Ipsy is a monthly beauty and makeup subscription box. For $14 per month, you get five full-sized or deluxe-sized products, plus a cute makeup bag.
This is one of our top recommendations if you are looking for a subscription box — the value and sample sizes are amazing. Just like Birchbox, Ipsy sends out many different variations of their bag each month — so my review is just one of the bag variations you might receive!
My Subscription Addiction pays for this subscription. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes).
First Impressions
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Each month, Ipsy subscribers get a makeup bag in addition to their items. This month’s theme is ‘‘Glow Your Soul.’’ The chosen makeup bag for this month is giving me some major mermaid vibes, and I’m a big fan. Instead of Christmas in July, it’s like summer in winter; how fun!
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Included is a product card that features a list of the products and beauty tips.
Now, on to the items!
SUTRA Heat Guard Leave-In Cream, 30 ml - Estimated Value $3.43
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This Sutra Heat Guard Leave-In Cream is a game-changer for anyone looking to maintain healthy hair while using heat styling tools. While this isn’t the type of product I personally reach for on a daily basis, it does come in handy on the occasion when I have my thick, curly hair straightened. With a formula infused with hyaluronic acid, this cream works to hydrate each strand while styling it, reducing the risk of burning the hair. Plus, it doesn’t contain any sulfates, parabens, or phthalates, which further adds to my confidence in the cream itself. Chemically-treated or dyed hair? No problem. This product is considered ‘safe’ for all kinds of hair while keeping it nourished and protected. The application process is simple and the cream doesn’t leave behind any residue. I’ve also noticed less frizz, making it a win-win.
LASH STEP Mascara in Rebel, 12 ml - Retail Value $18.00
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Okay, first things first: the packaging of this Lash Step Mascara in Rebel could not be more attractive. I seriously love the unique, eye-catching design. The mascara itself offers a bold enhancement to my lashes, adding the perfect amount of volume and length without any sign of clumping. I’m thrilled with the formula, which has so far lived up to its claims for a smudge-proof, long-lasting application. Now, the shade ‘Rebel,’ surprised me; it’s a lovely purple shade that honestly could pass for black unless someone gets real up close and personal. I appreciate the brush design of this mascara as it allows for precise application and an even coating, fully separating each lash. It’s become a fast favorite in my everyday makeup routine, delivering the perfect combo of drama and definition. Overall, the formula is buildable, which makes creating an amped up look or a toned down one as simple as can be; perfect for a day at the office or a night out with the girls.
YC COLLECTION Island Eyeliner in El Yunque, 0.25 g - Retail Value $20.00
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Now, here’s a product you’ll reach for whenever you want to make a statement. The shade ‘El Yunque’ is a truly stunning emerald green. A refreshing change from the usual black eyeliner I wear on a daily basis, this Island Eyeliner from YC Collection offers a pop of color that’s bold but versatile. It’s not something I’d wear every day, but it’s perfect for those times when a more dramatic look is in order. Application is a breeze, with the eyeliner gliding on smoothly without any pulling or tugging of my delicate eyelids. I’ve also found it to be quite long-lasting, ensuring a flawless look all night long. Overall, it’s a truly lovely addition to my makeup arsenal, offering a touch of creativity that’s fun to experiment with.
Here is a swatch of the YC Collection Island Eyeliner in El Yunque.
WINGME COSMETICS All Over Blending Brush, 1-pc - Retail Value $24.00
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Oh my gosh, this All Over Blending Brush from WingMe Cosmetics is a real stunner! The brush is high quality, with bristles that are both soft and effective for seamless blending. What really caught my eye, though, was the fabulous color and design of the handle, which perfectly complements this month’s mermaid-themed makeup bag. Not just functional for everyday makeup application, this brush is also a stylish addition to my collection. Whether I’m using this for blending my eyeshadow or softening lines in my foundation, this brush proves time and again to be both versatile and dependable. My new go-to for sure.
KATE SOMERVILLE ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment, 7.5 ml - Estimated Value $12.00
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As someone with sensitive skin, I approached this Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment with a bit of caution. With a formula filled with AHA lactic acid, BHA salicylic acid, and fruit enzymes, I expected it to be harsher on my skin than it proved to be. The exfoliation it provides is non-abrasive, leaving my skin feeling rejuvenated and smooth rather than irritated. That being said, the formula is indeed potent, but using it as directed has led to improved texture and the reduction of pores, noticeable even after a few uses. Overall, an excellent product for achieving a brighter, more even complexion minus the irritation that other similar products have caused my sensitive skin.
The Verdict
This was a great month for Ipsy Glam Bag! The highlight for me was the Lash Step mascara. It’s a lovely purple shade that can pass for a neutral shade from afar but provides a surprising hint of color up close, and the formula is hassle-free, smoothly adhering to each lash upon application. YC Collection’s stunning emerald green eyeliner is another unique addition to my makeup arsenal, offering up a creative look that’s long-lasting. Kate Somerville’s exfoliating treatment hit me with a pleasant surprise of potent yet irritation-free exfoliation that leaves my sensitive skin feeling smooth and soft to the touch. The blending brush from WingMe Cosmetics is an excellent addition to my brush collection, with bristles that are soft and effective for effortless blending. Lastly, the leave-in heat guard cream from Sutra… While this isn’t something I’d be able to use on a regular basis, it does come in handy for controlling frizz when my hair is straightened, not to mention the heat protection it offers against styling tools. Overall, I thought this was a solid month. The product variation was a bit all over the place, but the value is definitely there.
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Value – Was This Box Worth It?
The Cost: $14
Value Breakdown:
- Heat Guard: $3.43
- Mascara: $18.00
- Eyeliner: $20.00
- Brush: $24.00
- Exfoliator: $12.00
The total retail value of these five items adds up to about $77.43, which is an awesome value for a $14 box.
Other Things You Should Know
Can you still get this box if you sign up today? No, but sign up to receive the February 2024 bag while stocks last.
What do you think of the January 2024 Ipsy Glam Bag?
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