Boy, this year is going by so fast! It’s summer now, and I realize I’ve been a subscriber to ipsy for an entire year. (Strange, you think, she measures the passage of time in ipsy bags!).
I received my twelfth ipsy bag a couple of days ago.The June theme is “Pretty in Paradise”, and the Rebecca Minkoff-designed makeup bag really illustrates that idea.
The bag which is a synthetic and seemingly waterproof material (yay, so I can take it to the beach!) has a black background with a print of tropical plants and pineapples in shades of red, orange, yellow, blue, and green. It’s got a red zipper as an accent across the front and a very visible Rebecca Minkoff red label on the side. I like the bag a lot. And it’s probably the only Rebecca Minkoff bag I’ll ever own 😉
So, what did I get in my June bag?
- Jesse’s Girl black felt tip eyeliner
- NYX Butter Gloss Lipgloss in Apple Strudel, a fruity smelling sheer pinky-coral shade
- Marc Anthony Dream Waves Beach Spray
- Laneige BB cream in 3 sample shades: light, medium and dark with a separate SPF applicator
- Be A Bombshell Lash Out Mascara, black.
I liked 3 out of 5 of the products in this month’s ipsy bag.
I always wanted to try something from Jesse’s Girl which is sold in Rite Aid drugstores, but not in any Rite Aids near where I live. So I was very happy to get to try the eyeliner. I love the slim, silver tube that looks like a high-end pen.
Take off the top, and there’s the thin felt tip liner. I am still eyeliner challenged if I’m not using a pencil or a slant tip brush. I got a nice super thin line on one eye, but a thick line on the other so I had to go back and thicken the first eye. I need more practice since I prefer a thinner line. I also want to try this for tightlining instead of the pencils I usually use, just to see the difference. In spite of my lack of perfection in application, I’m glad I got this.
Laneige is carried at Target, and I haven’t been to Target in ages. I still haven’t gotten over the credit card mishap last November, so I always feel like I have to have cash with me when I shop there. Needless to say, I seldom carry cash and I seldom go to Target. So I was happy to have a chance to try Laneige BB cream. I got a small sample of each of 3 shades, and I used light which was a good match for me. Before I applied the BB cream, I used the little white and blue sponge to apply SPF 15.
I thought it was interesting that the sunscreen was separate and optional. The BB cream came on a sponge in the round sample.
I usually apply foundation with a brush or my fingers so I had to get used to using the sponge which I quickly did. It is a lovely, lightweight BB cream that provided me with light coverage: most of my sun damage came through, so I dabbed on extra on my more significant spots. It was natural-looking, though it was a little warmer/yellow than my cool toned skin. It was a hot, humid day when I wore the BB cream, and it lasted several hours. I decided to go jogging, and I sweated it off, but that probably would be true of any foundation product worn on a humid day. I don’t really need any more BB or CC cream now, but if I did, I might try Laneige. It was a good product, though I personally could use a little heavier coverage.
The NYX Butter Gloss was new to me. I adore the NYX Butter Lip Balm, but I hadn’t tried the gloss. It is applied with a doe-foot applicator, and it has a strongish fruity scent when applied that fades quickly. It provides sheer coverage, and on me, Apple Strudel is a MLBB type shade. The gloss is very wearable because it’s not sticky and I find it very hydrating. Apple Strudel doesn’t provide a lot of color (I like more color and probably a red would have more color), but it’s a good gloss for me to wear around the house or ‘hood.
I guess ipsy didn’t get the memo about not sending me hair products. I don’t want or need hair products, and I thought I made that clear to them in my surveys. Also, ipsy sure doesn’t know me very well because beachy waves is not a look that I am ever trying to attain! I pull out the big anti-frizz guns in the heat and humidity of summer to try to maintain my straight, shiny hair. I don’t get beachy waves, I just get frizz and unattractive volume. ipsy, will you take this back please?
Last was Lash Out Mascara from Be A Bombshell. If I hadn’t heard the buzz about this product before I received my bag, I would have been excited to receive it. I generally like all the products I’ve received in my ipsy bags from BAB, and I’ve purchased a few other BAB products and always been satisfied. The BAB Lash Out Mascara is a total loser. It has a horrendous smell, a strong chemical smell that is very unpleasant to use near my sensitive eyes. But I thought, I’ll suck it up, and give it a try. What’s so terrible about a bad smell, right? Well, the smell didn’t go away, it got worse as I used it. And the formula was terrible. I couldn’t build up any length or volume at all. Frankly, Be A Bombshell Lash Out Mascara was THE WORST MASCARA I have ever used. Ever. In my whole life. I felt like BAB should have some kind of quality control check before sending out a whole lot of bad mascaras, and ipsy should insist on that from their partners. So I emailed BAB about my disappointment in the quality of their product. They emailed back saying they tested the lot, and that it didn’t contain bacteria. But that if I have any adverse reactions, stop using it. Duh! They also said they decided to “let ipsy handle it”. Wow, am I disappointed in Be A Bombshell! I won’t be buying any of their products in the future. I think a brand should stand behind their products and also protect their brand’s good name by doing right by the consumer. Obviously, BAB doesn’t care. So I won’t care about them. I emailed ipsy a few days ago, and so far no response.
So that’s it! 3 out of 5 plus another cute little bag, this time designer-designed, and I still think it’s worth $10.
The eyeliner, lipgloss and mascara were full size and worth well over $10 in total. The Laneige BB cream was a small, one-time use sample, but I enjoyed trying it. There was nothing wrong with the Marc Anthony Beach Spray, and Marc Anthony is a great haircare brand. I just didn’t want it.
As always, if you decide to take the plunge with ipsy, I’d appreciate it if you’d use my referral link.
If you’re already a subscriber, how was your bag this month? Did you get the smelly ineffective mascara, too? Did you do anything about it? What was your favorite item?
i got almost the same bag as you! i loved the lip gloss, the hair spray and i almost like the liner… i think i’m so used to my favorite liner pen, the kat von d one, that i’m slightly less than impressed with the jessies girl… however, i like that i know of a drugstore version just incase i need to get a new liner in a pinch. my mascara didn’t smell one bit! it’s an okay mascara but not amazing. i got ole henriksen facial wipes instead of the bb cream.. i loved the bag this month! i wish i could have gotten the bb cream instead of mascara but oh well.. can’t wait for next month!
Amara recently posted…Bulu Box May ’14
Amara, I’m so glad to hear from you on your ipsy bag this month. I guess you really can’t compare the Kat Von D liner to a drugstore Jessie’s Girl eyeliner, but for drugstore, I’m pretty impressed with the packaging and the liner is not bad. I was trying to tightline with it, and it was no go. But I’m glad I got to try it out I can’t believe that you got a good mascara from BAB. It must have come from a different lot. I’m not kidding that not only did mine smell awful, but it wouldn’t coat my lashes at all. It truly was the worst mascara I ever used, and I was a BAB fan. The BB Cream was quite nice, and is worth checking out at Target. I’m going to try out the medium shade tomorrow just for fun, tho’ it’ll probably be a little too dark. I’m a fan of Dr. Jart Premium BB and IT Cosmetics & also Lumene CC creams so I really don’t need a new one, but enjoyed trying the Laneige as I’ve heard a lot about the brand. I thought it was kinda cool that you can apply the SPF separately. I wish I had gotten the fragrance instead of the Beach Spray ‘coz as I mentioned, I’m swimming in hair products and beachy waves aren’t my thing. I like the makeup bag too. It’s really cute, and it’s probably the only Rebecca Minkoff bag I’ll ever have lol. Thanks so much for your comment. Now, I’ve gotta see what you got in your Bulu Box last month!
I want to try that Laneige BB Cushion. I might just order it from Target’s website it is never in stock around me.
Ashley recently posted…Ipsy June 2014 Glam Bag
If light coverage is enough for you, Ashley, it should work. I loved the applicator!
We got the exact same bag almost except I got a body spray instead of the BB. But OMG that mascara- ewwwwww. So yucky and smelly. I am with you on the hair products. I dont want them, but I always get them. lol… I think because they massively ship, they dont really pay attention to what people get. Which is a bummer since I am not sure why the survey then. I do love love love the beautiful bag. So cute, fun and Rebecca Minkoff.
Jamie @ Makeuplifelove recently posted…Face Off Of The Oils For All Skin Types…
I think you’re right, Jamie, that they have so many subs they send out whatever, regardless of the survey.
I love the design of the makeup bag you recieved. Too bad the mascara did not work for you.
Leelo R recently posted…Stiiliämber
It is a cute bag, Leelo! I was very disappointed because BAB is a brand I really like and have written about. I feel let down.
I have that Butter Gloss! I got a different shade in my ipsy bag, which I’m glad of 🙂
Destany recently posted…A Royal Lacquer custom – Gracie!
I like the gloss too, Destany. Glad you didn’t get the same one that you already have. That has happened to me a few times 🙂
Sorry the mascara turned out to be a dud, the rest of the bag seems pretty great! I used to use Laneige powder a while ago, didn’t know it was available in the US.
Yes, it sure was a dud, Adri! It was a disappointment because I usually love BAB products. And I think they should make it up to us. As a marketing consultant and market researcher, I believe every company should have great quality control and should try to make sure they make it up to their customers when there’s the occasional slip-up because it ensures good will. The Laneige products are new to Target. I’m eager to check out some of the other products in the Laneige line. It was very cool packaging, too.
I must be the only one who doesn’t receive the Ipsy bag *yet*. But I have tried the Lainege bb cream from another box service and I like it lots.
NORAH recently posted…Dr Brandt CC Glow SPF 30 Review
OMG, Norah, I thought I was usually the last one to get mine. Can’t believe it! Hope you don’t get the mascara, lol!
That BB Cushion is an interesting concept. I love the lipgloss.
Kim recently posted…Review: Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster SPF50 is my summer skincare staple
Agree, Kim! the BB cushion was so innovative. I like the gloss too!
That is my HG liquid liner!
Cosmetics Aficionado recently posted…L’Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow Swatches
You do a great job applying it. I tried last night and did better. I’ll keep at it!
I like the jesse’s girl pens
Phyrra recently posted…New Colors from Fyrinnae
I learned about the brand through your blog, Phyrra!
I got the rotten mascara too! I’m not brave enough to try it, so I tossed it. I didn’t get the liner, but would have loved to. I’ve heard great things about that liner before!
Amber recently posted…Pur Minerals Jupiter Ascending
Yes, I was so happy to get that Jesse’s Girl liner Amber! The stores near me don’t carry it.
Oh, I didn’t know Jesse’s Girl was sold at RiteAid. I have one right near my office. Well, guess I’ll be checking it out on my lunch hr tomorrow .. would love to pick up that liner!
Monica.
MonicaP recently posted…Fit and Flare Maxi dress for the pear shaped gal
It’s not at every Rite Aid, Monica, but it’s worth a look or you can check if it’s at your store online first.i really like it!
I SO want to ttry that butter gloss!
It’s a nice one, Ange. MLBB shade and not sticky!
Great Bag!
3 out of 5 ain’t bad, Melody!
Pretty bag and awesome products!
Miranda recently posted…Healthy Essentials for my Summertime Goals
Yes, it’s a cute MU bag and I liked 3 out of 5 products so that’s quite good
I totally agree about the Bombshell mascara–horrible!
Cindy (Prime Beauty) recently posted…Fashion Flash!
It still makes me wonder about their quality control and concern about their customers 🙁
I wonder how that Jesse’s girl liner compares to the Physician’s Formula one I use? They look the same, but looks can be deceiving. That’s terrible about BAB customer service. Don’t they participate in these bags to get their name out there? This is a horrible way to do it!
Nidia – Lit From Within recently posted…TRI Tuesday – Faux Feathers
Nidia, I haven’t tried the PF eyeliner so I can’t give you any feedback. I like the Jesse’s Girl eyeliner, and it’s fairly easy for someone who is liquid eyeliner-challenged to use. And yes, I agree with you completely about BAB customer service. Bad move on their part, I think.
I got a similar bag to yours but I’m a little jealous that I didn’t get the Laneige samples!
Mai recently posted…ipsy Glam Bag June 2014 Overview
And if I remember correctly, you got something I would’ve liked to try…was it the pretty teal eyeliner?
I had the same reason why I avoided Target! I only returned to my local Target this month and I had to use my CC w/c emails me for every transaction. I’m curious w/ that Jesse’s Girl eyeliner!
Kath TheFabZilla recently posted…3 Steps To Sexy-Smooth Summer Legs
That’s a smart way to shop at Target w/ a credit card so you feel secure! So far so good for me with the Jesse’s Girl eyeliner…but you probably have more experience than I do with lots of different black liquid liners, Kathryne 😉
Wow, I’m shocked by BAB’s blase attitude towards the mascara debacle!
Sheila (Painted Ladies) recently posted…Painted Ladies Chats With Kimberly From BFTE Cosmetics
Me, too, Sheila!
I love Jesse’s Girl and the BB cream sampler looks really cool.
Kimmi @ The Plastic Diaries recently posted…Foreo – Luna Mini Review
I’m happy that I got both of them, Kimmi!
I like everything in your bag. I would have liked that bag. Mine wasn’t great at all. boooooo
Polarbelle recently posted…LA Girl Pro Conceal HD High Definition Concealer Swatches and Review – The One You Want
Oh, I’m sorry to hear that it was an off month for you, Polarbelle. Hopefully, next month will be more on target
You got a great bag! I love that Jesse’s Girl liner!
Brooke @ Blushing Noir recently posted…NARS Insidious & Crossroads Nail Polish Swatches + Review – 3.1 Phillip Lim Fall 2014
I’m liking the JG liner too, Brooke!
Hahaha about the hair care I feel you girl.
Leigh recently posted…Gerard Cosmetics BB Plus Illumination Review, Photos and Swatches.
😀 You got the beach spray too, Leigh?
Ahh, you got that dreaded mascara, too, I see. The smell was just TERRIBLE, it’s the worst-smelling product I have ever smelled in my life. Seriously. That thing’s not getting anywhere near my eyes!
Anastasia recently posted…Ricky’s NYC RickyColor Nail Polish Pastel Opal Collection Swatches, Review, Pictures
I just had to try it out, Anastasia, to see what was up with the formula and it was as bad as the smell!
Yeah, I was blessed with great skin so I tend to wear full on foundation sparingly.
Ashley recently posted…The Skinny on Fusion of Color Cosmetics
That’s wonderful, Ashley! And hopefully, unlike me, you stay out of the sun 😉
I really like those glosses
Betzy Carmona recently posted…Romantic Date Night @ BJ’s
I agree, Betzy. I like Apple Strudel. Nice shade, not sticky, very hydrating!
i can’t get over how cute this bag is
Yes, it’s an adorable print and I love the zipper on the side
The Jesse’s Girl liner is one of my favorite affordable liners. I hope I get Apple Strudel in my bag.
Honeygirlk recently posted…OITNB – Orange Is The New Black Sophia Burset Makeup
I’m really liking the JG liner and the NYX gloss, too. I hope you get Apple Strudel, Honey, in your bag, and I hope you get it soon!
I love that bag!
It is adorable, Justina!
I saw Jen’s review (from Organised Like Jen) on YouTube and man, I can’t believe they had a Rebecca Minkoff pouch! That is so awesome. We never get cool stuff like this from Australia. Our subscription boxes are self-tanners, bronzers, a few cheap trinkets and more self-tanners. You guys have so cool boxes like Ipsy and Popsugar Must Haves. Jealous!
Tine @ Beautyholics Anonymous recently posted…Bloggie Wednesday: Can You Run A Beauty Blog Without Working With Brands?
Yes, ipsy is a wonderful subscription service! I now have 12 very cute little makeup bags of all types. Really, it is such fun to look forward to it every month, Tine.