Ipsy vs BoxyCharm vs FabFitFun: Which Beauty Box Is Actually Worth It?

Beauty subscription boxes are the subscription category with the highest churn rate (10-12% monthly cancellation). Most people subscribe, accumulate products they don't use, and cancel within 6 months. Here's how to decide before that happens.

The Comparison

The Honest Assessment

IPSY Original ($15/mo) is the entry point. Five deluxe samples per month, personalized by your beauty quiz. Good for discovering new brands without committing to full-size products. At $180/year, it's the cheapest option, but samples accumulate fast.

BoxyCharm by IPSY ($28/mo) is the best value per dollar. Five full-size products typically worth $150+ retail. You choose 3 of 5 items. If you'd buy at least 2 of the products at retail, it pays for itself. The risk: you end up with products you didn't need.

FabFitFun ($59.99/quarter) is a lifestyle box, not just beauty. Includes fashion accessories, home items, and wellness products alongside beauty. Best for people who enjoy the "unboxing experience" and want variety. Worst for people who want specifically beauty products.

Who Should Subscribe (And Who Shouldn't)

Subscribe if: You genuinely try new beauty products monthly, you'd buy 2+ of the included products at retail anyway, and you use what you receive before the next box arrives.

Don't subscribe if: You have a cabinet full of half-used products, you're particular about brands/ingredients, or you subscribe for the dopamine hit of unboxing but rarely use the products. In that case, buy the specific products you know you like and save $180-336/yr.

The Smartest Move

If you want to try a beauty box: start with IPSY Original at $15/mo for 3 months. If you use at least 3 of the 5 products each month, upgrade to BoxyCharm. If products pile up unused, cancel. Three months is enough data to know.