my first ipsy: first impressions

Recently, I've subscribed to Ipsy to receive a "glam bag" every month. Basically, you pay $10 a month, or one payment of $110 for a year's subscription, and Ipsy sends you five products per month based on a beauty quiz that you take when you sign up. This isn't my first time at the beauty subscription box rodeo, as my two best friends gifted me a Birchbox subscription a few years ago for my birthday!

I subscribed to Ipsy to try something new, and I have heard that the samples are bigger in size. However, I did love my Birchbox subscription. The samples were relatively small, some full sized, but they were all luxury brands that I probably wouldn't have tried had I not received them in my box! They were great for use while traveling, too. However, I love Birchbox's branding slightly more than Ipsy's. It is a lot cleaner and modern. (Sorry, it's the Comm major in me.)

How Ipsy compares to Birchbox

Cost | Both boxes $10 per month, shipping included.

Items | With both boxes, you receive 5 samples a month. Ipsy also gives you a makeup bag every month.

Trading | Ipsy has an open forum for subscribers to trade products that they don't want. To my knowledge, Birchbox does not offer that service.

Points system | Birchbox has a better points system - if you review the products you receive, you earn Birchbox points and can put those points towards your purchase in their online Birchbox store. Ipsy implements the same points system, but you must share your feedback on Facebook. Personally, I don't like to clutter up my friend's timelines, so I have skipped the sharing part.

Buying products | Ipsy allows you to receive discounts on the brand's website. Birchbox has their own online store and offers discounts along with your Birchbox points.

my september Ipsy glam bag

makeup bag | I'm not one for studs, but oh well. Beggars can't be choosers. This might be given to a friend who will like it.

pacifica natural waterproof eye pencil | I don't wear eyeliner, but the formula and the color on this one seems nice! It is a silver/gunmetal color, so I might save it for a special occasion.

be a bombshell smooth criminal powder | This sample is really nice, and not something I would typically purchase. It is definitely a premium sample that will last many uses. This powder helps smooth fine lines and imperfections while also keeping your your skin matte. I would liken it to the BareMinerals mineral veil.

briogeo don't despair, repair! deep conditioning mask | I really like this! I've been into deep conditioners lately, because I have been highlighting my hair for a few years, and I know I have some damage. This one smells lovely, and makes my hair feel stronger after one use. It didn't really help with detangling my hair, but otherwise it did its job!

cailyn art touch tinted lip gloss | I love the formula of this lipgloss because it is not sticky or tacky at all. The color is a bit orange for my skin tone, but if I layer it over chap stick the color becomes more muted. Also, the "sample" is a full size, so I feel like I'm getting my money's worth!

harvey prince hello fragrance | I saved the best for last. Just when I thought I found my signature scent... this sample came along. Let me point out that the sample is a very nice size, not like the small 3-4 use spray containers that you can get for free at department stores. This is a small rollerball that will last me many uses, and is the perfect size to slip in my purse. The fragrance is heavenly. Lightweight, sweet smelling, long lasting, and warm. I was hesitant to try this, as I received a sample of the Harvey Prince "Skinny Chic" fragrance in a Birchbox and did not like it. However, with "Hello," Harvey Prince has redeemed themselves! Love. I'm considering buying another rollerball once I'm done with the sample.

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with my Ipsy glam bag this month! I will definitely keep you posted on future bags and fun beauty finds.