Birchbox: A girl’s BFF

photo 1-2I just recently subscribed to Birchbox, my new favorite site to shop the best beauty and grooming products you can find. They are partnered with hundreds of well-known brands and have a complete shopping catalog where you can purchase anything from lifestyle accessories to makeup. As if that wasn’t enough, for only $10 a month, Birchbox delivers a handful of samples in a cute little box right to your door. I’m a new member, and just received my second box this week. I have been pleasantly surprised by everything it’s filled with, and have even found some of my new favorite products. My favorite part about Birchbox is that it provides its customers with a great point system. You are able to quickly accumulate points by referring friends, reviewing products and even purchasing items.  100 points = $10 in the store. I easily build my point status by 50 points each month by simply reviewing my box’s products. It’s free money, ladies, and free money means we can look great without breaking the bank.

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Here are a few of my favorite product samples I received in my February and March boxes. This plethora of products includes:

Read on for my thoughts on which of these are absolute must-haves.

My prince, Harvey

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Cherie Blossom by Harvey Prince should be owned by every girl, like, now. This scent combines cherry blossom with vanilla and musk. It’s romantic, delicate and playful, making it perfect for a college girl on a night out. Apply under the cloths to pulse points for all-day (or night) wear.

Full-size, $55

COOLA’S cool

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Next, is COOLA’S Tinted Matte with SPF 30. This product is for the face and offers great sun protection. I typically use this type of product with a high SPF in the summer, but remember it’s important to apply sun protection everyday. This is an entirely organic tinted bb cream meant to moisturize, even tone and mask flaws. Tinted mattes should be applied to clean skin as a concealer before you begin your beauty routine.

Full-size, $36

Take me to London

photo-3I am so happy I received the Gilchrist & Soames London Collection Body Lotion. Before I was introduced to the product, I had the worst dry hands from this terrible Ohio winter. This lotion is fast absorbing and hydrates the skin perfectly. I also like to use it on tough spots like my knees, feet and elbows. The body lotion doesn’t have an over empowering  scent like other products tend to. The aroma is very light and soothes me after a long day. The sample size was great; wherever I go, so does my London Collection Body Lotion.

Full size, $16

Protect these locks

photo 5Lastly, but certainly not least, I love my Protect & Oil by Beauty Protector. I use this product every day on my thick, wavy hair. It adds shine, silkiness and keeps my waves under control. To apply, add a few drops to damp hair from roots to ends before air drying, blow drying or straightening. Protect & Oil doesn’t only protect my brunette locks, but also makes them smell like a vanilla cupcake. Yum.

Full size, $25.95

For only $10 a month, these product samples are totally worth it and affordable for a college beauty addict. I can’t wait to build up my points for my first free shopping spree. I have my eye on you, Cynthia Rowley Beauty Eyeshadow Palette No. 1.

Is Birchbox your BFF too or will you make an acquaintance soon? Tell me about your favorite products in the comment section!