Sephora Freebies Explained: How to Get Free Samples, Gifts & Rewards

How to get free samples, makeovers, and beauty perks at Sephora, no big spending needed!

If you're anything like us, walking into Sephora feels like stepping into a glam wonderland. But here's a little secret: you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy what Sephora has to offer. In fact, there are plenty of totally free ways to try products, get pampered, and earn rewards. Whether you're restocking skincare staples or playing with the latest TikTok-approved makeup trend, this guide breaks down how to get freebies, free mini makeovers and free samples at Sephora, both online and in-store. 

Love freebies? Check out these 48 Companies That Send Free Products to Review. And don't forget your Sephora birthday freebie, a full-size or deluxe mini product to celebrate you on your day!

Get 2 Free Samples with Every Online Order 

Every single Sephora order lets you choose two free samples at checkout with no minimum purchase required. These aren't just any items either. We're talking samples from luxury brands like: Tom Ford, Kerastase, Bobbi Brown or Dior.  It’s a great way to test-drive a product before committing to the full size.  And you can check what’s available on the Sephora Samples page each time you shop. 

Ask for Free In-Store Samples 

Yep, this is a thing. If you're unsure about a product, like a serum, foundation, or perfume, just ask a Sephora associate for a sample. Most locations are happy to provide small take-home jars or spray vials of whatever you’re eyeing (depending on availability). This works especially well for high-end skincare and expensive foundations where you want to test before investing in it. 

Perfume Sampler = Full-Size Bottle (For Free!) 

Looking for your signature scent without dropping $100 right away? Buy one of Sephora’s Perfume Sampler Sets. Each includes several mini fragrances plus a scent certificate to redeem a free full-size bottle of your favorite from the set, with some worth up to $95! 

Pro Tip: You must redeem your scent certificate in-store, so plan a visit when you’re ready to cash in. 

Enjoy Free Mini Makeovers 

At select locations, Sephora offers free 15-minute mini makeovers with no purchase or appointment needed. A Beauty Advisor will walk you through a specific look (you choose!), and sometimes you’ll even leave with a free goody bag. Past mini-makeover options include: 

• Smokey Eyes 
• Flawless Foundation 
• Blush + Bronze 
• Everyday Eye 
• Perfect Lips 

Ask at the Beauty Studio or the front desk to check if it's available at your store. 

Attend Free Beauty Classes (Online & In-Store) 

As a Sephora Beauty Insider (it’s free to sign up), you can register for free beauty classes led by pros and influencers. These classes are offered in-store and online and cover everything from skincare techniques to full-face makeup looks. Some past topics have included: 

• How to prep your skin like a facialist 
• Mastering the no-makeup makeup look 
• Launch events with brands like La Mer and Caudalie. 

Use the Beauty Offers Page Weekly 

Head to the Sephora Beauty Offers page before any online order. You’ll find free trial-size products, promo codes and 4X point offers on select items and exclusive sets and deals for Beauty Insiders.  These trial sizes are larger than regular samples and perfect for a true test run.  Offers change every week, feel free to bookmark that page! 

Beauty Insider Rewards = Even More Freebies 

Joining the Beauty Insider program (again, totally free) opens up access to: 

• Birthday gifts (free full-size or deluxe minis) 
• Point rewards that you can redeem for products 
• Exclusive events and launches 
• Free shipping on orders of $25+ 
• Seasonal sales and Insider-only discounts 

The more you shop, the more points you earn, and the bigger the rewards you can score! 

Bonus Ways to Save 

Want even more from your Sephora hauls? Try these: 

• Shop the Sephora Collection: The Sephora Collection is their affordable in-house brand, packed with high-quality makeup, skincare, and beauty tools. Many items are great dupes for luxury products—without the hefty price tag. It’s perfect for budget-friendly beauty lovers.
• Get the Sephora Credit Card: With the Sephora Credit Card, you get 15% off your first purchase and earn 4% back on future Sephora buys. The Visa version even gives you 1% back everywhere else. If you shop often, the rewards can add up fast.
• Wait for Black Friday & Cyber Monday: Sephora’s biggest sales of the year happen on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You’ll find deep discounts, limited-edition gift sets, and exclusive beauty deals. It’s the best time to stock up or splurge for less.

Don’t Be Shy 

Whether you're online or in-store, the best advice is to ask questions and speak up. Want a sample? Ask. Not sure how to use a product? Ask. Sephora’s team is there to help, and they’re happy to give you tips, tricks, and sometimes a few extra goodies just for being curious.

- Denisse