nomakenolife Subscription Box

IPSY Alternatives: 6 Picks For Makeup and Beauty Lovers

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Let’s be real: being subscribed to IPSY is like going on a blind date every month. Sure, it’s exciting to open that pink envelope and see what’s inside, but let’s face it—sometimes it’s a total miss.

Tiny sample-sized products that barely last a week, brands you’ve never heard of (and might never use again), and let’s not even talk about the occasional “what even is this?” item. Sound familiar?

If you’ve found yourself feeling underwhelmed by IPSY lately, you’re not alone. Maybe you’re tired of trial-sized products that don’t fit your needs, or you’re craving more personalized picks that actually match your style.

Perhaps you’re finally ready to upgrade to vegan and cruelty-free beauty, or you’re dreaming of high-end skincare and makeup brands that feel luxurious without the guilt. Whatever your beauty vibe, there’s a subscription box out there that’s way better than IPSY.

That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you. In this post, we’re diving into the best IPSY alternatives that cater to every beauty need—whether you’re a skincare junkie, a makeup maven, or just someone who loves a good surprise. Say goodbye to disappointing samples and hello to boxes that actually make you excited to check your mailbox. Let’s find your new beauty obsession!


Key Takeaways


IPSY Alternatives: Meet the Competitors

There are several notable subscription boxes that, in our opinion, are way better than IPSY. Among them, Birchbox and Allure Beauty Box offer an eclectic mix of samples, Boxycharm and GLOSSYBOX provide full-size products, while exclusive options from Nomakenolife bring beauty standards from eastern Asia right to your doorstep.

Allure Beauty Box

Best For: Premium beauty discoveries.

Allure Beauty Box - Subscription Box Expert

The Allure Beauty Box offers a monthly selection of premium beauty products. Subscribers can expect a mix of full and travel-sized items, handpicked by Allure experts, ranging from high-end brands to emerging names. The box typically includes trendy makeup, skincare items, and tools.

  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Cost: Around $20 to $25/month depending on length of subscription you choose
  • Shipping Info: Free shipping in the US
  • Skip A Month Feature: Yes

LOVE GOODLY

Best For: Nontoxic, Vegan, and Cruelty-Free Beauty

Love Goodly Beauty Box
Courtesy of LOVE GOODLY

With the LOVE GOODLY box, every other month you’ll receive 4-5 cruelty free, toxin free, vegan products, with mainly full-size nontoxic beauty and skincare. Healthy snacks, wellness products, and eco-style accessories are also included from time to time.

Each box provides an amazing value — always over $75+. You can also take advantage of the LOVE GOODLY e-commerce shop, selling many of the brands in the boxes, so you can find and shop for all your favorites. Every purchase always supports one of their cause partners, including Farm Sanctuary. 

  • Frequency: Every other month
  • Cost: Around $35/month depending on the length of subscription you choose
  • Shipping Info: Free shipping in the US
  • Skip A Month Feature: Yes

nomakenolife

Best For: Eastern Asian beauty standards.

nomakenolife Subscription Box
Courtesy of nomakenolife

Craving the flawless, glowing skin that Japanese beauty routines are famous for? NOMakenoLife is your ticket to discovering the best-kept secrets of Japanese skincare and makeup. Each box is packed with 8-9 high-quality, innovative products straight from Japan or Korea—think hydrating essences, brightening serums, and makeup that’s as fun as it is functional.

What makes NOMakenoLife unique? It’s as much of a cultural experience as it is a makeup subscription box. Every product is carefully curated to bring you the latest trends and timeless classics from the East Asian beauty scene. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or a makeup lover, this box is your passport to achieving that coveted “mochi skin” glow.

  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Cost: Around $30 to $35/month depending on the length of subscription you choose
  • Shipping Info: Ranges from $10.50 to $12.50 depending on the available shipping courier to your country
  • Skip A Month Feature: No

Boxycharm by IPSY

Best For: Full-size products and value.

There’s a lot to love about Boxycharm’s motto: “Get 5 full-size items for the price of one. More glam for less money.” Boxycharm is known for providing full-sized beauty products, from makeup to skincare and beauty tools. Each month, subscribers receive 4-5 full-sized products worth up to $200 that are trendy and from well-known brands. Boxycharm boxes often contain new and exclusive items, providing a high-value experience.

  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Cost: Starts at $30/month
  • Shipping Info: Free shipping in the contiguous US
  • Skip A Month Feature: Yes

Birchbox

Best For: Curated beauty samples and personalized picks.

Birchbox is a beauty subscription service that sends a variety of sample-size beauty, grooming, and lifestyle products. Each month, subscribers receive a curated box of five samples tailored to their personal profile. It’s a great way to discover new favorites in makeup, skincare, haircare, and more.

  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Cost: Approximately $15/month
  • Shipping Info: Free shipping in the US
  • Skip A Month Feature: No

GLOSSYBOX

Best For: Global beauty trends and luxury samples.

Glossybox Beauty Box
Courtesy of Glossybox

GLOSSYBOX specializes in sending subscribers 5 beauty products each month in a beautifully wrapped box. The items range from niche to high-end, covering makeup, skincare, haircare, and more. Subscribers can expect deluxe-sized products, curated by beauty experts.

  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Cost: Starts at $21/month
  • Shipping Info: Free shipping in the US
  • Skip A Month Feature: Yes

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