Monthly Beauty Subscription Worth It
By Rachel Jerris
Health & Personal CareBeauty lovers are always on the lookout for easier ways to try new products without committing to full sizes. Monthly beauty subscriptions stepped in to fill that gap, offering curated selections that arrive like clockwork. Among the biggest players is IPSY, founded in 2012 by beauty innovator Michelle Phan. IPSY built its reputation around personalization and discovery, attracting millions of subscribers worldwide. So is its monthly subscription actually worth it? Let’s break down what makes IPSY stand out and why so many stick around.
IPSY Glam Bag – Monthly Discovery Without the Commitment
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Contents: 5 deluxe sample-size products packaged in a themed pouch.
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Value: Each bag delivers $50+ in retail value for a $14 monthly cost.
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Examples (2025 releases):
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Benefit Cosmetics Dew La La All-Over Glow Liquid Highlighter
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Ace Beauté Contour Stick
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Love+Craft+Beauty Astro Allure Multi-Face Palette
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Purpose: Ideal for testing trends without committing to full sizes.
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Extra perk: Monthly collectible pouches designed by IPSY’s in-house team.
The IPSY Glam Bag is designed for beauty lovers who enjoy discovery and variety. Sample sizes allow subscribers to experiment with new formulas, shades, and brands without cluttering their vanity or overspending. It’s especially appealing for people who want to try trending products before buying full-size versions.
The monthly pouch adds a lifestyle element, turning each delivery into a small unboxing experience. Over time, subscribers build a collection of reusable cosmetic bags while staying current with beauty trends. For beginners, casual makeup users, or anyone who loves testing new releases, the Glam Bag offers consistent value with low commitment.
Explore the IPSY Glam Bag and start discovering new favorites each month.
IPSY Glam Bag Plus – Full-Size Favorites That Go the Distance
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Contents: 5 full-size products in a reusable drawstring bag.
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Value: Delivers $120+ retail value for $30 per month.
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Focus: Designed for subscribers who want full-size products they can use daily.
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Examples: Full-size palettes, skincare serums, and professional-grade brushes.
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Flexibility: Members can choose some items monthly.
Glam Bag Plus is a step up for subscribers who already know what they like and want products that last. Full-size items make this tier practical for building a regular beauty routine instead of just sampling. Skincare fans, in particular, appreciate receiving usable quantities of serums and moisturizers.
The ability to select certain products adds control and reduces the chance of receiving items that do not fit personal preferences. This balance between surprise and choice makes Glam Bag Plus one of the most popular tiers. It suits beauty users who want value, consistency, and flexibility without jumping into luxury pricing.
Upgrade to IPSY Glam Bag Plus for full-size products you’ll actually use.
IPSY Icon Box – Curated Luxury From Industry Insiders
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Contents: 8 full-size products curated quarterly.
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Value: Estimated $350+ retail value for $60 per quarter.
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Curators: Includes industry professionals like Ash K Holm, who works with Ariana Grande and Kim Kardashian.
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Unique appeal: Access to limited-edition and high-end products.
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Purpose: Created for beauty enthusiasts who want premium experiences.
The Icon Box targets subscribers who enjoy luxury beauty and insider access. Each box reflects the curator’s aesthetic, often featuring higher-end brands and exclusive items not available in other IPSY tiers. This creates a sense of rarity and excitement.
Because it ships quarterly, the Icon Box feels more intentional and collectible. It works well for beauty fans who enjoy statement products, curated selections, and expert-approved picks. For subscribers who treat beauty as a hobby rather than a routine, this tier delivers standout value.
Experience IPSY Icon Box for a premium, editor-level beauty curation.
IPSY Product Categories – A Complete Beauty Mix in Every Box
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Makeup: Lipsticks, palettes, mascaras, highlighters.
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Skincare: Serums, moisturizers, masks, cleansers.
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Haircare: Shampoos, conditioners, treatments, styling products.
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Beauty Tools: Brushes, sponges, tweezers, accessories.
IPSY covers nearly every beauty category, which keeps subscriptions versatile. One month may lean toward makeup-heavy looks, while another focuses on skincare or haircare. This rotation prevents repetition and keeps boxes feeling fresh.
Subscribers who enjoy experimenting across categories benefit most, as IPSY rarely limits selections to one beauty niche. Over time, members can discover new routines, brands, and product types without shopping separately. This variety plays a big role in IPSY’s long-term appeal.
Join IPSY to explore makeup, skincare, haircare, and tools in one subscription.
IPSY Personalization – Beauty Picks That Learn What You Love
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Beauty Quiz: Covers skin tone, hair type, preferences, and goals.
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Product Reviews: Monthly ratings influence future selections.
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Customization Options: Members often choose 1–3 items per bag.
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Algorithm + Human Curation: Data meets expert input.
Personalization is one of IPSY’s strongest differentiators. The quiz and ongoing reviews help refine selections over time, so boxes feel more relevant the longer someone subscribes. Product choice options further reduce mismatches.
By blending algorithms with human curation, IPSY avoids feeling overly automated. This balance keeps discovery alive while respecting personal preferences. It’s a key reason many subscribers stick with the service long term.
Take the IPSY beauty quiz and get a subscription tailored to you.
Why IPSY Keeps Beauty Lovers Subscribed
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High Value for the Price
One of the biggest draws of IPSY is how much value each tier delivers compared to its cost. The $14 Glam Bag regularly includes products worth $50 or more, while Glam Bag Plus offers $120+ in full-size items for $30. The quarterly Icon Box goes even further, with curated collections valued at $350 and up. In many cases, a single serum or palette can match the subscription price, making the rest of the box feel like a bonus. Get more beauty for your budget by subscribing to IPSY.
Variety and Product Discovery
IPSY works with over 500 beauty brands, combining recognizable favorites with emerging indie labels. Each month introduces new products across makeup, skincare, haircare, and tools, keeping the experience fresh. This variety allows subscribers to explore trends and formulas without committing to full-size purchases upfront. Many users discover new staples through IPSY that later become part of their regular routine. Discover new beauty favorites every month with IPSY.
Customization That Improves Over Time
Personalization plays a major role in the IPSY experience. Subscribers start with a beauty quiz covering skin tone, hair type, and preferences. Monthly product reviews and choice options help refine future selections, making each bag feel more aligned over time. This ongoing feedback loop reduces mismatches and improves satisfaction compared to one-size-fits-all boxes. Take the IPSY quiz and get beauty picks tailored to you.
Exclusive Member Perks
IPSY subscriptions come with extras beyond the monthly bag. Members gain access to flash sales with discounts reaching up to 80 percent off retail, early access to limited-edition launches, and how-to content through the IPSY community. The collectible Glam Bag pouches also add practical value, often reused for travel or storage. Unlock member-only deals and perks by joining IPSY.
Standout Beauty Finds You Can Discover With IPSY
BLISS Mighty Biome Pre/Post Biotics + Barrier Aid Ultra-Hydrating Moisturizer – Everyday Barrier Comfort
BLISS Mighty Biome Pre/Post Biotics + Barrier Aid Ultra-Hydrating Moisturizer delivers lasting hydration in a lightweight cream designed for daily use. Barrier Aid technology works with beta-glucan to help attract moisture and support skin balance, while squalane and coconut oil smooth texture. Ceramides and vitamin E help maintain comfort, making the formula easy to layer under makeup or sunscreen without feeling heavy.
The fragrance-free, vegan formula suits simple routines and consistent use. It absorbs quickly and keeps skin feeling comfortable throughout the day. If you enjoy discovering dependable moisturizers without buying full-size upfront, this is the kind of product you can often find through IPSY.
ICONIC LONDON Super Smoother Blurring Skin Tint – Natural Coverage, Refined Finish
ICONIC LONDON Super Smoother Blurring Skin Tint offers light-to-medium coverage with a smooth, satin-matte finish that lasts up to twelve hours. The lightweight formula evens skin tone while keeping a natural look, making it suitable for everyday wear. Hydrating ingredients help maintain comfort, and the tint blends easily without settling or feeling heavy.
Available in multiple shades, it works across a wide range of skin tones and makeup styles. Vegan and cruelty-free, it fits minimal routines and polished looks alike. To try complexion products like this without committing to full price, explore monthly finds through IPSY.
BEAUTYSTAT Peptide Wrinkle Relaxing Moisturizer – Smooth, Firm, and Hydrated
BEAUTYSTAT Peptide Wrinkle Relaxing Moisturizer focuses on smoothing and hydration using neuropeptides and peptides. The formula delivers an immediate tightening feel while supporting firmness over time. It provides moisture without residue and layers well under sunscreen or makeup, making it easy to use both morning and night.
Fragrance-free and free from parabens and phthalates, this moisturizer suits streamlined skincare routines. The texture feels refined and comfortable on the skin. Products like this often appear in curated beauty subscriptions, making IPSY a practical way to explore advanced skincare.
TERRE DE MARS Résurgence Coffee Powder Exfoliator – Gentle Polish for Face and Body
TERRE DE MARS Résurgence Coffee Powder Exfoliator uses roasted Arabica coffee powder to gently exfoliate and refresh skin. Coconut shell and apricot kernel powders help remove buildup, while castor and sunflower oils support softness. The formula leaves skin smooth without dryness and works well for both face and body use.
Made in France with one hundred percent natural origin ingredients, it is vegan and cruelty-free. This versatile exfoliator fits weekly routines for those who enjoy clean beauty formulas. Discover products like this by checking what’s featured in IPSY each month.
DEW OF THE GODS The Theory™ Retinol Creme Blend – Balanced Care for Day or Night
DEW OF THE GODS The Theory Retinol Creme Blend combines retinol, hyaluronic acid, and oat milk in a balanced cream. The formula supports a smoother texture while keeping skin hydrated and comfortable. Vitamin C and E add antioxidant support, and the texture absorbs easily without feeling heavy.
Packaged in a glass pump bottle, the cream works well year-round and fits both day and night routines. Vegan and cruelty-free, it blends performance with thoughtful design. Subscribing to IPSY makes it easier to try skincare like this without committing to full-size pricing.
If discovering new beauty products is something you enjoy, a monthly subscription can take the pressure out of shopping. IPSY brings together trusted brands, emerging favorites, and thoughtful personalization in a way that feels both fun and practical. With options that fit different routines and budgets, it gives beauty lovers a low-risk way to try more without overcommitting. For many, that balance is exactly what makes IPSY worth keeping in their monthly lineup.