Getting free cosmetics may sound like a dream, but actually getting free samples or even full size cosmetics is easy. You can get free cosmetics by visiting cosmetic outlets in convenience stores, visiting cosmetic company websites, and collecting gift coupons. Know the following tricks to get free cosmetics.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Getting Free Cosmetics from Convenience Stores
Step 1. Visit your favorite cosmetic outlet at the convenience store
Before you leave, it's a good idea to look at advertisements in newspapers or the internet to see if there are any ongoing promotions. To get free cosmetics, you can schedule a make over or visit at certain times. Therefore, it is better for you to first check what promotions are going on at your favorite department store.
Step 2. Chat with the shop keeper
You'll be approached by shopkeepers who seem pushy, but resist the urge to ignore them. Be polite and friendly. Smile and listen to their offer. Nod from time to time to show that you hear them and understand what they are saying.
Step 3. Ask for samples
After you've listened to their offer, show that you're really interested in the product the shopkeeper is pointing out but that you want to try it first before deciding to buy it. Then, ask if they can provide a sample for you.
Try saying things like this: “Thanks for the info. I am interested in the product, but I want to try it first before buying. May I have a sample of this product?"
Step 4. Thank the shop keeper
The shopkeeper will most likely give you a sample. If they don't, say thank you anyway and walk away. Don't be angry or discouraged. You can try to get samples from other cosmetic outlets.
Method 2 of 3: Getting Free Cosmetics on the Internet
Step 1. Enter online contests
Look for info on contests or prize draws held by online magazines. For example, Allure magazine held a raffle that awarded full-sized products to its subscribers. Many magazines run lucky draws every month, so if you don't win the first time you try, you can always try again!
Step 2. Give a "like" and follow the Facebook page of your favorite cosmetic brand
Many cosmetic brands have Facebook pages and they will give you their products for free just in exchange for a "like" from you. Some cosmetic brands also hold regular lucky draws and you can win high-quality products for free.
Step 3. Visit a chain store site that provides samples (e.g. in the US, Walmart and Target - know about stores like these in your own location)
Chain stores such as Walmart and Target in the US have dedicated pages where you can sign up for samples. Check the pages of stores like this and register yourself, but remember that not all samples are cosmetic products.
Step 4. Enroll in the rewards program to get free stuff on your birthday and also to get premium samples
Most cosmetic stores have rewards programs that will give you birthday gifts and other benefits such as special occasion invitations, premium samples, and coupons. You can sign up for various online gift programs and then visit their shop in the month of your birthday to pick up the prizes.
- Sephora is offering birthday gifts and premium samples to all its “Beauty Insiders.”
- Ulta is offering birthday gifts to all members of its rewards program.
Step 5. Contact your favorite cosmetic company to request a sample
Use the “Contact Us” page on your favorite cosmetic company's website to request a sample. Some companies will provide samples if you contact them. Just say that you really like their product and then politely ask for a sample.
- Be polite and friendly when you ask.
- Tell them that you really like the company's products and ask if they'd like to send you a sample.
Method 3 of 3: Using Gift Coupons
Step 1. Buy a newspaper or tabloid that usually contains gift coupons
Collect cosmetic gift coupons that you find among the various coupons available. Don't forget to note the validity period of the coupons.
Step 2. Visit websites that provide coupons
Get more coupons for cosmetics by visiting gift coupon websites. Print out any cosmetic coupons you find. Check these websites regularly because there will always be new coupons on these sites. Don't forget to note the validity period of the coupons you find.
Step 3. Find information about the sale program being held
Once you have the coupons, look for information about the sale program of the products in the coupons that may be held in a store. You may not get everything you want for free, but if you use the coupon during a store sale, you'll get a big discount.
Read the text on the coupon to make sure you can use it
Tips
- Some cosmetic stores will reward you if you recycle your empty cosmetic containers. Know the policies of each company and/or store. For example, MAC will give you free lipstick when you return six empty containers to one of its stores, and Body Shop will give you points that can be used to buy its products if you return empty containers to its stores. Lush will also give you a free mask when you return five empty containers.
- Stay persistent. To keep getting free cosmetics, you should keep trying to find samples using the methods above. Set aside time each week to carry out your mission of finding free cosmetics.
