Hello, Beautiful!
I've been a Birchbox subscriber since January 2011, and I was lucky enough to win two shipments from BeautyFix, but I had yet to try New Beauty Test Tube. I finally decided to sign up for it.
For those that don't know, New Beauty Test Tube is a quarterly beauty magazine and beauty sampling program. Each quarter
(four quarters per year) you will be sent a New Beauty magazine and a test tube filled with beauty products. The beauty products are all deluxe sized samples and/or full sized products - the value is always high, usually between $100 and $150 value. You'll also receive a $20 gift card to Spalook
(but you have to spend $100 to get $20 off so it's really not that great of a "gift card").
The cost is $29.95 per shipment, plus shipping
(with shipping it's just about $40 for me). For all the details or to sign up
click here to go to the
New Beauty website.
Additionally, QVC also offers limited edition New Beauty Test Tubes which contain a completely different set of products
(and often better products) for the same price. You can even do one-time shipments or go on auto-delivery to continue the program through QVC and receive the limited edition Test Tubes. If you only want to enroll in one option, I'd seriously consider the QVC version
(which is the one I switched to).
I will post about my QVC New Beauty Test Tube very soon so you can compare the two.
Check out my pics, swatches, and review...
New Beauty Test Tube - Summer/Fall 2011
Shipment Quick Stats:
Total # of items: 10 (NOT including magazine or Spalook gift card)
# of Makeup Items: 3
# of Nail Items: 0
# of Hair Care Items: 3
# of Skincare Items: 4
# of Fragrance: 0
# of other items: 0
Total value (with magazine): $133.85 (value is approximate and does not include the Spalook gift card)
Total value (withOUT magazine): $123.90 (value is approximate and does not include the Spalook gift card)
L'OREAL Elnett Satin Hairspray - Extra Strong Hold
Description: Elnett Satin Hairspray is beloved for its ultrafine formula that provides exceptional hold and disappears at the stroke of a brush, leaving hair clean and shiny with a satin touch. It's micro-diffusion technology allows for this fine mist and even application to set your style for hours. This hairspray is adored and used globally by stylists for photo shoots, fashion shows and red carpet events.
More Info: Provides locks with all-day, shiny hold. The innovative micro-diffuser spray gives a clean, weightless feel but doesn't compromise long-lasting style.
Fun Fact: In 1973, the famous phrase "Because I'm Worth It" was created by 23-year-old copywriter Ilon Specht, who worked on the L'Oreal campaign. It instantly struck a chord with women in the era and continues to do so today.
To Use: Remove the security tab and shake can. Spray Elnett in short bursts from about 12 inches away.
My Thoughts: This hairspray has been on my "must-try" list for years now and for some reason I've never purchased it. I was happy to receive it and I can't wait to try it out very soon!
Size I Received: 11 oz (this is a full sized product)
Full Sized: 11 oz. @ $12.99 (price varies depending where you shop - can be up to $15)
Value: $12.99
SPARITUAL HandPrint Hand Serum
Description: Slow beauty for a fast world. Spatritual Handprint Hand Serum uncovers supple, soft, healthy skin. Formulated with advanced skincare technology and natural ingredients, the serum repairs skin's elasticity, texture and tone.
More Info: With 72 percent certified organic ingredients and natural botanical antioxidants, the serum provides free radical protection while reversing the effects of environmental damage.
More Info: Swiss apple stem sells slow aging, preserving the youthful look and vitality of skin; pumpkin seed extract builds collagen and promotes elasticity; ginger root extract softens and smoothes texture; licorice root extract treats discoloration.
To Use: Use nickle-sized amount on hands every morning and evening.
My Thoughts: This is an okay product, one that I may use or may not. It's not something I'm excited to use but I probably will try it at some point or another.
Size I Received: 0.25 fl oz
Full Sized: 4 fl oz @ $60
Value: $3.75
LASHFOOD Eyelash Conditioner (original)
Description: Drastically, and safely, improve the appearance of your lashes within 4 to 8 weeks with the revolutionary original, natural eyelash conditioner. Packed with performance herb extracts, copper complex and essential provitamins, the conditioner is clinically prove to deliver longer, thicker and stronger lashes.
More Info: Lashfood is a registered product of the FDA. The formula was developed without any irritants and free of parabens, gluten, synthetic fragrance and prostaglandins (hormone-like substances). This original formula is specifically for those with sensitive skin and does not cause side effects, such as stinging or irritation.
More Info: Consists of performance herb extracts to counteract lash breakage and loss, arginine and biotin (a crucial B vitamin) to promote hair growth, and soy protein, which strengthens, conditions and soothes lashes.
To Use: Apply every morning before makeup application and every night onto clean lashes.
My Thoughts: I have pretty good natural lashes, so I'm not sure I would even use this product at this time - but I am intrigued by this product. I will likely end up selling it or giving it away on my blog.
Size I Received: 1.5 ml
Full Sized: 8 ml @ $120
Value: $22.51
DR. BRANDT Pores No More Vacuum Cleaner Blackhead Extractor
Description: Pores No More Vacuum Cleaner Blackhead Extractor (and oil remover) is formulated with alphahydroxy and betahydroxy acids, silicone dioxide and eijitsu rose for maximum performance. Helps loosen blackheads while absorbing dirt and excess oil from the pores.
More Info: Silicone dioxide is a mineral powder from sand which absorbs excess oil to keep your skin shine-free around the clock.
To Use: Apply a thin layer to areas of concern. Leave on for 5 to 10 minutes until product turns light blue. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
My Thoughts: This is a product I can really use. I have adult acne and it's a battle every day to keep it controlled. This product is one that sounds really great and I can't wait to try it out!
Size I Received: 0.4 oz
Full Sized: 1 oz @ $45
Value: $18
BEING TRUE Anti-Aging Youth Revealing Complex
Description: For some reason this product was not listed in the New Beauty Test Tube booklet, which lists all the products included in your Test Tube and how to use them, etc.
More Info: Rapidly repair and protect skin against free radicals and signs of aging while enjoying smoother, brighter and more youthful looking skin. Powdered by Idebenone, a somecutical and multifunctional antioxidant clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, this revolutionary product is packed with ceramides and essential skin lipids to act as a powerful skin revitalizer.
More Info: Decrease the appearance of aging - clinical studies prove visible results of 27% in just 6 weeks - without the irritation found in most active de-agers.
To Use: Apply 1 to 2 times daily. Dispense 1 to 2 pumps and massage thoroughly over face, neck and decollete. Avoid eye area.
My Thoughts: Eh, not sure if I will use this or not. I truly believe in using anti-aging skincare early on (I started to use an eye cream when I turned 20 and started anti-aging skincare products shortly after), but I'm only 27 right now and I don't think I would see any major results from it. I may gift this to a family member.
Size I Received: 0.17 oz
Full Sized: 1 oz @ $110
Value: $18.71
ORLANE Super-Moisturizing Concentrate
Description: Orlane Super Moisturizing Concentrate protects and insulates the skin to reduce moisture loss, improving skin texture and tone. This ultra-hydrating lightweight cream helps to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with hyaluronic acid, which plumps and re-hydrates, and panthenol, which strengthens the skin and preserves firmness.
More Info: With more than 60 years of expertise and experience in anti-aging skin care, Orlane products are the result of cutting-edge scientific research and the practical beauty care experience of the Orlane Institutes.
To Use: Apply AM and/or PM as part of your regular skincare regime.
My Thoughts: I have a few moisturizers I already really love, and a drawer full of moisturizers I haven't even used yet. Which leads me to believe I may not ever get around to trying this. I will either sell it, gift it or give it away on my blog.
Size I Received: 0.11 oz
Full Sized: 1.7 oz @ $130
Value: $8.41
MACADAMIA Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque
Description: Suitable for all hair types, yet especially beneficial for dry, damaged hair, Macadamia Natural Oil products provide intense nourishment for the hair, eliminating tangles and frizz with no oil residue.
More Info: Combining the signature ingredients, macadamia and argan oils, with tea tree oil, chamomile oil, aloe and algae extracts, this masque rejuvenates ad rebuilds dry, damaged hair.
To Use: Rub a small amount between palms and apply evenly to damp hair. Comb through, leave in for 5 to 10 minutes then rinse.
My Thoughts: This is one of the products I was excited to receive. Both myself and my husband plan to try this masque out very soon.
Size I Received: 1 fl oz
Full Sized: 8.5 fl oz @ $30
Value: $3.53
MACADAMIA Natural Oil Healing Oil Treatment
Description: Suitable for all hair types, yet especially beneficial for dry, damaged hair, Macadamia Natural Oil products provide intense nourishment for the hair, eliminating tangles and frizz with no oil residue.
More Info: By infusing your mane with moisture and nutrients, the healing oil treatment transforms dry, brittle hair into ultrasmooth, manageable hair.
Fun Fact: In addition to natural UV protection - which extends the life of your color - the oil treatment reduces drying time by 40 to 50 percent.
Fun Fact: This oil can be mixed into color or chemical service preparations for improved absorption and effectiveness. Add two drops to your color mixture for enhanced shine.
To Use: Apply a small amount to damp or dry hair and comb through evenly.
My Thoughts: My husband was actually looking to purchase this oil and now is able to try it out to see how he likes it. I don't know if I'll use it, but I know I want to try it.
Size I Received: 1 fl oz
Full Sized: 4.2 oz @ $30 (Ulta sells a 1 fl oz size for $13)
Value: $13
YBF Posing Plum Lip Liner
Description: Your lips laugh, kiss and speak the truth! You will always have pretty pout perfection with YBF's Posing Plum Liner. The soft, creamy formula provides a high pigment payoff in a hue that works for all skin tones.
More Info: A sharpener is built into the cap for on-the-go sharpening anytime. This lip liner forms a barrier to keep your lip color from migrating into fine lines and crinkles, the liner helps to accentuate the natural shape of your lips.
To Use: Begin by lining your lips from the corners inward, creating your lip shape, then fill in the rest of your lip. Apply whatever lipstick or gloss you'd like over top.
My Thoughts: I'm not a lip liner gal. I have a few and never reach for them in my makeup application. Sometimes I will use one and love the results because it can help make your lips look perfect and make your lip color last longer. But it's not one of my "must-have" beauty items. This shade in particular is not one that I would ever wear. I don't like darker tones on my lips. When I swatched this on my hand the color did glide on very smoothly and I would describe it as a brown-plum or nude-plum. Another item to sell because I have no interest in keeping it.
Size I Received: Full sized
Full Sized: $8
Value: $8
MALLY Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner in Midnight
Description: An eye essential, Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner is the perfect choice for bulletproof liner that will make you look like you've just been done up by your own personal makeup artist.
My Thoughts: I already own and love this eyeliner. Because of that, I didn't swatch this pencil so I can either sell it or give it away on my blog. You can check out swatches and a full review of this liner on my blog by clicking here. Size I Received: 0.04 oz (this is a full sized product)
Full Sized: 0.04 oz @ $15
Value: $15
New Beauty Magazine
This magazine has a value of $9.95. It is a larger magazine that covers a wide range of beauty topics - from makeup to skincare to plastic surgery. It's a fun read and you're likely to learn something from it.
$20 Spalook gift card
In each Test Tube there is a $20 Spalook gift card. You first think "wow, that's great!" until you turn it over and realize you need to spend a minimum of $100. That makes the "gift card" really just a 20% off coupon - which yes, is still good, but not as good as they want it to look.
