Ipsy Icon Box Review: February 2025

Okay, let’s get into it – the first Ipsy Icon Box of the year just landed, curated by none other than Gabrielle Union! I’ve always admired her for being such a powerhouse and using her platform to uplift others, so seeing her name on this box got me genuinely excited. I was ready to see if her vibe translated into some must-have beauty picks or just a bunch of hype.

If you’re new to this, the Ipsy Icon Box is a $65 quarterly upgrade for Ipsy members. It replaces your regular glam bag in February, May, August, and November. They promise at least 8 full-size products worth up to $350, which sounds amazing… but only if the products actually live up to the hype, right? Let’s see how this one stacked up.

My Subscription Addiction paid for this box. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)

First Impressions

Honestly? The box showed up looking a bit roughed up, but who cares? I’m more interested in what’s inside, and luckily, everything was intact and ready to be played with. Let’s break down each product because there were definitely some hits... and a few misses.

What’s Inside:

Byroe Oat Yogurt Moisture Barrier Cream – Retail Value $106

Let’s just get this out of the way – $106 for a moisturizer? It better be magic in a jar. Spoiler: it wasn’t. The packaging looks luxurious, but the scent? Overpowering, like one of those old-school perfumed creams. Not exactly what I want lingering on my face all day.

I tried using it as a face moisturizer, but the fragrance was just too much, so I’ve been using it as a body cream instead.

Would I Repurchase? NOPE. 

First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub – Retail Value $30

Now, this one’s a classic for a reason. I’ve used this before, and it’s hands down one of my holy grail body care products. You need this in your shower if you struggle with textured skin, acne on your arms, or strawberry skin anywhere.

It’s not overly abrasive, but it does the job. My skin always feels insanely smooth after using it, and it’s helped even out my skin texture over time. 

Beauty secret: It’s great for getting rid of any leftover deodorant. It's weirdly satisfying, I know.

Would I repurchase? Absolutely!

Make Up Forever The Profesionall 24HR Double-Ended Lifting & Volumizing Mascara – Retail Value $28

Shade: Black

I’m a drugstore mascara girl at heart because I don’t believe in spending a fortune on something I toss every 3 months. But this mascara is testing that rule. The double-ended wand is genius. Once I figured out how to use the tiny brush, my lashes transformed!

I wore it all day, and it didn’t smudge. If you want a bold lash look but still want to keep it classy, this one’s worth the splurge. Not sure I’ll fully convert, but I’m definitely keeping this in rotation.

Would I repurchase? Maybe. 

NARS Cosmetics Powermatte Lipstick – Retail Value $34

Shade: Killer Queen (Rose Brown)

I usually lean toward lip gloss or a sheer tint, but this lipstick surprised me. The shade is a gorgeous rose brown that’s super wearable and perfect for an everyday look. It’s slightly drier than I prefer but still comfy enough to wear for a few hours.

Heads up: it does smudge, so this isn’t a dinner date lipstick unless you’re okay with reapplying. But for a chic, natural-looking lip color during the day? It’s a win.

Would I repurchase? Probably not, but I’ll be using this one up.

Shades by Shan Brush Set Collection – Retail Value $25

Who doesn’t love new brushes? These are super soft with zero shedding, and they feel sturdy enough to hold up over time. I like having backups, especially for when my older brushes are due for a deep clean or replacement.

The sleek design is cute, but the set itself isn’t groundbreaking. For $25, they’re a solid addition if you’re building your brush collection, but they didn’t blow me away.

Would I repurchase? No. 

No.14 Icila Eau de Parfum – Retail Value $98

I’m on a fragrance kick lately, so I was excited to try this. It smells like old money and class – like you just walked out of a luxury boutique. It’s a blend of elegance and freshness without being too heavy or overwhelming. I mean, look at that bottle?! 

This might actually become my new signature scent. I’m even considering hunting down a candle version because it’s that good. $98 isn’t cheap, but if you’re into sophisticated, timeless scents, this one’s worth every penny.

Would I repurchase? YES! 

Topicals Faded Serum – Retail Value $38

I’ve used this before, and it works. I deal with hyperpigmentation, and this stuff makes a difference. The downside? It smells weird. They updated the formula, and the scent isn’t as strong now, but it’s still there.

Honestly, if you’re struggling with dark spots, the results are worth putting up with the scent. Just don’t expect a luxurious spa-like experience.

Would I repurchase? Yes. 

Buxom Cosmetics Full-On Plumping Glossy Lip Oil – Retail Value $26

This one’s a mixed bag. It does give a nice plumping effect and shine, but the scent? It’s like a vanilla-flavored lipstick from childhood, and I can’t un-smell it.

The gloss isn’t sticky, and it did keep my lips hydrated longer than I expected, which I appreciate, but the scent is just not my vibe. If you don’t mind sweet vanilla, you’ll probably love it, but I’ll be reaching for other lip products over this one.

Would I repurchase? No. 

OSEA Atmosphere Protection Cream – Retail Value $54

I’m all for environmentally friendly and vegan products, so I wanted to love this. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and layers well under makeup. But… that’s about it. It didn’t wow me.

It’s a good, reliable moisturizer for daytime, but for $54, I expected a little more oomph. I’ll use it up, but I won’t be rushing to repurchase.

Would I repurchase? No. 

Value Breakdown

The Cost: $65

Inside the box:

• Byroe Moisturizer: $106
• First Aid Beauty Scrub: $30
• Make Up Forever MAscara: $28
• NARS Lipstick: $34
• Shaded by Shan Brushes: $25
• No.14 Parfum: $98
• Topicals Serum: $38
• Buxom Lip Oil: $26
• OSEA Moisturizer: $54 [Beauty Boost Item]

Total value: $439

Final Thoughts

Overall, I’m pretty happy with this box. The No. 14 Issyla Eau de Parfum, Make Up For Ever Mascara, and First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser were definite standouts for me. But seriously… how did they not include anything from Gabrielle Union’s haircare line? Missed opportunity.

I think it was a solid start to the year for the Icon Box, but I’m curious to see what they do next. I’ll be keeping my subscription, but I’ll be keeping an eye out for more meaningful collaborations (and less fragranced face creams, please).

What Did You Think?

Did you get this box too? What were your faves (or fails)? Drop a comment below – I love hearing other people’s takes. If you’re on the fence about subscribing, feel free to ask me anything. Until next time, happy unboxing! 🎁