So, the kind folks at BDJ Box sent over January 2013’s box and here’s a post on what’s inside. First, I must say that they are very speedy. I got this yesterday after providing my information the day before that.

The box is smaller than what I thought it would be, from the pictures I’ve seen online. But, that doesn’t mean that it’s not super packed. Because it totally is. The January BDJ box also came with a steno dot grid (!!!) notebook. ❤

Here's an overview of what's inside:

PROS:

• For Php 480 (!) a month, you get a lot of bang for your buck. There’s a a lot in here, both samples and full-sized products and coupons/vouchers.
• You get to try new things you would never think of picking up.
• You get introduced to new brands.
• Instead of spending G’s on new products, you spend Php 480 (!) for a chance to try out several kinds from a wide range of brands.
• Every month, you get something in the mail, which I like!

CONS:

• You don’t get to pick the products you get. It’s always a surprise. (Can be a pro, too.)
• You may get sent colors you don’t like. PRO TOP: Update your beauty profile on BDJ Box.
• People from the province may not be able to use some of the vouchers.

Get your own BDJ Box here!

Here’s Flormar Nail Enamel in 129 (Php 99). I haven’t worn nail polish in a while and I popped that reinstated cherry about a week ago with Bobbi Brown’s Black Pearl. Although this leans purple (and I love purple), it’s heavily pink with a metallic pearly finish that I’m not a fan of. I think I would love this more if it came in either a different shade or a different finish.

Here’s Flormar 129 on my obscenely small nails. Application was a breeze and there was minimum drying time between coats. If I got into nail polish, this is definitely a brand I would consider.

Another Flormar product—the super slick, super shiny Long-wearing lipstick in L18 (Php 349). The formula is super creamy and super smooth on the lips. I am, however, not a fan of the scent (MAC Vanilla!) and also I’m not sure I would wear this shade. It’s an affordable lipstick, though, with a wide color selection. If I wanted to try out a shade, I’d definitely pick one of these babies up first.

I can’t figure out if this red is more blue or yellow. Anyone care to help me figure it out?

BDJ Box to the rescue! I’ve been going to Tony Moly stores for the past few months and I never know what to get, so I’m super excited to try these out. 🙂 Full-size products cost Php 478 (Broccoli Sprout Cleansing Cream) and Php 548 (Tomatox Magic White Massage Pack).

From left to right: Etude House Moistfull Collagen Trial Kit (Emulsion and Freshener) (P628 each), Snoe Beauty Beso Balm (Php 149), and Britney Spears Radiance Fragrance (Php 3398)

I’m super excited for the Etude House products because a) I’ve always wanted to try Etude House, and b) I’m looking for a good moisturizer to replace my shu uemura Depsea Hydrability Moisturizing Lotion because I’m almost out and I can’t afford to splurge just yet.

When I ordered items from Snoe Beauty, I was eyeing the Beso Balm, but chose to forgo it at the time. I’m so happy I get one from the BDJ Box. It smells really minty, and is actually super minty on the lips. Almost distractingly so, but I like it. My lips are super moisturized after application, which of course, is a big plus.

I sprayed on Britney Spears’ Radiance a couple of times, and I’m not the biggest fan, but it’s not a stinker. I can see how some women may like it, but I personally wouldn’t wear it out.

Here’s Pantene Pro-V All Day Smooth Miracle Water (Php 149), which I’ve tried on my dry hair yesterday. Though the weather hasn’t been all that humid in the past few days, it was still like a tall glass of water for my hair. I’m extremely low maintenance when it comes to my tresses, so this is a very easy and very effective step to add to my hair “routine.”

I didn’t get to take a picture of the itty bitty sample of Pevonia Botanica Phyto Gel Cleanser (Php 3,640), but I’m excited to try that out. And also not, because well, look at how much it costs. Also not pictured are the vouchers this box came in.

There were vouchers for two treatments, L’Oreal Professionel Inoa Hair Color and X-tenso Moisturist, for Azta Salon, which I gave to my mother because I’m trying not to get any treatments done to my hair (I’ve gone about two years without coloring!). But, super helpful for me are the 10% discount from Tony Moly and Etude House skin care, and a voucher for Browhaus, which I’d been meaning to visit to tidy up my brows.

Phew. That was a mouthful.

I can’t wait for the next box, but for now, I will be giving these products a shot. Full reviews may or may not happen. It all depends on if I am still drowning in work. Which, despite my whining, I am mighty thankful for. 🙂

Full Disclosure: I was sent this box by BDJ Box (Thank you, Em!). All opinions are my own.