New Beauty Test Tube - QVC Limited Edition - January 2012

Hello, Beautiful!

It seems like forever since the last QVC New Beauty Test Tube shipment (the last shipment was in October 2011). I was excited to open this shipment because there are great items this time around that I've had on my "want-to-try" list; although I've loved all my QVC New Beauty Test Tubes! The value is once again over $100! Two full sized products and the rest are generous sized deluxe samples.

In case you want to buy your own, click here for a link to the test tube on QVC's website (the link will not work once they remove it from their website). The cost is $29.96 plus $6.97 shipping & handling. I get mine on auto-delivery so I never miss a shipment.

Enough talk, let's check out everything included...

New Beauty Test Tube - QVC Limited Edition

January 2012










Shipment Quick Stats:

• Total value of this shipment WITH magazine: $120.96 (value is approximate)
• Total value of this shipment withOUT magazine: $111.01 (value is approximate)
• Total # of items: 9 
• # of makeup items: 2
• # of nail items: 0
• # of skincare items: 2
• # of body care items: 3
• # of hair care items: 2
• # of other items: 0

Now I'll break it down, product-by-product...

MALLY Volumizing Mascara

• DESCRIPTION: Despite a nonstop schedule filled with red-carpet premiers, music videos and celebrity photo shoots, Mally Roncal always finds time to share her expert makeup tips and positive energy with QVC viewers. In fact, the Q was the first to carry her beloved line of cosmetics. We know you'll adore this volumizing mascara's unique formula infused with natural waxes and carefully chosen powders that creates the look of full, luxurious lashes and has been a QVC Customer Choice Award winner for two consecutive years. The plush brush works with the powders to help thicken lashes without clumping, giving you gorgeous volume that lasts.
• MORE INFO: Combines Mally's favorite Italian mascara, a special powder from the Orient and a French-inspired brush. The plush brush works with the powders in the formula to help thicken lashes without clumping, giving your lashes a boost that lasts. You'll get evenly coated lashes that appear longer but feel lightweight, and it won't flake on your cheeks.
• FUN FACT: Fans of this mascara include celebrities from the film, TV and music industries. 
• TO USE: Apply to lashes from base to tip. For luminous lashes, apply one coat, let dry, and than apply a second coat. Repeat until you've got the lash look you love.
• MY THOUGHTS: This mascara is my go-to mascara of choice! I didn't open this tube for photos because I've already photographed this in the past and I plan to keep this tube as another back-up (currently making it my 3rd un-opened tube of this mascara, which I keep in my mascara makeup drawer). This is almost the only mascara I use (I still like Benefit's They're Real! Mascara and MUFE Smoky Lash Mascara). This works great, although I'll be honest and say I've gotten a bad tube twice (one where the wand scrapper thing didn't work and it came out in huge chunks and another where the formula was very dry). But when it's good, it's really good. I love this mascara!
• FULL SIZED: 0.39 fl oz @ $20.00
• SIZE I RECEIVED: 0.39 fl oz (I received a FULL SIZED tube)
• SAMPLE VALUE: $20.00

TARTE Aqua-Gel Eyeliner in Navy

• DESCRIPTION: Infused with ultra-rich pigments by way of hydrous pigmentation technology, this revolutionary vitamin-infused aqua-gel eyeliner makes defining your eyes a cinch. The formula glides on like pure silk and won't move throughout your busy day.
• MORE INFO: A revolutionary way to deliver color. Rich color pigments are suspended in 50% water in this formula to soothe and soften the skin. Pure water, aloe leaf extract and cucumber work together to hydrate and retain moisture balance around the delicate eye area.
• MORE INFO: Define and contour without dragging, pulling, or skipping. The high-pigment concentration and staying power of a gel pot is now available in an effortless pencil. No brush required!
• TO USE: Twist up the wand very slightly, and glide across the entire lash line for richly and precisely defined eyes. Due to the creamy texture of this formula, do not over advance the tip to prevent breakage. A little is all you need to achieve rich color intensity. This liner is not intended for the inner rim.
• MY THOUGHTS: I've always wanted to try one of these liners, so it was nice to receive a full sized version in my Test Tube. There are four shades going around in all the test tubes, all are colors -- there is a green, teal, plum, and navy. I really wanted the navy and I was pleasantly surprised to open my test tube and find the navy blue shade! That's where my excitement ended. I love the color; it's dark enough to wear during the day and the blue really brightens and brings out my brown eyes. But the formula wasn't as creamy as I was hoping for. It was a bit stiff and didn't go on as nice as I was expecting. Still, it's better than others I've tried and it's a nice liner to have. Although I would not buy another.
• FULL SIZED: 0.003 oz @ $18.00
• SIZE I RECEIVED: 0.003 oz (I received a FULL SIZED liner)
• SAMPLE VALUE: $18.00

   

 

KATE SOMERVILLE ExfoliKate

• DESCRIPTION: Get Kate's signature facial at home! ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment clarifies and polishes skin to reveal a glowing, healthy-looking complexion after just one treatment.
• MORE INFO: Scrubbing microbeads and three powerful P's -- Papaya, Pineapple and Pumpkin Enzymes -- are designed to effectively clean pores. Salicylic acid is designed to balance hydration, without over-drying. Aloe vera, honey, and vitamin E smooth and soften skin. Rosewood and cinnamon extracts are combined in an effort to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
• DID YOU KNOW: Clinical results show that 75% of users reported a reduction in skin roughness and dullness and 88% said they had smoother skin and improved texture.
• TO USE: Use once or twice each week, morning or evening, to keep skin radiant. Apply a thin, even layer to a clean, wet face, massaging in a circular motion for 30 seconds. Leave on for up to two minutes. Rinse off with warm water and gently pat dry. This product may cause the skint o flush slightly for a short time. For sensitive skin, leave on for less than one minute.
• MY THOUGHTS: I've had small sample packets of this in the past, and I've used and sort of liked it. I didn't get a good enough test drive of the formula, so it's nice to have a larger sample size to test out. Although I did just get the Kate Somerville Blemish Banisher Kit from Sephora, which has the same deluxe sample size of the ExfoliKate Acne Clearing Exfoliating Treatment, which is basically the same thing but for acne prone skin. I plan to alternate between both sample tubes, using the original version when my skin is behaving and using the acne version when my skin is breaking out. I've used the original version (the one in this test tube) and this time around I LOVED it. My skin was baby butt soft in minutes!
• FULL SIZED: 0.5 fl oz @ $19.00 (a full sized tube is actually 2 oz @ $85, but Sephora sells a 0.5 fl oz size)
• SIZE I RECEIVED: 0.5 fl oz
• SAMPLE VALUE: $19.00

FIRST AID BEAUTY Ultra Repair Cream Intense Therapy

• DESCRIPTION: FAB Ultra Repair Cream provides temporary relief and visible improvement for severely dry or distressed skin. The luxuriously rich, non-greasy cream has a whipped texture that is packed with ingredients to hydrate, heal and protect the skin. It absorbs with exceptional penetration, leaving behind a smooth, soft finish.
• MORE INFO: This formula with colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, allantoin and ceramides hydrates, calms and soothes skin and temporarily relieves minor skin irritation and itching due to eczema and other conditions. It can be used on the face and all over the body.
• MORE INFO: The regular application of antioxidants helps protect the skin from the damaging effects of the environment. FAB Antioxidant Booster is a blend of powerful antioxidants known to botanical science, including licorice root, feverfew and white tea extracts, to combat free radical damage.
• MORE INFO: At FAB, the packaging says what the products do, and the products do what they say. FAB keeps the packaging simple, assuring customers that resources are spent on what goes into, and not onto, the bottle.
• DID YOU KNOW: Colloidal oatmeal is FDA-approved for the treatment of eczema.
• TO USE: Apply to skin as needed (face and/or body).
• MY THOUGHTS: The First Aid Beauty brand is a brand I've always wanted to try out, but for some reason never have. I don't plan to use this on my face, because I have so many moisturizers I'm currently trying to rotate between, but I've used this on my body. It melts into your skin very quickly, which was impressive, but I didn't think it had the moisture level I was expecting. It's good, don't get me wrong, but I think I was expecting something more. In all fairness, my skin is super dry at the moment; recovering from surgery has dried out my skin like you wouldn't believe, plus the cold winter air doesn't help. Nothing seems to do a perfect job at the moment, but this did a good job. My husband, however, has taken this tube and uses it on his face. He has some mild eczema and sensitive skin; this cream is a near perfect match for him!
• FULL SIZED: 2 fl oz @ $12.00 (a full sized jar is 6 oz @ $28, but Sephora sells a 2 of tube)
• SIZE I RECEIVED: 2 fl oz
• SAMPLE VALUE: $12.00

 

PHILOSOPHY Field Of Flowers Perfumed Body Lotion and Perfume Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath

• DESCRIPTION: Philosophy has captured the essence of a field of flowers and infused it into its 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath formula and into it's ultra-rich, hydrating body lotion.
• MORE INFO: Infused with the fresh floral scent of peony. The "philosophy" behind this product is "stop and smell the flowers". A flower is the embodiment of everything that is right and beautiful in this world. The luxurious body lotion contains shea butter, and olive fruit and macadamia seed oils to moisten, soothe and soften dry skin so it feels silky smooth and extremely touchable.
• FUN FACT: In Chinese medicine, the peony was often used for its soothing properties, but the flower could only be picked at night because of superstition.
• TO USE: Shower Gel: Apply to wet body or scalp, lather, rinse, repeat. If using as a bubble bath, drizzle a generous amount under running water and enjoy. Lotion: Apply a generous amount to skin with fingertips and massage in gently with circular motion.
• MY THOUGHTS: I am not a floral scent type of person, so these are not my cup of tea at all. But I have to admit the scent isn't too strong or over powering. It's light and fresh, and certainly does remind me of a field of flowers, but it's not for me. These are going to my grandmom.
• FULL SIZED: 16 fl oz @ $16.00 (shower gel); 16 fl oz @ $24.00 (lotion)
• SIZE I RECEIVED: 1 fl oz each bottle
• SAMPLE VALUE: $1.00 (shower gel); $1.50 (lotion)

CALISTA TOOLS Achieve 10 Styling Cream

• DESCRIPTION: Calista founder Maria McCool's clients wanted a hair product that addressed their Top 10 hair needs. Her solution to scoring perfect hair: Achieve 10, a lightweight styling cream formulated with nourishing argan oil.
• MORE INFO: Achieve 10 controls frizz and adds shine, for smooth, silky hair. It increases hair body and fullness without being sticky. The cream restores damaged hair, plus detangles, reducing breakage. Blocks the effects of humidity, guards against heat styling and protects hair.
• FUN FACT: In 1989, Maria McCool opened the doors to her salon, Calista, which means "most beautiful". More than 1,000 clients visit the salon each week. All product ideas go through grassroots testing on actual clients.
• TO USE: Apply to towel-dried and/or dry hair. Rub dime-sized amount into the palms of your hands, apply directly to hair and style as usual.
• MY THOUGHTS: This is the first Calista Tools product I've ever owned. I've been curious about this brand, always seeing them on QVC and being interested in what they have to offer. I haven't tried this out yet, but I'm looking forward to.
• FULL SIZED: 4 fl oz @ $21.25
• SIZE I RECEIVED: 2 fl oz
• SAMPLE VALUE: $10.63

 

TRADITIONS BY NICK CHAVEZ Yucca Root Shampooing Cream

• DESCRIPTION: Traditions Yucca Root Shampooing Cream is formulated to cleanse, restore and provide ultimate hydration and moisture to your hair. This rich and luxurious cream is highly effective on hair that is chemically treated or has a tendency to be dry or brittle. Leaves your hair feeling and looking balanced, healthy, shiny and beautiful.
• MORE INFO: Yucca root is used by Native Americans and to make hair shiny and beautiful. Yucca root and wild yam are home remedies for healthier hair and a cleaner scalp. Rich, luxurious, creamy formula hydrates hair. Effective for dry, brittle and chemically treated hair.
• FUN FACT: Traditions by Nick Chavez is based on the ancient traditions and home remedies used in Nick's Latino and American Indian culture, mixed with modern technology. Each product contains ingredients from Nick's upbringing in the American Southwest.
• TO USE: Wet hair thoroughly with water, apply a small amount of shampoo on hand and massage into root area of hair. Rinse with cool water. Follow with Nick Chavez's Traditions Conditioning Cream.
• MY THOUGHTS: I'm curious about this, but not that curious. I will likely try it, but I will be honest and say it will be awhile before I give this a try. I'm in a routine with my hair, especially since I dye parts of my hair navy blue, so I'm really picky right now. I'm not as open to testing other shampoos at the moment. I know my hair won't have blue in it forever (at some point I plan to go back to my natural color all over), so I'll give this a try at that time.
• FULL SIZED: 8 fl oz @ $39.00 for BOTH the shampoo & conditioner, making it $19.50
• SIZE I RECEIVED: 2 fl oz
• SAMPLE VALUE: $4.88

 

OLEHENRIKSEN Truth Serum Collagen Booster

• DESCRIPTION: Olehenriksen Truth Serum Booster is loaded with antioxidants to fight off environmental aggressors and moisture-binding ingredients to keep skin nourished and protected.
• MORE INFO: Packed with vitamin C -- a protective antioxidant that calms, heals, brightens and evens skin tone. Powerful antioxidants fight free-radical damage. The aromatic, oil-free formula penetrates the skin to hydrate and smooth. Perfect for all ages and skin types.
• FUN FACT: Truth Serum was recently awarded "Miracle Worker" of the year by Natural Health magazine.
• TO USE: Apply daily, in the morning, to face and neck as your first step before moisturizing. May be used under the eyes.
• MY THOUGHTS: I've heard so many great things about this product, and I have sample packets of it that I haven't used yet. This deluxe sample is enough to last me a long time (it's half the full sized version!) and I fully plan to incorporate this into my skincare routine. I'm actually very excited to begin using it!
• FULL SIZED: 1 fl oz @ $48.00
• SIZE I RECEIVED: 0.5 fl oz
• SAMPLE VALUE: $24.00

 

NEW BEAUTY Magazine

• DESCRIPTION: This magazine is sold by itself for $9.95. It's a larger magazine that covers a wide range of beauty topics; from makeup to skincare to plastic surgery. To me, it's a fun read and I always learn something new.

Now let me know what you think...

Did you receive a New Beauty QVC Test Tube this month? If so, what did you think of this shipment? If not, is this something you'd be interested in receiving? Discuss in the comments below.

New Beauty Test Tube - QVC Limited Edition October 2011

Hello, Beautiful!

This is my second shipment of New Beauty Test Tube sold through QVC. This is the October 2011 QVC Limited Edition New Beauty Test Tube.

Check out my pics, swatches, price break down and mini reviews...

New Beauty Test Tube - QVC Limited Edition 
October 2011


 

Shipment Quick Stats:

• Total # of items: 8 (NOT including magazine or Philosophy Divine Fragrance sample)
• # of Makeup Items: 2
• # of Nail Items: 0
• # of Hair Care Items: 1
• # of Skincare Items: 4
• # of Fragrance: 0
• # of other items: 1
• Total value (WITH magazine): $115.55 (value is approximate and does not include the Philosophy Divine Fragrance sample)
• Total value (withOUT magazine ): $105.60 (value is approximate and does not include the Philosophy Divine Fragrance sample).

Let's break it down, product-by-product...

WEN Winter Vanilla Mint 

• Description: Discover why "friends don't let friends use shampoo." Chaz Dean's revolutionary Cleansing Conditioners eliminate ordinary shampoo with a lather-free formulation that won't sacrifice the integrity and beauty of your hair. The WEN system was created with a perfect balance of ingredients, including herbs and natural elements, to not only cleanse your hair and scalp but moisturize, soothe and add sheen as well. All WEN Cleansing Conditioners are color-safe and so versatile they can be used by anyone.
• More Info: WEN is a single product that both cleanses and conditions, without the use of damaging detergents found in shampoos. Acai fruit extract, amino acids, cupaucu seed butter, goji berry fruit extract, hydrolyzed soy protein, and white tea leaf extract.
• More Info: Avoid being inundated with unnecessary choices and keep your beauty products fresh and new by choosing limited-edition formulas from WEN. This winter's exclusive Winter Vanilla Mint will only be around this season, leaving you with something new to anticipate for next year.
• Fun Fact: WEN is "NEW" spelled backwards. The concept of not using shampoo is something Chaz Dean has been implementing since 1993. WEN cleanses with astringent and antibacterial properties without lathering.
• To Use: Rinse hair thoroughly, then apply 10 to 40 pumps to your scalp, massaging thoroughly. The amount of pumps you'll use will depend on your hair length. You're supposed to apply it to your hair in four sections (top, each side, back). Then massage it in for 1 to 3 minutes. Comb through hair and leave on for 3 to 5 minutes (or longer if you can; the longer the better the results). Rinse well. Apply half a pump to a full pump as a leave-in conditioner to soaking wet hair, if you wish.
• My Thoughts: I already love WEN, so I was excited to receive the newest scent - Winter Vanilla Mint. I've tried the Fig, Sweet Almond Mint, Pomegranate, and the Fall Ginger Pumpkin. The Winter Vanilla Mint is by far the best smelling WEN I've tried! I'm excited to use this scent and I'm positive I will order a larger size once it becomes available.
• Full Sized: 6 fl oz @ $18 (this is the smallest size the Cleansing Conditioner comes in). Currently this scent is not yet available.
• Size I Received: 6 fl oz
• Value: $18.00

 

LAURA GELLER Baked Marble Eyeshadow in Mauve 

• Description: Laura Geller Baked Eyeshadows are made in Italy using an unprecedented baking technique to create marbleized pigments in a variety of hues for any look.
• More Info: Luxurious color glides on effortlessly with a silky finish. Its versatile formula can be used dry for creamy color payoff, or wet for long-lasting wear.  Vitamin E and jojoba seed oil are key ingredients.
• More Info: Available in an array of rich tones and split pans, the marbleized colors offer endless possibilities when it comes to mixing and matching to complement any skin tone. In the October 2011 New Beauty Test Tube - QVC Limited Edition shipment, everyone received one of nine different shades of the Laura Geller Baked Eyeshadows.
• Fun Fact: The unique baking process that creates Laura Geller Baked Eyeshadows transforms the liquid base into a fine powder. Each shadow starts off as a swirly liquid pigment, which is baked on a terracotta pan for 24 hours by Italian artisans. Each one is hand-finished for the silkiest results.
• To Use: Using an eyeshadow brush, sweep color across the entire eyelid, blending outwards. For best results, prep lids with primer.
• My Thoughts: I have a love hate relationship with Laura Geller products. There is never an in between. I either love something (like her Real Deal Concealer) or I hate it (like her Real Deal Foundation). This Baked Marble Eyeshadow happens to be on my "love" list of her products. It's a better formula than her other shadows I have (from a few years ago), and the color I received, Mauve, is a pretty shade. The pink and green combine better than I thought they would; I honestly did not think I would like it but gave it a swirl, swatched and was happy with the results. It's not typically a shade I would buy, but it's a shade I now own and I will make use of it.
• Full Sized: 0.06 oz. @ $23
• Size I Received: 0.06 oz
• Value: $23.00

 

JOSIE MARAN 100% Pure Argan Oil

• Description: Argan oil is the primary ingredient in all of Josie Maran's products. A natural super-ingredient, rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, argan oil produces antioxidant effects to help nourish the skin and hair.
• More Info: Argan oil is a pure remedy used to help treat dry, rough skin. The oil will help soften, hydrate and nurture to improve the overall appearance of your skin. Argan oil leaves your skin feeling and looking naturally refreshed while imparting a youthful glow. This is 100% first cold-pressed pure argan oil.
• More Info: Whether you want to tame flyaways or treat split ends, argan oil can soften and condition cuticles and rejuvenate hair, from root to tip.
• To Use: Massage into skin where needed or use your fingers to smooth Argan Oil through your hair.
• My Thoughts: I already own Josie Maran's Argan Oil, and I haven't even made it part way through the bottle. Having a mini version is nice to keep downstairs, by my nail station. I will use it on my cuticles. I also use it on my son's face (he's 6 years old), my husband's face, elbows, feet and of course my own face. I'm currently using a different oil for my face (Tarte's Maracuja Oil), but still use Josie Maran's Argan Oil for other purposes.
• Full Sized: 1.7 fl oz. @ $48
• Size I Received: 0.17 fl oz
• Value: $4.80

   

SUPERSMILE Professional Whitening Toothpaste in Original Mint 

• Description: Created by Dr. Irwin Smigel, the world-renowned "Father of Aesthetic Dentistry," Supersmile Professional Whitening Toothpaste removes superficial stains, such as those caused by coffee, tea, tobacco and red wine, for noticeably whiter teeth and includes sodium bicarbonate, providing fresher breath.
• More Info: Supersmile whitens teeth and effectively restores bonding, porcelain veneers and dentures to their original color by removing extrinsic stains. The proprietary blend of Calprox and baking soda freshens breath and helps to maintain healthy gums. Fluoride works to protect teeth from cavities while calcium, phosphates and magnesium combine to strengthen and remineralize tooth enamel.
• Fun Fact: The protein pellicle is a thin layer of protein that binds stains to the tooth's surface. Unlike most commercial toothpastes, Supersmile is formulated without silica, which is commonly used to scrape the protein pellicle from tooth enamel, making it 75 percent less abrasive than the standard established by the American Dental Association.
• To Use: Use a pearl-sized drop of toothpaste on a dry toothbrush and brush in a circular motion for two minutes then rinse with water. Brush at least twice a day.
• My Thoughts: I started to use Supersmile years ago; it was the only toothpaste I would use. It wasn't as easy to find back then either. I remember giving it up because it was an expense I could cut out, even though I didn't want to. I mean, going from a $21 toothpaste (I think back then it was $19) to a $2 or $3 toothpaste saves a lot of money. HOWEVER, now that I have another tube I think my Supersmile addiction is back on. This toothpaste truly whitens teeth and isn't harsh. I am so excited to use this again, and it just happens that I just ran out of my regular toothpaste and was going out to buy a new tube then my New Beauty Test Tube shipment showed up and I knew I'd be a Supersmile girl once again.
• Full Sized: 4.2 oz. @ $21
• Size I Received: 1.75 oz
• Value: $8.75

 

 

  

MALLY Evercolor Starlight Eyeliner in Midnight 

• Description: Give your eyes the star treatment with Mally Starlight Eyeliner. The high-performance formula glides on effortlessly and lasts and lasts.
• More Info: With a little gentle smudging, you can transform your everyday look from subtle to sultry, perfect for that big night out. Long-wear and professional quality, this eyeliner is extremely long lasting. Jojoba and other natural oils, lubricants and slip builders are the key ingredients.
• More Info: The liners are available in more than 15 brilliant colors to compliment any look. In the October 2011 New Beauty Test Tube - QVC Limited Edition shipment, everyone received one of three different shades of the Mally Evercolor Starlight Eyeliners.
• To Use: The liners glides on easily and can be sharpened with any type of sharpener, although it is recommended that you chill the product before sharpening.
• My Thoughts: I already own this liner and love it. I did a full review and swatched on my blog; check that out by clicking here. I also received this same eyeliner, same shade, in the Summer/Fall New Beauty Test Tube (the regular, non-QVC version).
• Full Sized: 0.04 oz. @ $15
• Size I Received: 0.04 oz
• Value: $15.00

 

ALGENIST Anti-Aging Moisturizer 

• Description: Formulated with the anti-aging ingredient alguronic acid, Algenist Anti-Aging Moisturizer works to nourish and restore skin moisture while firming the skin. Wrinkles, fine lines and pores appear minimized. 
• More Info: The luxurious cream works to restore and maintain moisture, creating younger-looking and more radiant skin. Algenist focuses on the ability of effective bioactive ingredients to deliver visible anti-aging results to the skin.
• More Info: The moisturizer is formulated without harmful ingredients such as parabens, sulfates or synthetic dyes and fragrances. It is hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic. The key ingredients are alguronic acid, vitamin C and apple cell extract.
• Fun Fact: Scientists working at a biotechnology laboratory in San Francisco were researching renewable energy solutions when they unexpectedly discovered the capabilities of alguronic acid.
• To Use: Following cleansing and application of the Concentrated Serum (or any serums/treatments you may be using), apply the Anti-Aging Moisturizer to the entire face, neck and chest morning and night.
• My Thoughts: When this brand first premiered I was highly intrigued, but the price tag was well out of my price range. The reason I wanted to try this line is due to the quick results it provides. You'll see/feel a difference in just 10 days with even better results after 4 weeks, and it just gets better the more you use it. I've used anti-aging skin care since I was 20, but never invested in something like Algenist that is really for that purpose. Now that I'm getting closer and closer to my 30's I know it's time for something like this. I fully plan to try use this sample until the jar is empty, and document my results. You can expect a blog post on it in the near future.
• Full Sized: 2 fl oz @ $90
• Size I Received: 0.5 fl oz
• Value: $22.50

 

 

PHILOSOPHY Snow Angel 3-in-1 Shower Gel 

• Description: The multitasking Philosophy Snow Angel shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath offers a fresh snow scent, reminiscent of your childhood.
• More Info: Working as both a shampoo and shower gel, the formula cleanses and conditions the skin and hair. Vitamins B5, vitamin E, and allantoin are the key ingredients.
• More Info: This playful blue hue and snowy fragrance are symbolic of a time when snowmen, sleds, innocent snowball fights - and of course, snow angels - ruled the winter months, evoking a sense of childhood nostalgia.
• Fun Fact: Philosophy uses children's pictures and lowercase writing on its packaging to symbolize the simple pleasures in life and remind everyone of the genuine curiosity and wisdom that is the childhood consciousness in us all.
• To Use: Apply to wet body or scalp. Lather, rinse and repeat as desired. If using as a bubble bath, simply drizzle a generous amount under running water.
• My Thoughts: I'm a Philosophy lover and I usually like their holiday scents. Snow Angel is a nice clean scent, but I don't know if it really reminds me of snow or not. It smells more like clean soap smell to me, maybe a little winter-esque. I like the coloring of it; it's an icy blue with shimmer. I know I'll end up using it eventually. I still have last year's holiday fragrance in my shower (Peppermint Bark, which I prefer over Snow Angel).
• Full Sized: 24 fl oz. @ $20
• Size I Received: 2 fl oz
• Value: $1.67

 

PERRICONE MD Firming Neck Cream 

• Description: The first cream developed by Dr. Perricone to specifically address aging concerns of the neck area, Perricone Firming Neck Cream combines advanced ingredients to improve firmness and the overall appearance of the skin.
• More Info: The neck is typically one of the first areas to display the signs of aging. This cream is specifically formulated to help reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles and firm the appearance of skin in the neck area. Dr. Perricone's Firming Neck Cream contains highly advanced and potent sciences rarely round in anti-aging products, helping to improve the appearance of elasticity, texture, lines and wrinkles, leaving your skin softer, smoother and more youthful.
• More Info: The patented phospholipids science in this cream deliver advanced hydration and moisture to the skin to promote a smoother, younger appearance. The key ingredients are phospholipids, tocotrienols, and palmitoyl carnosine.
• Fun Fact: Dr. Perricone is certified by the American Board of Dermatology, a Fellow of the New York Academy of Sciences and a Fellow of the American College of Nutrition. He is also the recipient of the Eli Whitney Award presented by The Connecticut Intellectual Property Law Association to an outstanding individual who has made significant contributions to science, invention and technology.
• To Use: Massage into the neck area twice daily, using gentle circular motions.
• My Thoughts: Perricone MD products work great with my skin. His Cold Plasma is one of my favorite skin care items, but one that I can't afford full sized. I have two other samples of the Firming Neck Therapy, so I think it's time for me to start trying it out.
• Full Sized: 2 fl oz @ $95
• Size I Received: 0.25 fl oz 
• Value: $11.88

PHILOSOPHY Divine Fragrance Sample

• Description: Complement your Divine Illumination color wardrobe with this vibrant, sophisticated fragrance. It reflects captivating radiance to inspire a feeling of wisdom and confidence, the shimmering citrus, beautiful floral notes are warm and welcoming. Divine is a fragrance for the woman who wants to feel divinely feminine and elegant, while embracing her sensual side.
• My Thoughts: This is a bonus sample included in this shipment. I'm not a fragrance person, but I actually like this one. It's not too strong, but it is a stronger fragrance. you're supposed to only apply this on your pulse points and not spray it all over. Would I buy the full sized version? Eh, probably not because I don't buy perfumes. This is the second sample I've received of it (I received one in my Fall/Winter QVC Limited Edition New Beauty Test Tube).

NEW BEAUTY Magazine

• Info: This magazine is sold by itself for $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, if not several things.

Let me know what you think...
Do you subscribe to New Beauty Test Tube? If so, do you subscribe to the original version or the QVC version? If you don't subscribe, are you interested in signing up? What do you think of this shipment? Discuss in the comments below.