Whish Exfoliating Body Wash

Molly's Review

I picked up a sample of this body wash for free thanks to the 4th Anniversary of Birchbox's creation (on September 20, 2014 they gave away fee Build Your Own Birchbox's to people who stopped by their Soho store!) I quite liked this body wash/sugar scrub. It is refreshing with a vanilla scent and a little surprising with star crystals to help exfoliate skin. But overall, it was nothing to write home about. I will certainly finish using the sample, and I would be happy to receive another in a future Birchbox, but I really bon't think I will be buying this product. Rating 3/5

If you are interested in purchasing, click here.

About the Product

Whether your self-tanning efforts have gone terribly splotchy or you’re battling reoccurring dryness, consider this exfoliating scrub. The sulfate- and paraben-free body wash sloughs away dead skin cells for smooth, silky skin that’s ready for a faux glow. Bonus: The formula is gentle enough to use on your face.

How it Works: Lemon extract, apple extract, and green tea extract work together to even and brighten skin tone. Sugar cane and bamboo powder exfoliate, while organic shea butter and organic coconut oil hydrate. Oat extract is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

How to Use: Lather up from head to toe, then rinse with warm water.

Ingredients: Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Water (Aqua), Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Decyl Glucoside (Plant Derived), Bambusa Arundinacea Stem (Bamboo) Powder, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycerin (Plant Derived), Hydroxyethyl Coco/Isostearamide, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Citrus Reticulata (Mandarin or Tangerine) Peel Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate (Natural Preservative), Sodium Hydroxide (pH Modifier), Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange/Petitgrain) Oil, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane), Hydrogenated Jojoba (Wax) Oil, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Butyrospermum Parkii (ORGANIC Shea Butter), Cocos Nucifera (ORGANIC Coconut) Oil, Borage (ORGANIC Starflower) Seed Oil, Oenothera Biennis (ORGANIC Evening Primrose) Oil, Linum Usitatissimum (ORGANIC Flaxseed/Linseed) Seed Oil, Citric Acid, Benzyl alcohol, Citral , Geraniol , Limonene, Linalool.

About the Brand

After battling razor burn and ingrown hairs with every shave, Jesse Werner turned to a European men's shaving cream that didn't contain the irritating foaming agents of its stateside counterparts. His wife got hooked on the shaving cream too, but she wasn't crazy about its old English, leathery smell. That got them thinking: why not create an all-natural shaving cream that would appeal to women? Whish was born, and these days the brand has expanded to include a full range of bath and body products.

Pixi by Petra Breath of Fresh Air Exclusive Lip Balm Set (Ripe Raspberry)

Molly's Review

I received the Ripe Raspberry shade in my September 2014 Birchbox (subscribe here) and absolutely loved it! It is super moisturizing, with a great tint. It even has a cool matte finish, like a lipstick, which was surprising. This set is sold through the Birchbox website exclusively, and costs $28.00 for the set of 4. My only problem is with the packaging, it is cheap plastic, and the inner sleeve, which holds the lib balm is not steady inside the outer tube, so I'm afraid it will break easily. Rating 4/5

Learn more, or buy here

About the Product

Birchbox Breakdown: We’ve learned to buy multiples when we come across something we like, so we’re happy to snag this set of four pretty lip balm shades. Each tube contains nourishing ingredients to keep lips soft and supple, and the four tints are universally flattering.

How it Works: This exclusive set features four tinted lip balms: Honey Nectar, Ripe Raspberry, Natural Rose, and Comfort Clear. Formulated with shea butter and vitamin E, each infuses lips with moisture with every application. No flaking or dryness here!

How to Use: Keep a tube handy in your purse or in your desk drawer, and apply throughout the day whenever lips feel dry.

Ingredients: Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polybutene, Ozokerite, Octyldodecanol, Beeswax, Trihydroxystearin, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Phenoxyethanol, Vanillin. [+/- Mica (CI 77019), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77492, CI 77491, CI 77499), Red 6 (CI 15850), Yellow 5 Lake (CI 19140), Red 28 Lake (CI 45410), Red 30 Lake (CI 73360), Red 7 Lake (CI 15850)].

About the Brand

Founded 1992, this London-based brand is the brainchild of pro makeup artist Petra Strand. Frustrated by dull, one-function cosmetics the Swedish native decided to create multiple-use formulas in fanciful colors that fit professional needs and busy lifestyle. With long days in mind, Pixi by Petra's products are infused with botanicals and skin-friendly ingredients that smooth your complexion, while you wear it. Like The Beatles, this is one British invasion we can't get enough of.

Acure Organics Day Cream Gotu Kola Stem Cell + 1% CGF

Molly's Review

I received this in my September 2014 Birchbox (subscribe for yourself here). It looked interesting, but I noticed it was not specifically for oily skin. I usually look only for oily skin specific creams, especially in the summer. I used it and was astounded by the results. It really did make my skin feel nice and plump and tight, but not in a bad way. My only really problem was the dewey feeling I had all day. It may not be so bad in the winter when it is not so humid out and everyone's skin is a little drier. But, for the summer, I would definitely try the Oil Control version of this Day Cream, which odes exist. I am a little upset that Birchbox sent me this and not the oil control version in the first place. :) Anyway, I will either keep this till the winter and try again, or give it to my mom who has drier skin. Rating for this specific version of the cream: 3.5/5

To purchase the regular day cream, click here

To purchase the oil control day cream, click here

About the Product

Face the day with Gotu Kola Stem Cells, shown to firm and help your skin fight environmental damage and free radicals, and 1% Chlorella Growth Factor, shown to support collagen and elastin fibers. This powerhouse combo helps fight off the signs of aging with a one-two punch. Easily Absorbed Moisture + Cell Renewal = Great Day!

Features: Provides all day, easily absorbed protection, Feeds and restores cells, Protects against free radical damage, For normal to dry skin, Paraben free, Vegan, Gluten free, Synthetic fragrance free, Silicone free, Phthalate free, Fair trade certified ingredients

About the Brand

Acure for your Skin...Acure for the Planet....Acure for a Cure

Acure Organics is a family owned and operated company founded on sustainable principles to provide the highest quality fair trade, natural and certified organic personal care products. Our products are created with great care and are a reflection of our values. Each of our products is free from animal testing, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, harmful preservatives and artificial colors. We travel the globe to find the most potent certified organic ingredients that meet our high standards of efficacy and purity. We thank you for sharing in our mission to have a positive impact on the world we live in.

“I founded Acure Organics as a way to honor my grandmother, who battled breast cancer for over 10 years. I wanted to help raise money for breast cancer research and awareness while also providing healthy products that promote healthier living and a greener planet. We are proud to donate to Bright Pink and to help provide free mammograms to at risk women.” —Kristy Guerra

Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel

Molly's Review

I am obsessed with this product! I have super oily skin, especially in my T-zone, so it is difficult to find a good moisturizer/serum that helps with that situation. I know a lot of girls and women out there who have similar skin to mine often try to forgot moisturizers as they think it just makes their skin worse, but it is a really important part of your skincare routine, especially if you have problem skin. 

Anyway, I am addicted to this gel. It really is more like a serum in texture, feel on the skin, absorption, and results. But, the price point is more like a higher end drug store brand, which is fantastic! I will go into that in the next paragraph. I have been using this moisturizer for around 2 months now, at night, and hove nothing bad to say. I just placed another order for more of this product as well as a few others, including their equivalent of a BB type cream--a tinted SPF moisturizer. So I will let you all know how that does when I receive it. Rating TOTAL 5/5!

The pricing is as follows: 2 oz. for $26.00, but right now, through October 9th, there is a sale on everything for 15% off, which brings the price down to $22.10. Also, if you are a first time customer, and use this link you will receive another $10.00 off any purchase of $15.00 or more! Disclaimer: I also get $10 if you purchase through my link :) Also great about this product, if you are unsure, you can order a $0.65 sample on their website. 

About the Product

Zen, skin. This silky gel moisturizer hydrates without feeling slick or greasy. Dries to a matte finish. You get that healthy glow. Without the shine. Acne Breakouts, Anti-Aging, Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles, Combination, Oily Skin, Smooths skin, over time helps skin look and act younger

What makes this product unique? Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel feels weightless yet leaves skin hydrated and smooth. Our lightest moisturizer, the gel-like formula is infused with plentiful antioxidants, the cell-communicating ingredient niacinamide, anti-irritants and critical skin-identical ingredients. Many people with oily skin who shy away from moisturizer have found that Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel solves this dilemma by supplying key ingredients all skin types need to look and feel healthy and younger. This silky moisturizer absorbs quickly and has a soft matte finish. It's so light and refreshing, you may think you're not wearing moisturizer at all—until you see the benefits in the mirror!

This product is 100% fragrance- and colorant-free.

Who is this product for? Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel can be used by all skin types, but is specially formulated for those with normal to oily/oily skin with minor dry patches and for acne-prone skin.

About the Brand

Clinically Proven Non-Irritating: Bring on skin that’s dry, oily or somewhere in between. Give us the wrinkles, rosacea, acne, blackheads, and big pores. Paula’s Choice Skincare treats them all. Without irritation. No added dyes. 100% fragrance free. Our products are based on our unique combination of research, reviews, and results-driven product development. Finally, products that really work.
No Animal Testing

Animal testing is not okay with us. Never has been. We don’t fund any independent source to do it for us, either. In fact we’re members of the Leaping Bunny Program, which means not only have we eliminated animal testing from our company, but also from our ingredient suppliers. We love animals so much; our employees bring their dogs to work. Keeps things real.
100% Money Back Guarantee

At Paula’s Choice Skincare we believe our products will work as claimed. In fact, if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase for any reason we will give you a full refund or credit (including tax if applicable) for products returned within 60 days of your purchase date. As usual for online purchases, shipping fees are non-refundable.

Note to international customers: Because duties and taxes are collected by the government in the country where the goods are received (not by Paula’s Choice), we do not reimburse those expenses.
Environmental Policy

We are dedicated to doing our part to be an environmentally-conscious corporation. Whenever possible, we have implemented the use of recycled and recyclable materials for both our product packaging and shipping materials. View our Green Policy regarding our environmental efforts here.
Community Involvement

At Paula's Choice we strive to do all that we can to be of service to the community. It is a commitment that comes from our hearts and we are honored to participate in this effort.

Paula's Choice has made charitable contributions in the past to:
American Cancer Society
American Humane Society
American Red Cross (Disaster Relief Fund)
ASPCA
DAWN (Domestic Abuse Women's Network)
Dress for Success Seattle (a division of the YWCA)
Habitat for Humanity
Humane Society of the United States
Juvenile Diabetes Foundation
Save the Children Federation, Inc.
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
United Negro College Fund
YWCA

Davines OI / Shampoo

Molly's Review

I received a small sample of this shampoo in my September 2014 Birchbox. It smells really nice, and is a great complement to the conditioner, which I think is the better product in this pairing. The shampoo does the job, but since I have really oily hair, I always look for a shampoo that is formulated specifically for oily hair, which this is not. It did not have any adverse effects though. Also, I was scarred (metaphorically, of course) at summer camp when I was a child, from spending a lot on shampoo. This product costs $26.00 for 8fl. oz. And, I am just not willing to pay that for a product that is only okay.

If you are interested in purchasing, or reading other reviews click here

Have any of you tried this shampoo? DId you love it? Hate it? Have strong opinions about the price of shampoo? Leave it in the comments!

Birchbox Breakdown

We’re always on the lookout for the latest standout brand, but that doesn’t mean that we eschew the tried-and-true. Davines has been creating carefully refined haircare products for more than 30 years, including this ultrahydrating shampoo. The beautifying cleanser is the first step in a healthy hair routine, creating a nice sheen as it boosts volume and improves hair texture.

How it Works

Natural active ingredients like antioxidant-fueled roucou oil protect hair from harsh UV radiation and soften strands, while sunflower seed oil lends locks shine. This formula is free of potentially harmful parabens and sulphates.

How to Use

Work into hair starting at the scalp. Rinse thoroughly before using conditioner. Good for all hair types.

Ingredients

Aqua/water/eau, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate; cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, panthenol, parfum/fragrance, benzyl alcohol, sodium methyl 2-sulfolaurate, ppo-25-buteth-26, acrylatesc10-30 alkyl, acrylate crosspolymer, phenethyl, benzoate, coco-glucoside, glyceryl oleate, sodium benzoate, peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil, glycol distearate, trisodium ethylene dame disuccinate, polyouaternium-7, disodium 2-sulfolaurate, amodime thicone, helianthus annuus seed oil/helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, guar hydrokypropyltrmonium chloride, c11-15 parie ph-7, sodium chloride, glyceryl stearate, laureth-9, trideoeth-12, glycerin, citronellol, bixa orellana seed extract, geranol, bexoc acid.

Davines OI / Conditioner

Molly's Review

I enjoyed this conditioner, much more than I thought I would. The smell is quite strong which may be off-putting for some people, but if you can live with it, it provides a lasting, lingering smell in my hair through the next day! I have oily hair, so I usually pass on conditioners as they are just more trouble than they are worth. But, the sample I received this month in my Birchbox was so big that I just figured I would at least write a scathing rivew if all their promises of frizz control were for naught. Guess what…it really did tame some of my frizz, and it feels absolutely weightless in my hair! Granted, I only use a little--I just use a dime seized amount and smooth it over the ends of my hair, but it still feels really good. And the scent is nice to wake up to in the morning. Rating 5/5

Have you tried this conditioner yet? What did you think? Leave it in the comments :)

Birchbox Breakdown

Sometimes it seems conditioner can either be your friend (adding a silky softness and shine to strands) or your foe (weighing down hair for a not-quite-so-clean feeling). This one falls in the former camp, protecting your mane from the elements while helping it dry faster and still maintain body. Break out the BFF necklaces.

How it Works

Natural active ingredients like antioxidant-fueled roucou oil guard hair from harsh UV radiation and heat styling, while apricot butter softens, conditions, and soothes.

How to Use

After shampooing, squeeze any excess water from hair. Apply a small amount of conditioner, concentrating at the ends. Let sit for two to three minutes before combing through tangles and finally rinsing out product. Good for all hair types.

Ingredients


Aqua/water/eau, cetearyl alcohol, glycerin, cetrimonium chloride, cyclopentasiloxane, cetyl alcohol, behentrimonium methosulfate, behentrimonium chloride, panthenol, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, phenylpropyldimethylsiloxysilicate, benzyl alcohol, parfum/fragrance, dimethicone, dimethiconol, citric acid, sodium benzoate, helianthus annuus seed oil/helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, citronellol, bixa orellana seed extract.

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser

Molly's Review

This is a great product. I received it in my latest Birchbox (September 2014), although I have also bought it once before at the Birchbox store in Soho. The sample comes in a cute little box with 1 muslin cloth and the full some comes with 2 large muslin cloths. For the actual product, it was really effective. It just melts away all your makeup, and then you buff away and exfoliate with the cloth. So, it really is a 2 for 1. If I wasn't already super happy with cleanser I use--the Origins Checks and Balances-- I would definitely consider switching to this one. I do believe in switching up your skincare routine once or twice a year, so maybe next time :) Rating: 5/5

Here is a link to buy.

And a video to see it in action.

About the Product

This world-renowned two-part skincare system (seriously, it’s won more than 100 beauty awards) has a major cult following. Try it once and you’ll find out why. Not only does it gently remove all traces of dirt, grime, and makeup (yes, even your waterproof, wear-all-day, no-flake mascara and eyeliner), thanks to the ingenious muslin cloth included in this kit, it also sweeps away dulling dead skin cells. Your complexion is left smoothed, soothed and radiant-looking.

How it Works: This creamy cleanser contains moisturizing cocoa butter, and two of nature’s best astringents: eucalyptus essential oil and rosemary. These plant oils lift dirt off the skin’s surface without disrupting the natural barrier function. The 100 percent cotton muslin cloth gently exfoliates without irritation, even for the most sensitive complexions.

How to Use: Gently massage one to two pumps onto dry face and neck in circular motions. Run warm water over your muslin cloth, and sweep over face and neck to remove cleanser, dirt, grime, and oil. Once cleanser is fully removed, splash face with cool water.