IPSY Samples: What’s Inside and Is It Worth It?

When you open your first IPSY samples, a curated beauty subscription box that sends monthly trial-sized products based on your profile. Also known as Glam Bag, it’s one of the most popular ways to test new makeup, skincare, and haircare without committing to full-size bottles. But here’s the real question: are these samples just freebies, or do they actually help you find products you’ll love? Many people sign up thinking they’re getting luxury brands, but what they get depends on their quiz answers, past preferences, and what’s in stock. Some bags include cult favorites like Elf primers or Rare Beauty blushes. Others? A random lip balm you’ll never use again.

What makes IPSY, a beauty subscription service that uses algorithm-driven personalization to match users with products. Also known as beauty subscription box, it stand out is how it connects with real user behavior. Unlike brands that guess what you want, IPSY asks you to rate products you’ve tried before, track what you keep, and skip what you don’t. That feedback loop shapes what lands in your next bag. And while it’s not perfect—sometimes you get too many lip products or too little skincare—it’s one of the few services that actually adapts over time. The cruelty-free makeup, cosmetics that aren’t tested on animals and often labeled as vegan or ethical. Also known as animal testing free cosmetics, it trend has changed what’s in these boxes too. More brands like Elf, Rare Beauty, and Pacifica now appear regularly because users demand them. You won’t find every cruelty-free brand, but you’ll see more than you would in a random drugstore sampler.

And let’s talk value. At $13 a month, you’re not paying for a full-size product—you’re paying for discovery. Most bags include 4-5 samples worth $40–$70 if bought retail. But the real win? You learn what works for your skin tone, texture, and routine. One user found their holy-grail mascara after three tries. Another discovered they hate glitter lip gloss and stopped wasting money on it. That’s the power of affordable beauty products, high-quality cosmetics sold at low prices without sacrificing performance. Also known as budget beauty, it . IPSY doesn’t sell you the cheapest stuff—it sells you the smart stuff. You get to test what’s trending, what’s new, and what’s actually effective before you buy. No fluff. No pressure. Just real feedback.

What you’ll find below are real stories and breakdowns from people who’ve opened dozens of IPSY bags. Some posts reveal which products are worth keeping. Others expose the gimmicks. There’s even a deep dive into whether IPSY’s personalization is truly smart—or just lucky. Whether you’re new to beauty boxes or you’ve been getting them for years, this collection cuts through the noise and shows you what actually matters.