As a middle-aged woman who’s no stranger to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, I’ve become somewhat of an expert in navigating the world of anti-aging skincare. Let me tell you, the struggle to maintain a youthful glow is real! But fear not, my fellow beauty enthusiasts, for I’ve embarked on a mission to uncover the best online beauty stores that cater to our unique needs.
In my quest to delay the signs of aging, I’ve spent countless hours researching, testing, and comparing various beauty retailers.
Through trial and error (and perhaps a few impulse purchases), I’ve compiled a list of the 9 best online beauty stores that offer top-notch products for those of us looking to turn back the clock – or at least slow it down a bit.
Whether you’re searching for that miracle serum to smooth out crow’s feet or a hydrating moisturizer to plump up your skin, these online beauty havens have got us covered.
1. Credo Beauty
Credo Beauty is a leading clean beauty retailer founded in 2015. They offer a curated selection of over 130 clean beauty brands across skincare, makeup, haircare, and body care categories. Credo is known for its strict ingredient standards, banning over 2,700 potentially harmful ingredients from all products they sell. They have both an e-commerce website and brick-and-mortar stores across the US.
Pros
- Extensive selection of clean, non-toxic beauty products
- Rigorous standards for ingredient safety and sustainability
- Carries many popular clean beauty brands like Ilia, Osea, and Goop
- Offers makeup, skincare, haircare, and body care products
- Provides detailed ingredient information for all products
- Has a recycling program for empty beauty packaging
- Knowledgeable staff provide personalized recommendations
- Offers samples with orders to try new products
Cons
- Higher price point for many products compared to conventional beauty stores
- Limited international shipping options
- Fewer budget-friendly options compared to mainstream retailers
- Some customers report inconsistent customer service experiences
- Smaller overall product selection compared to large beauty retailers
2. Eternal Beauty Outlet
Eternal Beauty Outlet is an online beauty retailer founded in 2020 by Olivia Grace. The company aims to provide a wide range of beauty and skincare products while promoting eco-friendly and cruelty-free practices. They offer products across various categories including skincare, makeup, and nails. Eternal Beauty Outlet focuses on sourcing high-quality beauty products from around the world to cater to diverse customer needs.
Pros
- Wide selection of beauty products from various brands
- Commitment to eco-friendly and cruelty-free practices
- Focus on transparency and avoiding “fake benefits” in product marketing
- Aims to provide good value for money
- Free shipping on orders over a certain amount
- Regular promotions and discounts available
- Positive customer reviews praising product quality and customer service
- Fast shipping, with some customers reporting delivery within 2-5 days
Cons
- Relatively new company, established in 2020, which may mean less brand recognition
- Limited information available about the company’s track record and reputation
- Some customers may prefer more established or well-known beauty retailers
- Potential for stock issues with popular items, as is common with online retailers
- Limited physical presence, which may be a drawback for customers who prefer in-store shopping experiences
3. Milk Makeup
Milk Makeup is a vegan, cruelty-free beauty brand founded in 2016. While they started as a brand sold through other retailers, they now have their own e-commerce store. Milk Makeup is known for its innovative, multi-use products with clean formulations. Their aesthetic is minimalist and geared towards a young, on-the-go consumer.
Pros
- All products are 100% vegan and cruelty-free
- Innovative product formats like stick applicators for easy use
- Clean ingredient formulations free of parabens, sulfates, and other harmful additives
- Offers makeup, skincare, and body care products
- Sleek, minimalist packaging design
- Provides detailed ingredient and usage information for all products
- Offers mini sizes of many products to try before committing to full size
- Free shipping on orders over $40 in the US
Cons
- Limited product range compared to full beauty retailers
- Higher price point for many products
- Only sells Milk Makeup brand products, no other brands available
- Some products may not work well for all skin types
- Limited international shipping options
- Fewer sales and promotions compared to larger beauty retailers
- Some customers report issues with product packaging durability
4. Space NK
Space NK is a high-end beauty retailer founded in 1993 in London. They offer a curated selection of luxury skincare, makeup, haircare, and fragrance products from over 100 premium brands. Space NK has both an e-commerce website and physical stores across the UK and US. They are known for their expert curation of niche and cult beauty brands alongside established luxury lines.
Pros
- Carefully curated selection of high-end and niche beauty brands
- Knowledgeable staff provide personalized recommendations
- Clean, minimalist website design for easy navigation
- Offers exclusive products and brand collaborations
- Generous samples with online orders
- N.dulge rewards program for loyal customers
- Free shipping on orders over a certain amount
Cons
- Higher price point for most products
- Smaller overall product selection compared to larger beauty retailers
- Limited international shipping options
- Some customers report inconsistent in-store experiences
- Return policy can be strict for certain items
5. Bluemercury
Bluemercury is a luxury beauty retailer founded in 1999 in Washington D.C. They offer a wide range of high-end skincare, makeup, haircare, and wellness products both online and in their boutiques across the US. Bluemercury is known for their spa services and knowledgeable beauty experts who provide personalized consultations.
Pros
- Extensive selection of luxury and niche beauty brands
- Offers in-store spa services like facials and waxing
- Knowledgeable staff provide product recommendations
- BlueRewards loyalty program for frequent shoppers
- Free samples with every order
- Free shipping on orders over a certain amount
- Some locations offer same-day delivery
Cons
- Higher price point for most products
- Some customers report pushy sales tactics in stores
- Limited international shipping options
- Website can be difficult to navigate at times
- Stricter return policy compared to some competitors
- Inconsistent customer service experiences reported by some shoppers
6. Dermstore
Dermstore is an online beauty retailer founded in 1999 by a board-certified dermatologist. It specializes in offering a wide range of skincare, haircare, and makeup products from over 700 brands, including both well-known and niche labels. Dermstore is known for its focus on dermatologist-recommended and professional-grade beauty products.
Pros
- Extensive selection of high-quality skincare and beauty products
- Carries many dermatologist-recommended brands
- Offers a rewards program for loyal customers
- Provides detailed product information and ingredient lists
- Free shipping on orders over a certain amount
- Frequently offers promotions and discounts
- Includes free samples with orders
Cons
- Higher price point for many products compared to drugstore options
- Some customers report inconsistent customer service experiences
- Stricter return policy compared to some competitors
- Website navigation can be overwhelming due to the large product selection
7. Kosas Cosmetics
Kosas is a clean beauty brand founded in 2015 by Sheena Yaitanes. While not a traditional online beauty store, Kosas has its own e-commerce platform where they sell their full range of makeup and skincare products. The brand is known for its “comfy glam” aesthetic and formulations that include skincare ingredients.
Pros
- Clean beauty formulations free of harmful ingredients
- Products designed to be easy to apply and wear
- Offers makeup with skincare benefits
- Vegan and cruelty-free products
- Sleek, minimalist packaging
- Provides detailed ingredient information for all products
- Free shipping on orders over a certain amount (in the US)
Cons
- Limited product range compared to full beauty retailers
- Only sells Kosas brand products
- Higher price point for many products
- Some products may not work well for all skin types
- Limited international shipping options
- Fewer sales and promotions compared to larger beauty retailers
8. Lookfantastic
Lookfantastic is a renowned online beauty retailer founded in 1996. They offer a vast selection of over 660 premium beauty brands across skincare, makeup, haircare, and grooming products. Lookfantastic is known for its user-friendly website, frequent promotions, and access to both popular and niche beauty brands from around the world.
Pros
- Extensive range of products from luxury and brand-name beauty companies
- Regular sales and discounts available
- Beauty Box subscription service offering curated monthly products
- Free shipping on orders over a certain amount (varies by country)
- International shipping available
- Afterpay available for some products
- Offers European brands that may be hard to find elsewhere
- Knowledgeable customer service team trained directly by brands
Cons
- Some customers report inconsistent delivery times
- Higher price point for many products compared to drugstore options
- Occasional stock issues with popular items
- Some users find the website navigation overwhelming due to the large product selection
- Mixed reviews on customer service experiences
9. Kylie Cosmetics
Kylie Cosmetics is a beauty brand founded by Kylie Jenner in 2015. While primarily known for its makeup products, the brand has expanded to include skincare (Kylie Skin) and baby care (Kylie Baby) lines. Kylie Cosmetics offers a range of cosmetics including lip kits, eyeshadow palettes, and face products, all available through their e-commerce platform.
Pros
- Cruelty-free, vegan, paraben-free, and sulfate-free products
- Trendy packaging and product designs
- Regular new product launches and limited-edition collections
- Some products, like lip liners and powder blushes, receive high praise
- Affordable price points for celebrity-branded cosmetics
- Free shipping on orders over a certain amount (in the US)
Cons
- Limited product range compared to full beauty retailers
- Mixed reviews on product quality, particularly for liquid lipsticks and eyeshadows
- Some customers report skin reactions to certain products
- Strict return policy with no refunds, only exchanges or store credit
- Limited international shipping options
- Fewer sales and promotions compared to larger beauty retailers
- Some users find the brand overhyped and overpriced for the quality
