Beauty doesn’t have to break the bank. If you love trying new skincare, makeup, or self-care products but hate spending a fortune, a cheap beauty subscription box is your answer.

These boxes give you a monthly surprise of full-size or deluxe sample items — all for less than $20. Whether you’re looking to expand your routine or just love discovering budget beauty finds, there’s a box out there for you.

In this blog, you’ll find the best beauty boxes under $20, what each one offers, and why they’re worth it.

Why Budget Beauty Boxes Are Worth It

  • Try before you buy: Test products before committing to full-size versions
  • Stay up to date: Discover trending items without doing the research
  • Cost-effective: You often get items worth more than the box’s price
  • Fun surprise: It’s like getting a present from yourself every month

If you love skincare, makeup, or wellness, these boxes are a great way to explore without overspending.

Best Beauty Subscription Boxes Under $20

Flat lay of a light pink cosmetic pouch, compact, mascara, deodorant, and beauty sponges on a textured pink background.

1. Ipsy Glam Bag

Price: $14/month

What’s Inside: 5 deluxe-size beauty samples + makeup bag

Value: Around $50 per bag

Why We Love It: Ipsy gives you a mix of skincare, makeup, and sometimes haircare — all personalised to your preferences. You fill out a quiz, and they match products to your style and skin type.

Best For: Beauty beginners or anyone who loves variety

Bonus: You can review products to improve your future bags.

2. Birchbox

Price: $15/month

What’s Inside: 5 personalised samples based on your beauty profile

Value: Varies, but usually over $40

Why We Love It: Birchbox focuses on clean, thoughtful brands and allows you to choose your monthly box from curated options.

Best For: Skincare lovers and minimalist beauty fans

Bonus: Subscribers get discounts in the Birchbox shop.

3. BoxyCharm by Ipsy (Beauty Boost Mini)

Price: $20/month (small plan under full BoxyCharm)

What’s Inside: Travel or deluxe-size products from premium brands

Why We Love It: While BoxyCharm’s full box is over $30, this smaller option gives you a taste of luxury on a budget.

Best For: Trying high-end products without the full price tag

Bonus: Access to Ipsy add-ons and mega sales.

A Walmart Beauty Box featuring CeraVe shampoo and conditioner, Degree deodorant, Hero Mighty Patch, and Sally Hansen press-on nails.

4. Walmart Beauty Box

Price: $6.98/quarter (about $2.33/month)

What’s Inside: 6–8 samples (skincare, haircare, personal care)

Value: $15–$30 worth of items

Why We Love It: This box delivers familiar drugstore brands and practical items like dry shampoo, moisturisers, and toothpaste.

Best For: Everyday essentials at an unbeatable price

Bonus: Comes with coupons and seasonal themes.

5. Target Beauty Capsule

Price: Varies, usually $10 (not subscription, but monthly box)

What’s Inside: 5–7 curated products

Value: $25+ of value

Why We Love It: Though not technically a subscription, Target drops themed boxes monthly, and they sell out fast.

Best For: Skincare fans and Target lovers

Bonus: Clear product descriptions, no surprises.

6. Kinder Beauty Box (Mini Box)

Price: $16/month

What’s Inside: 3–4 cruelty-free, vegan items

Value: $40+

Why We Love It: Kinder Beauty is all about ethical, clean beauty. The mini box brings that experience to a tighter budget.

Best For: Conscious shoppers who want cruelty-free brands

Bonus: 1% of sales go to animal rights causes.

A pink open box labeled LIPMONTHLY showcasing various cosmetics, including lipstick, lip gloss, and makeup items inside.

7. Lip Monthly

Price: $12.95/month

What’s Inside: 4–5 lip products (gloss, balm, stick)

Value: $40–$60 per box

Why We Love It: If you’re into bold lips or subtle tints, this box is lip-focused and full of variety.

Best For: Lipstick lovers and makeup explorers

Bonus: Customisable colours and finishes.

What to Look for in a Budget Beauty Box

Before signing up, ask yourself:

  • Do I prefer skincare or makeup?
  • Do I want full-size or travel-size items?
  • Am I looking for ethical or clean beauty?
  • How often do I want to receive products?
  • Can I cancel or pause easily?

It’s better to subscribe to one great box than several you won’t use.

Get the Most from Your Box

  • Keep what you love, gift what you don’t: Unused items make great gifts
  • Track expiration dates: Some samples don’t last forever
  • Build a mini travel kit: Use duplicates or small sizes for on-the-go
  • Swap with friends: Make it a fun sharing experience

Real Story: How Jade Found Her Holy Grail Products

Jade, 27, subscribed to Ipsy to build a routine without spending hundreds. After three months, she found a moisturiser and mascara she now buys full-size.

“I didn’t even know I needed them. They came in my bag, and I fell in love,” she says.

With $14 a month, she tried over 15 different brands — some now staples in her routine.

Conclusion: Budget Beauty, Big Value

You don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy high-end beauty. These budget beauty boxes bring skincare, makeup, and self-care right to your door, for less than the cost of lunch.

Whether you’re trying to build a routine, find your new favourite product, or just treat yourself, there’s a cheap beauty subscription box made for you.

Start small. See what works. And enjoy the fun of beauty without overspending.