This month’s "Paint the Season Bright" theme is supposed to kick off the holiday vibes. But honestly? I didn’t feel very festive opening this one. Let’s get into my honest first impressions.
IPSY Extra is a $32 monthly beauty and makeup subscription box. (This is the new name for what was formerly BoxyCharm by Ipsy, so you'll see those names used interchangeably!) It always provides great value compared to the cost of the box and includes 5 beauty items, including nail care, skincare, makeup, haircare, fragrance, and more. (At least 4 of those items will be full-sized.) We also get the Beauty Boost for $15/month, which includes an additional full-size bonus product.
My Subscription Addiction paid for this box. (Check out the editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
First Impressions
Everything arrived in perfect shape. No shattered powders, no broken pans. IPSY has come a long way with its packaging. At least something felt “bright” this month.
What’s Inside
Lucky Chick Face Palette – Retail Value: $34
Shade: Mystic Halo
I really tried to make this work. I kept layering… and layering… and at some point I started questioning my eyesight. These shades are so subtle on me that it takes multiple layers just to get something visible. The texture itself isn’t bad, not too chalky, but the payoff just isn’t there. I don’t see this lasting long on the skin either since the pigment is barely there to begin with.
Would I repurchase? No.
Grown Alchemist Hydra-Restore Lip Balm – Retail Value: $20
I thought this was a hand cream when I pulled it out. The box is huge for such a tiny product, and since it’s an aluminum tube with no applicator, it gets messy fast. That said… it hydrated my lips really well overnight. So I’ve unofficially turned it into a nighttime lip mask.
Would I repurchase? Probably not.
AHAVA Essential Day Moisturizer – Retail Value: $54
A solid, dependable moisturizer. Thick at first, lightweight once it melts in. No stickiness. The Dead Sea minerals give it a nice restorative quality, but overall, this feels like a “good basic,” nothing groundbreaking.
Would I repurchase? Maybe.
Dew of the Gods Dewforia Body Fragrance – Retail Value: $36
Scent: One & Only
This scent took me straight back to 2008 mall days. Very fruity, very teen-fragrance-counter energy. Fun if you like sweet notes, but not something I’d reach for in my 30s. I might toss it in my gym bag for post-workout quick refreshes.
Would I repurchase? Nope.
Benefit Cosmetics BADgal BANG! Volumizing Waterproof Mascara – Retail Value: $29
Shade: Pitch Black
This was the star of the box for me. The silicone brush grabs every lash, and the volume + length I got after ONE coat was wild. It’s dramatic in the best way. But… the waterproof formula means removal is a nightmare. I did an oil cleanse, then a second oil cleanse, then micellar water… and still lost some lashes. Amazing formula, but you’ll pay for it at bedtime.
Would I repurchase? Yes, a mini size.
Value – Was This Box Worth It?
The Cost: $32 + $15 Beauty Boost = $47
Total Retail Value: $119 + Beauty Boost $54 = $173
The value is great… on paper. But personally? This was not it for me. For a holiday-themed box, it felt surprisingly dull. No holiday reds, no sparkly eyeshadow moment, no bold statement products. Just… random picks. The mascara was the only thing I genuinely liked, but I don’t need a new mascara every month either.
Other Things You Should Know
Can you still get this box if you sign up today? No, your first box will be from the next curation.
What do you think of this month’s IPSY Extra box? Which variants did you get? Let me know in the comments!
Please do not enter your email address in the Name field or in the comment content. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *. Remember to post with kindness and respect. Comments with offensive language, cruelness to others, etc will not be approved. See our full comment policy here.