I have been receiving Birchbox and Ipsy for almost a year now, so I decided to show you what I received in both January editions and do a review of both of them and let you know which one was my favorite.
Birchbox
Contents:
1. Eyeko Fat Liquid Eyeliner
2. Whish Three Whishes Body Butter
2. Real Chemistry Luminous 3 Minute Peel
3. Jouer Matte Moisture Tent
5. Beauty Protector Protect & Detangle
Each month you receive a decorative box (usually decorated like the theme) with five samples. January’s Birchbox was all about 2016 and resolutions. It came with stickers that you can place on the top of your box on what you plan on working on throughout the year. I’m still trying to figure out which one to put on mine. I’m thinking maybe creativity or strength. Or maybe both!
Each month, Birchbox gives you the option to choose a curated box with a special theme, or the normal monthly box. A few months ago, the special box was curated by Nicole Richie! They also let you have a choice of one sample in your box, but you have to act quickly because they go fast!
If you really like one of your samples, you can buy the full size product directly from their website. You can also choose a subscription where you get a full size product each month at an extra cost. If you review your box each month, you can earn points towards free products.
Interested in trying Birchbox? Click HERE!
Ipsy
Contents:
- theBalm Cosmetics Mr. Write (Now) Eyeliner
- Beau Gachis Paris Smudge Brush
- OFRA Cosmetics Universal Eyebrow Pencil
- Lasting Smiles Lip Balm in Peppermint Creme
- City Color Cosmetics Eyeshadow Trio in Falling Leaves
Every month, your five samples come in a makeup bag printed with the months theme. January’s Ipsy bag theme was “All Eyes On You”. A lot of products in this months bag were eyeliners, eyeshadows, brushes, etc. I know I’m saying samples, but a lot of times, Ipsy will give you full size eyeliners, lipsticks or nail polishes!
If you review your Ipsy bag each month, you can earn points towards free products. Ipsy also gives you great deals on full size products. Last week I got an eyeshadow Palette from theBalm for only $20 (normally $36)!
Interested in trying Ipsy? Click HERE!
Verdict
Overall, both offer the same thing: 5 samples in a box/bag once a month at $10 a month. It seems like Birchbox is more towards skincare and hair products. I usually only get 1 makeup or nail polish sample a month from them, whereas with Ipsy I get mostly makeup samples and one skincare product. Both send name brand, high quality samples, that I really love!
But if I did have to choose one, I would have to pick Ipsy, but only because I’m more into makeup than skincare products (I have products that I like to stick with). Ipsy also offers better deals on full size products, whereas Birchbox full size products are usually just the normal price. I also love that Ipsy sends a lot of full size products, and Birchbox is only sample sized.
Another thing I like about Ipsy is that the samples come in a makeup bag that I will most likely be able to use again. The boxes from Birchbox are super cute, but I’m running out of ideas on how to reuse them! Let me know in the comments how you reuse yours, I need help!
Do you prefer Birchbox or Ipsy? Let me know, and don’t forget to subscribe!
XoXo Valerie
styledmuse.com 