IPSY is one of the best-known beauty subscriptions in the U.S., built around the monthly Glam Bag, which arrives with a set of deluxe-size beauty samples in a collectible makeup bag. IPSY also sells gift cards and gift subscriptions. Here’s how they work.
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IPSY gift cards vs. gift subscriptions
IPSY offers two ways to gift:
- Gift subscription – you choose an IPSY subscription and a length (for example a few months), and the recipient gets those boxes. According to IPSY, the recipient doesn’t need to be an existing member and doesn’t have to enter payment information to redeem a gifted subscription.
- Gift card – a dollar amount that the recipient can apply to their membership and IPSY purchases.
Both are bought from IPSY’s gifting page on ipsy.com.
How to send an IPSY gift
- Go to IPSY’s gifting page (ipsy.com/gift).
- Choose a gift subscription and duration, or a gift card amount.
- Enter the recipient’s name and email, add a message and choose when to send it.
- Pay and watch for your confirmation email.
How to redeem an IPSY gift card
- Open the gift email and select the redeem button.
- Sign in to your IPSY account or create one.
- Follow the steps to apply the gift to your account.
IPSY gift card value is applied to your membership and future IPSY purchases until it runs out. Gift cards are for purchases only and can’t be exchanged for cash.
What can you use IPSY credit for?
- Your monthly subscription (such as Glam Bag)
- Add-ons, the extra products members can add to their monthly box
- Other eligible purchases in IPSY’s shop
Subscription options and prices change from time to time, so check ipsy.com for current tiers before you buy.
Earn free products with IPSY points
IPSY members can earn points, for example by reviewing the products in their bag and referring friends, and redeem those points for free products. It’s one of the few legitimate ways to get extra beauty freebies from a subscription.
Things to know before gifting
- Availability by country: IPSY gifting has historically been limited to certain countries. Check the gifting page for where gifts can be sent.
- Cancel or pause: if the recipient also has their own paid subscription, the gift is applied to their account; they can still manage, pause or cancel their own billing.
- Beware fake “free IPSY bag” giveaways on social media that ask you to pay shipping or enter card details on a site that isn’t ipsy.com.
FAQ
Does an IPSY gift card expire?
IPSY has said gift card balances don’t expire. Check the terms in your gift email.
Can I use an IPSY gift card for BoxyCharm?
IPSY and BoxyCharm are now part of the same company. Check the IPSY help center to see which subscriptions your gift balance can be used for.
Can I get a refund on an IPSY gift card?
Gift cards are generally non-refundable except where required by law.