Subscription boxes are extremely popular as a way to test out and try new makeup products for a good price. Ipsy and Birchbox are both well-known boxes that are perfect for the college student looking to dabble with makeup.

Both Ipsy and Birchbox cost $10 and come with five products ranging from skincare to makeup. When ordering each box, you customize everything from your skin tone to your eye color. Based on this, the boxes curate products to send to you.

Ipsy

My experience with Ipsy was exactly what I expected it to be: easy and fun. Getting a package in the mail that has dainty little makeup samples makes me feel excited and giddy. A makeup brush, a sample of a bronzer, lip balm, a highlighter and a small tube of the foundation came in the package. I enjoyed the box, but it was all makeup and the sizes were extremely small.

Birchbox

I didn’t have high hopes for Birchbox because I only hear about Ipsy, but I was pleasantly surprised. When my Birchbox arrived, I received five medium-sized products ranging from makeup to skin care. Eyeliner, tinted moisturizer, face wash, a cleansing rinse and leave in conditioner were in my Birchbox. This box had an amazing range of things and it wasn’t only makeup, which I liked.

Both boxes are good for the price and the number of samples you get. If you prefer mostly makeup, get Ipsy. But, if you enjoy a range of products and bigger samples, get Birchbox. My winner of this battle of the boxes is Birchbox, because you get more for your money.

If you are able to give $10 a month to try out new products you normally wouldn’t, sign up for Birchbox and get to sampling!

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