Monthly Beauty Boxes Compared: Which Subscription Offers the Most Value?

The thrill of receiving a curated box of beauty goodies at your doorstep each month is hard to beat. From skincare saviors to bold new makeup, beauty subscription boxes promise discovery, convenience, and serious value. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one gives you the best bang for your buck?

We broke down five of the most popular beauty boxes—looking at cost, product variety, full-size vs. sample ratios, and estimated retail value—to help you find the subscription that actually delivers.

1. Ipsy (Glam Bag): Customizable, Affordable, and Discovery-Focused

• Price: $14/month

• What You Get: 5 deluxe samples (sometimes includes 1 full-size)

• Estimated Value: $50+

• Customization: Yes—choose 1 product per month, plus a beauty profile quiz

Why it stands out:
Ipsy’s Glam Bag is a solid starter box for beauty beginners or sample lovers. Each bag is curated based on your preferences, so you’re more likely to receive relevant products. While most items are travel-sized, the value adds up quickly, and you’ll often discover niche or indie brands you wouldn’t find in stores.

Best for: Those who want a little bit of everything without spending a lot.

2. BoxyCharm (by Ipsy): Full-Size Luxury at a Mid-Range Price

• Price: $30/month

• What You Get: 5 full-size products

• Estimated Value: $125+

• Customization: Yes—choose 3 products per month

Why it stands out:
BoxyCharm is the upgrade for those ready to go full-size. It frequently includes high-end brands like Tarte, Anastasia Beverly Hills, and Glow Recipe. While not every box hits the mark for every subscriber, the sheer product value is undeniable—often quadrupling the price paid.

Best for: Skincare and makeup lovers who want luxury items without paying retail.

3. Allure Beauty Box: Editor-Curated, Skincare Heavy

• Price: $25/month

• What You Get: 6+ products (3+ full-size)

• Estimated Value: $100+

• Customization: Limited

Why it stands out:
Curated by Allure editors, this box tends to focus more on skincare and trending treatments than colorful makeup. Subscribers often get early access to buzzy products or brands that beauty insiders love. Bonus: The subscription occasionally includes coupons and promo codes for future full-size purchases.

Best for: Skincare enthusiasts and trend-followers who want to try what beauty editors actually use.

4. Birchbox: Sample-Size Curation with a Wellness Twist

• Price: $15/month

• What You Get: 5 sample-sized beauty and wellness products

• Estimated Value: Around $50

• Customization: Personalized quiz, but limited choice

Why it stands out:
Once the leader in beauty subscriptions, Birchbox has evolved to include more wellness and self-care items alongside classic beauty. While it’s not as flashy or high-value as some competitors, it’s great for those looking to dip their toes in without commitment—or clutter.

Best for: Minimalists or skincare-curious shoppers who want to experiment without feeling overwhelmed.

5. FabFitFun: Beauty + Lifestyle for Seasonal Value Seekers

• Price: $59.99/quarter (billed every 3 months)

• What You Get: 6–8 full-size products across beauty, wellness, and lifestyle

• Estimated Value: $200+ per box

• Customization: Yes—select from curated product options each season

Why it stands out:
While not monthly, FabFitFun delivers a beauty experience worth mentioning. Each seasonal box includes not only skincare or makeup but also items like candles, fitness tools, or home goods. It’s a great option for someone who wants beauty and lifestyle value rolled into one.

Best for: Those who love surprises and want variety beyond traditional beauty.

Which Box Offers the Most Value?