We've rounded up the best makeup subscriptions voted by our readers, and we mean it when we say there are lots of fantastic choices! Makeup subscription boxes are one of the most popular subscription box categories out there, and it's no surprise why. If you love trying new beauty products but don't want to pay full retail price, makeup subscription boxes are a great way to score new products without breaking the bank. MSA reviews quite a few makeup subscription boxes, and we've just about seen it all. If you're looking for a new makeup subscription box, you're in the right place- read on to learn why.
Every year, we ask our readers to share their top recommended subscriptions of all types. Then we ask our experts to share what they know about each subscription to make it easy for you to know which subscription is right for you. Below, you’ll find our insights for shopping makeup subscription boxes and see our readers’ top choices for makeup boxes to help you decide which subscription box is right for you.
Top Subscription Boxes Featured In This List:
Ipsy Glam Bag PlusBest Beauty Subscription Box Overall
Starting at $28.00Get Ipsy Glam Bag Plus
BoxyCharmThe Best Subscription for People Who Want Full Beauty Products
Starting at $28.00Shop at BoxyCharm
IpsyBest Subscription For Those Who Are On A Budget
Starting at $13.00Try Ipsy Glam Bag
Allure Beauty BoxBest Subscription For Those Who Would Love To Try Products From Allure Magazine
Starting at $23.00Order From Allure
IPSY Glam Bag xBest Subscription for The Ultimate Ipsy Experience
Starting at $55.00Get Ipsy Glam Bag X
And more! Keep reading to see the full details of the top subscriptions plus many more recommendations.
What To Look For When Shopping Makeup Subscriptions
There are a lot of makeup subscriptions out there, so it can be overwhelming to figure out which one you want unless you have a clear set of guidelines to help you make that decision. Our readers have found these questions helpful when deciding on a makeup subscription:
- Do you only want makeup? Some boxes only deliver makeup, while other boxes are packed with skincare, haircare, or lifestyle items. In our list, you’ll find out which boxes offer strictly beauty and which offer products in many categories.
- Do you want full-size items or sample sizes? Some subscriptions are more affordable because they give you beauty samples, and that might be perfect if you’re looking to try new brands and products. However, if you are looking for beauty products that will become part of your daily routine, you may prefer subscriptions that offer full-size products. We’ve noted in our list which subscriptions have sample sizes and which send full-size products.
- How often do you want products? Do you want to have new beauty products delivered each month, or are you only looking for a quarterly delivery so that you don’t have a drawer of makeup you haven’t used yet? Our list lets you know which boxes are monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly.
- Do you want certain brands or certain kinds of makeup? If you’re looking for lesser-known brands that could become your new faves, you may not choose the same subscription as someone who is looking for brand names they know and love. You might also be interested in cruelty-free and vegan makeup, and there are subscription boxes that only offer those. Our list lets you know what kinds of makeup you can expect from each box.
- How good is customer service? No matter how great a subscription is, sometimes accidents happen. A palette may be cracked or a bottle may become opened in the mail and spill all over the other products, for example. We’ve tried to only include companies that have good communications with subscribers so that if there is a problem, it can be resolved quickly and without much trouble.
These boxes our readers have chosen range in price, delivery frequency, and product focus, but they all offer exceptional value (especially when paired with promo links and coupon codes, which we’ve provided wherever possible). See our notes at the end for information about our selection process and tips for getting more from your subscription.
The Most Popular Makeup Subscription Boxes
Read on for our reader’s recommendations for the best makeup subscription boxes currently available. If we missed anything, drop us a comment. If you’ve tried one of these services, be sure to leave a quick review (even if you had a poor experience — your review can help other readers avoid subscription remorse).
1. IPSY Glam Bag Plus
Best Makeup Subscription Box Overall
About the Makeup Box: New and existing IPSY subscribers who want to punch up their collection of cosmetics can subscribe to the Glam Bag Plus. This next-tier makeup subscription box comes with five full-size products from well-known and up-and-coming brands — members get to handpick three of the items they receive.
The IPSY Glam Bag Plus offers an even greater variety of palettes, lipsticks, brushes, and skincare selections, and it arrives in a stylish drawstring bag. Members also have the option to add on up to eight additional exclusive products per shipment.
When you join, IPSY will ask you a series of questions about your looks, your makeup preferences and even the names of brands you currently buy. This is a way for them to curate a bag that matches up with the kinds of products you receive and use. Past brands have included Murad, Fenty, tarte, Christophe Robin and Glossier.
Is It Customizable? Yes, your IPSY Glam Bag Plus allows subscribers to choose three items each month (customization is on the second of each month).
Pros
- Expect high-end brands like tarte, Fenty, Murad, and Viseart
- Being able to customize three of the five items is more than any other makeup subscription box-increasing the likelihood you'll love your box
- Reviewing the products sent in each month's bag will give you points you can spend on new products
Cons
- You only have one day to customize, so if you're busy or forget, you leave that month's items to fate (and the IPSY algorithm)
- Some subscribers feel the drawstring bags sent each month aren't as nice as the bags sent in the regular Glam Bag
What Our Readers Say:
"Ipsy Glam Bag Plus rocks in that you get to pick three of your items. I usually end up with makeup colors/tones that actually work for me." - Katrina
"Ipsy Glam Bag Plus has probably hit most of my makeup likes" - TnT07
"Ipsy and Ipsy Glam Bag are unbeatable in terms of value, variety, and overall subscription quality. Amazing products, tons of customization without being overwhelming, and outstanding customer service on every level whether it be making sure your bags meet your account preferences or always being on time each month, or having great support teams to assist you immediately for any inquiry. This is a must-have subscription for makeup." - Erin Alysse
Shipping: is free to the US.
2. BoxyCharm
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Full-Size Products
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: BoxyCharm is consistently one of our readers’ top picks for best makeup subscriptions. This service combines high-quality products with expert curation, and our readers love the BoxyCharm approach. Boxycharm targets those who know the latest beauty trends, know what’s out there and want products that work well–so you’re sure to get products that are popular and great additions to your makeup collection.
In other words, if you love makeup, this monthly box delivers: Each delivery is filled with high-end brands and at least five full-size products, valued at $175 per box. Each delivery includes amazing cosmetics like eye shadow palettes, lip colors, and eyeliners, along with skincare products and beauty tools- and they include well-known, recognizable brands to really make it feel like you're getting a steal of a deal.
Members also gain access to exclusive product deals and giveaways along with redeemable points that can be used in the Charm Shop. You can also discover creative ways to use products through the BoxyCharm social media community. That’s not a minor point — the welcoming community is a big part of the draw.
When you sign up, you’ll be asked some questions about your preferences–and even better, with your Complexion Customization Feedback Form that helps the company better match foundations and concealers with your skin.
Is It Customizable?
BoxyCharm base subscribers get to choose one item in their upcoming makeup subscription box; the rest are customized based on your preferences (not all subscribers receive the same box).
Charmers can also upgrade to the Premium membership and receive more products and more customization options. They can also upgrade to a seasonal Boxycharm Luxe subscription and receive higher-end products along with greater customization choices.
Pros
- You can expect to receive premium brands (some that are even sold at Sephora!) like Natasha Denona, Glow Recipe, Violet Voss, KVD Beauty, and more
- You can almost always count on at least one big item making the cost of the box worth it to you
Cons
- Product crossover with IPSY Glam Bag Plus means that people with multiple subscriptions may get repeats
- Some subscribers have complaints about their customer service
What Our Readers Say:
"Boxycharm is consistent for the best value in makeup products." - Alice R
"With a total of 5 full-sized products in each of their base boxes, BoxyCharm holds the crown as the best subscription box for makeup! If you fill out your profile just right, then you'll be swimming in makeup products buy next year's end!" - Kathleen Dougherty
"I feel like they have a really good mix of brands that everyone has heard of but also new ones to me. Great inexpensive way to build a collection fast!" - Nikkiaust17
Shipping: to the contiguous U.S. is free. Shipping to U.S. territories, Hawaii, Alaska, and Canada is $5.
3. IPSY Glam Bag
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Value
Image via our review.
About the Makeup Box: The IPSY Glam Bag makeup box subscription boasts a satisfying haul at a gloriously low price point ($13 per month). This makeup monthly box delivers five deluxe samples of high-end and drugstore products. You’ll receive a combo of makeup and skincare selections along with bonus beauty tools based on your requests. That’s right: You choose exactly what type of products you’re interested in, then wait for your bag to be delivered right to your door. Start by filling out the IPSY beauty quiz, which collects basic information about your skin tone, beauty preferences, hair color, eye color, and current favorite brands. It’s a stress-free way to explore. When you finally get your bag, you can review your items, and that gives you better matches for the future.
What’s more, you get a cute little bag to hold your samples. The bag changes from month to month and their in-house design team choose a new look for every bag.
Is It Customizable? IPSY Glam Bag allows subscribers to choose one item each month.
Pros
- One of the most affordable makeup subscription boxes out there
- Giving reviews of your Glam Bag each month allows the IPSY algorithm to better match you with products in future months
- Each month's box comes with a cute makeup bag
Cons
- Sometimes product personalization can miss the mark
- If you miss the choice time to customize you can miss out on an item that you wanted
What Our Readers Say:
"I believe Ipsy sends out a good variety of makeup brands (sometimes full-size). In addition, the retail value is always there for me!" - Shelly111
"Ipsy gives great samples of products I've loved!" - Emily
"I am a huge fan of the mixed, diverse products that ipsy provides!" - May
Shipping: is free to the US and $2.95 to Canada.
4. Allure Beauty Box
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Trying Out a Great Selection
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: The Allure Beauty Box is a monthly makeup subscription box offering a selection of deluxe samples and full-size products from well-known brands. Each box comes with at least six Allure-approved makeup and skincare products (three samples and three full-sized), valued at over $100.
The Allure Beauty Box is curated by beauty magazine Allure’s editors, so it’s a great way to try the latest and greatest cosmetics, face masks, and skincare products at a great price. Most products have won Allure reader or editor awards, and with every box, you get a newsletter outlining what each product does, why editors love it, and how you can get the best results.
You’ll even get access to exclusive limited-edition boxes, members-only prices, and virtual events, and product promo codes — this makeup box subscription has an incredible list of add-on perks, so if you’re serious about beauty, you’ll find plenty to love.
Is It Customizable? The December 2021 box allowed subscribers to choose which shade of lip liner they wanted in their box, however outside of that Allure does not offer customization with this box at this time.
Pros
- Expect a good mix of drug-store, mid-range, and even prestige beauty brands
- Previous boxes have included full-size products from Sunday Riley, Rare Beauty, Christopher Robin, and more
Cons
- Outside of the December 2021 box, no customization is offered
- Customer service can take a while to resolve some issues
What Our Readers Say:
"I've tried a bunch of boxes but I keep coming back to Allure for the great product selection and the premium products." - MSA Reader
"Allure has some nice makeup items, even an eyeliner that wasn't black and a red liquid lipstick that didn't turn orange on me." - SharonDK
"They contain great products I use on the daily." - Debra
Shipping: is free to the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
5. IPSY Glam Bag X
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Trendy New Products
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: IPSY Glam Bag X is a quarterly upgrade that is available for IPSY Glam Bag and IPSY Glam Bag Plus subscribers. It’s an additional $43/per shipment for Glam Bag members and $30/per shipment for Glam Bag Plus members, and it's not possible to have a stand-alone quarterly Glam Bag X subscription. Glam Bag X, though, is certainly a box for any makeup lover out there.
Why check out Glam Bag X? Celebs and products. If you love celebs and love knowing what kinds of products they use, each quarter Glam Bag X has a surprise celebrity curator that chooses the eight (!) full-size items you’ll receive. Previous curators have been Halsey, Khloe Kardashian and Huda Kattan. New products are frequently included (like the highlighters from Halsey's About-Face makeup line in the August 2021 box), and just like the Glam Bag Plus, you're able to select three products included in your quarterly box.
Is It Customizable? Yes, IPSY Glam Bag X lets subscribers choose three items in each box.
Pros
- Previous boxes have included brands like Charlotte Tilbury, Patrick Ta, Fenty Beauty, and Rare Beauty- and you can expect future boxes to continue to do the same
- The cost-per-item breakdown in this box is $6.88, which is a downright steal
Cons
- Not all spoiled items will be available as choice items, leaving the risk for FOMO
- If your product personalization misses the mark, it feels even more disappointing due to the money invested
What Our Readers Say:
"I have tried so many makeup subscriptions and this one is the best! So much variety and goodies each month!" - Bella
"I love everything that I received in my GBX!❤" - Diane804
"I loved my Glam Bag X when it arrived! I’ve been with Ipsy for years. I feel like they follow my profile well. The few items that are not for me, I have no problem gifting. I think keeping an open mind for products/brands received is the key to fully enjoy this subscription." - Bandaa
Shipping: is free to the US.
6. Birchbox
Best Makeup Subscription Box to Discover New Products
Image from our review
About the Makeup Box: Love samples? So do we.
Each Birchbox delivery is packed with an amazing variety of samples, and that’s why this makeup subscription box has been a reader favorite for years. The box mixes drugstore beauty, new beauty and known beauty products so that you can always try something new and find new staples. Birchbox has found and boosted a number of new beauty brands that have since become popular, like Beauty Protector.
The makeup subscription is somewhat customizable, so you only receive products you’re interested in. Simply set your personal preferences in your beauty profile, and Birchbox will send 4-6 deluxe samples right to your door.
Sign up for your Birchbox subscription, and answer questions about what your needs and wants are, and you’ll receive a selection of hair care, makeup, body care, skincare, and fragrance products, along with tips on how to use and enjoy each item. When you find a sample you love, you can purchase the full-size product from the Birchbox store.
Is It Customizable? Birchbox customizes what you'll receive each month based on your user profile, and beginning with your second box, you can choose one of your samples each month.
Pros
- Birchbox is one of the OG beauty subscription boxes, so you can trust that they know what they're doing
- One of the most affordable options on this list
- Longer window of time to make your customization selection compared to other boxes
Cons
- Some of the samples are smaller than some subscribers were expecting
- Subscribers have reported getting repeat products in their boxes
What Our Readers Say:
"Still #1!!!" - WordHermit3t
"Birchbox was my go-to on trying new products & expanding my knowledge base. I appreciate being able to set my profile to my specific interests & thereby, being able to curate the boxes to my preferences, areas of concern, etc. It makes the box much more personal." - CaliGirlKatie
"I have been with BIRCHBOX several years now and I honestly feel it has the best price and usually the products are a mix of sample size, deluxe size and full size. BIRCHBOX has something for everyone. If you set your profile up correctly then you will get products usually on your selections! The customer service team at BIRCHBOX is awesome!" - Michele H
Shipping: Birchbox ships to the U.S., France, Spain, and the U.K.
7. GlossyBox
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Monthly Themed Boxes
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: GlossyBox is a perfect makeup subscription box for anyone who loves all things beauty. Each delivery includes five curated products valued at $60 and comes hand-wrapped in the iconic bright pink box. Every box has a different theme and products to support that theme. Past themes have been Imperfectly Perfect and Summer Rendezvous. You can expect to receive some of the best makeup, skincare, fragrance, and haircare samples in every shipment, handpicked by GlossyBox beauty experts.
Members also collect GlossyCredit (usable for full-product orders) and gain access to limited-edition boxes, which include different boxes for most holidays, like their Easter Egg collection delivered in a pretty pink egg-shaped box. Subscribers also enjoy access to tutorials and product guides.
Is It Customizable? No, not at the time of publication.
Pros
- Monthly boxes pay attention to the seasons, and curation can be themed around the time of year
- Subscribers get access to exclusive beauty offers and other benefits every month
Cons
- Not as many full-size products and more samples than one may expect for the price
- Some subscribers feel the box occasionally lacks variety
What Our Readers Say:
"Great products and great sizes." - MSA Reader
"It's the only box left that has such a nice actual box with packaging that's thoughtfully prepared." - Deanne
Shipping: is free to the U.S. and to Canada for $5.
8. Tribe Beauty Box
Best Makeup Subscription Box To Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Image via our review.
About the Makeup Box: If you’re addicted to YouTube makeup tutorials (and really, who isn’t?) the Tribe Beauty Box makeup subscription is an excellent choice. Each bi-monthly option provides enough products to hone your skills — and since the curation focuses on indie and female-owned makeup brands, you’ll discover incredible new items over time.
The box includes 4-5 full or deluxe size products, and unlike some of the other makeup subscription boxes on the list, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting, a face product, one beauty tool, an eye product, a lip product, and/or one skin prep product. You’ll still find plenty of surprises, of course, but Tribe Beauty Box always delivers everything you need to get to work.
Is It Customizable? No, not at the time of publication.
Pros
- Emphasis on supporting indie and women-owned brands
- Colorful eyeshadow palettes are common, and they are fun to get creative with
- Bi-monthly shipping cadence means you have plenty of time to play with the items in each box before the next one arrives
Cons
- Some of the products sent have been in other subscription boxes previously
- Sometimes the listed values for products can feel high compared to the personal user value
What Our Readers Say:
"Nothing better!" - MSA Reader
"I love the indie brands that Tribe beauty box brings to its subscribers. It's primarily makeup, which is what I desire in a beauty box." - Sherry FL
Shipping: Ships to the US & worldwide.
9. LOOKFANTASTIC Beauty Box
Best Makeup Subscription Box To Try More European Brands
Image via our review.
About the Makeup Box: The LOOKFANTASTIC makeup subscription box — wait for it — looks fantastic. This U.K. company regularly teams up with top European brands to create boxes that celebrate a different theme each month.
Members receive six handpicked items; cosmetics are regularly included, but LOOKFANTASTIC also sends out haircare, skincare, and body products. We appreciate how the company posts the retail value of each selection on its site; this makeup subscription offers an incredible overall value, and they’re not afraid to show off. It’s like a spa trip to the U.K. without ever leaving home (though you’ll have to make the fish and chips yourself).
Is It Customizable? No, not at the time of publication.
Pros
- Great way to try European brands US-based subscription boxes may not include
- A good choice if you're looking for a makeup subscription box that also features other categories
Cons
- Full-size products are rare in this subscription
- Shipping from the UK can take longer compared to US-based makeup subscriptions
What Our Readers Say:
"I have been a subscriber for 3 months now and I have loved every single box!" - Diane
"I subscribe for a full year to get the best price. This box has never, ever disappointed me." - Miss Pippa
Shipping: is free to the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia.
10. Kinder Beauty
Best Eco-Friendly Makeup Subscription Box
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: The Kinder Beauty Box is a cruelty-free, vegan makeup subscription box that lives up to its name. You’ll get curated monthly boxes (in eco-friendly packaging, of course) filled with at least $85 in cruelty-free makeup, skincare, haircare, and other beauty essentials.
None of the products contain talc, parabens, sulfates, EDTA, siloxanes, or anything else you can’t pronounce — and nothing you wouldn’t want to put on your body. The company also donates a portion of its proceeds to charities, so you can enjoy the excitement of a monthly makeup subscription while supporting some great causes.
Is It Customizable? Kinder Beauty Box releases two box versions each month, only subscribers with a 6-month plan can choose which of the two boxes they receive.
Pros
- Compassionate curation delivers cruelty-free products at a reasonable monthly price
- Expect to receive a good mix of full-size and sample-sized products
Cons
- No customization means you run the risks of shades not matching or products not being a good fit
- One of the more expensive cruelty-free boxes on this list
What Our Readers Say:
"Wonderful box. Tried for the first time and thoroughly enjoyed it." - Meredith
"This is my favorite subscription! I love every box! So many wonderful/clean options! I renewed for 6 more months!" - Kate
"I’ve been vegan for over 5 years now and this year I have decided to make the final step and try to make sure that all the products I use are vegan as well. The Kinder Beauty Box has made this transition so easy!" - knowitallgranger
Shipping: Kinder Beauty Box ships to the U.S. and most countries around the world.
11. Petit Vour
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Vegan Beauty Products
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: Petit Vour’s vegan makeup subscription box has a simple goal: to bring cruelty-free products to a wide audience. When you sign up, you’ll answer some quick questions about your cosmetic preferences, which allows the service’s curators to find products that you’ll actually use. You’ll receive an assortment of four beauty products with a total value of over $50. In addition to cosmetics, Petit Vour’s makeup box subscription includes occasional body, haircare, and skincare products.
The price is pretty fairly priced considering this box exclusively sends vegan and cruelty-free beauty products— and you can get $4 in store credit every month for reviewing each box. It’s a simple way to find the best plant-based, cruelty-free products in the industry, and the rewards program allows you to order your favorites at a low rate.
Is It Customizable? No, not at the time of publication.
Pros
- At least one item will be full-sized and usually has a significantly higher value than the cost of the box
- A good mix of brands you may already know and quality brands Petit Vour introduces you to
Cons
- Not all subscribers receive the same box every month, so you may get jealous if a friend gets something in their box that you don't in yours
- Sometimes some of the samples can be on the very small side
What Our Readers Say:
"I've subscribed to this box for 8 months. Every month there are enough products that I use to make it worth the price. Most often I have received one full size or deluxe size sample. I found I loved the ingredients and quality of products much more than what I was receiving from Birchbox." - Melissa
"For the price the value is there and packaging is so pretty." - Kathy K.
Shipping: is free worldwide.
12. Nourish Beauty Box
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Discovering Independent Clean Beauty Brands
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: Nourish Beauty Box is a natural makeup subscription box, and their emphasis on sustainable, skin-loving products provides plenty of value at an affordable rate. The site also allows shoppers to build their own boxes — ideal for giving a personalized gift or treating yourself to a few of your favorites.
The Nourish makeup box subscription includes four full-size vegan products per month. One is typically an in-house selection–a reminder that you can shop their store between box deliveries if you like. All selections are cruelty-free, and you won’t find any parabens or other potentially harmful additives in the ingredient list. The goal here is to deliver “toxin-free beauty,” and Nourish delivers.
We love that the company carefully curates each box, and its website includes detailed information about each brand to help shoppers make informed decisions. The modest monthly price makes this a great option for expanding your skincare regimen, and discounted rates are available for long-term orders.
Is It Customizable? The monthly box isn’t customizable, but shoppers can select a one-time customizable box. Choose from a selection of over 90 products, then enjoy luxurious skincare with total peace of mind.
Pros
- Only full-size items are sent every month
- The individual products sent frequently have a higher value than the cost of the entire box
Cons
- The box will occasionally send repeat products if you've been subscribed for a while
- No customization and no beauty profile is filled out
What Our Readers Say:
"Fun box, a lot of new items I've never seen before." - MSA Reader
Shipping: is free in the US.
13. NewBeauty TestTube
Best Makeup Subscription Box For a Well-Curated Mix
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: Looking for a makeup subscription box that doesn’t skimp on full-size products? You’ll want to check out NewBeauty TestTube. It’s one of our community’s favorites, and for good reason: Each bi-monthly makeup box contains an editorially curated selection of beauty products from both well-known and indie brands. Our readers most appreciate that each Tube offers them the chance to try something that they otherwise may not have sampled before.
You’ll also get a NewBeauty Magazine subscription, which will help you stay informed about the latest industry trends.
The perks don’t stop there. Members receive exclusive offers with discounts on their favorites, and if you’re not sure whether TestTube is right for you, the company offers “legacy tubes” (boxes from previous months) for individual purchases.
Overall, this is an excellent way to explore beauty products without overspending. The every-other-month delivery schedule keeps your makeup kit stocked without overwhelming you with options.
Is It Customizable? No, not at the time of publication.
Pros
- Emphasis on trying out new products and discovering new brands
- Most, if not all, of the products sent, are full-size
Cons
- It's not a guarantee that every box will include makeup
- Some subscribers describe their TestTube box experience as being "hit or miss"
What Our Readers Say:
"I love the variety I receive in these boxes," - Joiseygirl
"Test Tube is my favorite of all my subscriptions. The variety of items in each box is amazing." - Talia
Shipping: $8.95 per tube.
14. Vegancuts Beauty Box
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Cruelty-Free Must-Haves
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: Here’s another great box for filling your makeup bag with clean, cruelty-free products. Each monthly Vegancuts makeup box subscription contains a mix of 4-7 full and deluxe sample-size beauty selections ranging from cosmetics to skincare to haircare. All items are free from toxic ingredients and animal byproducts.
Vegancuts’ curators highlight indie brands, and each box is valued at $60-$100. With easy subscription management and stellar curation, this makeup subscription is well worth your attention. We’re also fans of the company’s Snack Box, which offers vegan-friendly foods at a great price.
Is It Customizable? No, not at the time of publication.
Pros
- Indie beauty brands are frequently featured
- All products are vegan, and most are natural and cruelty-free, too
Cons
- It's not a guarantee each box will include makeup, so if makeup is your focus, another vegan beauty box might be better
- Some samples can be small
What Our Readers Say:
"My favorite cruelty-free beauty box thus far. It's well worth the cost. Good sized products and curation." - Isabella
"Great box! Alot of fun things to try, love it really." - Blackraincoldnightsblog
Shipping: is free to the US, $6,95 to Canada, and worldwide for $14.95.
15. Cocotique
Best Makeup Subscription Box For Women of Color
Image from our review.
About the Makeup Box: Your makeup subscription box should suit your body, and that’s the appeal of Cocotique’s self-care box. Each monthly shipment includes 5-8 beauty and lifestyle products for women of color.
Selections include both full-size and deluxe-travel-size items. You’ll find a versatile assortment of makeup, haircare, skincare, fragrances, and nail care products, all of which are available in Cocotique’s store.
You’ll also receive a free reusable tote with each month’s box. At only $25 per month, it’s a bargain, and long-term subscriptions cut the cost further. Cocotique also operates a social responsibility program that highlights a different woman every month; the goal is to support women, promote self-care, and encourage people to “pay it forward.” Check out their site for more information.
Is It Customizable? No, not at the time of publication. However, full-size products are available through Cocotique’s web store, so subscription addicts can easily order more of their favorite selections.
Pros
- The only subscription box on this list curated specifically for women of color and their skin tones
- Each month comes with a bonus reusable tote
Cons
- Makeup is sent in this box but it isn't the focus- expect more haircare and body care
What Our Readers Say:
"I love COCOTIQUE! I have subscribed to various beauty boxes and this is the best one by far." - MzKim Melvin
Shipping: is free to the US.
16. FabFitFun
The box that does it all
Image from our review
About the Box: FabFitFun is a lifestyle box that sends subscribers over $200 worth of full-size makeup and beauty products, accessories, and home decor items every season. Recent boxes have included makeup from brands like ILIA, Laura Geller, Phase Zero, Stila, Anastasia Beverly Hills, and Beauty Bakerie.
The FabFitFun staff curates their boxes carefully, but they offer ample customization options, so you’ll never be disappointed. Seasonal subscribers can pick one item from four customization categories, and annual subscribers can choose one item from all six categories. This subscription box ships seasonally, so you’ll receive a total of four boxes per year; we’d recommend trying a single box to make sure it’s your thing, then upgrading to the annual plan to save a bit of money. Subscribers also receive access to year-round flash sales, exclusive offers, and other perks.
One of the best things about FabFitFun is the robust community. If you’re a beauty lover, it’s helpful to know that they manage several forums for subscribers where you can discuss spoilers, how to use box products and how to make sure the products look best on you. FabFitFun also offers cooking tips and recipes, as well as exercise videos you can take advantage of on day one of your membership.
Is It Customizable? Yes! Members get to select 4 to 6 items in each box depending on your subscription level, so you have the option to choose even more makeup items where possible if that's what you're looking for.
What Our Readers Say:
"Great way to try new products that I wouldn't otherwise choose to pay for unless I've tried it." - Yvette Klotz
"Still have to stick with my FabFitFun boxes. They are always the best." - Joline Bradshaw
Tips for Getting the Most From Your Makeup Subscription
You’ve found a makeup subscription box that fits your lifestyle, and you’re ready to order. Go ahead and jump in! — but if you’d like a few more tips, here’s our advice:
- Start with a monthly or bi-monthly box. Annual subscriptions can dramatically cut your costs, but by starting with a single box, you can determine whether the service is a good fit for your beauty needs and lifestyle. Wherever possible, we’ve included coupons and promo codes to keep costs low. You can always come back and try other alternatives next month!
- Look for discounts. Many beauty boxes offer discounts and incentives for new subscribers to their service–we’ve tried to note such perks, when possible. Our MSA Deals Page is a great resource if you’re trying to save when you sign up.
- If your service offers personal curation, fill out your profile. Curators use profile information to send you products you’ll love. Whether you’re declaring your preference for a certain lip color or marking down allergies and skin sensitivities, your profile will help you enjoy each new delivery and help you avoid products that you don’t really want or need.
- Read the ingredient lists carefully. For all beauty products, it’s a good idea to test a small amount on your skin before applying a larger amount. If you have special preferences, email the subscription provider; even if they don’t offer customization, they may be able to make accommodations.
- Check expiration dates. Every now and then, you may get a product that has reached its expiration date. Do a quick check when you get your box so that if you do run across an expired item, you can notify the subscription service that you need a replacement.
- Leave reviews after receiving your products. Some subscription services offer discounts for active reviewers, but even if your box doesn’t offer this perk, you’ll be able to provide your fellow subscribers with valuable information about the products. In some cases, your ratings of the products you received will help the brand become better at predicting the products you want in the future. We also encourage our readers to review makeup subscription boxes on our site —- a quick review can help someone find their new obsession.
Factors We Considered When Reviewing These Makeup Subscription Services
We asked our readers to select the makeup and beauty boxes above, but to provide the best possible list, we evaluated each selection carefully. Our goal is to give our readers an accurate description of every service, and in addition to real reviews from actual subscribers, here’s what we considered:
- Price and Value: Beauty boxes often advertise the overall value of the products in each box. We prioritized services that provided accurate descriptions of that value. We also looked for subscriptions that provided clear information about what was included in each box — including information about whether the products were full or sample sizes.
- Packaging: While most subscription boxes maintain a low carbon footprint compared with alternatives, we tried to find beauty subscriptions with recyclable packaging and sustainably sourced products. This list contains a large number of vegan and cruelty-free makeup subscriptions, which reflects our readers' preference for eco-friendly choices.
- Variety and Selection: Most of the cosmetic subscription boxes we’ve covered offer products from a variety of brands. When a box focuses on a single brand, we’ve tried to make sure that they offer a decent selection — in other words, members won’t receive the same products repeatedly during longer subscriptions.
- Additional Perks: We’ve listed information about discounts, add-on gifts, and other perks that make each makeup subscription worthwhile. After all, those perks can add up!
Finally, we looked for makeup subscription companies with strong reputations. We wanted to make sure that members could change, pause, or cancel their subscriptions at any time. Our goal is to help you start living the subscription lifestyle without worrying about unexpected charges or long-term obligations.
We love a high-quality makeup subscription box, and we’re excited about our reader’s selections. Be sure to leave a comment if you’ve tried any of the services listed above (or if you’d like to see another service included in our next list). Which boxes do you think you'll try this year?
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