULL SIZE ITEM

I 'discoverd' this brand this year through my ample boxes and have wondered why it has taken me so long to find them. I am totally in love with the range, especially how it works a treat on my oily skin. However I must admit I have yet to purchase a full-sized item simply due to the number of samples I have been working my way through.....but I will!.

This is one product I have (as yet) not tried. Probably because I have no need for it (at present). However reading the advertising it may be useful for acne and discoloration  spots.

Sinful Colours

Nail Enamel

RRP $4.95 for 15ml

FULL SIZE ITEM

Well at least it is not red!!!. Why is it I continue to receive red nail enamels in the samples boxes...and I NEVER wear red enamel! (I find it too harsh - and cheap looking - with my skin tone). So I am one of those unfortunate people who will never have the opportunity to flash beautiful long, red nails (lol!)

Anyways back to this product. Despite it being a lovely colour I will not be using this enamel as I do not like the brand - I find the colors in this range to be very thin and wishy-washy. I have to layer on too many coats to achieve a desired result (then it chips off very quickly)

I also received an Eslor sample pack (very heard of this brand before) - samples nicely presented in a cardboard pouch. The pack contained a Soothing Refiner & Cleanser, Replenishing Scrub, Soothing Cream and Comforting Mask (4 x 5ml).
There was also a Palmer's Cocoa Butter Daily Cleansing Gel 

What did I think of the December Box?:
All up I received over $38 worth of products - so good value for the month. In regards to 'usability' (for me), well it was an ok box - nothing I really loved and 1 item I dislike (nail enamel), but an opportunity to test products I have not tried before.

Lust Have It box December 2013

My LHI December box arrived on 24th December - at least it arrived in the correct month this time!. I am finding my boxes are arriving later and later in the month (with some even arriving into the next month), very frustrating especially since I seem to be getting mine anywhere up to 2 weeks after many others.

Despite this irritation I do admit at least the box is an improvement of the ones I have been receiving for the last few months (unfortunately I have a yearly subscription so cancelling is not in the cards at present)

SunSense

Anti-Aging Face 

SPF 30+

RRP $20.95 for 100ml

FULL SIZE ITEM

This product offers both UVA and UVB protection as is designed to assist in combating premature aging caused by sun exposure. It assists in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and is ideal for combination to dry skin. 

I love that it is made and tested in Australia!

When squirted from the bottle it appears white and opaque and.......smells like PVA glue!!!!!!!

Uriage

Aquaprecis Refreshing Gel-Cream

15ml

RRP $49.95 for 40ml

NOT FULL SIZE ITEM

This product is advertised as perfect for normal to combination skin (which should suit me!). It contains 'osmolytes' which hydrate the skin, provise an immediate refreshing sensation while moisturising for up to 24 hours.

Not sure what this product reminds me of (smell wise) but it quickly sinks into my skins without any greasy residue and leaves my skins cool to the touch.

Clairol

Visible Repair Intensive Mask

30ml

RRP $13.95 for 200ml

NOT FULL SIZE ITEM

This product is a hair mask which deeply nourishes and repairs (and strengthens) damaged hair, resulting in shiny, more resilient hair.
......... we shall see!!

Maybelline New York

Dream Fresh BB Cream

Medium

RRP $15.95 for 30ml

FULL SIZE ITEM

This product is a 1-step wonder for good skin. It is ideal for all skin types (good!) and is packed with 8 great skin benefits for instant perfection.

This product is advertised as being fresh, lightweight and oil free. Blurring imperfections, while enhancing, brightening and hydrating all day (sounds like the 'perfect' product!)

I will definitely be giving this product a go - just hope the 'medium' is not too dark for my skin tone!.

Pelactive

Hydrating Cream Cleanser

30ml

RRP $43.00 for 150ml

NOT FULL SIZE ITEM

This cleanser contains powerful antioxidants and green tea extract which aid in fighting damaging free radicals while reducing irritation to sensitive skin.

It detoxifies and soothes, and leaves the skin feeling replenished and is suitable for normal to dry and sensitive skin (not my skin range)

Not sure about the scent of this product - my first whiff was very off putting. Not sure if I will cope with that smell on my face (even if it is only for a short time)

The box also contained a $100 wine voucher (sorry not for me) and a sample of the Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream (skin corrector).

My Thoughts on the December Box:

As I said in the beginning I thought this box was an improvement on previous months, however I still found it lacking. Maybe being a 'colour' person I was hoping on some make up (lip gloss/shadow..) rather than all skin care products....however......All but one I will use so in regards to value for money, well I am happy as I did receive $36+ worth of items.

Violet Box - December 2013

My December box arrived on the afternoon of the 24th December - just in time for Christmas and it was full of some fabulous goodies. However due to the rush and mayhem of the festive period I only now have had the opportunity (and quite time) to sit down and have a scrounge through my box - and I was not disappointed!.

J'Adore Les Levres

"I Love Lips"

Willa

10g

RRP $12.99 per 10g

FULL SIZE ITEM

I have received this brand of lip gloss (apparently it is a 'liquid lipstick') in a previous box and have quite liked it. I have found them to have great pigment and good wearability and being in a tube it is easy to pop in my handbag for re-application (if required) throughout the day. I received 'Willa' which is a lovely medium purple tint with pink undertones - which perfectly matches my skin tone.

The gloss smells delicious - a soft French vanilla scent and applies with a creamy texture for a glorious glossy look - fabulous!

Evo the Therapist

Calming Shampoo and Conditioner

50ml each

RRP $29.95 per 300ml

NOT FULL SIZE ITEM

These items are both have moisturing properties which aid in the repair and re-hydration of hair. They are recommended for hair which is frizzy, dry and colour-treated.

Once again another product I have received previously in another box - and have really liked. Both products have a lovely scents - reminds me a bit of powder. Being in sample pots I will be putting them aside for my trip to Auckland in the new year.

Jelly Pong Pong

Wide Awake Palette

RRP $32.00

FULL SIZE ITEM

Another Jelly Ping Pong product, I really loved the lip gloss I received a few months ago so am really looking forward to testing this item. This product is a complexion-illuminating palette with highlighter, concealer and eye brow sculptor. 
I love, love this little palette. The colours are definitely for me and I love that it is animal cruelty free, has a green and integrity commitment.

Crabtree & Evelyn

Pomegranate Hand Therapy

25g

RRP $10.00 for 25g

NOT FULL SIZE ITEM

Not sure what happened here, but my photo has disappeared - so have used a pic from the internet (sorry!).
One of Crabtree & Evelyn's best selling hand creams now comes scented with the sweetness of pomegranate combined with fresh fig leaf and a burst of citrus. Conditioning shea butter, pomegranate, grapeseed, macadamia nut, and argan oils moisturise and soothe hands, while myrrh helps to condition cuticles and nails.

http://www.bathandunwind.com/crabtree-and-evelyn/crabtree-and-evelyn-pomegranate-argan-and-grapeseed-hand-therapy.htm?countrycode=AU

This hand cream smells delicious! I have tried other hand creams from Crabtree & Evelyn before and really loved their creaminess and look forward to testing this cream. Being in a smaller tube it will be great to pop in my handbag or use for travelling.

The only item which I was not impressed with is the $30 gift card (see above). Yes it's great....unless you live in WA or NT where you cannot redeem it :(
It really bugs me (and it happens a lot) when I receive these type of 'gifts' - as it is a nation-wide box maybe more thought needs to go into these extra 'freebies' - yes I know I am having a bit of a whinge but it simply gets annoying. I re-gifted mine to someone who lives over east (hopefully they will get some use out of it)
On a happier note I thought the multi-coloured candy cane was sweet (and yummy too!)

My thoughts on the December box:
Loving, loving, loving it - all beauty items I loved and will use (yay!). I did read a number of comments from people who were disappointed in the box, however I am extremely happy :). I got $54.99+ worth of items - items I can seriously use.