Vogue on a Budget

GLYMM - May 2012 (First Box)

Sooo my first ever GLYMM box came today and as promised I’ve taken some photos!

So the first thing you notice when you open the GLYMM box is that it is a “green” box rather, bag. This is a nice idea. I was looking forward to the nice boxes that it usually comes with ironically, but I think you’ll enjoy it’s replacement. 

And voila! It’s a cute reusable sample bag or make-up bag. Mine is in bright pink (not sure if they all are). I have a weird love for boxes so I was quite happy with the old system and would reuse them, but I do see the desire for more green packaging, and I can definitely see myself making use of this zippered bag as well. 

The first item that I pulled out of the bag was this Caudalie Paris Gentle Buffing Cream for sensitive skin; I do have sensitive skin so I’m not sure if this was a individualized item or if it was just a coincidence. It is a 15ml size, the full size is 60ml and sells for $35. It is promised to get rid of dead cells and excess sebum by stimulating cellular renewal. Ideal for all skin types, even the most sensitive. This sample has up to 15 uses. 

The second item that I pulled out was this pair of CK One Shock colognes for her and him. I don’t think I mind the  perfume for her, but I didn’t get a great whiff before I sprayed the his and it overpowered my living room! If I’m not mistaken it’s a bit sweet smelling. I’m usually pretty picky when it comes to perfumes and prefer guys to not wear anything either so I’ll have to see! I may give it to my boyfriend anyway as I don’t have use for it. 

Anyway, the samples do come in those tiny vials that everyone hates, however they have a push-down spray top which is 100x better than the removable lid ones. They are 0.04 Fl OZ and a full size 50ml bottle prices at $45. 

Next item is Mineral Matte Cucumber Face Sunscreen (SPF 30) by Coola. I don’t want to open it to smell it cause it doesn’t look very resealable. The pamphlet reads: “Protect your face from UV rays with this hydrating, refreshing sunblock. Coola donates a portion of sales to cancer research… Infused with certified organic ingredients like vitamins, antioxidants, Shea Butter and Borage Seed Oil. Apply evenly over face in upward strokes. You’ll have SPF protection immediately after application.” It looks pretty neat - I’ll use it next time I plan to be outside much during the day (hopefully soon haha). 

I was immediately pretty excited about this item without even knowing what it was just because it looks awesome. It’s packaged in a really nice jar (similar to how some nice candles are packaged). It is a Crushed Cabernet Scrub by Caudalie as well (you either got this in your GYLMM or a Vinexpert Anti-Aging Serum Eyes and Lips by same company). It is a “natural, wine-inspired body scrub”. The packaging reads: “Use this strong scrub to smooth away imperfections. Along with its coarse granules it also contains the 6 draining and cellulite-fighting organic essential oils of the contouring Concentrate - so boost your slimming regimen! Use once per week.”

It smells really good to me but kind of strong if you’re sensitive to that maybe. I just put a bit on my hand without water and it feels like it may have warming properties as well. I’m pretty excited to try this one anyway. It is a 60g sample and the full size is 150g and retails for $29; you basically get a half-size so that’s great. 

Next! NuMe HydroPunch Hydrating Conditioner for dry or coloured hair; “Turn full and damaged hair into vibrant, healthy strands that you can’t help but twirl all day long.” It’s an exclusive product launch, I guess, so that’s neat. The smell is pretty strong and perfume-y. I’m pretty used to more natural shampoos and conditioners with more organic smells I think. I’m excited to try it anyway. I just got a NuMe curling wand as well because of their $100-off coupon. I don’t see the lauryl sulphate etc. in the ingredient list either which is a plus; it’s parabens and paraffins free. 

Last but not least! Full size item! The last item for me is Lip Treats by Méreadesso (you either got this or Lip Treats in a tinted colour). It is a full size product at 1.2g (.042oz) but it looks like it usually comes in a set of 2 for $28.00. I got it in clear, which I’m happy with because I’m usually picky with coloured glosses anyway. It feels really hydrating from first use. It apparently doubles as a primer for underneath lipstick as well and prevents waxy buildup. 

So that was my first ever GLYMM bag! I’m pretty satisfied. Apart from the colognes which were just an added 6th and 7th sample, I’m looking forward to trying all of the stuff I got. Mostly excited for the Caudalie scrub, trying out the Coola sunblock because I’m always looking for a great matte sunscreen, and I the Méreadesso lip balm. 

Stay tuned for my GlossyBox which should come later this month! 

topbox.ca: The Secret to Beauty

Lauren Conrad’s Top 10 Healthy-Looking Skin Tips

1. Don’t be a straw dog. Try not to use straws (and definitely do not smoke). Pursing your lips constantly will cause micro lines to become serious crevices. No thank you.
2. Sleep smart. Believe it or not, there is a right way and a wrong way to sleep (in terms of positioning at least). The wrong way: sleeping on your face or side. The right way: sleeping on your back (even the American Academy of Dermatology recommends this).
3. Slather the SPF. No surprises here: SPF is a must if you want smooth, youthful looking skin. While a tan might look good now, don’t forget who you will look like later…this!
4. Moisturize. Prevent cracks and keep your skin soft and supple by moisturizing your face (and body) twice a day.
5. Sleep clean. Always, always wash your face before bed. I cannot stress this enough. Never, ever sleep with makeup on.
6. Wear your sunnies! Not only are sunglasses a great style staple, they also protect the delicate skin around your eyes from harsh UV rays. Just make sure you buy sunnies that are polarized to ensure maximum protection. And the bigger, the better! (I definitely just gave you a wonderful excuse to go buy a new pair of sunglasses. So use it!)
7. Take your vitamins. Take a multi-vitamin every day and make sure you’re getting enough omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E.
8. Eat right. You are what you eat so be sure to make your diet vibrant and full of color. Do this by consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables everyday. This will keep your skin firm, hydrated and happy.
9. Drink up. You’re only 8 glasses away from happy skin…don’t forget your h2-ohhhs.
10. Smile! While science has yet to prove the direct link between wrinkles and stress, based on my experience the evidence is pretty clear. Stress manifests itself externally (and from what I’ve seen, wrinkles are a common symptom). Take a deep breath, exhale and smile!

That said, if you already have wrinkles—wear them proudly! I have little smile wrinkles. Most women my age would freak out, but to be honest, I kind of like them. As Lauren Hutton once said, “We have to be able to grow up. Our wrinkles are our medals of the passage of life.” Couldn’t have said it better myself…but it can’t hurt to make those “medals” a little less obvious before you join the half-century club. Right?

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