Love Lula Beauty Box: June 2019 Review *

It's that time of month again -- time to review another edit of the amazing Love Lula Beauty Box!

As you lovelies know, I have been receiving this subscription for well over two years now, and it is one of my most suggested boxes when people ask for my recommendation.  I love the variety, the price point versus value, and the customer service, so it's a service I can't really flaw.  I mean, even on the rare occasion where a month contains products that aren't exactly my cup of tea, I can see why others would go bananas for the selections inside the Love Lula Beauty Box.

And that's sort of where I am at with the June collection.  I know there have been loads expressing how excited they are about all the goodies inside the latest edit, and I can see why -- it has a great mix of products, from makeup to skincare, presents really good savings, and features some lovely cruelty free brands.  Plus, the scent of one of the items is super summery and brings to mine a tropical vacation, perfect for the sunny season we're now in!

But I have to admit... I'm still split on this box.

Love Lula Beauty Box Review - June 2019


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* This post contains affiliate links
Gifted product - this subscription was gifted as part of the LLABP

No matter how I have received a product, whether it has been purchased with my own money, gifted by a brand, been subsidized by a brand, won, gifted by friends/family, or purchased with a gift voucher, my approach is always the same -- honesty, integrity, and highlighting both the good and the bad.  You can find more information on Disclosures and Privacy here.



There are two items I cannot use and one which I already own, meaning my finds from the June box are limited to the mascara and the sun milk sachet.  *sigh*   I recognize this is a personal thing though, and the products included in this box have gotten a lot of smiles elsewhere.  But here's my honest as always thoughts on the latest Love Lula Beauty Box:



Madara Weightless Sun Milk SPF20 (150ml/£22.95):
Say hello to one of Madara's newest launches, the Weightless Sun Milk!  This SPF formula has been designed to protect against harmful UVA/UVB rays, but does even more than that!

Yes, it protects against the sun, but it also reduces the potential for dark spots and photo-aging!  Plus, as it contains many nourishing ingredients, it helps keep your skin looking and feeling soft and smooth.  But how does it apply?  Well...

"Based on the juicy aloe vera, this pure mineral milk spreads effortlessly and absorbs instantly, working from the moment of application. Enhanced with raspberry seed oil, pampers the skin for a soothed and comforted feel."

I'd say it is surprisingly lightweight, and isn't super oily which is a huge bonus.  There is nothing that turns me off more when it comes to SPF products than if it is greasy and slick on the skin.  Another great thing about this that I've noticed from the sample is that it doesn't leave a white sheen at all - it is totally invisible once applied.  Another win!

This does have a strong scent to it, but it isn't unpleasant.  It's a little juicy actually, and reminds me of the beach in an odd way.  Overall I'm impressed by this, and actually ordered another sun cream from Madara to try out because I had such good luck with this sachet!

Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice Zinc Oxide Isoamyl Laurate Dicaprylyl Carbonate Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate Glycerin Cetyl Ricinoleate Sorbitan Sesquioleate Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables Aroma Sodium Chloride Cera Alba Glyceryl Caprylate Magnesium Stearate Sorbitan Caprylate Cellulose Rhus Verniciflua Peel Cera / Rhus Succedanea Fruit Cera Shorea Robusta Resin Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil Xanthan Gum Propanediol Benzoic Acid Aluminum Tristearate Potassium Hydroxide Aqua Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C) Sodium phytate Tocopherol Geraniol

Further Recommendations:
I have tried a LOT of Madara products thanks to Love Lula.  You can find my thoughts on various formulas by clicking the "Madara" tag at the bottom of this post if you are interested in reading more about the brand and what they offer.  One of my stand outs is the Active AHA Brightening Peel Mask, and also the Smart Antioxidants range which works amazing on drier and more mature skin types.


Love Lula Beauty Box - Ayumi Intensive Hair Conditioning Treatment Review

Ayumi Intensive Hair Conditioning Treatment (150ml/£8.99):
This is the second product from Ayumi we have had lately - remember their body scrub I mentioned  last month??  This is a brand fairly new to the Love Lula family, and one that has a lot of people excited as it is budget friendly and very aromatic.  So aromatic, in fact, that I could smell the coconut before I could actually even see the tube!

This hair conditioning treatment is designed to be an ultra nourishing rinse out hair mask that replenishes lost moisture and nurtures tired hair.  It smells strongly of coconut, giving some major summer vibes, and is a very generous size.

"Renowned in Ayurveda, java grass is used to strengthen hair and rejuvenate the scalp, while quassia, sacred lotus and Indian lilac help to purify. Dry hair is revitalised with vitamins E, C and enriching coconut and avocado."

Sounds great, but sadly I won't be able to enjoy these tropical vibes for myself for two main reasons: coconut oil and phenoxyethonal.  You all know my ongoing battle with the synthetic preservative that causes intense reactions when it comes into contact with the more delicate skin on my body (face, hands, scalp).  Phenoxyethonal leaves everything red, feeling firey, and very very sensitive for the next week or more.  At this point, I am hesitant to even attempt to use anything that contains this ingredient, as it is just too painful.  Beyond that even, coconut oil causes a lot of issues for both my face and scalp, like cystic acne.

I wish I could use this, as it smells great, but the ingredients just don't work for me personally.

Ingredients: Aqua,Cetearyl Alcohol,Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil,Brassicamidopropyl Dimethylamine,Aspartic Acid,Coco-Caprylate,Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil Nelumbium Speciosum (Sacred Lotus) Flower Extract,Melia Azadirachta (Indian Lilac) Leaf Extract,Cyperus Rotundus (Java Grass) Root Extract Quassia Amara (Quassia) Wood Extract,Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E),Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C),Glycerin (Vegetable Source),Parfum Phenoxyethanol,Chlorphenesin,Potassium Sorbate,Ethylhexylglycerin,Sodium Phytate,alcohol,Sodium Benzoate,Citric Acid,Amyl Cinnamal,Coumarin

Further Recommendations:
To be honest, many of the Ayumi formulas just don't suit my needs as they include harsh alcohols or phenoxyethonal.  However, the pressed oils sound lovely and I am sure I will pick up a few when I need a top up!  And the scrub from last month's box smells so lovely.


Love Lula Beauty Box - FOM Hydra Plump Serum Review

FOM Hydra Plump Serum (30ml/£46):
The Hydra Plump Serum from FOM London Skincare uses a proprietary blend called Antioxsilk along with a variety of potent natural ingredients to freshen the face, plump the skin, and hydrate the cells.

What is Antioxsilk?  According to FOM, this is an "all natural complex rich in plant based antioxidants, adaptogens and silk that works together to stimulate skin’s own defence system against negative effects of air pollution whilst improving skin’s hydration & revealing a naturally healthy looking complexion."  It is contained in their entire range, and is what helps FOM shine.

This almost water-like serum works to maintain (and restore) hydration and strengthen the resilience of the skin in an effort to reduce the effects of aging.  And as it is fragrance free, it will be gentle enough for many to use both morning and night so you can reap the full benefits.

Unfortunately for me, this is another product I won't be able to use.  Phenoxyethonal strikes again...

I have tried another FOM product in the past, and that one caused reactions that led to increased sensitivity, so I won't be risking my skin again.  I'm sad, as this sounds lovely otherwise!  I love the consistency, as it seems so lightweight in the bottle, but it just isn't to be for me.

Ingredients: AQUA (DISTILLED WATER). ROSA DAMASCENA (ROSE) WATER. SODIUM HYALURONATE (HYALURONIC ACID). GLYCERINE (HUMECTANT). SORBITOL. FAEX (YEAST) EXTRACT. HYDROLYZED SILK PROTEIN. NIACINAMIDE (VITAMIN B3). SACCHARIDE ISOMERATE (MOISTURE MAGNET). CAMELLIA SINENSIS (GREEN TEA) LEAF EXTRACT. ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY ) WATER GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT. PANAX GINSENG ROOT EXTRACT. RHODIOLA ROSEA ROOT EXTRACT. XANTHAN GUM. PHENOXYETHANOL AND CAPRYLYL GLYCOL. LACTIC ACID.

Further Recommendations:
I can't recommend any FOM items, as every formulation contains phenoxyethonal.  However, if there is one that has been on your own wishlist for a while and you are not fussed about that particular ingredient, then right now may be the time to pick some up.  With the box discount code you'll save 25% off, plus FOM are running an offer for 50% off at the moment.  That's some serious savings!


Love Lula Beauty Box - NatOrigin Pencil Eyeliner Review

NatOrigin Pencil Eyeliner in Black (1.1g/£7.95):
"This ultra-soft, non-drag pencil provides long lasting colour and performs extremely well, as shown by awards for Best Eye Liner from Natural and Organic, Pure Beauty and The Green Parent."

Sounds good, yes??

Well, I was a little worried after reading a review that said this was way too soft and smudged everywhere.  While I agree the pencil is way for pliable than what I'm used to, I actually liked this quality as it makes it so easy to work with -- especially on the waterline!  I tend to only use a tiny bit in the corners just to round out my eyes a bit and make them look less baby-ish (yes, I have giant eyes that make me look like a school girl no matter how old I get, and yes this causes issues when I got to the pub on occasion!).  It does make things slightly trickier on the upper lash line, but that might just be because I'm rubbish at applying eyeliner.  I will definitely be practicing more and report back!

As for smudging, sure it moves a little bit in the corners, but as long as you aren't rubbing your eyes I find this stays pretty well.  It's definitely not overnight wear-ability, but should we really be leaving products on that long anyways??

I initially wasn't super excited to see this inside the box, as I already own one that I haven't gotten around to trying yet, but now that I have I am happy to have a second on hand.  In fact, this pairs so well with my long time favourite pencil from PHB, as it is softer and therefore gentler, so if I am having a 'sensitive' day I can opt for this, or combine the two (PHB on top, NatOrigin on bottom) so I am being as kind to the delicate eye area as possible.

But what did you think of this eye pencil?  Do you find it smudges quickly, or does it last well for you?  I'm really curious!

Ingredients: Hydrogenated Palm Oil, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, Cetyl Laurate, Talc, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Stearic Acid, Stearyl Stearate, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Extract, Tocopherol, Bisabolol, Organic Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil. May Contain ±: CI 77499 – CI 77491 – CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77007 (Ultramarines), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77510 (Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide), CI 77742 (Manganese Violet), CI 19140 (Yellow 5 Lake)



Love Lula Beauty Box - NatOrigin Lengthening Mascara Review

NatOrigin Lengthening Mascara in Black (6g/£15.95):
More makeup!  I have to admit, I do get excited whenever Love Lula includes some makeup in their subscription box, as it feels like a proper treat.  I don't wear tons of makeup - in fact, most days I don't wear any at all - but I love having options and enjoy getting dolled up from time to time.  I find it fun testing out new green goodies, and so for me this was the perfect final piece to top off this box.

What makes this mascara different from others?  Well, first off it doesn't contain phenoxyethonal.  YAY.  And it doesn't stop there:

"It is formulated according to the principles of bio-inertia to reduce the risk of sensitivity and can be recommended for even the most sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Available in four defining colours black, brown, blue and green and approved by Allergy UK and VegSoc."

This is a mascara that takes sensitivities seriously, and I really appreciate that.

I also like that the wand gives great coverage with just one or two swipes.  And better yet, this is actually a super buildable mascara, meaning if you want lush full lashes you can do that by applying your first coat, then going back and adding more.  It doesn't clump up, so you end up with great long lashes - for me it's like double stacked and looks so beautiful!

A word of warning though - if you go anywhere near your eyes, if your eyes water at all, or if you lie down for a bit and doze off, you may just end up looking like a raccoon.  This mascara is not waterproof or water resistant at all, and it wipes off so easily.  So if you have allergies that causes itchy eyes or anything like that, just be aware -- I found out the hard way!

That being said, this is such a fab lengthening formula that I don't mind that it is not waterproof.  It's great for short term glam looks, for date night, or just for an everyday pop to your eyes.  I'm really happy I got to try this out, and this might just be my favourite item in the whole box!

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Sorbitol, Acacia Senegal Gum*, Cera Alba*, Dimer Dilinoleyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Bentonite, Stearic Acid, Talc, Palmitic Acid, Glyceryl Dibehenate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)*, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-3Diisostearate, Tribehenin, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Hull Powder, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Behenate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder*, Asparagopsis Armata Extract, Organic Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil*. May contain ±: CI 77007 (Ultramarines), CI 77499 (Black Iron Oxides), CI 77491 (Red Iron Oxides), CI77492 (Yellow Iron Oxides) Cl 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Cl 77510 (Ferric Ferrocyanide), Silica. *Ingredients from Organic Farming

Further Recommendations:
I have not tried many other products from NatOrigin, but their nail polish has been on my radar for a while now.  I'm eyeing up the Crystal Clear as I want to discover if it is a base or top coat (or maybe it is just a clear polish??), and Marjoram which looks like such a lovely summer shade.  I also like that they offer some fun coloured mascara - so nostalgic!


Love Lula Beauty Box Review - June 2019


Overall, this box offers a wide variety and should have at least one or two items for everyone to enjoy.  The value of this month's edition was worth over £48, which for a collection that cost a subscriber only £14.95 is incredible.  And as I've seen in the comments over on the Facebook group, it seems the majority of people are over the moon about this box!

It was just bad luck for me in terms of ingredients lists this time around, as phenoxyethonal is just not something I can use.  That means that two items immediately had to be put into my 'gift it' pile.  Plus, I already own the NatOrigin eyeliner, so I ended up with just two discoveries in June.  That being said, the two products new to me I really loved, so that's great!

If you are interested in subscribing to Love Lula Beauty Box, be quick, as you have to join before the start of the month to receive the next edition (so if you join in June, you get July).  You can choose from a month to month rolling subscription, or a pre-pay if you want a longer term option!

And as always, let me know what you thought of this month's box in the comments down below.  Did you like the variety?  What was your favourite product included?  And did you have some of the same struggles with ingredients as me?  I can't wait to see all your opinions!

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