Beauty Box Guides: Costs, Reviews & How to Cancel Your Subscription

If you’ve ever wondered whether a beauty box is worth the hype, you’re not alone. Monthly boxes promise new products, exclusive discounts, and a surprise factor that keeps many beauty lovers coming back. But hidden fees, pricey add‑ons, and confusing cancel steps can turn excitement into frustration fast.

In this guide we’ll break down the most popular beauty boxes, what you really pay for, and exactly how to back out if the subscription stops working for you. No fluff—just practical advice you can use right now.

Top Beauty Box Subscriptions in 2025

Two names dominate the market: BoxyCharm and IPSY. BoxyCharm markets itself as a curated mix of makeup, skincare, and sometimes even accessories. The average monthly price hovers around £24, but many users report extra charges for premium upgrades or “fast‑track” shipping. IPSY, on the other hand, offers a $15‑$35 tier depending on how many products you want each month. The lower tier focuses on sample‑size items, while the higher tier gives full‑size versions.

Both services run a “first‑month” fee structure. IPSY usually bills you at the end of the first month, but a surprise can appear if you sign up for a special promo that includes a free gift—those gifts often convert into a paid subscription after 30 days. BoxyCharm’s onboarding can be similar: you may get a free trial, but the moment you accept the trial, a recurring charge starts.

Beyond the big players, niche boxes like Allure Beauty Box and GlamBox cater to specific interests—clean beauty, cruelty‑free, or luxury brands. Their price points range from $10 to $50, so you can match a box to your budget.

Saving Money & Cancelling Without Hassle

The first way to keep costs down is timing. Most boxes allow you to skip a month for free if you log into your account and select “pause.” Skipping is a lifesaver during holiday seasons when you’re already spending a lot.

If you decide the box isn’t for you, the cancel process should be straightforward. For BoxyCharm, go to the “My Account” page, find the “Subscription” tab, and click “Cancel.” The key is to confirm the cancellation email—otherwise you might still be charged. IPSY hides the cancel button under “Account Settings > Subscription Details,” so look carefully and hit “Cancel Subscription” before the next billing date.

Always check for a confirmation email and keep a screenshot. If a charge slips through, you have proof to dispute it with your bank. Most companies will honor a refund if you cancel within the first 14 days of a new billing cycle.

Another money‑saving tip: use loyalty points or referral codes. Many boxes give you a free month for each friend who signs up using your link. Even if you cancel later, those free months can offset the cost of a few regular months.

Finally, read the fine print before you click “Subscribe.” Look for terms like “auto‑renew,” “cancellation fee,” or “minimum commitment.” Knowing these details ahead of time prevents surprise charges and makes the whole experience smoother.

Beauty boxes can be a fun way to discover new products, but they only make sense if you stay in control of the price and the subscription timeline. Use the tips above to pick the right box, save where you can, and exit cleanly if it stops working for you.