Editor's Note: Last month, we incorrectly labeled the Cocotique "Summer Essentials Box" as the July box. We have fixed those errors and this is the correct review for the July box. Apologies for the confusion!
Cocotique is a monthly subscription box delivering beauty and lifestyle products for women of color. For $25 per month, you receive a curated box of 5-8 full-size or deluxe sample-sized products ranging from hair care, skincare, nails, fragrance, makeup, lifestyle products, and more.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
First Impressions
This month’s edition is the ‘Ivy Beauty Takeover’ box. The first thing I noticed about this box was that it included a hat. I love it when subscriptions include a lifestyle product, and this selection in particular is perfect for the season.
The contents of the box arrived protected by bubble wrap.
The back of the Cocotique info card describes all the products included in this month’s box. It also provides information on where to purchase the products online and exclusive discount codes where available.
Now, on to the items!
V-LUXE Extended - Bond and Seal, 4.5 g - Retail Value $9.99
V-LUXE Extended - Overnighter, 5.2 g - Retail Value $9.99
V-LUXE Extended - Applicator - Retail Value $5.99
V-LUXE Extended - Remover, 50 ml - Retail Value $7.99
V-LUXE Extended - Real Mink 03 - Retail Value $9.99
V-LUXE Extended - Faux Mink 05 - Retail Value $8.79
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Wow, this is a full at-home lash extension kit from V-Luxe Extended. It’s got you covered, from the applicator, to two different types of bonding glue, two different types of lash extensions, and finally the bonding glue remover. Personally, I am not brave enough or coordinated enough (shaky hands) to attempt such a feat on my own. I am one of those poor, unfortunate souls who needs to go to a technician whenever I need a set of lash extensions; and even then, I have a habit of squeezing my eyes closed too tightly that sometimes the lids end up getting glued shut. However, if you happen to love falsies, you are going to love this complete set. This gives you everything you need for a fun, flirty summer look.
KISS NEW YORK PROFESSIONAL Instant Brow Stamp and Stencil Kit, 2.4 g - Retail Value $5.99
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I love the brand Kiss, and this product is new to me, so I was super pumped to give it a try. This Instant Brow Stamp and Stencil Kit is everything you need to get your eyebrows on fleek. This kit comes with two pairs of brow stencils, along with the powder and a small spoolie. I thought it was pretty cool how versatile this powder is since it can also be used to fill in thin beard or hair patches. I’ve actually been blessed with a set of pretty full brows, so I don’t have to pencil in much when it comes to everyday life. The color was a good match for my eyebrows, and using the stencils gave them a full, thick look that would be great on camera or while in a full glam mode.
KISS NEW YORK PROFESSIONAL Tea Tree Oil Control Moisturizer, 100 ml - Retail Value $6.99
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I have pretty oily skin, particularly when it comes to my t-zone, and especially in the summer, I tend to be all aglow. Anything that helps to control oil and keep my face looking more matte during any summer excursions is something I’m always down to try. My skin also tends to be a bit sensitive, so tea tree oil can sometimes cause irritation, but when I did a patch test with this Tea Tree Oil Control Moisturizer from Kiss, I’m happy to say there was no irritation whatsoever. The scent was a bit strong for me, though, but overall, I like this quite a bit, and it does seem to work well to minimize the oily appearance of my face.
RED BY KISS Styler Fixer Extreme Hold, 177 ml - Retail Value $7.99
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This Style Fixer Braiding Gel Extreme Hold from Red by Kiss is awesome stuff. I’ve never had the opportunity to try this particular product before, but I’ve used the brand’s edge gel, so I was quite intrigued. I usually have my hair in a protective style during the summer, so this comes in handy for that. This type of extreme hold product also works well to keep the divided sections of my hair neat when braiding. I appreciate that it doesn’t have much of a sticky texture but provides a good hold without any flaky residue. I’m not a huge fan of scented products, but I have to say, I love the delicious smell of this product; very reminiscent of a tropical fruit punch I used to have back in the day.
RED BY KISS Styler Fixer Foam Mousse, 260 ml - Retail Value $4.99
This Style Fixer Foam Mousse is another solid product from Red by Kiss, and I’m thrilled to have it in my hair care arsenal. I like using mousse over my box braids to keep them looking their best, especially when I first get them put in. Plus, the mousse works great with both my natural hair and the extensions braided in, so it’s a win-win. The product provides superior hold and doesn’t leave behind any flakes or residue, which I appreciate. I also am a huge fan of this new blue packaging.
RED BY KISS x KEYSHIA COLE Satin Lined Baseball Cap - Retail Value $8.99
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I am absolutely loving the vibe of this ‘Red’ line as well as the featured Keyshia Cole products. This Satin Lined Baseball Cap is exactly what it sounds like; a baseball cap with interior satin lining. The satin is hugely helpful when it comes to keeping my hair fresh. I appreciate the basic yet stylish look, and I really love the color. The sizing is adjustable, which is nice, but I noticed that it’s still slightly large on my head. I’m thrilled to have this baseball cap on hand especially with thick, curly hair like mine.
Verdict
This was a good month for Cocotique! The highlight for me was the Red by Kiss x Keyshia Cole baseball cap. The satin lining is a major plus, and it keeps my hair fresh. For those with protective styles, both the mousse and the braiding gel could be new go-tos for when it comes to stocking up your hair care arsenal. The eyebrow stamp is a really inventive product and one that I’ll definitely be keeping on hand for the next time I want to pull a full glam look. I appreciate the inclusion of the tea tree oil control moisturizer; although the scent is a bit powerful, the fact that the tea tree didn’t cause me any irritation is a huge bonus. Lastly, the V-Luxe Extended eyelash extension kit… While I personally may not get much use out of this, anyone who’s looking to do at-home lash extensions will have a blast with this kit since it includes everything you’ll need from start to finish. Overall, I thought this was a good box! The product list featured unique curations and solid variation, and the value is there.
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Value – Was This Box Worth It?
The Cost: $30.99
Value Breakdown:
- Eyelash Kit: $52.74
- Brow Stamp: $5.99
- Moisturizer: $6.99
- Extreme Hold: $7.99
- Mousse: $4.99
- Baseball Cap: $8.99
The total value of my box was $87.69, which is a good value for a $30.99 box.
Other Things You Should Know
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Do you have a favorite item from this month's Cocotique?
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