Top 10 Free Beauty Samples You Can Get Right Now

Getting free beauty samples has never been easier. Major retailers and brands are constantly looking for new customers, and free samples are one of their most effective marketing tools. The trick is knowing where to look and how to request them efficiently.

1. Sephora Beauty Insider Samples

Sephora's Beauty Insider program is one of the most generous in the industry. Every online order comes with your choice of two free samples at checkout, and the selection rotates weekly. Sign up for the free tier and you'll also receive a birthday gift set worth up to twenty dollars. Pro tip: visit the store on your birthday month and ask at the counter — they often have additional gifts beyond what's listed online.

The real hidden gem is Sephora's sample basket near the registers. These are products being promoted that week, and cashiers will often let you grab one or two. If you're polite and a regular customer, they may even offer deluxe-size samples from behind the counter.

2. Ulta Free Samples and Birthday Gifts

Ulta's Ultamate Rewards program offers a free birthday gift during your birthday month — no purchase required. In 2026, the birthday gift includes products from brands like Tarte, Urban Decay, and Philosophy. You'll also earn points on every purchase that translate into real dollar-off coupons.

Sign up for Ulta's email list and you'll receive exclusive sample offers and coupons almost weekly. Their app also features digital coupons that stack with in-store promotions, making it easy to get both free samples and deep discounts on full-size products.

3. Direct-from-Brand Sample Programs

Many premium brands offer samples directly through their websites. L'Oreal, Estee Lauder, Clinique, and Kiehls all run regular sample programs. Visit their websites and look for "samples" or "try before you buy" sections. You'll typically need to fill out a short form with your mailing address.

Social media is another goldmine. Follow your favorite brands on Instagram and TikTok — they frequently run giveaways and sample promotions for followers. Brands like Glossier, Drunk Elephant, and The Ordinary are particularly generous with samples when you engage with their content.

4. Subscription Box Free Trials

Birchbox, Ipsy, and Allure Beauty Box all offer introductory deals or free first boxes. While these aren't completely free long-term, the first box often costs nothing or just the price of shipping. You'll receive five to six deluxe samples worth significantly more than any subscription fee.

The key is to set a calendar reminder to cancel before the second month charges if you don't want to continue. Many people rotate through free trials from different boxes, getting months of free samples without paying full price.

5. Department Store Counters

Never underestimate the power of simply asking. Visit the beauty counters at Nordstrom, Macy's, or Bloomingdale's and ask for samples of any product you're interested in. Sales associates have sample containers behind the counter and are trained to provide them. Most high-end skincare brands like La Mer, SK-II, and Sunday Riley expect their counter staff to give samples freely.

The best time to visit is mid-week during slower hours. Associates are less rushed and more likely to prepare generous samples. Some will even create custom sample sets if you tell them you're trying to decide between products.