Beauty subscriptions boxes are a favourite of bloggers and I am no exception. It's a bit harder for Canadian bloggers, because not all subscriptions boxes will ship to Canada, or the shipping charge is the same or more than the actual subscription box, etc.
I have been a dedicated subscriber to ipsy for almost two years- since it was first launched in Canada- and I do think it's great. But I've been feeling kind of meh about it and wanting to try something new.
Topbox is a Canadian beauty subscription box. I had heard a lot of mixed reviews about Topbox, which is why I hadn't subscribed. A couple of months ago, I did try one of their limited edition boxes, and was pretty happy about the value and products, so I thought I'd give the monthly subscription a try.
Topbox is around $14 month, including shipping, and you get 4 samples. You can choose regular packaging or 'environmentally friendly' packaging, which is a reusable organza bag. Also, each month you can create a 'wish list'. Basically, you have the option to keep the products picked that month (which is a surprise until you receive them) or trade it in for something else- 10 perfume samples, two full size Elizabeth Arden products, etc- for the same price. You can add as many options to your wish list as you'd like, but you're not guaranteed to get what you pick. I also like that Topbox includes a card with a description and price of the product and where you can buy it.
For my first Topbox, I was pretty happy. Here's what I got:
Total Topbox Value: $42.70 (I'm using the $10 price for the nail polish)
What I paid: $13.56
The value of the box is great, compared to what I paid. I'm pretty happy, especially since I like and will use 3 of the 4 products. For now, I'm going to keep the monthly subscription...I can't wait to see what I get this month!
Topbox is around $14 month, including shipping, and you get 4 samples. You can choose regular packaging or 'environmentally friendly' packaging, which is a reusable organza bag. Also, each month you can create a 'wish list'. Basically, you have the option to keep the products picked that month (which is a surprise until you receive them) or trade it in for something else- 10 perfume samples, two full size Elizabeth Arden products, etc- for the same price. You can add as many options to your wish list as you'd like, but you're not guaranteed to get what you pick. I also like that Topbox includes a card with a description and price of the product and where you can buy it.
For my first Topbox, I was pretty happy. Here's what I got:
- Bioderma Sensible H2O Micelle Solution: This cleanses face and eyes, and removes water resistant make up. It's for normal to dry skin, and it did leave my super dry skin feeling a little bit hydrated and soothed.
Retail Value: $21.95 (250mL)
Topbox Value: $8.78 (100mL) - Lancome Genifique Yeux Light-Pearl: This is an "eye-illuminating youth activating concentrate". So, basically, to make the area around your eyes look youthful and eliminate wrinkles. No idea if this works, but it can't hurt. I like the applicator it came with and I am a fan of Lancome products to begin with. It was also nice to see a "high end" brand.
Retail Value: $88 (20mL)
Topbox Value: $22 (5mL) - China Glaze Nail Lacquer in Seas the Day: This is a really pretty colour! I wasn't sure I would like the colour, but I do. It had a nice shiny finish and apparently, uses China Clay, which is a nail hardener.
Retail Value: $10-12 (14mL)
Topbox Value: $10-12 (14mL) - Benefit Cosmetics they're real! push-up liner: This is the only product that I will not use...but I don't wear any eyeliner, ever. It's a "lash hugging gel liner in a pen". Since I know nothing about eyeliner, no idea if this is good or not.
Retail Value: $27 (1.4g)
Topbox Value: $1.92 (0.10g)
Total Topbox Value: $42.70 (I'm using the $10 price for the nail polish)
What I paid: $13.56
The value of the box is great, compared to what I paid. I'm pretty happy, especially since I like and will use 3 of the 4 products. For now, I'm going to keep the monthly subscription...I can't wait to see what I get this month!
