I’ve had an on-again, off-again relationship with IPSY for years. From their $13 Glam Bag to the Plus version, it’s always been a mix of “ooh, this is nice” and “what even is this brand?” So, when the Icon Box launched… curated by celebrity tastemakers and packed with full-size luxury products, I decided to see if the hype (and $60 price tag) was justified.
What Is the IPSY Icon Box?
The IPSY Icon Box is a quarterly beauty subscription box that replaces your regular IPSY bag once every three months. It features 8 full-size products (usually a mix of makeup, skincare, and hair care) valued at up to $350, curated by celebrities like Khloé Kardashian, Alicia Keys, or Pat McGrath. Subscribers can customize 3 out of the 8 items, while the rest are “expertly” picked for you.
It’s positioned as the most premium IPSY tier… basically the glam cousin of their standard monthly bags.
Why I Tried It
The concept sold itself to me: celebrity-curated luxury products for a fraction of retail price? I was in. Plus, the early spoilers featured big names like Tatcha, Sunday Riley, and Fenty Beauty… all brands I already use or wanted to try without dropping $60+ per item.
My Experience Using It
When my first Icon Box arrived, the presentation was honestly impressive… a sturdy blush-pink box packed with full-sized, sealed products. My curation was by Khloé Kardashian, and I received a mix of skincare and glam items, including Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream, Benefit brow gel, and a Pat McGrath lipstick.
The value, at least on paper, was undeniable. Still, here’s where it got complicated: while some items were amazing (that Tatcha cream became an instant favorite), others felt like filler… random serums from unfamiliar brands that didn’t match my skin type.
I also noticed that customization windows close quickly, and if you miss them, you’re stuck with whatever IPSY picks. The curation also leans repetitive… I’ve seen many subscribers get the same “hero” products recycled from past boxes.
Shipping was smooth, though slower than expected, and customer service can be hit or miss depending on who you reach.
Overall? It feels luxe when you first unbox it, but not every product feels intentional. I love the occasional surprise, but for something labeled “Iconic,” I wanted more consistency and less filler.
Pros
- Fantastic value for high-end products
- Beautiful packaging and presentation
- Some truly great inclusions (Tatcha, Fenty, Sunday Riley, etc.)
- Option to customize a few items
- Ships quarterly… less product overload
Cons
- Hit-or-miss curation (some filler items)
- Customization window is easy to miss
- Recycled products from past boxes
- Customer service inconsistency
- Shipping can take weeks
How to Get the Most from It
- Set reminders for customization and upgrade windows.
- Review your beauty profile… the algorithm does use it (mostly).
- Cancel after your Icon Box if you don’t want to continue monthly IPSY billing.
Alternatives to Consider
- Boxycharm Luxe (by IPSY)
- Allure Beauty Box
- LookFantastic Beauty Box
Conclusion: Would I Recommend It?
Yes, with caution. The IPSY Icon Box can be worth it if you’re flexible and love trying new products, especially luxury skincare. But if you’re expecting every box to be flawless or perfectly personalized, you might find yourself disappointed.
It’s the beauty world’s equivalent of a mystery date: sometimes thrilling, sometimes confusing, but almost always interesting.
Also Read – Dopamine Brain Food™ Review 2025 — Brain Boost or Waste of Money?