The Beauty Box by Bombay & Cedar is a monthly beauty subscription box from the folks at Bombay & Cedar, featuring 5-6 clean, vegan, and cruelty-free products with a value of over $100. They feature makeup, skincare, beauty tools, and more from a mix of indie and well-known brands.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
FYI, COVID-19 Update: Bombay & Cedar is experiencing significant shipping delays. Keep up to date on progress and estimated timelines here.
First Impressions
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First thing I noticed when checking out this month's Bombay & Cedar The Beauty Box is that all the products came in a plastic drawstring bag, which I thought was very nice.
What's Inside The Box
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The box arrives with a card that lists the products and highlights some of the beauty brands found within. October’s theme was ‘Protect.’
GLU Nail Polish in ‘Neptune’ and ‘Crimson,’ 2 x 12 ml - Retail Value - $17
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Since I usually only do my nails for a special occasion or event nowadays, I’ve gotten more into press-on nails for my hands because of how simple they are to apply and remove. But I do still paint my toenails, and these bright, vibrant colors are a perfect way to have a little fun with my tootsies. I really like the color ‘Neptune.’ It reminds me of a sky blue that used to be highly featured in my Lisa Frank stationary back in the 90s. The shade ‘Crimson’ is a bright, eye-catching red that reminds me of a femme fatale or Carmen Sandiego. I’m not a huge red fan, so I’ll definitely be gifting this shade to my bestie whose favorite color is red, and I know it will help her get into the holiday season to have a bright red mani-pedi. I’d never heard of the brand GLU, but I like that it is a fun, clean beauty and skincare brand, created and run by a teenage female entrepreneur. These polishes are cruelty-free, vegan, and non-toxic, which really does set my mind at ease. I remember when I first discovered that the nail polish I used to use was essentially leeching poison into my body (scary…).
THE VINTAGE COSMETIC CO. Manicure Purse Set, 4 pc - Retail Value $9.99
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I really enjoy the vintage aesthetic of this adorable kit. It looks like a miniature clutch… Then you pop it open, and everything you need for a manicure is securely inside. It’s definitely the chicest nail kit I’ve ever had. I think if I add in a small pair of tweezers, it will be perfect for travel. It’s compact, very lightweight, and includes four manicure tools: a nail file, cuticle pusher, nail clipper, and nail scissors. I found the nail scissors to be especially sharp and easy to use. The nail file worked very well, as did the cuticle pusher. The nail clipper seemed to struggle a little to cleanly snip through my nails. I don’t know whether the clipper is weak, or if my nails are just abnormally thick. Although, I have been taking Biotin, so I’d like to pat myself on the back and say that it’s because my nails are so strong and healthy. Overall, I think this is absolutely adorable and will definitely be bringing it on my next trip.
EARTH HARBOR NATURALS Replenishing Body Serum, 60 ml - Retail Value $26
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I really enjoy Earth Harbor products, but I’ve never tried a body serum from the brand before, which made unboxing this exciting. I always love to try new products, especially from brands that I’ve previously enjoyed. This body serum is very lightweight. It absorbed quickly into my skin and didn’t leave behind any greasy film or residue. After application, my skin felt very smooth and soft and looked glowy and healthy. The scent is a very light, fresh scent with a hint of floral that is not overpowering or overbearing and dissipates quickly. The product comes in a glass bottle, which I appreciate; not only because of how environmentally conscious it is, but also, it makes me feel incredibly fancy. There is a dropper applicator, and I’ve found that a little goes a long way. I use between four to six drops per appendage.
LAGUNA HERBALS Herbal Eye Balm, 30 ml - Retail Value $60
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I’ve never tried an eye balm, but I have to say, I really like it. At first, the texture is very similar to that of Vaseline or a cleansing balm. But then, the product does a complete 180 and absorbs into the skin, leaving behind smooth, moisturized under eyes in a matter of seconds. I am constantly battling dark raccoon eyes, so any added hydration is appreciated. This balm is formulated with a unique blend of three oils and is infused with a botanical infusion to help promote skin cell regeneration and reduce puffiness and the look of fine lines. I like that it is safe for use on the entire eye area and can also double as an eye makeup remover.
5TH DIMENSION Radiant Rose Clay Mask, 60 ml - Retail Value $28
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I, myself, prefer a sheet mask to a wash-off mask any day and definitely prefer them to DIY masks. This mask comes in a very fine powder that you mix in equal parts with liquid before applying (I used water). I let it sit for about five minutes before rinsing. It dried down quite quickly. After rinsing, my skin did look fresh and glowy, and my pores were a bit smaller. The product felt soothing and calming on my skin. However, I don’t know if this is something I would reach for on a regular basis, based on the amount of effort that goes into applying.
Verdict
I really liked this month’s The Beauty Box by Bombay & Cedar. What I especially liked was how diverse the products were. Not everything was just for your face. I got the GLU nail polish duo and the Vintage Cosmetics manicure set for my nails. I love how bright the polishes are and how adorable and sophisticated the manicure set is. I also really enjoyed the Earth Harbor body serum. I found it to be very similar but more hydrating than body oil. I was also intrigued by the Laguna Herbals eye balm. I like that it’s safe for all eye use and was very impressed with how quickly it absorbed and how effectively it reduced puffiness under my eyes. Lastly, I received the 5th Dimension clay mask, which felt very nice on my skin but is a little too time-consuming to fit into my lifestyle, but I’m sure I can pass it along to someone who will enjoy it. Overall, I think this was a great box, with good value and great quality products.
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Value - Was This Box Worth It?
The Cost: $31.95
VALUE BREAKDOWN
- Nail Polishes: $17
- Manicure Set: $9.99
- Body Serum: $26
- Eye Balm: $60
- Clay Mask: $28
The products this month have an estimated retail value of around $140.99, which is great for a $31.95 box.
To Wrap Up
Can you still get this box if you sign up today? No, but order now to receive the December box while stocks last.
What do you think of the Bombay & Cedar "Protect" box?
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