If you love trying new makeup but hate getting products you’ll never use, IPSY’s personalization system is the answer. It works like a quiz that learns what you like, then matches you with items that fit your style. The result is a monthly box that feels hand‑picked just for you.
When you first sign up, IPSY asks you to pick a “look” – something like "natural everyday," "glam night," or "bold colour." Each look comes with a set of rules for the type of product, shade range, and finish the algorithm should target. You also set a budget for your monthly box, so you never see anything over that price.
Behind the scenes, IPSY uses two key pieces of data: your look choice and the products you’ve rated before. If you’ve already received a shade of lipstick or a foundation that worked, the system boosts similar items in the next box. It also looks at brand popularity and new launches to keep the mix fresh.
The algorithm gives extra weight to items you rate as "love" or "keep." Over time, the system learns whether you prefer matte finishes, bright colours, or skin‑care‑focused products. This way, each new box gets better at hitting your sweet spot.
Another factor is the “Item Score” that IPSY assigns based on how well a product matches the look you selected. For example, a shimmering eyeshadow will get a high score for a "glam night" look, while a subtle tinted moisturizer will score higher for "natural everyday." The higher the score, the more likely the product lands in your box.
1. **Rate every product honestly.** Even if you don’t love a shade, marking it as "keep" or "no thanks" tells the system what to avoid.
2. **Update your look regularly.** Your style can change with the seasons or new trends. Switching from "natural everyday" to "glam night" for a month helps the algorithm adjust.
3. **Use the Wishlist.** Adding items you want to try goes straight into the algorithm’s radar, increasing the chance they appear later.
4. **Leave feedback on packaging.** IPSY asks about texture, scent, and finish. These details fine‑tune the next selections.
5. **Take advantage of the "Try Before You Buy" feature.** If a product works for you, buying it adds extra points for similar items.
By following these steps, you’ll see fewer mismatched shades and more of the stuff you actually use.
IPSY also runs occasional "Theme" boxes that align with holidays, collaborations, or popular makeup trends. If you opt‑in, the algorithm blends your personal preferences with the theme, giving you a unique mix that still feels right for you.
Finally, remember that the system isn’t perfect. If you ever feel stuck with a box that feels off, you can reset your preferences in the account settings. This clears the data and lets you start fresh, which can be useful after a big style change or if you’ve gotten a lot of duplicate items.
Overall, IPSY personalization works best when you stay active in the process. Keep rating, updating your look, and adding to your wishlist, and you’ll get a beauty box that truly matches your vibe each month.
Is IPSY really personalized, or is it just clever marketing? Learn exactly how IPSY’s customization works, what goes on behind the scenes, and how to get the most out of your subscription.