Bring on the balloons, party poppers and a huge Happy Birthday banner because Bellabox had just turned 1 in the month of October! While I'm a little late to the party, only mentioning this nearing the end of the month... better late than never? :)

Celebrating this occasion, the October Bellabox seems to have evolved from the soft baby pink to a mature rouge tone. I actually love the shade of this October box.

Being a year old isn't what you would define as grown up in people-terms but in company-terms, it is definitely a maturing milestone!

With October's subscription box, Bellabox invites us all to join them in this party with products from NUXE, Bioderma and Guerlain!

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Let's have a look!

I shall do my usual of giving a quick description of the product but we all know how 'quick' my descriptions always end up being!

NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Usage Dry Oil

This multi-usage oil can be used on the body, face (which I daren't try, just cause), hair and even as a pampering session by adding a couple of drops into a hot bath. The major plus point of this oil is how amazing it smells but beware, there is a very evident jasmine (I think?) floral note to it so if you aren't a Jasmine person, maybe the scent may not appeal as much. I personally cannot explain how much I love the scent of this.

NUXE Body 24hr Moisturizing Lotion

Enriched with sweet almond and sunflower oils, this body moisturizer is made from a natural formula that is absorbed into the skin at a very quick pace, allowing for you to get dressed almost immediately. The sample tube is a little small for me to slather it all over myself and test how it hydrating it really is but I find it works great as a hand cream. It rids the dry and rough skin sensation in my palms without a greasy feeling after as well. I may look into the full size just to try it out on my body and see how it holds up.

NUXE Face and Body Ultra-Rich Cleansing Gel

This soap-free cleansing gel carries a rather musky scent to it and sits great in an unwinding regime. I don't know about ultra-rich but while it is as light-weight as a gel, it doesn't leave the skin feeling stripped or dry after wash. In fact it seems to infuse a little nourishment in the short duration that it is on my skin. I quite like this but the scent may prove a little heavy when I'm not in the mood for it.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Solution

This super cutesy bottle needs no introduction... on here at least! I have already spoken about it here and compared it against the Oily variant here. Though incase you have missed those entries, I love this. Love, major love! A bottle this small may hardly be of substantial use (probably a week at best?) though I can't deny that it is adorable.

Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire EDT

A relatively new fragrance in town, the Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire (which stands for Little Black Dress) had received some attention during its launch. I was intrigued by it, got a quick whiff of it in the departmental stores and subsequently fell in love. I cannot justify another perfume purchase now but this little sample is lovely to have! La Petite Robe Noire is an inclusion of roses, orange blossoms, musk, cherry and apple. I shan't going into a perfume description here but go get a spritz of it if light feminine scents that are mildly floral, mildly 'soapy' are your thing!

All that aside, there was also a special Bellabox inclusion with their Birthday box! Which leaves me to think... is it Bellabox's birthday or mine? ha.

Check out the very statement hot-pink double-sided compact mirror that was included; it is 'normal' on one side and magnified on the other.

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In all, festive birthday celebratory mood aside, I am liking this Bellabox because it brings the whole initial beauty subscription box joy back to me. The whole 'randomly being introduced to something I have never ventured into / tried and liking it in the end' sort of thing.

Case in point, NUXE.

It is a brand I have heard brief mentions about them yet I have no clue what products they actually have. Thus after using what was included within this Bellabox, it's safe to say that I will be checking out more items from NUXE and probably picking up the full-size of the Multi-Usage oil just because I like it that much!

Before I end this post, a biggggg Happy Birthday once more to Bellabox!

Visit Bellabox if you are interested in a month subscription which would cost S$19.90.

Thanks for reading and do you have anything from NUXE to recommend?

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

Its nearing the end of September and I have yet to give this month's beauty boxes a mention!

I am sure by now they would have surfaced just about everywhere and everyone has gotten their boxes, which defeats the purpose of my entry, but I would still like to give them a round up post.

I received Vanity Trove in the early part of September and Bellabox sometime mid-September so I would kick start this entry with what I got first!

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September's Vanity Trove welcomes the transition into Fall and although we don't have seasons here in Singapore, it is still nice to acknowledge these beauty trends and somewhat 'go with the times' or rather, go with the direction of the rest of the world!

The Trove is segmented into various 'categories' and I like that within the provided brochure, they list down the product variations within each category.

If you squint and read the brochure, you will get what I mean!

As we all know, not everyone's trove is the same as they like to switch up the contents but this layout or method of explaining it makes it feel a lot more 'controlled'. It also gives you the impression that you aren't quite missing out on anything since it is shuffling within the same 'category'.

Here's a quick look at what was in September's Trove!

Princess Pinki (Lip, Cheeks and Nipple Cream)

Making a return to the Trove, Princess Pinki is a tint that you can use on your lips, cheeks (and also nipples, heh!) to give it a pinkish hint. Though hint is probably too mild a word to use. It dispenses clear and turns a rather vivid pinkish tone when left on the skin for awhile. That tint actually seems to stain the skin because I had a pink mark on my hand (where I swatched it) for pretty much the whole day, even after showering.

Oilum Body Cleanser & Oilum Revitalizing Lotion (Sample)

To aid with wrinkle-free and hydrated skin in Singapore's non-existent Fall, we have here Oilum's Body Cleanser and Revitalizing Lotion. I haven't given these a shot yet because bath and lotion stuff this size is always stashed for travel.

Vanity Trove had the Oilum Scrub Bar and Oilum Cleanser Bar up for rotation amongst their boxes.

Essie Nall Polish in Mink Muffs

You could say I was pretty darn excited when I saw the bottle and the shade. Essie's Mink Muffs is one of the colors that have always been on my mind – I would like to haul it yet I am always distracted with everything else. I will definitely be swatching this lovely milk chocolate shade soon!

Goodskin Labs Serum

Part of the skin enhancing aspect of the Trove, this was thrown in under the category that also contained variants like JK Acne Cleanser Bar, Shu Uemura White Recovery EX+ and Shu Uemura Skin Purifier.

Rimmel Glam'Eyes Eyeshadow

Not forgetting some love for the peepers, this Trove sheds some light on Rimmel products and if you did not get the quad, you would have received either a Rimmel Mascara or Rimmel Lipstick.

I am pleased with what I randomly received in mine and the colors are just perfect to play around with on a work day. As I had never played around with Rimmel prior, the pigmentation and smoothness of these shadows surprised me!

Bvlgari Omnia Coral Fragrance (Sample)

Aside from introducing skincare and makeup items, this trove also covers some new scents, either Bvlgari Omnia (as you see here) or DKNY's Be Delicious. I'm not exactly a DKNY Be Delicious fan (oh blasphemy!) so I am glad I received the Omnia variant and I do like the pleasant feminine appeal this scent gives.

All that aside, there were a couple more Vanitytreats thrown in, courtesy of and in partnership with Watsons!

Leaders Insolution Hydrogel Eye Therapy Patch

Montagne Jennesse Masque in Fruit Smoothie (Sample size)

Well, that ran longer than I had intended but this wraps up what you get in Vanity Trove in September!

While I may be late with my mention, Vanity Trove gives you the option of purchasing the current month's trove (backorders) incase you wish to inspect the contents before you decide.

Purchasing backordered Troves will cost you S$5 more than their monthly subscription price.

Visit Vanity Trove to subscribe monthly for S$25 and await the November Trove or purchase the September Trove at S$30!

p.s. Vanity Trove pictures were all taken with the trustee Samsung S3 camera!

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Moving on with the beauty boxes, here's Bellabox's take on September.

For September, Bellabox is taking on a very holistic theme of going Out with the Old and In with the New.

Well, before I go into the box I guess I do want to throw out a quick mention. It seems the competition between beauty boxes really goes back and forth and certain months you are left floored with some and other times a little 'meh' with everything.

After all, the idea of beauty boxes is about receiving a surprise every month and sometimes our own level of expectation does cause these surprises to fall a little flat.

With that said, I will continue on and say that this month around (instead of this time around), Bellabox had left me a little meh with their September offerings. I can't say its their fault because I am sure the team does try their best to pick the contents and it would never be easy to pick and suit everyone but their previous boxes (starting from the bumper one) really just stepped up their own game for them.

Okay, enough rambly insight and rationale, here is how September looks in a Bellabox!

Taylor Swift Wonderstruck Perfume (Sample)

I have received a press sample of this scent and actually done a write-up for it here. It's a lovely scent, not quite my favorite but I am guessing some may be pleased to be in posession of this scent sample to try.

Celmonze Premium Facial Ampoules

I was recently introduced to the luxurious world of Facial Ampoules. Prior to that I had no idea these little serum packed vials were this costly and that luxe. I haven't tried this out because of the term 'Marine Concentrate' scrawled on the fragile bottle (me and my Marine Collagen fear) but there are 3 variants up for circulation – Whitening, Lifting and Vitamin A.

Rimmel Flash Eyeliner in Black Noir

A common brand in both the beauty boxes this month, Rimmel! Bellabox had up for rotation the Flash Eyeliner (as pictured above), Lip Liner, Stay Glossy Lip Gloss, Automatic Eye Line, Max Volume Mascara or Sexy Curves Full Figure Mascara

The Flash Eyeliner I have is a felt tip liquid liner, one of my favorite types of eyeliners. Howver, unlike other felt tip liquid liners I have tried, the black pigmentation in this one felt a little disappointing though I will have to try it out to better judge it.

VICHY Bi-White Med Deep Corrective Whitening Lotion (Sample)

For fairer and whiter skin, the Vichy Bi-White Lotion aims to target melanin at its source and fights dark spots, dullness and yellowish skin tones.

Lifecella Essence Sheet Mask - Face Mask

Last but not least, we have Lifecella, a brand that is formulated specially for the concerns of Asian skin. The very first thing I noticed with this is that adorable bear-like shape that the mask takes on but I'm sure that isn't the point of it. These masks cover issues from anti-aging to dryness and even have targetted eye masks as well. Lifecella is available at Watsons and Guardian.

And that is Bellabox's September edition for you!

Visit Bellabox if you are interested in a month subscription which would cost S$19.90.

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With that, I wrap up this extremely lengthy post about September's Beauty Box offerings! It seems it is honestly anyone's game in the beauty box industry and it is getting incredibly hard to subscribe to a box in advanced these days so i think Vanity Trove did a very wise move of putting backordered boxes up for grabs.

As a consumer that still gives me the joy of the box and also the mental preparation of knowing what to expect!

But do share, do you still like the joy of the surprise or prefer to know what is in it beforehand?

Thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

Come July, Bellabox looks to whisk you away from the mundane routine of life into a wonderlust journey around the beauty world!

While it's not really jet-setting anywhere, July's box brings to you the best in beauty from across the globe which is bound to bring just that bit of travel excitement.

Let's take a look at what is in this globe-trotting box!

My Bellabox came with 5 types of beauty products though some products came in a pair or a set so technically it worked out to be a well worth box filled with loads of beauty goodies!

Organix Brazilian Keratin Therapy Shampoo & Conditioner

Organix's Brazilian Keratin Therapy range is infused with a blend of coconut oil, organic avocado oil and cocoa butter to smooth and nourish the hair. Scent-wise the coconut really peeks through, making this take on a tropical vibe minus the whole sun, sand and sea aspect - it's mainly coconut-y and luscious. I haven't tried it for myself and would likely be saving this for travel.

Jimmy Choo Fragrance (EDP)

Representing London is an Eau De Parfum sample vial of Jimmy Choo, the Fragrance. The idea of this scent is to bottle in feminity, luxury and style while the EDP has an extra punch of Italian Orange and Indonesian Patchouli to take a nod towards sensuality. The fragrance itself isn't exactly the conventional light-sweetness yet is a sensual sweetness combined with floral, likely from the the top notes of Tea Rose, Tiger Orchid and Cedarwood.

This isn't a perfume review so I will save my words but the sample bottle is undoubtedly adorable and the scent is something worth checking out. In short it's a mature yet mildly playful scent, something I think a good deal would enjoy.

Twistbands (Hair tie)

From California, we have the Twistbands! This is something I have been intrigued in and wanting to try every since Mag's positive mention about it. I generally dislike tying my hair because some hair ties are too tight, or too lose, or put a weird bump into my hair. Though Twistbands are made to solve all those problems while looking cute and simple! I tried it out the minute I received it and am loving it. I think I need to pick this up in more colors!

SK-II skincare sample set

From Japan, we have some sample tubes of the ever popular SK-II! Despite the renown about the brand, I have never tried anything from SK-II and this is honestly my very first encounter with it. I have been curious but yet have also heard some pals mention that certain items didn't feel right for them. So instead of splashing out that amount of cash, I can now give these a shot before passing my verdict!

Included in this little set is the Facial Treatment Gentle Cleanser, Cellumination Mask-In Lotion, Facial Treatment Essence (the star product), Cellumination Deep Surge EX. Can't wait to try them out!

Skinmiso Pore Beauty Nose Pack

The evolution of these pore nose packs are starting to really amaze me! Gone are there days where you just stick it on and rip it off once it is dried, hoping to pull up some white/blackheads while you're at it. Those are still fun (and good) to use but now packs that 'bring dirt to the surface' are starting to... well, surface! This Skinmiso beauty nose pack even comes with a Step 2 to help contract and shrink your pores after you are done ridding them of dirt.

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While the above is all there is to the products within July's Bellabox, there was a little bonus cutie within as well.

It's a lipstick? it's a laser pointer? It's a plastic toy?

No... it's a pen! A lipstick pen, how fun!

This would be such a nifty thing for beauty addicts to whip out during meetings or taking quick notes while on the go. I have already popped it into my handbag and the fact that it's a good size (for carrying around and holding while writing) makes it even better!

I don't think I have formally mentioned on here but in rather recent times, Bellabox had increased their monthly subscription from S$15 to S$19.95. Though if you had any doubts about that increment before, take a look at the quality products in their boxes now and you'll know that the increase is certainly worth it!

I love the fun themes that they are throwing out with the boxes and now I honestly am looking forward to each and every Bellabox!

Thanks for reading and hope the weekend went great for you!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

June's Bellabox is all about the sun, sand and sea!

Well, Summer to be precise and it is pretty much Summer all year round in Singapore so we know it is not as much of a glamourous thing as it sounds.

Thus! To chase any Summer blues away, Bellabox has 'upgraded' their June box to include 8 exciting products to help you tide through the hot hot heat!

The 8 items included in this month's Bellabox are truly exciting because it covers brands from Biotherm, Lancôme, Kiehls and Ralph Lauren!

In general, I have been liking the direction and products that Bellabox had taken in the past few boxes and now can safely say that I do recommend anyone interested in beauty boxes to give Bellabox a shot!

The subscription is S$15 a month or slightly cheaper if you purchase the 'packages'. In comparison with what you get in June, S$15 is really a small price to pay to try these goodies out!

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But for now, lets take a look at the 8 exciting goodies included within the box.

Kiehl's Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner

This product is made with real Marigold flowers which are hand-picked and placed in each bottle (yes those bits you see are Marigold Flowers!) by hand. This reminds me of what parents say about rice being painstakenly harvested hence no wasting of a single grain. Thus... no wasting a single drop in this bottle right here either!

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

This is one of Kiehl's best-selling products and this concentrate contains 99.8% naturally derived botanical elixir to replicate the skin's natural lipids. Basically, all that means it helps your skin repair itself through the night and you wake up to healthier and younger-looking skin!

I haven't tried this but am so intrigued to. It feels like an overnight regeneration process and whats more, this has a calming and soothing lavender oil scent to it. Total bliss to use just before bed!

Lancôme Génefique Youth Activator

This one right here needs no introduction - at all. I passed my Génefique bottle to my mom and while she is no-fuss and 'doesn't believe in paying more' when it comes to skincare / makeup, she absolutely loves this. Thus, I will try this baby sample out and see why it's so widely acclaimed.

Lancôme Blanc Expert Derm-Crystal

A fairly new product to Lancôme, this aims to produce bright new collagen, prevents darkening and reduces melanin production. The light-weight formula isn't greasy or sticky on and has a lovely scent to it - not overpowering but nice. With use, the skin would be more translucent, luminuous and brighter from within.

Biotherm White D-tox BB Cream

THIS right here is one of my favorite BB Creams thus I was quite glad Bellabox was spreading word about it. Reason being it provides a light and nice coverage without being too sticky or too dewy on, just a perfect and natural skin finish. In fact, it almost feels like you don't have to set it if you are using just a little but I always set anything liquid, just incase. I handed this sample to a girlfriend who had been interested in purchasing for the longest time but hesitated due to the price (S$70).

Biotherm Lait Corporel Body Moisturizer

This body moisturizer contains glycerin, olive oil, vitamin E and Pure Thermal Plankton (as with their Aquasource range) for that ultra hydrated and soft supple skin. Infused with citrus extracts, this has a lingering citrusy scent to it. Not my favorite type of scent but for citrus lovers, this would be nice! Since I hardly come across hydrating moisturizers with a citrusy scent.

Ralph Lauren Romance

Romance is a timeless interpretation of a classic love story, meant to embody the pure and refined feelings of a woman in love.

Scent-wise this puts a foot in my category of evening scents, yet a small part of it makes it light, floral and wearable during the day. I spritzed it on casually and found myself falling in love with how the scent developed. It starts out musky and rather strong but slowly transforms into a lighter and romantically floral scent. I think I will be giving this one a look because it had the (very scent-particular) fiance asking what scent I was wearing.

Shu Uemura White Efficient Gentle Cleansing Oil

Shu Uemura's cleansing oils, too, need no introduction. In fact, I had actually done an entry with more information about the White Efficient line over here! Though I love that I now have a sample size of this for travel!

So that wraps up my very very rambly 'unboxing' of June's Bellabox.

Again, I am very pleased with the selection of the products though the benchmark that this box makes might make it hard for Bellabox to match up to in July! Though it only shows that they are constantly evolving to bring us new and interesting products, but yet also familiar and luxurious ones.

Thanks for reading and do check out Bellabox.sg for more subscription or brand information!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

If I had a choice, I would want May to last forever and ever and ever. I would elaborate in another post but basically I'm taking a short break (that is ending, boo) from the hassles of work right now but that aside, the point of this post is the Bellabox that came within the month of May!

This month's Bellabox came within a drawstring bag (housed within the pink box for posting of course). It was a nice change-up to the usual boxes though I hope they go back to the boxes after! The boxes have been perfect little storage space for jewellery and random bits and pieces around the house.

Though on to the contents of the box!

I didn't swatch anything because I handed the entire satchet to my mom.

May's Bellabox is about pampering yourself and pampering your mom but I think I'll leave that for my mom to do. I think I pamper myself very sufficiently already... heh.

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Enavose Cellogist Youth Guard Cream

This product claims to nourish the skin cells from deep within, boost it's natural restorative process and fight the causes of premature aging. I guess I will never know how truly effective this is anytime soon since my mom stocks all sample sized items for travel.

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules

I doubt I really have to introduce this product since it is already known enough as is in the field of anti-aging. Even my mom (who isn't all that into skincare) went 'oooh~' when she saw this. These potent little capsules deliver an intensive dose of restoring a youthful, ageless skin effect while visibly fading age spots and the look of fine wrinkles.

This is a pretty lux product and I'm glad they included something like this in a Moms' Day box!

Essential Damage Care Nuance Airy Shampoo and Conditioner

My mom is a loyal and die-hard fan to Dove (hence how I got my love for it too) and was iffy about trying out other shampoos because she fears they may make her hair limp but she was happy to report that these felt okay for her colored hair. Though eventually, as always, she went back to Dove and 'saved these for travel'.

Macadamia Natural Oil

Now, this one, I am actually itching to try for myself. Aside from containing Macadamia and Argan oil to nourish and rejuvenate the hair, it also claims to reduce dry time by 40-50%! Now that is actually quite an awesome claim for someone, like me, who prefers to air dry yet faces the situation of always showering super late and having to wait for hair to dry before heading to sleep.

Sally Hansen Hard As Nails

This last item was probably what my mom was most excited about because she was just about to pick this up at Watsons the other day. Though she hesitated and figured she would get it the next time when I am around so I get my member points (aww~).

But essentially this helps to harden the nails and prevent them from cracking, splitting and chipping. It's perfect for my mom who has brittle nails but still love to paint them and make them look pretty.

So that is about it for what was in my May Bellabox!

Do drop by Bellabox to find out more about them or if you are interested in taking up a subscription! It costs S$15 monthly and slightly cheaper if you get an annual subscription.

I have also noticed that Bellabox is starting to randomize the content of their boxes so the box contents do vary from person to person. I guess that means more variety but yet I personally (just my opinion) prefer it if everyone received the same thing.

Am I the only one thinking this way?

Thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

I think I may be the last person to write about this and I am extremely late on spreading the word but I had taken the pictures and am bent on putting up an entry no matter how late! Heh

Another reason for this insistence is because I do like April's Bellabox. I think I am starting to feel the gamble aspect of beauty subscription boxes as I liked the earlier Bellaboxes but I wasn't super thrilled. This time though, I am actually loving it because of a few product inclusions.

In April, Bellabox's focus is on flawless beauty be it through nurturing your skin or faking that flawlessness with the right products!

I shan't ramble too much since you may have all seen the low-down but here's a brief mention anyway!

The product inclusions:

Benefit Cosmetics Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow Liquid Foundation

I have heard so much about the Benefit Hello Flawless foundation and anything with a phrase like oxygen for the skin pretty much has my attention. I didn't splurge on the real deal when it came out since I hardly reach for my liquid foundies these days but a sample (especially a cute one like such) is great to try!

I received the shade Honey "I'm so Money" which looks to be right in shade but maybe not tone. It seems a little pinkish? But I'll try it out and see.

Enavose H2Osis Black Tea Quench Mask

I've not heard of the brand prior but with a name like Black Tea Quench Mask, I feel I almost need to plop this on straight away to hydrate the skin. Can't wait to try this sample out and perhaps do a Masking Up feature for it.

Maison Francis Kurdjian EDP

With notes like Orange Flower, Cedar wood and Ylang-Ylang Flower, this EDP invokes a very old powder room sort of mood in me. I'm not sure if I'm the only one but it's musky and powdery, quite a nice scent to smell but not for myself. I handed it over to my mom, who seemed to develop a liking for it.

Lemongrass House Shower Gel (left)

Okay, before anything, the inclusion is the Shower Gel on the left, the Room Spray is something I had from before.

This one pretty much had me (and my mom) all excited. I had received this Shower Gel before as part of Lemongrass's Mothers' Day promo last year and gave the set to my mom, keeping only the room fragrance for myself. I'm a fan of all things rose scented and loved the room scent, so to have a travel bottle in a lovely rose scented Shower Gel (which my mom loved), this is perfecto.

Kinohimitsu Collagen Drink

Kinohimitsu Collagen Drink is a beauty supplement meant to plump up your skin in just 6 days. I am personally wary when it comes to collagen drinks because anything with Marine Collagen can cause my eczema to go crazy so the brother actually went " I WANT!" when I 'put this up for auction' in the house.

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So... I didn't manage to keep this very short.

I guess I really can't help myself from rambling but in general, I really liked the variety with April's Bellabox and it got me all sparked up again with the beauty subscription service. If you are interested in subscribing for Bellabox, you may hop on over to their website. Subscriptions are at S$15 a month or slightly lesser depending on the subscription you pick.

One thing about Bellabox though is I realized that you can only susbcribe per month or annually. It would be nice if they opened up a 3 month or 6 month slot too.

For those who had gotten their hands on the April bellabox, did you love the contents?

p.s. I know I still owe you guys that rummage through the Make Up Store goodie bag. Coming up next! ;)

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

It feels like it was just yesterday that we stepped into 2012 and look, it's March already! Where did that 2 1/2 months go?

If anything, beauty subscriptions boxes really bring to attention the months that are flying by. At one point you are anticipating the next box, in another respect (or perhaps it's just me) I don't want time to fly by so quick!

In the month of March, Bellabox is changing things up and all about glowy skin.

Included within is also the physical invite for the high tea session that Bellabox held. I was unable to attend but you can check out pictures of the session in their facebook album!

Taking a mild departure from their usual, this month's box sees more emphasis on skincare items though there still sits this half-makeup item amidst them all. I say half makeup because it resides in the grey area where makeup and skincare meets. The brands are also a good mix from various parts of the globe, some hailing from France, Australia and also Korea.

Here's the rundown of the contents:

• Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel
• Dermalogica Overnight Repair Serum
• Royal Cosmetics Royal Herb EX Cream
• Caudalie Pulpe Vitaminee Eye and Lip Cream
• L'EGERE Water Drop Shiny Pearl BB Cream
• A'KIN Hand, Nail and Cuticle Cream

You can check out my earlier mentions of Bellabox here, but real quickly for those who don't know - Bellabox costs S$15 a month or a little less if you take up their annual membership. Bellabox also operates a webstore where you can purchase items you have tried and loved from your Bellaboxes.

Lets dive into the products!

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

I've been wanting to try Dermalogica products for awhile now so this would be a good way to start. I believe there is no way you can go wrong with a cleansing product. This Special Cleansing Gel contains mint and lavender to soothe the skin along with Quillaja Saponaria for a deep yet gentle clean.

Dermalogica Overnight Repair Serum

This serum contains ingredients to help lock in moisture, increase collagen renewal, firm up skin, boost cell renenwal and all that good stuff. Though it will be hard to measure it's effectiveness from one satchet alone it would probably be good to gauge how you feel about its texture.

Royal Cosmetics Royal Herb EX Cream

This indeed looks royal as you unravel it to discover little gold flakes suspended within a clear gel. It reminds me of this Bio-essence product that looks similar along with claims of containing real gold flakes. While I don't exactly doubt the claim, I don't suppose all that suspended gold is real 24k either. The purpose of this cream is to illuminate the skin, firm it up and aid skin renewal.

Caudalie Pulpe Vitaminee Eye and Lip Cream

I've not tried anything from this brand prior but I did chance upon it at Sephora before this Bellabox came my way. I was intrigued (and a little bit amused) with the idea of a product for both the lip and the eye so I'm quite glad to give this 7ml a try before I decide if the 15ml is worth splurging S$75 on. This, I would say is that one really good perk of a beauty box.

L'EGERE Water Drop Shiny Pearl BB Cream

L'EGERE is a name I hear a lot in the BB Cream world and I've been meaning to search up about this brand because I have heard a lot coin their BB Creams as a hot favorite. While I was glad to receive this, I was a little puzzled when I dispensed it. Shade-wise, it's on the tan side with a slightly orangey tone. On the back of my hand the shade seems fine but I will have to try this on my face to really tell.

It blends out well and feels light-weight on, barely leaving any coverage (good and bad I suppose) while giving a light dewy sheen - on my hand that is.

A'kin Hand, Nail and Cuticle Cream

This inclusion already has a residential space within my makeup bag; the main reason of it being compact to carry around. It also smooths out well and moisturizes my hands without leaving a greasy or sticky film on. While I love some stronger moisturizers, I feel almost incapable of doing anything after using them and washing it off defeats the purpose. Scent-wise, I like the soft spa-reminiscent scent to it. It contains lavender, geranium and jojoba for soft hands and strong nails!

Another rambly post mid-week, apologies about that, hope it didn't bore anyone off... though it might have. Things are busybusy these days yet I have the time right now to be painting my nails. Beauty has to be maintained amidst the chaos!

More posts soon but till then thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

With Valentines Day looming closer (tomorrow!), everything starts to set in with a lovey dovey mood and I guess my blog isn't spared! While I'm not one who advocates the whole 'being overly romantic for one day' and rein in this date with an extravagant splurge, I actually am a fan of the commercial flurry it brings.

I'm not talking about the overpriced flowers and chocolates but rather how some brands take to it with beautiful promotional images be it modernly bright and fun or vintage with a romantic boudoir mood. I think it's all very feminine and pretty yet not as glitzy as Christmas or the New Year. Take away that whole overly enforced couply idea, it's quite a good occasion for visuals, no? Or do i happen to be the only one who loves this commercial cheesiness...

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Regardless your view on Valentines Day, what I have here is a little love from the folks at Bellabox!

Yes, you got it right, it's the February Bellabox and what better theme to have than Valentines Day! The box comes dressed in a soft baby pink hue, notably a little more compact than the previous one.

I doubt I would have to explain the concept of beauty boxes once more but if you are wondering, Bellaboxes cost S$15 per month or slightly less if you purchase an annual membership.

Known to be slightly skewered towards the western brands, this month's Bellabox takes a quick peek at some Korean cosmetics items. Here's a rundown of February's content:

• Duchess Marden Body Serum
• Nvey Eco Organic Eyeshadow (in Charcoal Blue)
• Belif Hydra Sebum Control Essence
• Ansley Pure Pop Supertar Eyeshadow and Eyeliner
• DKNY Pure Verbena

The items within the box comes in a mix of samples and full-sized products and if you ever set your sights on them, most of it will be available on the Bellabox webstore. In any case that they do not have it, the slip that comes within will advise you where to trek to and get them!

I'll go through each item within the box but skip out on detailing too much, keeping it (relatively) brief here!

Duchess Marden Body Serum

Duchess Marden is a brand founded by Marla Steuer whose ideals is to bottle a "scentuous" experience along with promoting the body's well-being. This body serum looks to hydrate, soften and stimulate cell growth, all this with its quick absorbency to prevent an oily residue. The above is a sample vial that would be good for use on the hand and arms.

Nvey Eco Organics Eyeshadow in Charcoal Grey

I can't speak for the entire color-range but I am not entirely satisfied with this shade's pigmentation and texture. It feels a little powdery and applies a soft muted grey instead of the "intense pigmentation" it speaks of. Nonetheless, this eyeshadow is talc-free and formulated with soothing elements like chamomile and jojoba if you are interested in some organic goodness in your shadows!

Belif Hydra Sebum Control Essence

This new korean skincare line, Belif, incorporates herbs and natural ingredients into their ranges. The Hydra Sebum Control Essence, as the name hints at, controls the production of sebum and oil on your skin. In it's description it also mentions to make pores appear smaller and leave your skin with a non-oily appearance yet locked in moisture within. Sounds good? It sure does but I shall give it a whirl and see if it does what it claims!

Ansley Pure Pop Superstar Eyeshadow & Gel Eyeliner

From the Korean brand, Ansley, this matching set of eyeshadows, gel liner and a liner brush will be sufficient to help you create that perfect eye look! I quite fancy the idea of these screw-tops with another 'pan' of powder or cream because it makes it extremely compact and easy to carry around. I haven't swatched these just yet but I have a mind to put it on my vanity for quick work looks this week.

I can't remember the last time I used a gel liner!

DKNY Pure Verbena

I don't take much to DKNY scents and while I haven't given all a whiff, I'm not a fan of the iconic apple range and that is enough to stop me from finding out more. Though I must admit this one right here is quite lovely. Not something I'm head over heels for but it's fresh, it's light and very... bright, I find. Good if you are looking to perk yourself up on a dreary day.

All the items above except DKNY and Belif will be available on Bellabox's webstore in the coming month. Typically the items will be up on the webstore once the month is almost over so February items will launch in March.

I know this isn't brief but though it's a Bellabox feature, I think it's also a good way to briefly introduce some products. It's like how I am learning about these new brands and in the same process I can share about them with you!

So, do share, what are your thoughts on Valentines' Day? Commercial and hate it or?

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

The lovely ladies over at Bellabox had sent over their December pack of party fun!

The concept of Bellabox is delivering a themed box of random beauty goodies to your door step! Each box contains about 4-5 luxury brand beauty items (some samples, some full-sized) and would cost you only S$15 a month.

I feel it's an interesting idea and great way to be constantly introduced to items that you might not have heard of or never thought to try. Who knows, you could find a Holy Grail even if you leave it up to chance! The best part is, if something from the box catches your fancy, you can always purchase it from the Bellabox SG site.

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The theme for December is a Bellabox that gets you ready to parrtayy~

The OCC Liptars pictured aren't part of the December Bellabox kit however they were included because OCC Liptars are available on Bellabox.sg! Retailing on there for S$18.90, it is available in the more wearable, 'pop on and go' shades. Which means there isn't that electric blue, straight out purple, white or goth black on there.

The Liptars I received were in the shade Memento and Trollop, which I do not own. I currently have Trick and Hush which are lighter and more nude in tone.

I was battling the sun with this shoot so... no swatches here. I'll include them in the individual product features if I feel the need for it.

With that out of the way, here are the 'legit' December Bellabox items.

Eylure Eye Lashes

It's cute how they label right and left for the lashes. These are super dramatic, full and lush lashes, with both length and volume. Mentally I envision it giving that snuffleupagus effect but it's still a pretty one for full-out smokey makeup days.

Faust's Potion - Sleep Potion

This comes in a set with a Sleep Potion and an Awake Potion. These babies are suppose to be good Hangover Cures if you've been partying a little too hard the night before. I can't vouch for how effective it is but the idea (and packaging) is adorable.

Savoir Faire Lipstick

With this lipstick I need to cue a picture spam because of how sleek the packaging and design of it is. The black box that the lipstick comes in actually works out to be a case and that first point already had me pleasantly surprised at the product.

The lipstick 'cap' is designed in such a sleek manner that there aren't any traps or 'snap to shut' mechanisms, it has a smooth base and comes to a close with a magnetic pull, double the surprise!

It's probably just the packaging maniac in me. I like when I see good packaging ideas even if it's not an outright aesthetic statement but a simple change of mechanism.

The lipstick I got was in the shade Miss You and this is of course the full sized lipstick.

It retails for S$64 on Bellabox which makes the whole December box worth it simply by receiving this alone.

There was also an mini bottle of OPI's Not Like the Movies and a couple of Sothy sample satchets (Brightening Fluid, Brightening Mask). I didn't manage to take a solo shot for those in time but they can be seen in the group shot above.

Here's a rundown of the products included and price info as provided on the Bellabox card:

• Sothys Brightening Fluid (S$167 for 50ml)
• Sothys Brightening Mask (S$135 for 50ml)
• Sothys Gift Certicate - S$50
• Faust's Potion (1 Awake & 1 Asleep for S$10)
• OPI Not Like the Movies (S$23.50 for 15ml)
• Savoir Faire Lipstick (S$64)
• Eylure Eye Lashes (S$10.90 per pack)

So thats it for my Bellabox run down. You will most likely catch the lipstick and lashes in action sometime or another but in the meantime do check Bellabox.sg out for more information about them and products they carry!

Thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

p.s. As I'm typing this I know I should really head to bed. Is everyone down with the flu, cough and sorethroat this days? Just before Christmas?! *shakes fist at the weather*