Ipsy Review: What’s Inside the Beauty Box and How to Maximize It

If you’ve heard of Ipsy, you probably think of a monthly makeup bag that lands on your door. In simple terms, Ipsy is a subscription that sends you a curated mix of samples, full‑size products, and exclusive items based on your beauty profile. It’s a low‑commitment way to try new stuff without splashing cash on full‑size versions you might never use.

Signing up is a breeze. You answer a short quiz about skin type, makeup preferences, and price range, then Ipsy’s algorithm matches you with products that fit. Every month you get a Glam Bag (or Glam Lab if you’re a premium member) packed with five items, plus a mini‑guide that explains how to use each piece. The box usually costs around £15 for the standard tier and £30 for the premium tier, which includes higher‑end brands and a few full‑size treats.

How Ipsy Works

First, you pick a plan. The basic plan gives you the Glam Bag, while the Glam Lab adds a few extra goodies and a higher‑value selection. Once you’re set, the monthly shipment arrives, usually at the end of the month, so you can plan a quick beauty routine around it.

The key to making Ipsy work for you is the “beauty profile.” Be honest about what you like and dislike – if you’re more into natural looks, choose the “natural” option, and if you love bold lip colors, go for “dramatic.” The algorithm learns from the products you rate and adjusts future boxes accordingly. It’s like having a personal shopper who gets better with each order.

Tips to Get the Most From Your Ipsy Box

1. **Rate Every Product** – Even if you’re not sure, give a rating. The more feedback you give, the more accurate the selections become.

2. **Swap When Needed** – Some items might not suit your skin tone or style. Use the swap option within the first 48 hours to exchange for something else.

3. **Mix with Your Existing stash** – Think of the samples as add‑ons, not replacements. Pair a new lipstick with a favorite foundation for a fresh look without overhauling your entire routine.

4. **Re‑use the Packaging** – The Glam Bag is sturdy enough for travel or as a mini makeup pouch. It’s also a good way to keep your new products together and avoid losing them.

5. **Watch for Exclusive Codes** – Ipsy often includes discount codes for full‑size purchases of the items you love. Use them to upgrade a sample to a permanent addition to your collection.

6. **Engage with the Community** – The Ipsy app has a chat where you can see how others use the same product. You’ll pick up tricks you might never think of on your own.

Overall, Ipsy can be a fun, low‑risk way to stay on top of beauty trends. It’s especially handy if you enjoy experimenting but don’t want to buy a full bottle every time. By tweaking your profile, swapping unsuited items, and using the extra tips, you’ll keep the box feeling fresh and tailored to you.

Give it a try for a month, rate honestly, and you’ll see the box evolve into something that truly matches your style. Happy unboxing!