IPSY Glam Bag: What’s Inside, Why It Matters, and How It Compares

When you open your IPSY Glam Bag, a monthly beauty subscription box that sends personalized makeup and skincare samples. Also known as Glam Bag, it’s one of the most talked-about ways to try new products without spending big. Unlike buying full-size items blind, the Glam Bag lets you test formulas, shades, and brands before committing—perfect if you’re building a routine or just love trying the latest launches.

It’s not just about getting free stuff. The IPSY Glam Bag is built around personalization. You fill out a beauty profile, and based on your skin type, tone, preferences, and past picks, IPSY hand-selects five items each month. Some are full-size, but most are travel-sized—enough to test, not enough to waste. You’ll often find cult favorites like Fenty Beauty lipsticks, Drunk Elephant serums, or Rare Beauty blushes, alongside lesser-known indie brands you’d never find on a drugstore shelf.

Compare that to other beauty subscription boxes like BoxyCharm or Birchbox. BoxyCharm leans heavier on full-size makeup and tends to send fewer items per month. Birchbox focuses more on skincare and grooming, with a quieter, more minimalist vibe. IPSY? It’s the middle ground—more makeup, more variety, more personality. And unlike some boxes that send the same products to everyone, IPSY’s algorithm adapts. Miss a product? Skip it. Love a shade of red? You’ll see more of it next month.

People don’t just subscribe for the freebies—they stay because they learn. The Glam Bag is a low-risk way to discover what works for your skin or style. Tried a new primer you hated? That’s data. Loved a lip gloss you’ve never heard of? That’s a new staple. It’s like having a personal beauty assistant who knows your budget and your habits.

There’s also the cost factor. For $13 a month, you’re getting $50–$70 worth of product. That’s not a deal—it’s a shortcut. You skip the aisle-hopping, the returns, the regret. And if you’re into makeup artistry or just want to build your kit without overspending, it’s a smart tool.

But here’s the real question: Is it worth it? If you’re someone who loves testing new products, hates buying full-size items that don’t suit you, or just wants to keep up with trends without breaking the bank, then yes. If you only use foundation and mascara, you might feel overwhelmed. But that’s the point—you can tweak your profile and adjust.

Behind every Glam Bag is a system designed to connect you with products you’ll actually use. It’s not magic—it’s data, choice, and a little bit of surprise. And whether you’re a beginner learning what works for your skin or a pro looking for the next hidden gem, the IPSY Glam Bag gives you a front-row seat.

Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of what’s inside these boxes, how they compare to other subscriptions, and what to expect when you sign up. No fluff. Just facts, comparisons, and honest takes from people who’ve opened hundreds of bags.