Birchbox is a monthly subscription box that sends discovery samples of makeup, skincare, haircare, or beauty tools, based on a short survey you take when you sign up. Birchbox and I go way back to my college days, when I lived on their samples and stalked my mailman, Dave's, every move until my pink box was secured.
This is one of our top recommendations if you are looking for a subscription box — the value and sample sizes are amazing. Just like Ipsy, Birchbox sends many different bag variations each month — so my review is just one of the 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
This month's delivery came with a card featuring a few Birchbox favorites with skin-loving ingredients to help you build a dependable skincare routine.
What's Inside
SelpH Aqua Brightening Toner, 4.4fl oz - Retail Value $24
This big boy is an excellent size for a toner, and I love the bright capsule-shaped packaging with a pump that makes dispensing the product a breeze. I couldn't find any information online about this particular toner, but it was like a drink of water for the skin. It is paraben and sulfate-free, and it is also made in the US. It is fragrance-free, and it has a wet, almost gel-like texture that sinks into the skin. Birchbox suggests using this after cleansing to refine and prep.
SelpH Amino Acid + Peptides Power Pop Serum, 1.7oz- Retail Value $21
It is refreshing to find an affordable serum with cute, glass packaging that delivers. Hyaluronic acids deeply hydrate the skin and help protect the skin barrier with this amino acid formula, which also is in cahoots with Matrixyl to stimulate collagen production and enhance skin elasticity. Phew! In general, this serum has your (aging) back! It is also fragrance-free and manufactured in the USA.
Davines DEDE. Shampoo, 2.5fl oz - Retail Value $16
Davines is one of those OG Birchbox brands that I've repurchased several times and will never get old for me. I have tried so many of their products, thanks to this subscription, so I was thrilled to see this sample in my second box. Delicate Daily, aka Dede, is a shampoo perfect for someone who frequently washes and wants to maintain a healthy, vital head of hair (all of us). It was the perfect choice to bring with me to the beach, since I will be washing sea water and chlorine out of my hair at least once a day.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics Cleanser, 50ml - Retail Value $25
I am always suspicious of new cleansers because, with dry, sensitive skin, it tends to strip very easily. I am especially skeptical of foam cleansers because, in my experience, they tend to contain harsher ingredients than my usual cream cleansers. Dr. Barbara Sturm really raised the bar! This foam was cleansing and moisturizing, and it respected my dry skin, keeping it balanced and magically makeup-free without any scrubbing. I wouldn't usually spend $25 on a cleanser, but I think this 50ml bottle is going to last at least a few months for me.
The Verdict
The brands that Birchbox manages to find always blow my mind. Davines has been a favorite in our house for many years, and SelpH is an awesome new-to-me brand, and I received two of their full-sized products! Of course, I was also excited to try a foam cleanser that promised not to compromise my sensitive skin. This month's box was a smash hit, and I'll definitely be putting my new skincare to good use.
Keep Track of Your Subscriptions: Add this box to your subscription list or wishlist!
Value – Was This Box Worth It?
The Cost: $25
The total retail value of May's box is about $86.
Other Things You Should Know
Can you still get this box if you sign up today? No, but sign up to receive the June 2026 box while stocks last.
What do you think of the May Birchbox?
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.