Birchbox Vs. Ipsy (January 2013)

I haven't done one of these posts in a while.  They tend not to get a lot of comments, so I wasn't sure people were enjoying them.  However, they seem to be one of the most searched topics on my blog, so I thought I would get back to reviewing these monthly.  I received two vastly different shipments this month.  I was greatly impressed with one, while the other left me ready to end my subscription.

In My Birchbox:

Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner -  I can't review this product because although it was mentioned on my card, it was not included in my box.  Considering this is a service for which I pay a monthly fee, this kind of oversight is not really acceptable.  However, I have been receiving these for a year now and this is my first missing piece.  Thin ice Birchbox.  Thin ice.

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Perfume - This is a nice floral perfume which I seem to have a bunch of samples of from other stores.  I look to Birchbox to introduce me to products that I haven't heard of before, so this was not an exciting inclusion.

My Multi-Purpose Mattifying Moisturizer -  I have been using this moisturizer under my Urban Decay BB Cream.  So far, I love it.  It has a very mattifying effect on my face and I have not had any problem with shine during the day.  It also didn't irritate my sensitive skin, which is a must for me.  I would buy this.

Ojon Damage Reverse Instant Restorative Hair Serum -  To be honest, I have owned Ojon products in the past that I have liked, but had a hard time with their smell.  I was a little reluctant to open the bottle at first.  I haven't tried this on my hair yet, but I can say that unlike my previous Ojon experience, this does not have a cloying floral odor to it.  

Nuxe Body Fondant Firming Cream -  I do not like this product.  I have tried it a few times, and I cannot get past the smell.  It is so strong that I wanted to wipe it off my face after I applied it.  It smells like stinky perfume.

The Ipsy bag this month was adorable, and the perfect size for storing items in my purse.  I really adore the star lining.

In My Ipsy Bag:

Nailtini Straight Up Color Nail Lacquer in Bloody Mary - I love this color and the application was very smooth.  I was impressed with this product and would buy it in the future.  I checked out their website and Nailtini has a nice selection of colors.

Josie Marin 100% Pure Argan Oil - I tried this and didn't really get what it was supposed to do.  I have been slow to catch on to the whole Argan Oil movement, even though I know it is very popular.  If you are a fan of this product  let me know how you use it and what it does for you.  I am definitely missing something.

Pacifica Tuscon Blood Orange Mini Body Butter - I love Pacifica products and the blood orange smell is delightful.  I also love how moisturizing this feels when I apply it.  The scent is faint and not overpowering.  

Sexy Hair Spray and Play Volumizing Hairspray - I have only used this a few times, but I liked it.  It has great hold without making my hair stiff.  It doesn't have a noticeable scent either, which I appreciate.

SOHO "Get A Grip" Eyeliner Brush - I haven't tried this yet, but was excited to receive it.  

Overall, I give Birchbox a solid F this month.  I haven't received a box this bad since last year, when I was getting close to stopping this service.  I am there once again, so hopefully February will be a redeeming month.  There really is no comparison to what I received in my Ipsy bag, which was a solid A.  I feel I got a lot more than $10 worth  (the nail polish alone was worth $13), and found more products I will be using in the future.