I received the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant in my March 2013 Birchbox and finally tried it out today.  What looks like 4 sample packets are actually 2 (the logo part is just air).  It was definitely not what I expected – it’s thicker than I thought and it smells slightly medicine-y but you get used to the smell.  The protectant makes my skin shiny and it really doesn’t absorb well – my face still feels a little greasy and sticky after having it on for a couple hours.  After reading some reviews, I realized I did it wrong – this is more of a night cream and it’s good for other parts of your body, not just the face.  AND it’s supposed to be shiny! 🙂

Apply a generous amount onto skin to combat dryness, sunburn, or redness anytime and anywhere. Or dab a small amount onto brows to keep unruly hairs in line; smooth onto lips, cheekbones, and lids for a glossy, fresh-off-the-runway look; massage into dry cuticles and rough heels; or use as a post-shave treatment.

This is what it looks like –

There is plenty in the packet because a little goes a long way – the amount in the jar is what I had left after 1 face application.  I didn’t put the other sample packet in this jar yet…  After I’m done with the sample, I probably won’t buy this but I’m glad I got to try it.  Love Birchbox!!