Ipsy Review: January 2013

Aaaaaaand I am back together with Ipsy after cancelling them back in October for no serious reason. This is a great service but I simply didn’t need any more makeup at that time (yeah I’m one of those crazy people who don’t want too much makeup haha). However after checking the spoiler with January bag contents I felt like I should give it a shot, especially since I’ve always wanted to try Josie Maran’s Pure Argan Oil.

The signature pink envelope came on the same day as I got my tracking info so I didn’t have to nervously spam refresh button on USPS website like I often do with most of my subscriptions. After thoroughly inspecting the bag’s contents I decided that I’m a happy camper after all and will enjoy using all of the received products.

The theme of this month is “Super Stars” and our goodies come in a nice indigo aka night sky colored bag with bright white stars and an Ipsy logo on the inside. The bag is considerably taller and wider than usual and it barely fit in the pink envelope they’re mailed in. The quality is pretty good, although the stitching of the Ipsy logo is a bit uneven but who cares, it’s cute anyway!

About Ipsy:
Each month subscribers will receive a new Glam Bag with deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products customized according to your beauty profile. Members can watch and play along with the stylists with the same products that they are using, all for only $10 a month. 
If you would like to use my referral link click here to join Ipsy. Thank you!

SOHO “Get a Grip” Concealer Brush
Soho brushes are not the best brushes out there but having an extra is always a good thing. The synthetic bristles feel nice and soft, and the brush was thick enough to deposit “just the right amount of concealer” as they advertise on the website. I like the slightly angled cut on one end for better smudginess.
Special offer: $3 off any SOHO brushes at Walgreens.com

Nailtini Straight Up Color Nail Lacquer in Frappe 
This is my first experience with Nailtini polishes because I wasn’t a subscriber when they were sent out previously. Most people seemed to like them so I was excited to try it out. Frappe is described as a sheer pale pink but it looked more like nude ivory pink to me. The picture on Nailtini’s website does not look like the actual color in person and I will update this review with swatches in the next day or two.
Special offer: Receive 30% off your purchase at tinibeauty.com by using the code ipsystar at checkout.

Update: Here’s the promised swatch! The polish is very watery and VERY sheer. It’s a bit streaky but nothing three coats can’t fix. And please ignore the broken nail on my middle finger 🙂

Pacifica Tuscan Blood Orange Mini Body Butter
This body butter smells sooo delicious, it reminded me of the red flower Blood Orange mini-candle I received in my December Yuzen box. Those two will make a great duo next time I decide to have some me time. I used just a dab to see if I like it and was pretty satisfied with the formula. This butter seems to be non-greasy and absorbs fairly fast leaving a slight trace of fragrance on the skin.
Special offer: Receive 20% off your purchase at pacificaperfume.com by using the code beauty20 at checkout.

Big Sexy Hair Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray
I rarely use hair spray so this sample will probably last me forever. I only use it for complicated updos so I probably won’t get to test it anytime soon. I do have a wedding to attend in May so that’s when I’ll give it a try most likely.
Special offer: Receive $5 off your purchase of $25 or more of Sexy Hair products at ulta.com by using the code 70950 at checkout.

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil
This product is truly legendary, Josie Maran’s 100% Pure Argan oil can be used as a cleanser, moisturizer, cuticle, skin and hair treatment and added to your favorite beauty products for extra benefits. The sample came in a super convenient purse-perfect size – 5ml bottle, but I’m actually going to keep it on my night table to nourish my cuticles and split ends before going to bed.
Special offer: Receive 15% off your purchase of $45 or more at josiemarancosmetics.com/ipsy using the code IPSY15 at checkout. Offer not valid on Josie’s Giveback collection and Good Buys selections.