Subscription box review- Birchbox vs IPSY

I know these reviews are OVER done, but I still enjoy reading (and watching) them.  I've said in the past that Birchbox reignited my love for make-up. Finding the make-up/beauty blogger community has sort of been like coming home! There are other make-up nuts out there also?! Its been so fun to experiment and see whats new.

This month marks my twenty-second Birchbox. I feel like I've been with them long enough to understand the concept, I've faithfully done reviews, and fine tuned my profile- but my boxes have gotten worse and worse. I'm just not seeing the value in the boxes and I haven't found a single holy grail item in about nine months. This was the heritage box celebrating Birchbox three years in business. Really? This was the best they could do?! Major disappointment.

Beauty Protector Shampoo & Conditioner- Smells nice and works just like a drugstore shampoo.

Ruffian Nail Polish | Fox Hunt- I didn't try this because I didn't care for the metallic rust color- It seemed very 90s to me.

Juice Beauty | Green Apple Peel- I got this in a Haute Beauty Bag and it is a great product.  Very good for sensitive skin.  If you are careful you will have enough for two applications. 

Soak Laundry Detergent for Delicates- This tiny small foil packet is meant to be used in a sink. This product does not need to be rinsed after washing. I didn't try this.

Birchbox is $10 a month (shipped) and gets you a delivery of high-end beauty, grooming and lifestyle samples customized for you. I haven't received a make-up sample in four months, but they do have them. If you prefer make-up over skin care and shampoo/ conditioner I wouldn't recommend Birchbox.

This is my fourth IPSY bag and they just keep getting better and better! I think this is a better fit for me because I love to try new makeup brands and skin care.  IPSY never disappoints with make-up and every month when my IPSY bag arrives,  I get that excited feeling inside! This month I was over the moon to see the paper masks in my bag- I've been wanting to try paper mask for quite awhile!

Starlooks Kohl eye pencil | Obsidian- Very creamy with moderate staying power. I didn't notice any pulling or skipping when I applied it.

NYX Eye Shadow | Rock- I love NYX eye shadows. They are very affordable and have good pigment. You do need to use a base and anticipate a little fallout. I actually think the best way to apply NYX shadows is with your index finger.

Cailyn Cosmetics Tinted Lip Balm | Big Apple- This tinted lip balm comes with a built in brush and applies like a dream. This is part stain | part lip balm very long lasting and works great as a base. I can't wait to try other colors.

Elizabeth Mott | It's so Big Volumizing Mascara- This is my new holy grail mascara. The mascara is light enough to hold a curl, but gives you major volume. The thing I like best is how soft it leaves my lashes even after multiple coats. Love it!!

Freeman Beauty | Facial Paper Mask- I tried the blue agave hydrating mask and was so pleased with the way it left my skin.  I will be purchasing it again as it is a great way to hydrate the skin between facials.

Subscribe to the IPSY Glam Bag and you get 4-5 beauty products every month delivered to your door, for just $10. You build a profile with them to ensure you get products suited to you. I've enjoyed every bag I've gotten so far and can't wait to see what October brings.  * The link above is an affiliate link, but it should help you pass the wait list!

Which do you prefer? I didn't think I would ever stopped being a Birchbox fan, but my boxes are such disappointments I rarely even open them. I have two more months on my subscription so hopefully Birchbox turns it around- if not I will be an IPSY girl!