
If you've ever been curious about beauty subscription boxes, I bet Ipsy has crossed your mind at least once. The big question usually is—do they send full-size products or just tiny samples? Well, you're not alone! The short answer is you get a bit of both. Excited yet?
Understanding what you're likely to receive in that cute bag each month can make all the difference. Sure, we all love surprises, but a little info goes a long way in setting expectations and figuring out if it’s a good deal for you.
In those glam bags that Ipsy delivers, you can expect a mix—a couple of full-size makeup products, often alongside deluxe samples. If you're keen on trying new beauty products without committing to full-size prices, this might just be your match made in heaven. Plus, each subscription is pretty personalized to what you like, thanks to a quiz you take when you sign up.
What is Ipsy?
Ipsy is like the Netflix of the beauty world. Founded in 2011 by Michelle Phan and others, it's a monthly beauty subscription service that ties you into a world of makeup, skincare, and more. You basically subscribe, take a quiz to let them know your preferences, and every month, a glam bag filled with goodies lands on your doorstep.
The subscription typically costs around $13 per month for the original glam bag, and you're promised five products. These include a mix of full-size items and deluxe samples. Plus, there's the added excitement of a cute, reusable makeup bag each month.
How Does Ipsy Work?
It all starts with a Beauty Quiz. When you sign up, you'll answer questions about your skin tone, hair color, and product preferences. Are you into skincare more than makeup? Prefer bold or neutral tones? Ipsy takes your answers into account to tailor the products just for you.
Membership Perks
- Glam Bag Plus: For those craving more than just samples, there's the Glam Bag Plus option. It costs a bit more but comes with five products that are mostly full-sized.
- Choice and Add-Ons: Before your bag ships, you'll often get the chance to choose one of the products that will be included. Plus, you can add more products for extra charges.
- Points for Reviews: Giving feedback on your products earns you points that you can redeem for free items—bonus!
With several options and customization, Ipsy really lets you explore the beauty world without breaking the bank or settling into a monotonous routine.
Sample Sizes vs. Full Sizes
When it comes to Ipsy, you're essentially getting a surprise bag each month, filled with a mix of beauty goodies. But how do you know if you'll be getting a full-size product or a sample? Let's break it down.
Understanding the Mix
In general, Ipsy typically includes at least one to two full-size items in their standard Glam Bag, which also contains deluxe samples. This combination allows you to try a variety of things regularly. The thrill is in discovering what works for you without spending a ton.
What to Expect
The full-size products can be anything from makeup essentials like a lipstick or mascara to skincare products like a moisturizer or cleanser. These are often standout items in your bag that make the $13 subscription fee feel like a bargain, especially if these purchases would normally cost upwards of $20 individually.
Sample sizes, on the other hand, are usually generous enough to give you a real feel for the product. They're perfect for traveling or trying out that daring new eyeshadow color you wouldn't normally buy.
The Upgrade Option
If you want more full-size products, consider Ipsy's Glam Bag Plus. This costs a bit more but includes five full-size items and feels like a mini beauty haul every month. For beauty enthusiasts, it's the ultimate treat.
Bottom line? Whether you're dabbling in beauty or a self-proclaimed makeup addict, Ipsy offers a mix to match your vibe. It's a stepping stone into the expansive world of beauty without the commitment of buying each product outright. That mix of sample and full-size? It's like getting a taste test at every visit to the beauty counter.

How to Maximize Your Ipsy Experience
Want to get the most out of your Ipsy experience? It's not just about waiting for that beauty subscription box to arrive; there's a bit more you can do to really make it worthwhile.
Customize Your Profile
The magic starts with the beauty quiz! Make sure to fill it out with details about your skin type, favorite makeup shades, and brands you love. The more specific you are, the better curated your bag will be. Keep your profile up to date as your tastes change.
Review Your Products
Every time you receive a bag, hop online and review the products. Your feedback helps Ipsy refine future selections, making your next bag even more tailored. Plus, reviewing earns you points, which can be redeemed for more products.
Keep an Eye Out for Add-Ons
Before your bag is sent, you have the chance to add more products at a discount. These 'Add-Ons' give you a chance to snag full-size goodies or more samples you might be curious about. It’s a great way to try something new without breaking the bank.
Engage with the Community
Don't skip on checking out the community forums or Facebook groups. Lots of Ipsy fans share their tips, reviews, and even do product swaps. It can be a fun way to discover new beauty trends and make the most of your Ipsy subscription.
Here's a quick view of what you get with an Ipsy subscription:
Glam Bag | Glam Bag Plus | Glam Bag X |
---|---|---|
5 deluxe samples | 5 full-size products | 7-8 full-size products |
$13/month | $28/month | $58 every quarter |
These quick steps and ideas can honestly transform your Ipsy journey. A little effort upfront means more joy when you tear into that bag each month!
Is Ipsy Worth It?
So, you've probably noticed the buzz around Ipsy and wonder if it lives up to the hype. With beauty subscription services popping left and right, what makes Ipsy stand out? Well, here's a breakdown to help you decide.
Cost vs. Value
Let's talk numbers first! For a modest monthly fee, Ipsy sends a glam bag of both full-size products and deluxe samples. Often, the bag’s total value exceeds what you paid. It's like hitting a mini jackpot every month if you're a beauty enthusiast!
Personalization
Not all subscription boxes are created equal when it comes to personalization. Ipsy, though, hits the mark with their detailed beauty quiz. The idea is to tailor the box to your preferences—whether you're big on skincare or just can't resist lip products. More love for less money is hard to beat, right?
Diversity of Products
With Ipsy, you're not stuck with just one type of product month after month. One time, you'll find amazing eyeshadow palettes; the next, a refreshing face mask. It's a smart way to experiment without shelling out for full-sized items you might not like.
Community and Reviews
Ever feel overwhelmed by choices? Ipsy’s strong community of reviewers can ease your mind. You can check out what others thought of the products before even trying them. Plus, you earn points for your reviews, which you can exchange for even more goodies!
So, given the mix of valuable goodies, personalization, and variety, it looks like Ipsy could be a trick to keep your beauty stash exciting without breaking the bank. But if you're just not that into experimenting with new stuff or prefer buying only full-sized, then it might not hit the mark for you!