Beauty Box Cost: Real Prices, Hidden Fees & Savings Tips

Ever wondered why your beauty box feels pricey after a few months? You’re not alone. Most people sign up hoping for a surprise of new products, but the total cost can creep up fast. Below we break down the typical price ranges, where extra charges hide, and how you can keep the fun without blowing your budget.

Typical Prices of Popular Boxes

In 2025 the two biggest players are Ipsy and BoxyCharm. Ipsy offers three tiers: Glam at about £9 per month, Petite at £12, and Premier at £16. Each tier gives you a mix of mini and full‑size items, but the per‑product price drops as you move up. BoxyCharm’s standard box sits around £20 a month, and the limited‑edition boxes can jump to £30‑£35.

Don’t forget the smaller, niche boxes. Brands like Glossier or Sephora Play usually charge £7‑£15. They often have themed months, which can make the price feel higher if the theme isn’t your style. A common hidden cost is the “shipping + handling” fee, which many boxes list as part of the monthly price but can add another £2‑£3 if you live outside the main service area.

How to Save Money on Beauty Boxes

First, watch for promo codes. New subscribers can snag 20‑30% off the first three months, and many influencers share fresh codes that trim the price even more. Second, consider pausing your subscription instead of canceling. Most services let you skip a month for free, letting you avoid product overload while keeping your account active.

Third, stack loyalty rewards. Ipsy, for example, gives you “points” for every month you stay signed up, which you can trade for extra products or discounts. BoxyCharm offers a “refer a friend” bonus that drops £5 off each month for both you and the friend.

Finally, think about combining boxes with sales. Many beauty retailers run “box‑only” sales in the summer and holiday seasons where you can get the same box for £5‑£7 less. Sign up for the brand’s newsletter to catch those alerts early.

By tracking your spend, using promos, and pausing when you need a break, you can keep the excitement of new makeup without spending more than you intended.

Bottom line: a beauty box can be a great way to discover products, but the cost varies widely. Know your favorite box’s base price, watch for hidden fees, and use the saving tricks above to make every pound count.