Birchbox (March) - A first look and breakdown for beginners

As you all know, I'm embarking on a journey of beauty discovery. One part of that discovery, is Beauty Boxes. There are loads available now and which you pick are up to you. I looked into Birchbox, Glossybox, Latest in Beauty, Love Me Beauty, You Beauty Discovery Box, LoveLula Box - to name but a few. Majority of these are £10 a month (per box) plus postage, though there are some for more or for less. There is no particular reason that I settled on Birchbox, though £5 off my first box is probably what swayed it.

My March Birchbox arrived on Saturday. It was very fast from my actually ordering it, though late in the month as I only decided during this last week. I imagine April's won't be too far behind it! Anyway, this is how it looked when it arrived (outside of its actual posting packaging).

From what I can gather, this isn't its usual packaging and instead just a special sleeve for the box, sponsored by Lulu Guinness. Either way, you just slide it off and you're greeted with the actual Birchbox box itself.

I took pictures at each stage, so you could see exactly what you get. I don't know if you're like me, but I always like to know exactly what I'll get for my £10, and while the products can vary, its good to get an example at least.

First the Bumf...

Life Lessons, as told by Lulu Guinness - a small booklet of life "tips" by Lulu Guiness.
Brows Magically Appear - voucher for a free makeupper and to try Gimmie Brow, at your local Benefit Beauty Bar.

Exclusive Offer - on the back of this card, there is a code for £20 off £100 spend at any Lulu Guiness Store or online in March 2014.

 The final leaflet contains information about the contents of the box, as well as a little welcome to the box.

Finally, on to the contents themselves!

From the card:
Benefit - Stay Don't Stray - An eye primer you can count on! Ensure eyeshadow and concealer stays put from AM to PM. Dot above and below the eye, gently blending in with your fingertips.

Dr. Brandt - Pores No More Pore Refiner - A favourite of photo-ready celebs, this sheer formula minimises pores and absorbs excess oil. Apply a thin layer to your face before make-up and after moisturiser.

Korres - Citrus Body Milk - This hydrating lotion not only smells delish, it does your skin good too, thanks to almond oil and shea butter. Massage into dry skin after bathing or showering.

Molton Brown - Rhubarb & Rose Replenishing Hand Cream - A fast-absorbing, repairing and deeply nourishing lotion to leave hands delectably soft and smelling sweet. Massage into hands for a moisture kick.

English Laundry - No. 7 For Her - Top notes of pear and jasmine blend with gardenia, vanilla and sandalwood in this delightful scent. Spritz onto pulse points and enjoy the fresh fragrance.

The candy rock, a little extra, is the stripy candy that represents the traditional sweet shops that inspired LuLu Guiness' Spring/Summer 2014 collection. Just to eat!

So this is March's Birchbox and I have to admit I'm pretty pleased with it. Beauty boxes, so far, seem like a great way to try new products at only a fraction of the cost. I will be updating you all soon on how I got on with these products, but let me know if you have any thoughts too!