We all love a good beauty deal, especially when it means stocking up on our favorite products without breaking the bank. While here at Thrifty Glamour we focus on beauty on a budget, there’s no harm in treating yourself during the year’s biggest beauty sales. Whether you’re looking to replenish your skincare stash or try out new makeup, timing your purchases during these sales can help you save big!
Here are some of the biggest beauty sales to keep an eye on this year:
1. Black Friday & Cyber Monday
Dates: The day after Thanksgiving (Black Friday) and the following Monday (Cyber Monday)
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are hands-down the biggest shopping days of the year, and beauty retailers go all out. Whether you prefer shopping in-store or online, you’ll find steep discounts on everything from drugstore brands to high-end luxury products.
What to Expect:
- Skincare Steals: Many brands offer 30-50% off on skincare lines, including cleansers, serums, and moisturizers.
- Makeup Deals: Look for discounted gift sets, eyeshadow palettes, and lipsticks. Brands like Fenty Beauty, Anastasia Beverly Hills, and Too Faced typically offer major markdowns.
- Tools and Devices: If you’ve been eyeing a skincare tool like a facial steamer or beauty device like a blow dryer, this is the time to snag one at a fraction of the price.
Thrifty Tip: Sign up for newsletters from your favorite beauty retailers in advance to get early access to Black Friday sales and special promo codes.
2. Sephora VIB Sale
Dates: Usually in April and November, with 2024’s running from November 1st to November 11th
Sephora’s VIB Sale is one of the most anticipated events for beauty lovers. Depending on your membership status (Insider, VIB, or Rouge), you can get 10-20% off your entire purchase.
What to Expect:
- Discounts by Tier: Rouge members get 20% off, VIB members get 15%, and Insiders get 10%.
- Exclusive Offers: The sale often includes exclusive sets and limited-edition products you won’t find at other times of the year.
Thrifty Tip: If you aren’t a Sephora member yet, sign up for their free Insider program before the sale starts. Even if you’re new, you’ll still score 10% off!
3. Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty
Dates: Twice a year (typically March/April and September)
Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty is one of the best events for scoring daily deals on high-end and drugstore products. Each day features a selection of products at up to 50% off, making it a great time to stock up on holy grails or try new items.
What to Expect:
- Daily Beauty Steals: Each day features different products, often including popular brands like Tarte, Urban Decay, and MAC.
- Online and In-Store: Some deals are exclusive to online shoppers, while others can be found in-store, so be sure to check both.
- Platinum and Diamond Member Perks: If you’re an Ulta rewards member, you may get early access to deals or even additional discounts on select items.
Thrifty Tip: Plan ahead! Ulta releases the full sale calendar in advance, so you can mark your calendar for the deals you don’t want to miss.
4. Amazon Prime Day
Dates: Mid-July (exact date varies)
Amazon Prime Day isn’t just for tech and home gadgets—there are plenty of beauty deals to be had as well! From drugstore essentials to luxury skincare, you can find some amazing discounts during this two-day event.
What to Expect:
- Massive Discounts: Everything from K-beauty products to popular drugstore skincare brands like Neutrogena and CeraVe will be marked down.
- Lightning Deals: Keep an eye on lightning deals for flash sales on your favorite products, as these can sell out fast.
Thrifty Tip: If you aren’t an Amazon Prime member, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial to take advantage of Prime Day deals. Just make sure to cancel if you don’t want to continue after the trial period!
5. Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Dates: Typically in July
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is known for offering steep discounts on high-end beauty products that rarely go on sale. You can find everything from skincare and hair tools to makeup sets at significantly reduced prices.
What to Expect:
- Exclusive Beauty Sets: Nordstrom often offers exclusive beauty bundles during this sale, perfect for trying new products at a lower price.
- Luxury Brands on Sale: Brands like La Mer, Charlotte Tilbury, and Bobbi Brown often offer limited-edition sets and discounts.
Thrifty Tip: Consider shopping early if you have a Nordstrom credit card, as cardholders often get early access to the best deals.
6. Dermstore Anniversary Sale
Dates: August
If skincare is your priority, the Dermstore Anniversary Sale is one you don’t want to miss. This event offers discounts on professional-grade skincare brands, along with some makeup and haircare deals.
What to Expect:
- Skincare Galore: Brands like Obagi, SkinCeuticals, and EltaMD usually offer significant discounts.
- Free Gifts: Many purchases during the sale come with free deluxe samples or full-sized products.
Thrifty Tip: Dermstore often provides loyalty points for purchases, which you can redeem for discounts on future buys.
7. Holiday Beauty Sales
Dates: November through December
The holiday season is packed with beauty deals as brands push out limited-edition sets and gifts. From pre-holiday sales to post-Christmas discounts, you’ll find deals across beauty stores like Sephora, Ulta, and major department stores.
What to Expect:
- Gift Sets: The best time to snag value sets with mini versions of popular products, perfect for trying new things.
- Buy One, Get One Free Deals: Especially around Christmas, many drugstore brands offer BOGO promotions on makeup and skincare.
Thrifty Tip: Post-holiday clearance sales can be a goldmine for discounted beauty products. Keep an eye out for holiday-themed sets that get marked down after the season ends.
Final Thoughts
Staying on top of these sales can help you save big on beauty products throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for luxury skincare or drugstore essentials, the key is to plan ahead and take advantage of these events when they come around. Just remember: beauty doesn’t have to break the bank—you can always find ways to glam up without splurging!