Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Pip Box

Why subscribe to The Pip Box (cruelty free beauty)!

I’ve had a total of 10 The Pip Boxes!  At the end of this blog, you will see links to reviews and first impressions of the content.  Each month you are guaranteed 5 full size products from cruelty free brands.

You would be surprised the number of brands that mislead consumers into believing they are cruelty free and are not.  I was heartbroken when I discovered that my makeup bag was full of products by brands that invest in testing on animals.  I had to replace key items and it wasn’t easy.

Once, I started thinking more about the products I was using, I also started taking an interest in organic products, natural ingredients and being chemical free – but that’s another post.  

Leaping Bunny

Cruelty free brands may have a leaping bunny on their product, however, some brands, will posts a ‘rabbit’ style logo next to the ingredients to make it look cruelty free when actually they are not.  If it’s not the trademark leaping bunny, it might not be bunny friendly!

Animal testing by law

Another thing brands do is give a statement like “Our products are cruelty free and never tested on animals, unless required by law.”  This basically means, they do test their products on animals as they are selling in a country that requires them to by law.  China has a law requiring products to be tested on animals before they can be sold, therefore, if a brand is selling in China, they are selling out on being cruelty free.  A lot of well known high street and designer brands are guilty of this.

Parent company ethics

Some cruelty free brands, have parent companies that are not cruelty free.  If you are against animal testing, you are likely to not want to fund a company that is profiting a company that tests on animals.  Sometimes, small cruelty free brands will get bought out to expand their business but at the cost of their ethics.

Why get a The Pip Box subscription?

The Pip Box will only send you products by cruelty free brands – these companies need to be fully compliant in that.  Many popular beauty subscription boxes will include brands that are not cruelty free so if this is something you feel strongly about, cancel those subscriptions and subscribe to pip.

Click here to subscribe.

If you are ethics are not enough, here are some more reasons:

  • Donation to charity – 50p from each box goes to an animal friendly charity
  • Reward points – each subscription or referral earns you reward points which can be traded in for money off your next box
  • And, discovering new and established brands.

Here are the highlights:

Here are links to my first impressions and reviews of The Pip Box when I was a subscriber. I’ve also tried really hard to choose a favourite product each month.

My last Pip Box – July (review published 13 September 2018) 

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Review:  The Pip Box – July (review published 2 August 2018)

Most of the items in this box are still waiting to be used (false lashes, tan accelerator, makeup eraser) but I did like the eye pencil by La Ritzy which after a long time not wearing eyeliner it really made an impact.  I didn’t get on with the BB powder which was too dark for me.

Review:  The Pip Box – June (review published 29 June 2018)

I loved the toner by Dermadeli and used it up before the end of the month.  The travel size was small enough to fit in my purse and during the heat wave (and being heavily pregnant), I used it to freshen up and it felt so good.  I also was a fan of the bonus gift – all natural chewing gum by Chewsy.  Bonus gifts are added into boxes in addition to the five items promised.

Review:  The Pip Box – May (review published 1 June 2018)

The Spring edit was probably my least favourite as I was so excited about the nail kit but just didn’t get on with it.  However, I did love the Bloomtown Botanical infused oil. I use it as a perfume and find it very calming.

Review:  The Pip Box – April (review published 4 May 2018)

Again, I loved all the products in this edit but the item that truly stood out was the hand moisturizer by Balade En Provence which came in a pretty apple shaped pot.  It is actually in my daughter’s nursery as I think it looks so pretty.  I’m planning on buying it for my son’s teacher at the end of the school year.

Review:  The Pip Box -March (review published 6 April 2018)

For this month’s edit, I love the Dr Botanicals Tropical Invigorating Cream.  This cream not only smelt lush but also came in a truly beautiful tube.  I was also really pleased with the other products and began wearing the lipstick every day.   It also got me to try a foot balm stick which I never would have thought of buying but really loved.

Review: The Pip Box – February (review published 5 March 2018)

Oh my, I still crave JOM Organic candy today.  This stuff was lovely and I almost bought a box full when I was pregnant.  It is tricky to buy in the UK unless you want to buy in bulk which is why I’ve not bought this again (yet).  I loved all the products in this box.

Review:  What’s in my Pip Box – January (review published 4 February 2018)

It has to be Medusa’s Make-up mascara that I loved, however, it isn’t an easy brand to buy in the UK.  I loved almost everything in this box – I just wasn’t keen on the body scrub but I’ve never been a major fan of scrubs.

Review:  December’s Pip Box (review published 1 January 2018) 

It’s hard to choose my as I used them all up… except the vegan chocolate.  The Bloomtown lip balm gave a gorgeous red tint and was very hydrating.  I also used the face steam by Freyaluna when I had a cold and it made me feel so much better – I need to repurchase this before flu season hits.

The Pip Box (review published 8 March 2017)

This was my first box and included a green clay mask by one of my top brand’s Akamuti.  I now often buy their body oils too.  I also really liked all the other products in my box and can honestly say there wasn’t one that didn’t get used up.

Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Pip Box, Uncategorized

My last Pip Box (July)

What is The Pip Box?

It’s a cruelty free beauty subscription box and contains a selection of five products – skincare, body care, makeup and occasionally a sweet treat too.  Plus, a 50p donation from the sale of each box goes to an animal friendly charity (Animal Free Research).    In addition, you earn loyalty points for each purchase which can then be used for money off future boxes.

Cost:  £13.50 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

Refer a friend scheme:  Every time you refer three friends, you get a free The Pip Box.  If you’d like to sign up, use my friend link:  https://www.thepipbox.co.uk/refer/Aliso-SJFXKEDD

*****

As I am now on maternity leave, I have cancelled my subscription so there is no new box of cruelty free products to reveal.

*****

Reflect on July’s box

This is how I got on using the products from my July box:

Green People: Sun Lotion SPF 15 (sheet lists price as £6)

Although August has been cooler than I expected, I haven’t used this and I forgot to give it to my husband to try.

 

Make-up Eraser: Mini Travel Cloth (sheet lists price as £5)

I really like the idea of this and the cloth is so soft. I intended to put it in my hospital bag but can’t find it. I’m really disappointed as I was looking forward to trying such a simple idea. I really hope it turns up and I didn’t do something daft like leave it in hospital…

 

Peony: Matcha BB Powder SPF 15 (sheet lists price as £16.99)

This was not for me. Against my pale skin it gives an orange glow that looks like I have too much makeup on. It may blend in better if you have darker skin but for me it didn’t.

 

Vintage Cosmetics: Betty false eyelashes (sheet lists price as £6)

I was saving these for our family pic but trying to leave the house with a hungry newborn at 9am was near impossible. My makeup was the bare minimum and I didn’t have time for false lashes. Keeping them in the draw means they’ll be ready for the next special occasion.

 

La Ritzy: Black eye pencil (she lists price as £15)

I have been using this eye pencil and it is pretty good. It lasts all day, doesn’t give panda eyes and hasn’t irritated my eyes even when I’ve put it on the waterline.

 

Would I recommend?

If buying cruelty free is important to you then this is a your subscription box. They have enabled me to discover new and established brands. The boxes have a decent mix of products so you don’t get lots of the same type of thing.

I like their reward scheme and knowing my purchase goes towards supporting an animal friendly charity.

I plan to look back over my past boxes and work out what was great or not.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Makeup, Pip Box, Uncategorized

Review: The Pip Box (July)

What is The Pip Box?

It’s a cruelty free beauty subscription box and contains a selection of five products – skincare, body care, makeup and occasionally a sweet treat too.  Plus, a 50p donation from the sale of each box goes to an animal friendly charity (Animal Free Research).    In addition, you earn loyalty points for each purchase which can then be used for money off future boxes.

Cost:  £13.50 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

Refer a friend scheme:  Every time you refer three friends, you get a free The Pip Box.  If you’d like to sign up, use my friend link:  https://www.thepipbox.co.uk/refer/Aliso-SJFXKEDD

What was in my box?

The box came with an information card to tell me all about the products inside and their value.

Green People: Sun Lotion SPF 15 (sheet lists price as £6)

As a redhead, I do appreciate sun lotion although this SPF is a lot lower than I use. I will likely give this to my husband or wait until it is mot quite so hot to use.

The product has natural ingredients for UV filters, antioxidants and tan accelerator. It came with a booklet about their other sun products including a Childrens range.

Make-up Eraser: Mini Travel Cloth (sheet lists price as £5)

The sample version hasn’t got the seen edges and warns it may fray. Instantly loved the redhead mermaid on the packaging.

It is for removing makeup using only water. I’ve added it to my hospital bag as it sounds like a great idea. Although, I’m barely wearing makeup at the moment.

On their site they have other designs including some with pretty patterns.

Peony: Matcha BB Powder SPF 15 (sheet lists price as £16.99)

I love make-up with spf so I am looking forward to trying this powder to reduce shine and add some protection. It is a talc-free too.

Vintage Cosmetics: Betty false eyelashes (sheet lists price as £6)

They claim to give you almond shape eyes and can be used up to four times. I’m hoping to get a family pic done once baby is here and will use these lashes to give me that extra oomph at the shoot. They offer free shipping to UK and US.

La Ritzy: Black eye pencil (she lists price as £15)

I tried it right away and it gave a rich black colour and applied smoothly. It didn’t irritate my sensitive eyes. The brand is vegan and paraben free.

******

Reflect on previous box

This is how I got on using the products from my June box:

Zerreau: Coconut Towel Off Shampoo (sheet lists price as £3.99)

There were some great videos of others using this but for me it wasn’t great. It made my hair looking cleaner but I didn’t like the feel. I’m sure I’ll use it up but I won’t buy it. It’s not for me.

Dermadeli: Rejuvinating Toner (sheet lists price as £1.50)

It is empty! That’s got to be a sign that I loved it. I used it on hot days to freshen my face and on a few occasions my husband and son asked for a quick spritz. I plan buy this again – may even get the bigger size.

LaRitzy: NUE Eyeshadow Palette (sheet lists prove as £35.99)

I’m not in love with this palette and won’t buy again. I found the colours were not very pigmented and didn’t show up well on my pale skin.

Hurraw: Sun Lip Balm SPF15 (sheet lists price as £3.99)

I was very pleased with this product. The SPF causes a slight paleness to the lip but it feels good and I like that it has protection. This is a favourite.

The Vintage Cosmetics: Matchbox Mini Emery Boards (sheet lists price as £3.95)

I’ve not needed to use these yet but they are a useful product to have and will get used in time.

Chewsy: 100% Natural Chewing Gum (sheet lists price as £1.25)

This sticky gum tasted yum. It didn’t last long as I ate it quickly. I’ve not seen it in shops and I doubt I’d order it online but I would love to have it again.

Would I recommend?

I’ve cancelled my subscription – only because I’m not on maternity leave and need to be more careful with my spending. I will resubscribe to The Pip Box in the future as I really like the reward scheme, supporting a charity and discovering cruelty-free brands.

I plan to look back over my past boxes and work out what was great or not.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Makeup, Pip Box, Uncategorized

Review: The Pip Box (June)

What is The Pip Box?

It’s a cruelty free beauty subscription box and contains a selection of five products – skincare, body care, makeup and occasionally a sweet treat too.  Plus, a 50p donation from the sale of each box goes to an animal friendly charity (Animal Free Research).    In addition, you earn loyalty points for each purchase which can then be used for money off future boxes.

Cost:  £13.50 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

Refer a friend scheme:  Every time you refer three friends, you get a free The Pip Box.  If you’d like to sign up, use my friend link:  https://www.thepipbox.co.uk/refer/Aliso-SJFXKEDD

What was in my box?

The box came with an information card to tell me all about the products inside and their value.

Zerreau: Coconut Towel Off Shampoo (sheet lists price as £3.99)

This product is a hybrid dry shampoo that cleans your hair without using water. Spray the foam on and towel off.

This sounds like a great idea and I am looking forward to trying it out. I imagine festival goers would love it and it could be handy to freshen up down the beach. It may be useful at hospital or those early days with a newborn where you can’t tear yourself away from your little one or think straight due to no sleep.

As you can see from the photo, they’ve also included a discount for their new towel off body foam!

Dermadeli: Rejuvinating Toner (sheet lists price as £1.50)

This travel size 10ml toner arrived as I was in need of a toner. I started using it right away and it’s very refreshing. It is also the perfect size to throw in your handbag and freshen up on the go. If I didn’t desperately need it, I may have put it in my hospital bag.

LaRitzy: NUE Eyeshadow Palette (sheet lists prove as £35.99)

This is a full size palette of everyday nude shades to create a variety of looks that would suit most people for daytime or evening.

I was looking forward to this product as they gave a teaser and I am low on eyeshadow. However, my first impressions of the packaging hasn’t blown me away. The plastic casing looks a little cheap and mine has a scratch on the front.

Hurraw: Sun Lip Balm SPF15 (sheet lists price as £3.99)

I had this balm last summer and loved it. I was disappointed when hunting for my summer essentials that I couldn’t find it and bought any SPF lip product on the high street.

What I love about THIS product is the added SPF protection, the organic ingredients and how good it feels.

The Vintage Cosmetics: Matchbox Mini Emery Boards (sheet lists price as £3.95)

These are just really pretty. I recently broke my Ruby & Millie glass file that I loved for years and keep forgetting to get a new file. These will get used. Did I point out how pretty they are?

Chewsy: 100% Natural Chewing Gum (sheet lists price as £1.25)

This is a bonus item that Pip have included in addition to the five products promised. What makes this gum special is the ingredients are 100% natural and sugar free.

I decided to give it a go whilst taking the pics and it is really yummy. It has a fresh minty taste with a little zest. I did find myself popping bubbles and it worked but is really stick and I had to wash it off my lips. Lol ?

Reflect on previous box

This is how I got on using the products from my May box:

Conscious Skincare: Shampoo (sheet lists price as £3.99)

Conscious Skincare: Conditioner (sheet lists price as £3.99)

I haven’t tried out as it has a warning not to be used during pregnancy. It is in my hospital bag for after labour. It smells good and I’m sure it will pick me up and freshen me up after all the pushing.

MoYou: Nail Plate, Stamp & Scraper (sheet lists price as £9.99)

I was so excited to receive this as I am awful at painting my nail. I watched the tutorial videos on how to use and how to avoid common mistakes. I bought new polish by…..

Sadly, when I attempted to create beautiful nail designs as promised… It didn’t work. My polish may not be suitable. I’ll try again with other brands but I was very disappointed. Currently a fail ?.

Bloomtown: Roll on infused oil (sheet lists price as £4.80)

This I love. The smell is gentle and calming. It’s also organic and has only natural ingredients.

I’m taking it to hospital with me to use as my perfume as the little size is very handy. I would buy this again.

Glo By Glory:  Semi Matte Liquid Lipstick (website & sheet lists price as £16.99)

I was really pleased to receive this but only used it twice. Firstly, the colour is a tad dark for me. Secondly, I’ve found it really messy to apply. Being a dark colour it is very unforgiving. I don’t want to look like Mary Sanderson from Hovus Pocus!

Would I recommend?

Sadly, the two main beauty products this month were not a success with me. I shall continue to subscribe to The Pip Box and really like the reward scheme, supporting a charity and discovering more cruelty free brands.

I think when I am on maternity leave I will have to pause my subscription but this will give a chance to rebut some of the wonderful products I have discovered through Pip. I’m still subscribed for now, so I’ll enjoy it while I can.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Makeup, Pip Box, Uncategorized

Review: The Pip Box (May)

What is The Pip Box?

It’s a cruelty free beauty subscription box and contains a selection of five products – skincare, body care, makeup and occasionally a sweet treat too.  Plus, a 50p donation from the sale of each box goes to an animal friendly charity (Animal Free Research).    In addition, you earn loyalty points for each purchase which can then be used for money off future boxes.

Cost:  £13.50 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

Refer a friend scheme:  Every time you refer three friends, you get a free The Pip Box.  If you’d like to sign up, use my friend link:  https://www.thepipbox.co.uk/refer/Aliso-SJFXKEDD

The Pip Box - The Spring Edit

What was in my box?

The box came with an information card to tell me all about the products inside and their value.

Conscious Skincare: Shampoo (sheet lists price as £3.99)

Conscious Skincare: Conditioner (sheet lists price as £3.99)

Conscious Skincare - Shampoo and conditioner

I can’t find either the shampoo or the conditioner on their website so I am assuming that they are new products (there are other scents available though).

The product clearly states that if you are pregnant you should consult your doctor before use!  This is a bit alarming but at least they are clear about this rather that hide the information away.  As I am currently pregnant, I won’t be trying this product this month. Instead, I plan to put it in my hospital bag to use after delivery as they are both a handy travel size.

MoYou: Nail Plate, Stamp & Scraper (sheet lists price as £9.99)

MoYou - Kaleidoscopic Stamping Nail Art Plate collection

I am really excited to give this a go.  I feel need to buy another colour polish like white or gold to be the print as all my current polishes are very ‘samey’.  After pay day, I guess I’ll have to treat myself to a new nail polish.

Bloomtown: Roll on infused oil (sheet lists price as £4.80)

IMG_8893

I already have a few products by this brand. They donate 10% of their profits to environmental and social causes.  The brand is from Cornwall, UK and started in 2016 and already winning awards for their products.

I had quick sniff and it smells lovely.  It reminds me of my favourite Rose perfume by Acorelle (I don’t recommend them for their sun-care products).  I love how affordable Bloomtown make their products and how ethical the brand is.  I can’t wait to start using this product.

 

Glo By Glory:  Semi Matte Liquid Lipstick (website & sheet lists price as £16.99)

img_8894.jpg

The brand is from America and all the prices are in dollars.  One of the first things they say is ‘We are feminine’ but they also say their products are for men.  They are vegan and cruelty the free.

The lipstick is available in 4 shades, the shade I have is Sugar Dumpling (described as a dusty rose nude).  I’ve tried it on and it is a very dark brown against my pale skin and a bit messy and unforgiving. I’ll keep trying it to see if I get better with practice and looks better with a full face of makeup.  I’ll also test how well it stays on.

 

Reflect on previous box

This is how I got on using the products from my April box:

The Konjac Sponge Co:  Body Sponge (website RRP £29.00, Sheet lists price as £11.99)

I never would have though to buy a sponge or that I would love it so much but this is the best sponge I have ever used.  Even my 4 year old could tell the quality and insist on using this in the shower over his fun character flannels.  I plan on buying the whole family one each.

Weleda: Evening Primrose Body Oil (website RRP £24.95 full size, Sheet lists price as £3.99 sample size)

I haven’t used it.  I have do have a lot of body oils on the go at the moment and really appreciate the travel size of this sample.  I am putting it in my maternity bag for use after my shower in hospital.

FRUU: Colour Balm in Strawberry (website & sheet lists price as £4.99)

I’ve been using this almost every day.  It is moisturising and fun to have a pop of colour. The pink-coral shade is a little bright for me but the colour doesn’t last long.  I will use it up but if I rebuy, I will try a different shade (there is 8 to choose from).

Balade En Provence: Apple Hand Cream (website & sheet lists price as £9.99)

This smells so good.  I haven’t used it much as I neglect caring for my hands.  I’m sure that once the baby is here and I’m cleaning my hands after nappy changes, this will be in regular use.  I also love the cute apple design of the pot and decided that it would make a lovely gift for my sons key workers at nursery as he graduates this summer and my little boy will start school in September.

Peony Cosmetics: Pink Glow Luminizing Stick (website RRP $22.00, sheet lists price as £16.99)

This product is fine but I have really pale skin and the colour just doesn’t show up on me.  I’ve had this problem with other highlighters.  I’ve used it a few times as it has a very subtle shimmer on my skin but isn’t light enough to highlight for me.  It is friendly to my skin – no irritation or doing weird stuff like flaking – so I think if you have darker skin then this could be great for you.

 

Would I recommend?

I continue to subscribe to The Pip Box and really like the reward scheme, supporting a charity and discovering more cruelty free brands.

I am disappointed that I cannot use the shampoo and conditioner because I am pregnant but I’ll stick them in my hospital bag as they are a good travel size.  I’m most excited this month about trying trying the nail art as I never give my hands any attention – I’ll try to take some pics on how I get on.

The Pip Box

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Makeup, Pip Box, Uncategorized

Review: The Pip Box (April)

What is The Pip Box?

It is a beauty subscription box with a selection of cruelty free products.  The box contains a selection of five products – skincare, body care, makeup and occasionally a sweet treat too.A donation from the cost of the box goes to an animal friendly charity (This month is Animal Free Research).    In addition, you earn loyalty points for each purchase which can then be used for money off future boxes.

Cost:  £13.50 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

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April’s The Pip Box unboxing ?

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What was in my box?

The box came with an information card to tell me all about the products inside and their value.

The Konjac Sponge Co:  Body Sponge (website RRP £29.00, Sheet lists price as £11.99)

This wasn’t an easy product to photograph. It’s also a product you would not expect to have won so many awards but this sponge has!

It 100% natural, biodegradable and despite being gentle it is able to deliver a deep cleanse and boost circulation.

This sounds amazing and I’m putting it in my shower right away.

Weleda: Evening Primrose Body Oil (website RRP £24.95 full size, Sheet lists price as £3.99 sample size)

I really like this brand as they’ve been creating natural products for a long time now.

It’s described as being ideal for dry/mature skin. I’m hoping that it’s going to prove beneficial for a growing pregnant tummy. I don’t suffer with stretch marks but I am living oils at the moment as a precaution.

FRUU: Colour Balm in Strawberry (website & sheet lists price as £4.99)

Wow, I wasn’t expecting the balm to be so pigmented. It’s like a lipstick but really soothing, nourishing and smells delicious.

I love the colour but saw there are more shades to try on their site! This is a brand I’ve not heard of before and pleased to discover.

Balade En Provence: Apple Hand Cream (website & sheet lists price as £9.99)

This is another new brand to me. That produce vegan skincare with natural ingredients. I think they are relatively new as there is currently only two products.

I love the cute ’apple’ shaped jar the hand cream comes in. The other product they do is a pear hand cream in a pear jar. I’m excited to try this product to see if it is as good as not looks and I want to leave it out somewhere so I can show it off to guests.

Peony Cosmetics: Pink Glow Luminizing Stick (website RRP $22.00, sheet lists price as £16.99)

It uses natural ingredients (92%), gluten free, paraben free and cruelty free.

The product had fallen out the tube when I first got it out the box. I pushed it back in the shaft and it fixed it. *phew*

The only highlighter I currently have is my RMS one and it’s almost run out. This will be a useful addition to my makeup. I’ll let you know how I get on.

Reflect on previous box

This is how I got on using the products from my March box:

Dr Botanicals:  Tropical Invigorating Cream (website RRP £29.00, Sheet lists price as £44.00)

This really light moisturizer has been a joy to use on those really hot days.  I do find I have to be ever so careful squeezing the tube as the gentlest touch will release a generous amount – either that or I am very heavy handed.  I still can’t get over how beautiful it is. I love seeing this tube in bathroom cabinet.

Saturated Colour:  Make Me Matt (website and sheet RRP £8.00) and Moisturising Lipstick – Naked Pink (website and sheet RRP £7.00)

I’ve found the ‘Make Me Matt’ quite dry so I haven’t really used it much. It is a useful product to hang onto for any occasion when I need to make a lipstick have a matt lip. However, I have been wearing the lipstick on its own, most days.  I really like the colour. It is a strong pink and very pretty.

Okko Skincare:  ‘Try me’ Natural foot balm stick (£21.00 RRP for 50g on the website, £3 on the sheet for 4.5g ‘try me’ size)

I don’t really suffer with cracked heels so I haven’t felt the need to use this product much but it was a lovely treat.  I still think I have another use left in the ‘try me’ size, I will use it again.

Raw-Ganic:  Refreshing Aloe and Green Tea Facial Wipes (£2.99 on the sheet and website)

I was planning to save these for my maternity bag but I really like it.  Especially, when I am tired at the long day and can’t be bothered to spend ages in the bathroom – I just want to go to bed. These are so quick and easy and have a nice gentle smell.  I will be buying this product again.

Would I recommend?

I am a regular subscriber to The Pip Box and never been disappointed by the contents.  I really like the new reward scheme, supporting a charity and discovering more cruelty free brands.

The hand cream looks really cute. I’ve tried the highlighter and lip balm and they are beautiful universal colours that would suit most people. I can see myself using all these products. I am really happy with what I got.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Makeup, Pip Box, Skincare

Review: The Pip Box (March)

What is it?

The Pip Box is a beauty subscription box with a selection of cruelty free products.  A donation from the cost of the box goes to an animal friendly charity (This month is Animal Free Research).  The box contains a selection of five products – skincare, body care, makeup and occasionally a sweet treat too.

Cost:  £13.50 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

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The Pip Box (March) Unboxing ?

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How to get a free box?

In each box is a card encouraging consumers to share their pictures on social media.  They then choose a winner to get their next box free.  Last month, they chose my February pictures and I got my March box free.

What was in my box?

The box came with an information card to tell me all about the products inside and their value.

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Dr Botanicals:  Tropical Invigorating Cream (website RRP £29.00, Sheet lists price as £44.00)

Dr Botanicals is a London based vegan skincare brand and made from pure natural ingredients, paraben-free and no harmful preservatives.  They pride themselves on their products being kind to your skin and animals.

The cream is really light but moisturising and sinks in fast. The tropical smell isn’t strong and reminds me of grapefruit but that’s not listed as an active ingredient.  These are:

  • Elderflower:  to protect the skin from free radical damage
  • Chamomile Flower Extract: to heal and soothe irritated and damaged skin
  • Tiara Flower Extract:  to deeply nourish and purify the skin

I’m still really enjoying their day cream from last months edit too – click here to read.

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Saturated Colour:  Make Me Matt (website and sheet RRP £8.00) and Moisturising Lipstick – Naked Pink (website and sheet RRP £7.00)

This month I got two products by Saturated Colour.  This is a UK brand (Essex), cruelty free and vegan friendly.  The brand is affordable and they products have great colour and some clever ideas.

The Naked Pink lipstick is a gorgeous colour that would suit almost anyone.  It is a daytime pink and you could wear it to work.  The ‘make me matt’ is a clever product that can turn any lipstick matt.  If you have an old favourite that is the perfect shade but want it to be matt, then this is for you.  I think it is genius.

Her are some pics and swatches of the lipstick, Make It Matt and Lip Lock (another Saturated Colour product for longer lasting lip colour).

Top pic: Make it Matt (over lipstick)

Middle pic (L to R): swatch of lipstick alone, lipstick with Make it Matt, lipstick with Lip Lock, lipstick with Make it Matt & Lip Lock

Bottom pic: Naked Pink Lipstick

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Okko Skincare:  ‘Try me’ Natural foot balm stick (£21.00 RRP for 50g on the website, £3 on the sheet for 4.5g ‘try me’ size)

Okko Skincare use natural and organic ingredients in their products.  They are proud of their balms in a stick format as this enables you to throw it in your bag without the risk of spills.

I was impressed go easily the stick was to apply to my foot. It instantly turned into an oil. I used it straight out my morning shower but think this would be better before bed to allow the oil more time to penetrate. It has a nice smell and I’d be interested in trying more of their sticks.

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Raw-Ganic:  Refreshing Aloe and Green Tea Facial Wipes (£2.99 on the sheet and website)

Raw-Ganic is an English brand (Oxford).  The brand uses natural and organic ingredients that are environmentally sustainable and affordable.  It is vegan and cruelty free.

I like these wipes. I’ve used them to remove Make-up before bed and in the morning. I also tested them on removing the searches from my arm and it came off easily, even the swatches with Lip Lock. I’m thinking of putting them away in my overnight bag or next to my bed for when I’m too tired to take my makeup off with a full cleanse.

Would I recommend?

I am a regular subscriber to The Pip Box and never been disappointed by the contents.  It was really rewarding to get my box for free and goes to show that the company really do care about their customers.

I’m starting to grow a nice collection of Saturated Colour and Dr Botanics products and I am interested in buying more. I like being introduced to new brands I may not have discovered otherwise like Okko Skincare and Raw-Ganic both organic brands with great ethics.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Makeup, Pip Box, Skincare, Uncategorized

Review: The Pip Box (February)

What is The Pip Box

It is a monthly subscription box full of cruelty free beauty products. If that’s not enough to make you feel good, they also donate a portion of their profit to Animal Free Research UK from each box sold.

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What did I get?

Here are my first impressions of the products that I’ve been testing out since I received the box about a fortnight ago.

Day cream

Dr Botanicals:  Kale Superfood Nourishing Day Cream

  • Vegan
  • Cruelty free 
  • UK (London based)

This product claims to improve the appearance of skin whilst providing nourishment.  The main active ingredients are Kale (vitamin C & E) and Cocoa Butter.

Review: I’ve found this cream to be light.  It doesn’t have a scent.  It dries fast so I can put makeup on immediately afterwards.  It is a small tube so I’m not sure how long this will last but the product cost is the price of the subscription fee so I’ve already got my money back with this one item.

RRP £14.90

Eyeshadow

Johnny Concert:  Amplified eyeshadow (Tainted Cupcake)

  • Natural
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty free 

This brand prides themselves on being diverse and creating a brand everyone can use to express themselves (reminded me of Illamasqca).  The shade Tainted Cupcake is a champagne pink with rose gold. It can be applied dry or wet for a more intense pop of colour.

Review: The eyeshadow has a shimmer to it so if you are not into that this then the shade is not for you.  The shade chosen is a safe choice for most people but if you fancy something more daring they have some bolder colours on their website.  It also came with a free brush which I really like.

RRP $15.00 (about £10.86 by exchange rate on 4 March 2018)

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Akamuti:  Face Mask (Chocolate Marshmallow)

  • Natural
  • Sustainable ingredients (and Fair Trade)
  • Recyclable
  • Charity (support The Orangutan Land Trust )
  • Handmade
  • No preservatives
  • Cruelty free 

Above is just a snippet of all the goodness this brand delivers.  One of the first The Pip Boxes I received contained the ‘Green Clay’ face mask, I then went on to buy more products by the brand (a body oil and their petroleum free jelly).

Review: I haven’t had a chance to test this yet but I have previously used their green clay version.  It is a power mask and you have to mix it with water to create a paste.  If you enjoy making your masks then you will love this.

I prefer my masks already made so I wouldn’t have chosen this for myself but I am looking forward to trying it out because I know this brand always delivers and the mask will be effective.  You mix up what you need and there is enough that you will get plenty of uses out of the pot making it very cost effective.

RRP £4.95

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Naissance Journal:  Argan Oil

  • Soil Association Certification
  • Natural
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty free 

I struggled to find the product on their website but other oils in the same packaging were the organic certified oils.  I expect they have just not updated the product images yet on the site and this is new packaging.  There was a wide range of products on their site and gift sets for people who like making beauty products like bath bombs etc.

Review: My skin really does love organic oils.  Since receiving this, I have been putting it on before bed.  You only need a little bit to cover your face and it dries quick.  There were also instructions on how you can use the oil for your hair or mix it to make a serum.  I’m not keen on the smell of the product – it smells like cooking oil.

I will use it up but not sure I’ll re-buy.  I am interested in trying their bath salts…

RRP £4.99

Matt lip

Medusa’s Makeup:  Lip Paint (Cowgirl)

  • Vegan
  • Cruelty free 

This brand is difficult to get in the UK but not impossible, however, I had trouble finding a supplier that sells all the shades of lip paint yet so this is possibly a new line.  The product is a liquid lipstick with a matt finish and stays on all day.

Review: The shade Cowgirl is not for me.  I put it on and it is a pale nude colour that made my lips look like they had no colour and I am a red lip girl.  However, I couldn’t get it off and realised I was stuck with the shade all day unless I wanted to start my make-up over.  I went out in it.  It did last all day.

I am very tempted to get this matt lip paint in another colour because I love the fact you can put it on and forget about it and as a busy mum, doing my makeup once is about all the time I’ve got.

RRP $12.00 (about £8.69 by exchange rate on 4 March 2018)

Jom

JOM Organic:  Organic Candy (Fizzy Caramel)

  • Vegan
  • Organic
  • No palm oil
  • Free from: Gluten, GMO and Nuts

JOM stands for ‘Just One More’ and the brand is appropriately named.

Review: So, I opened the packet to show the sweets and tried one.  Before I had even uploaded the pic to Instagram, the contents was gone.  Honestly, I meant to share them with my husband and son but they really were moreish.  I highly recommend!

I can’t wait to order some more of these and try other flavours.

RRP £1.25

Share to social media

Currently, boxes contain a card encouraging consumers to share pics of their box and contents on social media and how to tag to enter the monthly raffle. If your pic is chosen, you win your next box free. It’s rewarding that this support and loyalty is recognised by The Pip Box.

I take pics every month because I love my The Pip Box. I then use my images on my blog.  This month, I won! So, my March box will be free and the contents will be worth £65!

I’m no professional photographer. I just took pics with my mobile. This shows anyone can win. So, if you buy The Pip Box, don’t hesitate to share your joy with pics. Do it, tag it, and you may just win it.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Makeup, Pip Box, Skincare

Review: What’s in my Pip Box – January

It’s been a busy couple of days but I’ll leave that for another post.  Due to my schedule, I did struggle to have time this week to film my Pip Box unboxing and take photos of the content.

What was in the box?

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As usual, Pip did not disappoint.  They had a good range of different products and most by brands I have not tried before.  Here is what I got:

This is  powder face mask that you mix with water to use.  The size in the box is a small sample size.  I’ve tried it before in Balm Balm’s Starter Kit (£15.50).  This was the first organic skincare brand I ever tried because I loved how affordable and effective it is and it initiated my love for organic products.

I’ve always wanted to try their Frankincense and Tea Tree range.  They also have a mother & baby range.

This is  a new brand for me.  I love the sliding tin with the lip balm and it smells delicious – vanilla is one of my favourite smells.  Their site offers free deliver on all UK Orders and they have a lot of other very desirable products that now have me tempted.

This body wash smells lush but on top of that it scores all the goodness points for being organic, vegan, cruelty free and doesn’t contain any of the bad stuff.  It’s sustainable and 100% biodegradable.  Their products uses Ayurvedic ingredients suitable for treating a range of sensitive skin conditions like Eczema and Psoriasis.

  • Medusa Make-up, Witch Lash Mascara:  RRP £25.49 (converted from US Dollars $36)

The mascara has a simple brush that is easy to use.  I’ve had no issues with this smuging or flaking  – it stays on all day.  This is a vegan cruelty free brand that have a vast range of beauty products.  I addition, the brand do their own subscription box where for about $15 you can recieve three to five full size products.  This is a great way to expand your make-up collection if you are venturing into Vegan or Cruelty Free products.  They have some beautiful metallic shades.

  • Optiat, The Hungover Coffee Scrub (Potent Peppermint):  RRP £9.99

The scrub is dark brown (almost black) in colour which surprised me – I guess its the coffee.  The minty scent was refreshing.  Sadly, this one is not for me…  I have a friend that loves body scrubs that I am going to give this him.  Scrubs just aren’t my thing.

The brand name stands for “One Persons Trash Is Another’s Treasure” and was inspired by the coffee waste filling landfills and wanting to find a solution – a natural beauty product.  If you want an environmentally friendly brand then this is a good one for you to consider.

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What is The Pip Box?

Pip is a cruelty free beauty subscription box.  The boxes contain a range of products from makeup, skincare and body care that are all not tested on animals.  In addition, they donate 50p from every box sold to an Animal Friendly Charity.

It’s a great way to discover new brands and new products in an affordable way.  The contents is always worth more than the subscription an contains a varied assortment.

Ally plus text

 

Ally Aldridge Beauty, Pip Box

Review: December’s Pip Box

Unboxing

Here is a little video of me opening my December Pip Box under the Christmas tree.  It arrived on 18 December 2017.

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Review

I’ve now had the products two weeks and had a chance to try all but one of them them.  Here is my review:

  • Benecos – natural eyeshadow (rose gold):  As always Pip are brilliant at picking colours – I don’t know how they do it!  They sent me the shade Rose Gold which is a really pretty shade.  This is a great eye shadow.  It will become a staple in my make-up bag.  I would recommend it and I would buy it again.
    • This product was from   from Pravera Direct.  This is the first time I have seen Pip recommend a store (rather than the brand directly).  I love discovering new ethical beauty shops so I’m really pleased.
    • It costs only£4.95.  
  • Tisserand Aromatheraphy – bath soak (rose & geranium leaf): This is the second time Pip has sent me a Tisserand product (last time I got a hand cream).  I prefer the smell of this product.  It has an earthy rose smell to it. It alsogffelt really rich and moisturizing in the bath, almost like an oil.  I really enjoyed this and I’m certain it will get all used up in no time.
    • It costs £10.95.  
  • Bloomtown -100% Natural & Vegan Lip Balm (red & berried):  This is a winter life saver.  It had prevented cracked lips and kept them hydrated whilst in out in the cold.  An added bonus is that it has a subtle red tint to it and smells delicious.
    • It costs £4.80.  
  • Raven Chocolate – Mini Coconut Milk Bar:  This is the first time I got something to eat in my Pip box and I generously offered to share it with my 4 year old.  OMG, I wish I had recorded our reactions.  We DID NOT like this!  We are clearly not ready for vegan, dairy free, sugar free chocolate. YUCK!  I’m glad we got to try it as it enabled me to learn this is not for me.
    • A 25g bar costs £1.95

 

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Still to try

  • Freyaluna Skincare – nourishing face steam (fennel & rose):  When opening my box I had a stuffy nose so I was most excited to use this product.  I had dreams of resolving my nasal congestion and getting a facial at the same time.  Sadly, I got sick and then was rushed by Christmas and visiting family and I’ve just not had any time – aghhh!  I am still super keen to review this product properly soon.
    • You can get a small 5g packet to try for £2.00 or buy a 30g jar for £11.00

The Pip Box Review

I love my Pip Box so much that I’ve decided to cancel my Birch Box subscription.  I prefer the products I get and I end up using them all up (no waste).  It’s great value and I’ve discovered some brilliant new products and brands to love. I highly recommend subscribing.

  • Cruelty free beauty box – £14.99 (monthly), £40.50 (3 x months), +P&P
  • Vegan friendly beauty box – £14.99 (monthly), £40.50 (3 x months), +P&P
  • Follow them on Instagram to be the first to know about any special subscription offers.

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