The market is saturated with subscription boxes and everyone just can't get enough. From healthy snacks, pet things, clothes and of course beauty.
Althea's first birthday has ended and with it the promos, freebies and special birthday sales. I hope you snagged a few items and took advantage of the rebates, 1+1, contests and freebies last month! Althea always has great discounts and other promos going on anyway so no big deal if you didn't.
If you're curious as to what I got (c/o Althea Korea) during, read on to find out :)
"Ugh it's morning". When that's your typical reaction to a work day apart from the fact that you don't look forward to work/school it might be also because you don't want to get READY for that day.
Lord knows how long I get ready in the morning. Or get ready period.
This month's BDJ box is aimed for breezing through getting ready when all you want to do is laze around all day on your bed wearing pajamas (or nothing at all!).
I'll list these products in order of excited-ness on my part and tell you about my thoughts about it at the very end.
- Benefit They're Real Mascara 8.5g / 0.3 oz - Php 1300 (30g sample size)
- Carmex Tube (10g) & Carmex Click Stick Lip Balms (4.25g) - Php 110/ea
Carmex has never dropped from people's lists in terms of effective lip care and after always hearing about it on YouTube I finally have the chance to try it out. (Gave the click stick to my sister.)
Ah the ever coveted They're Real mascara. I think 30g of this deluxe sample isn't bad at all. I excitedly tried this out the day after I got my box and it gave me a false lash effect. A bit spidery (not that I mind) but I think that was just because I was in front of my fan when I was applying this. I didn't like that it stayed tacky throughout the day though. Will continue my investigation...
Oh yeah. I'm currently growing out my brows just so I can try out Benefit's brow shaping game. I mean, that's what brow consultation means here right? A brow shaping session and not just actual talk-y talk-y consultation? :\
- Celeteque Advanced Anti-Aging Cleansing Oil 50ml - Php 199
- V10 Plus Serum 30ml - Php 4750 (Sample size)
Cleansing oils has always had a special place in my cleansing routine ever since I first tried one. I recently tried this Celeteque one night and while I do think it's does the job okay, 50 ml isn't enough for a month especially if you're like me who needs around 5 ml every time. It also doesn't completely remove semi-waterproof mascaras well. Which I find odd seeing that it is oil.
Wow this serum's pricey as f. I'm not one to scrimp on skincare but dang. V10 Plus is an award-winning serum in Japan. It comes in 10 variants to suit your skin needs from oily, acne-prone to dry and mature skin. Ok. Fine. The fact that it's coming from Japan and has won awards IN Japan lessens the blow a bit.
- Dove Oxygen & Nourishment Shampoo and Conditioner 180ml - Php 115
- Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar 127g - Php 441 (Sample 28g)
- Canmake Nail Polish 3.8g - Php 330
Cetaphil has been my go-to for un-harsh cleansing.
Canmake polishes are said to dry fast and go on evenly with its formula and fine brush. A little tempting but I'm gonna give this away. I'm not pretty keen on the color plus I'm not that into polishes anyway.
Canmake polishes are said to dry fast and go on evenly with its formula and fine brush. A little tempting but I'm gonna give this away. I'm not pretty keen on the color plus I'm not that into polishes anyway.
NOT PHOTOGRAPHED : FS Luscious Lipstick in Primrose 4g - Php 299
Oh my god. I have no idea where my picture went or if I even took a picture of it. I'm sorry!!! I'll probably end up giving this away since I don't need it.
Thoughts
In my opinion this box is a little more thoughtful as it featured what products a person (who wears makeup) needs when they need to bolt out the door especially since they featured multi-tasking products (soap bars, lipstick).
From cleansing products to makeup and nail polish to makeup removal. This box certainly fits that bill. It certainly is a giant step up from last month's box and obviously a lot more varied in terms of content.
In terms of actual utility, I'm definitely enjoying the cleansing oil so far and the hair stuff so I'd say it's a good box. Not bad. But not great. What do you think?
In terms of actual utility, I'm definitely enjoying the cleansing oil so far and the hair stuff so I'd say it's a good box. Not bad. But not great. What do you think?
Subscription : Php 580
Value of box : Php 1278 (samples excluded)
Website : http://bjdbox.com
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/bdjbox
Twitter : https://twitter.com/bdjbox
Instagram : @bdjbox
Disclaimer : BDJ kindly sent this box to me as a gift. I was not asked nor compensated (monetary or otherwise) to post this in any of my social media or to make a blog post about it. All my opinions about the box - its contents and companies mentioned are my own unless someone steals my account, pretends to be me and continues the blog in my stead. Or someone pays me a lot of money. #shade #jk #orAmI?
Disclaimer : BDJ kindly sent this box to me as a gift. I was not asked nor compensated (monetary or otherwise) to post this in any of my social media or to make a blog post about it. All my opinions about the box - its contents and companies mentioned are my own unless someone steals my account, pretends to be me and continues the blog in my stead. Or someone pays me a lot of money. #shade #jk #orAmI?
This June, BDJBox decided to partner up with Bioderma for an exclusive release this month. I literally received it today and wanted to post the unboxing as soon as possible because I was feeling a little meh about this.
Product list:
- Sebium Moussant (5ml / 200ml - Php 1,238) - Face and Body cleanser. Soap-free and non-comodegenic cleanser with Fluidactiv sebum-correcting complex.
- Sensibo Eye Contour Gel (2ml / 15ml - Php1,248) - Lightweight eye gel that reduces puffiness and makes eye area resistant to attacks thanks to the Toleridine complex.
- Sensibo DS+ (5ml / 40ml - Php 1,628) - Calming moisturizer designed for people with sebhorrhoeic dermatitis.
- Sensibo Light (5ml / 40ml - Php 1,548) - Formulated with Toleridine complex the ideal treatment for sensitive skin.
- Atoderm Intensive (8ml / 200ml - Php 1,418) - With Zinc and Betasitosterol to provide intense anti-inflammatory care and helps to stop the itch.
- Atoderm Preventive (8ml / 200ml - Php 1,998) - Created with infants and children in mind. This strengthens dry skin of young ones and keeps them from aggravating the dryness.
- Photoderm Max (5ml / 40ml - Php 1,348) - Has UVA and UVB maximum protection (100) and Cellular BIOprotection complex to effectively shield against cell damage from the sun's rays.
- Sebium Pore Refiner (5ml / 30ml - Php 1468) - The astringent and pore minimizing properties of Fomes Officinalis helps to tighten pores, imperfections and mattifies immediately and over the long term.
- The Body Shop Lip and Cheek Stain (Full size 8ml - Php 795) - With Vitamin E in Shade 01.
Thoughts
Okay first things first. This is my first time to receive almost all sample sizes in a BDJbox. It's new but I don't necessarily dislike it.
I wasn't really that impressed. For a Php580 box this wasn't what I had in mind mainly because of the stellar previous boxes. In terms of skin care, I see the efficacy of a new regimen within 2 weeks. That's also about the time my skin will adjust to the new skincare I'm using. For 5ml of product it's hard to see if it will tide me over for a week to be honest.
My mom hasn't received her first ever BDJbox yet and I know she won't have the best-est reaction for a first-timer. Hell hath no fury like a woman duped.
Okay so looking at the prices, the tint basically paid for the entire box. But how would you feel to get almost everything in trial size? This is skincare, for makeup I'll take it like last year's Benefit Box exclusive, but for skincare I just don't think the sizes permit a generally pleasant reaction to people getting this box especially first timers.
xx,
CJ
PS. I'm not sure what the exact value of the box is because usually I don't add in the value of the sample sizes but BDJ has stated it's still triple the subscription amount as it's always been. :) Love this month's sticker. Never stop making them BDJ!
PPS. The BDJ team is currently getting cooked by some of their customers for this month's box. Just look at their Facebook page. Yikes.
PPPS. Gave the whole box to my tita. :)
Website : http://bjdbox.com
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/bdjbox
Twitter : https://twitter.com/bdjbox
Instagram : @bdjbox
Disclaimer : BDJ kindly sent this box to me as a gift. I was not asked nor compensated (monetary or otherwise) to post this in any of my social media or to make a blog post about it. All my opinions about the box - its contents and companies mentioned are my own unless someone steals my account, pretends to be me and continues the blog in my stead.
Disclaimer : BDJ kindly sent this box to me as a gift. I was not asked nor compensated (monetary or otherwise) to post this in any of my social media or to make a blog post about it. All my opinions about the box - its contents and companies mentioned are my own unless someone steals my account, pretends to be me and continues the blog in my stead.
As you know we are currently experiencing (for the past few years really) the effects of global warming. India's heat wave has been killing around 2,000 (if the news articles are to be believed . I sincerely think it's more than that) already if not for the fact that we get offset in a way by the heavy rains I think we aren't too far off. Apparently people still think global warming is a hoax to be thought off in the same context as the tooth fairy and Neverland.
Moving on.
We're Kissing Dry Goodbye for this month's box! This curated package for May focuses on getting back the moisture lost in our skin and hair from all that summer heat and fun activities.
This box be packin'.
I spy the Nivea wipes.
Dermal - Hooray for masks! I've ordered this before in Multiply and it was super cheap then. I think it was only Php 25 or 35?
Himawari Dear Beaute - These oil in shampoo/conditioner are silicone-free, sulfate-free and formulated with :
Cetaphil - Because of puberty and other hormonal changes I was an avid user of the Cetaphil cleanser. Haven't tried their lotions though.
Japan's #1 exfoliator is included albeit only samples. But I take what I can get. This very popular exfoliator contains 90% water and is :
Yes this works and it's the most gentle exfoliator I've tried but I kinda like the feeling of grainy scrubs on my face haha. It's a psychological thing I think.
The only time Garnier ever hurt me was when I tried their Pure Active foam/scrub. The one Georgina was endorsing. It was too harsh on my skin and I broke out even more. But the lemon line has always been good to me. Let's see if these continue their lucky streak.
Colgate - I squeed when I saw the two boxes of toothpaste. Squee-d. Like a pig. I'm currently using the predecessor and I'm excited to try this "Plus Shine" one.
Aloe Derma - This pure aloe vera gel from Aloe Derma is surprisingly very popular (according to an instagram post I saw). I've seen it at Watson's a couple of times but paid no attention to it. Looking forward to trying this one as well.
Nivea - Funny story. I wanted to try the hyped-up Nivea wipes so I put on makeup and proceeded to wipe it off. Initially I was very unimpressed, it barely took off my makeup. It performed the same as my baby wipes with the added bonus of the raised embossed side. What the heck right?
Then I checked the label and actually read it this time. It said exfoliating wipes not makeup removing wipes. Lesson: It pays to read.
FS Blush - Haven't tried any blushers from FS. I don't really need another blush so I might give this away.
The stickers as always never failed to make me smile.
Box - Php 580
Value of box - ~ Php 1500 samples excluded
Moving on.
We're Kissing Dry Goodbye for this month's box! This curated package for May focuses on getting back the moisture lost in our skin and hair from all that summer heat and fun activities.
This box be packin'.
I spy the Nivea wipes.
Dermal Masks (3 sheets) - Php 70/ea
Cetaphil Hydrating Lotion Samples - 100ml / Php 70
Himawari Dear Beute Oil in Shampoo and Conditioner (samples) - 500ml / Php 695/ea
Pure Savon Body Wash in Rose and Lily (samples) - 300ml / Php 545 /ea
Cetaphil Hydrating Lotion Samples - 100ml / Php 70
Himawari Dear Beute Oil in Shampoo and Conditioner (samples) - 500ml / Php 695/ea
Pure Savon Body Wash in Rose and Lily (samples) - 300ml / Php 545 /ea
Dermal - Hooray for masks! I've ordered this before in Multiply and it was super cheap then. I think it was only Php 25 or 35?
Himawari Dear Beaute - These oil in shampoo/conditioner are silicone-free, sulfate-free and formulated with :
- Organic Sunflower Oil
- Organic Sunflower Sprout Extract
- Sunflower Seeds Extract
- Sunflower Extract
Sunflower oil is rich in Vitamins E, A, C and D, extremely moisturizing, light in texture and helps prevent premature signs of aging (when used topically).
Cetaphil - Because of puberty and other hormonal changes I was an avid user of the Cetaphil cleanser. Haven't tried their lotions though.
Cure Peeling Gel (samples) - 250ml / Php 1,500
Japan's #1 exfoliator is included albeit only samples. But I take what I can get. This very popular exfoliator contains 90% water and is :
- Preservative Free
- Coloring Free
- Mineral Oil Free
- Artificial Fragrance Free
Yes this works and it's the most gentle exfoliator I've tried but I kinda like the feeling of grainy scrubs on my face haha. It's a psychological thing I think.
Garnier Skin Naturals Light Complete Brigthening Scrub - 50ml / Php 84
Garnier Skin Naturals Light Complete Serum Cream with SPF 19 PA+++ - 50ml / Php 265
Garnier Skin Naturals Light Complete Serum Cream with SPF 19 PA+++ - 50ml / Php 265
The only time Garnier ever hurt me was when I tried their Pure Active foam/scrub. The one Georgina was endorsing. It was too harsh on my skin and I broke out even more. But the lemon line has always been good to me. Let's see if these continue their lucky streak.
Aloe Derma Pure Aloe Vera Gel - 45g / Php 280
Colgate Optic White Plus Shine - 100g / Php 115
Colgate Optic White Plus Shine - 100g / Php 115
Colgate - I squeed when I saw the two boxes of toothpaste. Squee-d. Like a pig. I'm currently using the predecessor and I'm excited to try this "Plus Shine" one.
Aloe Derma - This pure aloe vera gel from Aloe Derma is surprisingly very popular (according to an instagram post I saw). I've seen it at Watson's a couple of times but paid no attention to it. Looking forward to trying this one as well.
FS Powder Blush in Silky Coral Pink- 6.2g / Php 350
Nivea 3in1 Exfoliating Wipes - 20 sheets / Php 140
Nivea 3in1 Exfoliating Wipes - 20 sheets / Php 140
Nivea - Funny story. I wanted to try the hyped-up Nivea wipes so I put on makeup and proceeded to wipe it off. Initially I was very unimpressed, it barely took off my makeup. It performed the same as my baby wipes with the added bonus of the raised embossed side. What the heck right?
Then I checked the label and actually read it this time. It said exfoliating wipes not makeup removing wipes. Lesson: It pays to read.
FS Blush - Haven't tried any blushers from FS. I don't really need another blush so I might give this away.
Thoughts
This box came in just in time to still call it the May BDJbox. I wish there was an email blast or a social media update as to why it was delayed. People were wondering left and right because it was very near the end of May.
In terms off full-sized VS sample ratio, the previous box had more samples while this one has more full-sized items. In terms of actual usability of items this and the April one take the cake for me. The Pond's (March box) exclusive triggered my allergies and broke me out. (All skincare items except the rose gel)
I'm definitely noticing that Japanese beauty brands are steadily getting into the country and I would like to give the people responsible a very slow and dramatic clap.
The stickers as always never failed to make me smile.
Box - Php 580
Value of box - ~ Php 1500 samples excluded
Have you gotten the May BDJ? What're your thoughts?
xx,
CJ
PS. How about that opening statement huh? Tad bit heavy for an unboxing post but I had to voice it out one way or another.
Website : http://bjdbox.com
Website : http://bjdbox.com
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/bdjbox
Twitter : https://twitter.com/bdjbox
Instagram : @bdjbox
Disclaimer : BDJ kindly sent this box to me as a gift. I was not asked nor compensated (monetary or otherwise) to post this in any of my social media or to make a blog post about it. All my opinions about the box - its contents and companies mentioned are my own unless someone steals my account, pretends to be me and continues the blog in my stead.
Disclaimer : BDJ kindly sent this box to me as a gift. I was not asked nor compensated (monetary or otherwise) to post this in any of my social media or to make a blog post about it. All my opinions about the box - its contents and companies mentioned are my own unless someone steals my account, pretends to be me and continues the blog in my stead.
The week of trial finally came to a close. No, this isn't some tragic story. I'm talking about the BDJ 7-day challenge wherein a subbie uses one/a couple of products for seven days straight. And I'm here to recap the entire experience.
Day 2 Asian Secrets Lulur Face Scrub (Php 120/100g)
It's a slightly liquid-y consistency compared to the St. Ives "sensitive-skin" scrub but it's as gentle . I can easily use this for everyday and I have throughout the rest of the week.
Day 3 Revlon Highlighting palette (Php 625/7g)
Like I mentioned in my instagram post, this highlighter reminded me of the Bobbie Brown shimmer bricks. It was even touted as an affordable dupe to it.
At first I wasn't into the whole subtle highlight shtick this does but after a while I grew to appreciate it. If used in photo shoots I don't think it will be as obvious but it works perfect for everyday.
Day 4 - Day 7 Scrub galore
After using the Asian Secrets Lulur facial scrub everyday twice a day, it still wasn't abrasive enough to make my skin feel raw or dry it out. The creamy base made it perfectly light against the skin while still micro-exfoliating with its beads.
The MyChoice bubble salt scrub was written as something that can be used for everyday and I think that's a bit too much. The salt does hurt after a few days of continued use (at least for my skin) and I suggest to limit this or any salt body scrub to once every three days. It does smell really good and when hit with water suds up a little, which is where the "Bubble" aspect of it comes from (I guess?). This does leave the skin uber soft and supple plus MyChoice products are all-natural which is absolutely amazing apart from the fact that they're really affordable.
This concludes my #bdj7day experience. Have you done this 7 day challenge before? Have you tried the #BDJbox yet? What do you think about subscription boxes? Let me know in the comments below!
xx,
CJ
This was my second box and suffice to say I thoroughly enjoyed this one most since I made use of almost everything compared to the Pond's exclusive one (But I did give away the mascara, Mustela and a couple of scrubs). Most of the products I used were for body care and I had been very diligent during that week in terms of scrubbing and polishing my skin.
Day 1 MyChoice Bubble Salt Scrub (Php 100/225g)
The smell reminds me of melon candy and I really really really really really likeyou it. It's dry salt scrub inside the squeeze tube which I found weird at first but I understood why it didn't use the typical tub packaging — water won't go in as easily compared to the tub-style one.
The smell reminds me of melon candy and I really really really really really like
Day 2 Asian Secrets Lulur Face Scrub (Php 120/100g)
It's a slightly liquid-y consistency compared to the St. Ives "sensitive-skin" scrub but it's as gentle . I can easily use this for everyday and I have throughout the rest of the week.
Day 3 Revlon Highlighting palette (Php 625/7g)
Like I mentioned in my instagram post, this highlighter reminded me of the Bobbie Brown shimmer bricks. It was even touted as an affordable dupe to it.
At first I wasn't into the whole subtle highlight shtick this does but after a while I grew to appreciate it. If used in photo shoots I don't think it will be as obvious but it works perfect for everyday.
Day 4 - Day 7 Scrub galore
After using the Asian Secrets Lulur facial scrub everyday twice a day, it still wasn't abrasive enough to make my skin feel raw or dry it out. The creamy base made it perfectly light against the skin while still micro-exfoliating with its beads.
The MyChoice bubble salt scrub was written as something that can be used for everyday and I think that's a bit too much. The salt does hurt after a few days of continued use (at least for my skin) and I suggest to limit this or any salt body scrub to once every three days. It does smell really good and when hit with water suds up a little, which is where the "Bubble" aspect of it comes from (I guess?). This does leave the skin uber soft and supple plus MyChoice products are all-natural which is absolutely amazing apart from the fact that they're really affordable.
This concludes my #bdj7day experience. Have you done this 7 day challenge before? Have you tried the #BDJbox yet? What do you think about subscription boxes? Let me know in the comments below!
xx,
CJ
Website : http://bjdbox.com
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/bdjbox
Twitter : https://twitter.com/bdjbox
Instagram : @bdjbox
I'm still very green at un-boxing posts but nevertheless happy. I'm here with another BDJbox for this April aptly titled "Spring in to Beauty".
If you've seen my Instagram post then you might have had a glimpse of what was inside this little bundle of joy (Do you use terms of endearment for beauty things too? Just me? Ok)
Coming down from the high that was the March BDJbox, the sequel is by no means lacking. It's as packed as the previous one, actually even more so. Full-sized items are definitely preferrable (read : Ponds March Box) but I understand.
Let's see a run-down of the items.
MyChoiceis a Malaysian brand is made in Thailand and made only for export. There isn't much about them on the internet but I know one thing's for sure I can't wait to try these out— partly for the awards they've garnered and especially for the fact that they're sickeningly affordable.
Do you see the little "tofu" cubes? That's goat's milk I believe and the way it's designed is super cool.
My Choice is available at these spots : Shopwise, Ever Gotesco, Isetann, Gaisano mall, Centro, Uno, Watson's, Gaisano Grand, Metro, Gaisano, Lee Plaza,Ororama
I've heard about this brand last year from a Filipina beauty Youtuber and according to her it's amazing. Let's just see how amazing it really is. I've shared some to my family so I'll be gathering their input as well.
I know Mustela is a very well-known brand for chemical-conscious mommies and daddies. Because the ingredients are very mild and non-irritating they're very safe for all ages especially for those with sensitive skin.
My Belo acne spot gel is running low so this just came in time.The gold pack is a foot mask. Two words. Snail juice.
These are the only makeup item in this box (save for the Tony Moly CC cream sample) and you read that right Php 60. I think they had a typo in the description card this time because I've never seen Revlon in that price range. Can anyone tell me how much that highlighter is?
If you've seen my Instagram post then you might have had a glimpse of what was inside this little bundle of joy (Do you use terms of endearment for beauty things too? Just me? Ok)
A photo posted by CJ (@manilawithlove) on
Coming down from the high that was the March BDJbox, the sequel is by no means lacking. It's as packed as the previous one, actually even more so. Full-sized items are definitely preferrable (read : Ponds March Box) but I understand.
Let's see a run-down of the items.
MyChoice Bubble Shower Salt - 225g / Php 100
MyChoice Hand and Body Lotion - 100ml / Php 70
MyChoice Pure Herbal Soap - 100g / Php 55
MyChoice Hand and Body Lotion - 100ml / Php 70
MyChoice Pure Herbal Soap - 100g / Php 55
MyChoice
Do you see the little "tofu" cubes? That's goat's milk I believe and the way it's designed is super cool.
My Choice is available at these spots : Shopwise, Ever Gotesco, Isetann, Gaisano mall, Centro, Uno, Watson's, Gaisano Grand, Metro, Gaisano, Lee Plaza,Ororama
Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Facial Scrub - 100g / Php 120
Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Body Scrub - 20ml / Php 15
Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Body Scrub - 20ml / Php 15
I've heard about this brand last year from a Filipina beauty Youtuber and according to her it's amazing. Let's just see how amazing it really is. I've shared some to my family so I'll be gathering their input as well.
Mustela 2 in 1 Hair and Body Wash - 200ml / Php 520
Mustela Stretch Marks Double Action - 150ml / Php 1750
Mustela Hydra Bebe Body Lotion - 300ml / Php 790
Mustela Stretch Marks Double Action - 150ml / Php 1750
Mustela Hydra Bebe Body Lotion - 300ml / Php 790
I know Mustela is a very well-known brand for chemical-conscious mommies and daddies. Because the ingredients are very mild and non-irritating they're very safe for all ages especially for those with sensitive skin.
MyChoice Anti-Acne Cream - 20g / Php 350
Tony Moly Intense Care Snail Foot Mask - 18ml / 1 sheet / Php 198
Foot mask is a very new term to me but I have seen this before. It's like a plastic sock you put on with emulsion/lotion inside to make your feet soft.
Tony Moly Intense Care Snail Foot Mask - 18ml / 1 sheet / Php 198
Foot mask is a very new term to me but I have seen this before. It's like a plastic sock you put on with emulsion/lotion inside to make your feet soft.
My Belo acne spot gel is running low so this just came in time.The gold pack is a foot mask. Two words. Snail juice.
FS Cosmetics Lash Extravagance Mascara - 9g / Php 350
Revlon Highlighting Palette - 7.5g / Php 625 (Thanks Tellie!)
Revlon Highlighting Palette - 7.5g / Php 625 (Thanks Tellie!)
These are the only makeup item in this box (save for the Tony Moly CC cream sample) and you read that right Php 60. I think they had a typo in the description card this time because I've never seen Revlon in that price range. Can anyone tell me how much that highlighter is?
Subscription price/box - Php 580
Total amount of box - Approx. Php 1600
This concludes my un-boxing post! I hope you got an idea of one of the most famous and sought after subscription boxes in the Philippines.
xx,
CJ
Website : http://bjdbox.com
xx,
CJ
Website : http://bjdbox.com
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/bdjbox
Twitter : https://twitter.com/bdjbox
Instagram : @bdjbox
Disclaimer : BDJ kindly sent this box to me as a gift. I was not asked nor compensated (monetary or otherwise) to post this in any of my social media or to make a blog post about it. All my opinions about the box - its contents and companies mentioned are my own unless someone steals my account, pretends to be me and continues the blog in my stead.
Disclaimer : BDJ kindly sent this box to me as a gift. I was not asked nor compensated (monetary or otherwise) to post this in any of my social media or to make a blog post about it. All my opinions about the box - its contents and companies mentioned are my own unless someone steals my account, pretends to be me and continues the blog in my stead.
BDJbox is a monthly subscription box service with boxes reserved up to months in advance. Among all the subscription boxes in the Philippines, this one I personally think has more traction. I scoured reviews and gathered that they have great customer service and work with great brands.
For this March, BDJbox works exclusively with Ponds a very prominent and well-known brand in the Philippines.
I'm definitely not a ponds girl. I've tried most of their products before when I was still a teenager - dealing with hormonal changes - and they never seemed to work. If anything else, they worsened my condition as well as dampened my fragile teenage self-esteem. Sob...sob...sniffle.
But for the sake of science and to give Ponds another chance, I've tried all the skincare (started March 10) and have some interesting thoughts about each one.
Pond's Pearl Cleansing Gel (100g / Php155)
Touted to be perfect for sensitive skin because its non-drying and has its milder ingredients.
Thoughts :The only other gel cleanser I've tried is ZA's and Pond's lathers quite well compared. I do agree that it's mild and leaves my skin soft after rinsing but I feel like it leaves a light film of soap still. It however has a very distinct and strong rose-scent as with most products in this line.
Top 3 Ingredients : Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Glycerin.
Pond's Flawless White Ultra Luminous Serum (30ml / Php480)
Has VA0-B3 helps in blocking skin pigmentation and helps renew skin with Genactiv that interrupts melanin (skin pigmentation) cycles. Both are meant to reduce dark spots and discoloration and in 7 days.
Thoughts: I really like this. The consistency is kinda similar to dry oil and dries to a matte finish. It's very light on the face and leaves it as I said matte and also smooth.
Top 3 Ingredients : Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin and Water
Pond's Flawless White Re-Brightening Night Cream (50g / Php340)
Genactiv is the prominent selling point here again, which helps repair skin damage, and lightens and evens out dark spots.
Thoughts : It's very emollient, and significantly heavier compared to the Rose gel. The first time I used it I got a steroid-induced pea size amount and it was more than enough to cover my face and my neck generously.
Pond's Flawless White Dewy Rose Gel (50g / Php399)
Infused with Rose Lumiere serum made from Alpine rose extract which helps lock in moisture and reduce dullness.
Thoughts : Korean skincare and Neutrogena aren't new to the technology that is gel moisturizers and Pond's is the latest one to join their ranks with the introduction of their own gel-based moisturizer.
The second you open the jar, you're hit with the fragrance. It's light on the skin, absorbs quite easily, and again left my face silky smooth.
Top 3 ingredients : Water, Glycerin and Dimethicone. Ah that explains the smoothness.
Pond's Flawless White BB Cream (25g / Php299)
Has SPF 30 PA++ it's also enriched with Genactiv.
Thoughts : I haven't tried this yet, but from the reviews I've read the light one is pink-based and suitable for NW25 skin and lighter while the beige is suitable for NC35 skin and darker.
OVER-ALL
I love the tub designs on the Rose gel and Night cream. Yes, they're glass-bottomed and not ideal for travel but they do look very elegant on the dresser.
The serum and the Rose gel are my top bets for this line. The cleanser is nice and gentle too. BUT I broke out two days after I started with my new regimen. And the only things I changed are my cleanser, day and night moisturizer and serum. So I have a little investigating to do. I'm currently just using the cleanser and will try to add on the others slowly.
For a Php580 box, it's worth more than what you pay for. You do the math...
...seriously I can't be bothered, you do it.
Thank you to BDJ and Ponds for sending me this box with full-sized products (hello!) and giving me the opportunity try out your exclusive box this March.
xx,
CJ
PS. If you're iffy about Rose scents or fragrances in skincare in general, I don't think you'll like this. It's very very fragrant.
PPS. I'm bummed that dark morena or mulato skin isn't more celebrated in the beauty industry, especially the skincare department. It's a work in progress but giant industries like Pond's should use more dark-skinned models for their products other than their whitening line.
Not against whitening in general, to each their own. But do you get my drift? I do hope this helps in lightening my pimple marks and discoloration (I thought that sunblock was only for the beach/pool when I was young) Haha anobateh.