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Allure Beauty Swag Review – September 2018

Jessica Hapak
ByJessica HapakOct 29, 2018 | 29 comments

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Unopened Box Front

Allure Beauty Thrills has been rebranded to Beauty Swag with several Conde Nast magazines! The first box will be with Allure, second July box with Brides and third box with Glamour in September.

This is box was made in partnership with Glamour and is still available for purchase!

About This Box

The Box: September Beauty Swag Box

The Cost: $49.99 + $9.99 shipping

The Products: Various beauty products with a value over $250

Ships to: US

Allure Beauty Swag September 2018 Box Review

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Products Info Sheet Front

Here is the info sheet for the box.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Opened Box with Duchess Front

And here is Duchess deciding that she is a fan.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Belli Beauty 3 Step Face Faves Front

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Belli Beauty 3 Step Face Faves Box Open Top

Belli Beauty 3 Step Face Faves – Retail Value $5

This three piece set has a mini face wash, exfoliating scrub, and daily moisturizer. The main thing I noticed when using this set is that they smelled amazing! The scrub, while a bit abrasive thanks to the sugar scrub consistency, is made with peppermint essential oil that was incredibly refreshing. The anti-blemish face wash was very lightly scented thanks to the cucumber extract and lemon peel, and it was gentle without drying out my skin. The moisturizer was the real star, as the orange peel oil scent was prominent and I absolutely loved it. The moisturizer is on the thinner, runnier end, so this definitely isn’t your deep-moisture night cream. I was happy with the gentle hydration that was perfect for my morning face.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Chapstick Total Hydration Oil Front Beauty Swag September 2018 - Chapstick Total Hydration Oil Back

Chapstick Total Hydration Vitamin Enriched Tinted Lip Oil in Sheer Plum, Full-Size! Retail Value $6.99

I really love lip oils, especially since I seem to have chronically chapped lips. This went on a bit thick but felt very hydrating and soothing, and I liked the sheer purple tint of the sheer plum color.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Swag Selfie

Here I am wearing it on a no-makeup day before running a quick errand.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Dove Flexible Hold Hairspray Front

Dove Style+Care Flexible Hold Compressed Hair Spray, 5.5 oz – Retail Value $4.89

This hairspray provided a light hold that didn’t leave my hair crunchy, and I think it added a bit of shininess too. I don’t use hairspray often, but I prefer the flexible hold sprays like this one when I do because it’s kinder to my hair.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Charcoal & Probiotics Cleansing Clay Mask Front

Freeman Beauty Infusion Charcoal + Probiotics Clay Mask, 4 oz – Retail Value $6.99

Freeman masks were my first real introduction to face masks when I was a teenager because the drugstore sold them in single-use foil packets! I usually reach for charcoal when I am fighting a breakout, and I liked that this mask didn’t dry out my skin. This gave my skin that deep-clean feeling without making me feel like I needed to bathe it in oil to restore moisture, something other charcoal masks can do to me.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Found Coconut Sheet Mask Front

Found Coconut Sheet Mask – Retail Value $2.50

I have tried this before and I find it to be a light and refreshing pick-me-up for my skin. This is a good choice for sensitive skin because the coconut water and chamomile extract make it gentle and soothing.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - The Grandpa Soap Co Rose Clay Soap Top Beauty Swag September 2018 - The Grandpa Soap Co Rose Clay Soap Open Top

The Grandpa Soap Co Rose Clay Soap, 4.25 oz – Retail Value $4.99

This soap is made with rose and rosemary to help oily and combination skin. What it really does, however, is make SO. MANY. BUBBLES. I swiped the bar over my loofah a few times and then went to cleaning, and the bubbles just kept coming. I covered every piece of skin I could reach with bubbles. There were enough bubbles after to make a Santa beard- which I did because this is safe for both face and body. I bet if I ran this under running water I would have a bubble bath in no time. The rosemary and rose scent was quite pleasant as well.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Hawaiian Sea Salt Dry Texturizing Spray Front

Hask Hawaiian Sea Salt Dry Texture Spray, 5 oz – Retail Value $7.99

I don’t use texture sprays in my hair so I passed this along to a friend to try for me. She said it was lightweight but still helped provide volume, and that she was able to build up the texture depending on her mood.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Invisibobble POWER The Strong Grip Hair Ring Front Beauty Swag September 2018 - Invisibobble POWER The Strong Grip Hair Ring Open Top

Invisibobble Power The Strong Grip Hair Ring in Brown - Retail Value $8.95

The info sheet said I would receive the slim rings in clear rather than the power in brown, but I am actually way happier to have the power due to my thick, curly hair. I love invisibobbles! Many people love them because they won’t leave creases in your hair, but I love how my hair doesn’t tangle around them! They are more expensive than your standard hair tie, but they also don’t stretch out the same way—and if yours do just zap it with a blow dryer for a few seconds!

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Jordana TRIPLE PLAY ALL OVER COLOR Front Beauty Swag September 2018 - Jordana TRIPLE PLAY ALL OVER COLOR Open Front

Jordana Triple Play All Over Color in Nude Peach, Full-Size! Retail Value $4.99

This 3-1 stick can be used on your eyes, lips, and cheeks, and I found it to be creamy and blendable. This is great for multitasking, but I would caution against using it on your eyes after using it on your lips to prevent any bacteria from transferring. Swatched below.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Juice PHYTO-PIGMENTS CREAM SHADOW STICK Top Beauty Swag September 2018 - Juice PHYTO-PIGMENTS CREAM SHADOW STICK Open Top

Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Cream Shadow Stick in Fog, Full-Size! Retail Value $22

I want to love these Juice Beauty cream shadow sticks because the formula is creamy and I enjoy the shimmers in the shades, but they just seriously lack pigmentation and the application is a bit patchy. Swatched below.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Maui Moisture Color Shield Mist Front

Maui Moisture Color Protection + Sea Mineral Heat Shield Mist, 4.2 – Retail Value $8.99

I love Maui Moisture- I think they are a really underrated drugstore brand. This spray is designed to protect colored hair from fading while protecting your strands from heat styling, and it is made with great ingredients likes coconut oil and aloe extract. It also smells like the beach!

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Nubian Heritage Indian Deodorant Front

Nubian Heritage Indian Hemp & Haitian Vetiver 24-Hour Deodorant, 2.25 oz – Retail Value $8.99

I am not typically one to use a natural deodorant, but I have been swiping this on at night and I have been enjoying both the scent and the light hydration it provides to my delicate underarms. When using this I don't feel the rush to put deodorant on asap when I wake up, which is nice.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Orlando Pita Play Highly Coveted Dry Shampoo Front

Orlando Pita Play Highly Coveted Dry Shampoo, 5.8 oz – Retail Value $20

This dry shampoo smells great and also did a good job of absorbing oil at my roots! This is formulated with acai and passion fruit seed oils, and I liked that it absorbed oils without leaving my hair feeling dry.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Body Lotion Front

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Daily Skin Therapy Body Lotion, 8.5 oz – Retail Value $5.50

I have so many scented lotions and potions laying around my apartment that it was nice to have this unscented cocoa butter lotion on hand. This does have the natural cocoa butter scent, and it provided some deep hydration to some seriously dry skin I had on my arms and legs.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Pinch Matte Velvet Waterless Lip Colour Top Beauty Swag September 2018 - Pinch Matte Velvet Waterless Lip Colour Open Front

Pinch of Color Matte Velvet Waterless Lip Colour in Stella, Full-Size! Retail Value $24

I am not sure what the benefit is of this lip color being waterless- the end result for me was lipstick that tugged and pulled as I applied, and I found this to be more drying than I expected considering it is made with rosehip oil and jojoba oil.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Swatch Front

Here it is swatched above the Juice Beauty shadow stick and the Jordana stick.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Simply Summer’s Eve Cleansing Cloths Box Front Beauty Swag September 2018 - Simply Summer’s Eve Cleansing Cloths Box Open Top

Simply Summer’s Eve Lavender Chamomile Cleansing Cloths, Box of 14 – Retail Value $4.99

I normally stay away from anything scented when it comes to my lady bits, but I didn’t realize how useful these were until I really needed them. They were non-irritating on my sensitive skin and helped me to feel refreshed. I like the individual packaging means I can keep a few in my purse for some “you never know” moments. If you are looking for a Summer’s Eve product to try to get your free Boxycharm, I would recommend checking these out!

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Beauty Swag Skin & CO Truffle Cleansing Cream Front

Skin & CO Truffle Therapy Whipped Cleansing Cream, 1 oz – Retail Value $10

This whipped cleansing cream has a lovely light texture, and it is formulated with truffle extract and sweet almond oil for added hydration while it cleanses. This is incredibly gentle and would be great for sensitive skin.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - SKIN&CO Truffle Therapy Face Toner Front

SKIN&CO Truffle Therapy Face Toner, 1 oz – Retail Value $8

Honesty, I really love the Skin & Co truffle line, and I recommend it to all of my sensitive skin friends. This toner may be their signature product from their line—I even own it in the full-size version when I had a $25 gift card to spend from the Skin & Co Discovery box! This toner is both incredibly gentle while gently cleansing and hydrating. If you have very sensitive skin and are looking for a toner, I think you would be very happy with this. Even if you don’t have sensitive skin, this is still a great toner!

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Tom’s of Maine Mouthwash Front

Tom’s of Maine Whole Care Mouthwash, 16 oz – Retail Value $5.49

Right before getting this box I actually purchased a Tom’s of Maine toothpaste because I had a coupon, so I was happy to try the mouthwash! Mouthwash is not a part of my daily routine, mostly because of the burning I feel while I swish. I was pleasantly surprised that this mouthwash didn't burn! There was a slight tingling, but I was able to swish for the 60 seconds with no problems. This does have fluoride (not an issue for me but it is for some) and has no artificial dyes, sweeteners, or preservatives. If you prefer to support brands that focus on sustainability and the environment, I strongly recommend reading about Tom’s of Maine stewardship, too!

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Zoya Nail Polish in Violet Box Front Beauty Swag September 2018 - Zoya Nail Polish in Violet Front

Zoya Nail Polish in Violet, Full-Size! Retail Value $6

Violet is a dusty purple crème, and if you read my Zoya review you know that I think Zoya crème polishes are essentially perfect. I was a bit surprised to see the retail value of this was $6, as other polishes are usually $10. That being said, this was two effortless coats and I did seal with a top coat to have maximum shine and longevity.

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Bamboo Green Tea Cleansing Conditioner Front Beauty Swag September 2018 - Fall Ginger Pumpkin Cleansing Conditioner Front Beauty Swag September 2018 - Pumps Top

Wen by Chaz Dean Bamboo Green Tea Cleansing Conditioner, 16 oz – Retail Value $40

Wen by Chaz Dean Fall Ginger Pumpkin Cleansing Conditioner, 16 oz – Retail Value $40

Look, I will preface this by saying that while I know as a reviewer I need to do my best to be impartial, I came in with some bias against trying these products due to the lawsuits. This is a controversial product, and honestly, Allure didn’t need to include TWO of them. That being said, this actually works really well for my hair. I use about ten pumps and spread it around the shaft and ends (staying away from the roots, just to be safe) and it hydrates my hair and makes combing through it easier. I have noticed that my hair is shinier, too, when this is the only new hair care product I have used. The ginger pumpkin scent is a spicy pumpkin spice that I enjoy, while the bamboo green tea is much more mild in scent. Two pumps were also included, and I will actually most likely stick with this cleansing conditioner- at least until a subscription box sends me a new one to try!

Beauty Swag September 2018 - Wen Saw-Cut Shower Comb Top

Wen by Chaz Dean Saw-Cut Shower Comb – Retail Value $15

The best way to keep my curls tangle-free is to run a comb through my hair while it is wet (I always use a detangling wet brush in the shower as my first step). The wide tooth comb part of this is perfect for my curls, and when I am done I usually make sure I didn’t miss any knots by using the fine-tooth side. It’s a solid comb that I definitely would not have paid $15 for, but I am happy to receive it in this box.

The Verdict: This felt like a drugstore shoppers dream box - most of the items can be found at Target or Walmart, with a few higher-end brands thrown in for good measure. I was impressed with the number of full-size items included in this box- I think just the Skin & Co items and the Belli Beauty set are the only items that weren’t full-size. Allure promised a value of $250, and by my math, the total box value is $272.25. I think that is a good deal, but keep in mind that $95 of that value is in the three Wen products. If you already love Wen haircare products, this box is worth it. If you need to stock up on everyday beauty products, I think this box is a good way to do it. If you get more than 3 or so subscription boxes a month, this box probably won't please you- but that's okay too!

The Wrap Up:

Can you get this box if you sign up today? Yes, this box is still available.

Value Breakdown: This box costs $59.98 ($49.99 + $9.99 shipping) and I calculated a total value of $272.25. That means you are paying approximately the following per item:

  • Belli Beauty: $1.10
  • Chapstick: $1.54
  • Dove: $1.07
  • Freeman Beauty: $1.54
  • Found Mask: $0.55
  • Rose Soap: $1.10
  • Hask: $1.76
  • Invisibobble: $1.97
  • Jordana: $1.10
  • Juice Beauty: $4.85
  • Maui Moisture: $1.98
  • Nubian Heritage: $1.98
  • Orlando Pita: $4.40
  • Palmer’s: $1.21
  • Pinch of Color: $5.28
  • Summer’s Eve: $1.10
  • Skin & Co Cleanser: $2.20
  • Skin & Co Toner: $1.76
  • Tom’s of Maine: $1.21
  • Zoya: $1.32
  • Wen Bamboo: $8.81
  • Wen Ginger Pumpkin: $8.81
  • Wen Comb: $3.30

What do you think of the Allure Beauty Swag September Box?

FYI - this box is separate from Allure's monthly subscription box - check out our Allure Beauty Box reviews for more info.

Are you going to grab a box? Want to see it reviewed?

Jessica Hapak
Jessica Hapak
I am a staunch believer that pineapple doesn’t belong on pizza and when I’m not working as a family law attorney I enjoy hiking the Louisiana trails (alligator sightings are a favorite!) or relaxing with Duchess, my cat. I’m a sucker for anything labeled a mystery box and I’ve never met a bath bomb I didn’t like.

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29 comments

Emily

I was curious about 2019 having one, but after looking at the products included in the last of the 2018 ones, I wouldn’t buy. I’m shocked they included WEN hair products when Allure has written articles about lawsuits and recalls for products by this company for causing hair loss in users.

Other stuff would just be excess products I don’t need.

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LR

Any Swag box for 2019?
-Laura

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Sarah

Did you pay for this yourself or was it sent to you? Usually MSA says that in the beginning of a review but I don’t see where it says that either way here?

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Jessica Hapak

Hi Sarah.
My mistake. MSA paid for this box.
Thanks!

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Sarah

Okay thank you for answering! In your opinion, if you had to pay for it yourself would it have been worth it? It seems a little underwhelming to me, in the past these were so great but it feels less imtpressive now. But if you had to pay the full price would it be worth it to you or nah? Just curious, I like hearing that from reviewers that have actually tried it and not just people that saw it online like me lol

trace

So disappointed. This box used to be the bomb. Now it is just a bomb. Like someone else said, “it’s looks like a mystery box”. Maybe it should have been. There is no way I’d purchase this after seeing it.

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Julie

$50 box and it’s thrown together like a daily deal mystery box. I expect just the tiniest bit of care considering how pretty the allure boxes arrive. Unless you want wen products I expect more from a company than what looks like the dumping of a cvs clearance bin into the mail.

Thank you for trying and reviewing all the products in the box since I know there were quite a lot and most of it wasn’t very exciting.

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Taren

It’s actually $60 a box with shipping. That makes it even more disappointing in my opinion!

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JMM

I’m impressed with your skills if you can get an Invisibobble out of your hair! My hair is a step less curly than yours and I tried those things once and after the struggle to get it out – never again!

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Jacki

I have waist length curly hair. I prefer the stronger invisibobble because of the weight of my hair. I’ve found that stretching the band slightly while removing releases the hair.

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Jb

Oh I thought I was the only one who dislikes Invisibobbles! I have straight hair and the times I’ve used one I struggle like crazy when I take it out. I thought I must be doing something wrong.

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Elena

Me too – I have very curly hair and I hate the invissibobble – tangles my hair AND leaves dents 🙁 Only thick velvet scrunchies work for me.

Jody

My boxes always look like that photo. Amazingly never had a problem with the products. Very strange indeed.

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Karen

Jessica, thanks for a great review. I think your assessment of who likely will and will not appreciate this box is spot on. Thank you for your truly honest (not overly glowing but not debbie downer) review. It was PERFECT and gave me (and presumably every other reader) a real and accurate sense for this box.

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Jessica Hapak

Awh, thanks Karen! That is what I aim to do!

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Onyx

The lack of packaging is concerning, it looks like they just threw everything into a box. If any of that had leaked you’d have a big mess on your hands.

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Ks

I received items packaged like that with no problems and items overpackaged that have spilled. Overpqckaging is a huge environmental issue so if their minimal approach worked, what’s the problem?

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Juliet

I actually cringed when I saw that photo. The idea of them just throwing everything into a box without bubble wrap…with so many liquid products! I wonder how many people had a mess once it arrived.

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Regina

Nice assortment, but I second the thought on packing. Looks like a few things had to be put back together on arrival. More care should be put into that.

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Karen

I agree. That was my first thought too!

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sparklezglam

Both of my Wen got dented…lol thank goodness it didnt leak.Good box tho.

Cindy

This box used to be so spectacular when it first debuted. This time the only thing I want is the polish, so I can’t justify it even to my subscription-addicted self.

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Dea

Thank you Jessica for the tip on restoring Invisibobbles – now I know how to extend their service! My hair is thick and they corral it nicely. And thank you for the lovely photo of Duchess. I love “cow spot” cats.

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Bonnie

I’m gonna buy this, and I hope I get the brown power invisibobbles too.

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Megan

You got some pretty nice things.

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