Ipsy Bag: What’s Inside, Why It Matters, and What You Really Get

When you open an Ipsy bag, a monthly beauty subscription box that delivers personalized makeup and skincare samples. Also known as a beauty subscription box, it’s one of the most popular ways people try new products without spending big. You don’t just get random stuff—each bag is picked based on your profile, skin type, and past preferences. That’s the whole point: discovery without the risk.

The Ipsy bag, a monthly beauty subscription box that delivers personalized makeup and skincare samples. Also known as beauty subscription box, it’s one of the most popular ways people try new products without spending big. You don’t just get random stuff—each bag is picked based on your profile, skin type, and past preferences. That’s the whole point: discovery without the risk.

Most Ipsy bags include five samples, plus one full-size item if you upgrade. You’ll find lipsticks that match your skin tone, serums that actually suit oily or dry skin, and concealers that don’t cake up. It’s not about the brand names—it’s about what works for you. And unlike buying full bottles blindly, you get to test before you commit. That’s why so many people keep subscribing year after year.

It’s not just about the products. The Ipsy bag connects you to a community. People share their hauls, swap tips on what worked, and even find new favorite brands because of it. That’s how Glossier, Rare Beauty, and countless indie brands grew—through real user feedback, not just ads.

But it’s not magic. Some months you’ll get gems. Other months, you’ll get three lip glosses you’ll never wear. That’s the trade-off. The key is to update your profile regularly. Tell Ipsy if you hate glitter, if your skin’s sensitive, or if you only wear tinted moisturizer. The more accurate you are, the better the matches.

If you’ve ever wondered how Ipsy compares to BoxyCharm or Birchbox, you’re not alone. BoxyCharm leans into full-size makeup and skincare. Birchbox is more about discovery with a classic feel. Ipsy? It’s the middle ground—personalized, affordable, and packed with variety. And if you’re trying to build a routine without overspending, it’s one of the smartest ways to start.

Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of what’s inside these boxes, how they’ve changed over time, and which ones actually deliver value. You’ll see how Ipsy stacks up against other subscription models, what to expect from different tiers, and how to get the most out of every sample. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you click subscribe.