Makeup Brands Are Selling Mystery Bags Because Everyone Is a YouTuber Now

There are few benefits to ordering mystery makeup packages that go beyond filming yourself: these “lucky bags” are always listed at a lower price than the total value of the products inside of the packaging (BoF uses Colourpop as an example: their $25 mystery bag includes items guaranteed to be worth more than $55) but they’re also, more often than not, used by brands to get rid of unsold overstock from past collections. In the case of Jeffree Starr cosmetics, this has led to criticisms from customers who’ve allegedly received expired items. Not only that, but there are always limitations to what can be sold: it’s impossible to know the skin tone of the person buying the box (these are never individualized for the purchaser in the same way, say, an online styling service like Stitch Fix sends mystery boxes geared toward the costumer’s preferences) so you’re guaranteed a bunch of eyeshadows and lipstick stuff, things that are considered universal.

But once again for the people in the back: you may get stuck with bullshit, so its truly only meant for those who love surprises… or budding YouTubers.

Even if you purchase a mystery makeup box and aren’t thrilled with your items, you could always film yourself opening the bag, giving an honest opinion on the crap inside and monetize the video on YouTube. You could make money by surprising yourself without ever having to swatch an expired matte liquid lip in a witchy green shade. Think of the social media clout! It’s a win-win.