Hey, beautiful people! My May VeganCuts Beauty Box arrived in the mail yesterday, so I thought I’d share my first impressions with you. I also included a few discount codes for anyone interested. Enjoy!

The Terre Mere Cosmetics blush brush ($34 value) I received is a 100% cruelty-free brush ergonomically designed to highlight your features for a subtle glow. I haven’t used it yet, but I’ll likely add it to my brush rotation. Very delicate, but dense enough to pick up mineral blush. I’m looking forward to trying it out. Until June 30, 2016, take 50% off your entire purchase with code “VEGANCUTS” at TerreMereCosmetics.com. Nice!

I really liked the Everclen hydrating facial toner ($15 value). The facial toner is fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin. I used it after cleansing my face this morning, and it dried quickly without that uncomfortable tightening that often happens with toner. So far, so good!

I’m anxious to try out the Molly Rose Balms Exfoliating Grapefruit Basil body scrub. I love when you can see the ingredients, and the tiny bits of basil didn’t disappoint. I think I have enough of a sample to try the scrub on my knees and elbows. I’ll check back in to let you know my thoughts.

A girl can never have too many serums! I am still working through a large stash of face products, but I can’t wait to try the Granola Goat “The Amazing Face” serum I received. The serum is made from cold pressed Red Raspberry Seed Oil and organic Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil (a skincare superstar!), and designed to fight inflammation. According to the instructions, you only need to use a few drops morning and/or night for radiant skin. Can’t wait! Use coupon code “VEGANCUTS” when you shop their Etsy site for 10% off any order!

I wasn’t impressed with the Medusa’s Makeup blush. The color I received, “Jezebel,” didn’t work for my skin tone, but that wasn’t the problem. The product itself seemed to disintegrate. Not only did it not stay on my blush brush, but it didn’t stay on my face either. It did manage to stick to my shirt and everywhere else I didn’t want it. I tried applying it with my finger instead, and that helped. The ingredient list was a no-no for me. Petrolatum, mineral oil, parabens and a bunch of hieroglyphics that don’t belong on my face. No thank you.

Well, there you have it! Overall I was impressed with this month’s box. If you see anything you like, you can use “MAYBEAUTY” for $10 off at VeganCuts.com/Beauty (Expires June 30th. Minimum purchase of $50 required.)

Candace Alike Smith is a Las Vegas-based content creator, womb warrior, and matcha enthusiast. Candace founded this site in 2015 to help women of color reclaim their vitality. Follow Candace’s content on holistic beauty, mental wellness, herbs and essential oils, non-toxic products, healthy libations, wellness travel, and self-reflection. Green is her happy color.

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