The beauty world’s equivalent of a taster — product samples — is becoming more popular. They now have their own market on the Internet. Hundreds of online beauty companies offer monthly sample box subscriptions, and with many companies to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which box is worth the subscription fee.
With any sample subscription, users sign up and pay a monthly fee, usually between $10 and $20. Most companies ask subscribers to complete a beauty profile so they can send personalized samples that fit both the subscriber’s beauty needs and personality.
Although some vary in number, M\most boxes contain an average of five different products per month, Many beauty suppliers also create monthly themes, which adds to the surprise of the package. Sizes range from a small sample to a full size product depending on the subscription, and can include both inexpensive and high-end products.
Each company is unique and offers its own twist on the experience. Here are some of the most worthy subscriptions.
Glossybox
Glossybox ($21 per month) has recently started delivering to the United States and is already sold in over 15 countries. This box offers high- end products in deluxe and full-
sized samples.
Stern alumnus Corey Huggins, head of brand management for Glossybox, said the luxury products and global presence separate Glossybox from its competition. The company personalizes offers for users.
“Based [on] a profile that we ask each of our subscribers [to fill out, we determine] beauty needs, beauty wants and hair and skin type,” Huggins said.
Birchbox
New York-based Birchbox ($10 per month) offers a range of beauty and lifestyle products from brands like Stila, Kiehl’s, Smashbox Cosmetics and many more. The company also publishes a magazine each month that includes tips for using the products in its sample box.
“I like Birchbox because it lets you try things without getting too committed and, more importantly, without shelling out [for] the full-size products,” CAS freshman and Birchbox subscriber Hannah Caldwell said. “[It is] a really cool way to learn about new products.”
Ipsy Glam Bag
Popular beauty blogger Michelle Phan created the Ipsy Glam Bag ($10 per month) last year. Rather than a cardboard package, Glam Bag’s samples are packaged in a small makeup bag each month. This bag is full of products marketed for a younger generation, including sweet-smelling perfumes and funky nail decals. Phan also uses her website to create a sense of community among subscribers. Those who subscribed to Ipsy Glam Bag can post tutorials and pictures of styles that incorporate the products.
With so many options, there is surely a box and price point for every shopper to find their perfect sample subscription. The boxes are well worth the buy and often exceed expectations in both quality and quantity when compared to regular-sized products. These boxes make it fun and easy to discover new products while on a budget and test products out before committing an expensive purchase.
A version of this article appeared in the Wednesday, Nov. 14 print edition. Kendall Hill is a staff writer. Email her at [email protected].
