I am a beauty blogger too who reviews FCS as well - but the problem is that my box never gets to me in a timely manner. Since so many do blog about their boxes, it would be nice if they were sent out at the same time.
I know why they do it, but from my understanding, the PR/affiliates don't pay for their stuff and yet get it way before the paying customers. Same problem - I would love to have my review up earlier as well, or as you stated, not many people are going to read my reviews too
They make it difficult for new bloggers to break into the scene and get a following. As there are so many beauty bloggers out there, I am not sure why established companies still offer or continue a PR/affiliate program. I understand it if it is a new company trying to break into the scene - that is different. There are other ways to give perks to PR/affiliates - such as giving them items outside of the monthly boxes - I've read about PR/affiliates getting items that aren't affiliated with boxes, so that is one way for that relationship to continue. It just seems that the monthly boxes are popular with bloggers and they should be sent at the same time - just my 2 cents.
BTW - some of these affiliates/PR people just dump a picture, state they love it, and don't even swatch it. WTH? I mean, as crappy as my pics are, I have learned how to swatch my products and try to give a nice description of it when I unbox it. Sometimes, if it is a product that wows me, I will do a follow up on it.
I mean, it won't ever stop me from blogging my boxes and finds - I like doing it. But it difficult to get new readers when they do it this way.
I know it sounds like sour grapes - lol - but I would love to review my stuff before it is old news too!!