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The Best Sample-Size Products to Snag from the Sephora Checkout Line

It’s a scenario we all know too well: You hop into the checkout line at Sephora with your new Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb in tow, swearing you won’t load up on sample-size products near the register. You can try to fight it, but the truth is they’re way too adorably mini to pass up—and are actually super useful in certain situations. So we rounded up the best travel-size products to reach for when temptation takes over.

How to Pack Your Beauty Products (Like a Genius)


living proof perfect hair day dry shampoo mini2
Sephora

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo Mini

Truth: We’re always out and about when we realize we maybe should have washed our hair a day ago. Stock up on travel-size dry shampoo and pop one in your work tote, gym bag and even desk drawer so you can refresh sorry-looking locks no matter when you notice them.

cover fx illuminating setting spray mini2
Sephora

Cover Fx Illuminating Setting Spray Mini

The easiest way to jazz up your makeup post workout, but before your dinner reservation? With a little highlighter. And the light-reflecting flecks in this setting spray will make you look like you just did your makeup and are basically glowing from within.

benefit cosmetics roller lash curling lifting mascara mini2
Sephora

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara Mini

You’re eternally loyal to your mascara. We understand. But when a new one comes out, there’s no denying you get a little curious about all the lash-multiplying claims. This is where a mini comes in handy. You can test the new formula without fully committing to a whole new product, and there’s less risk of it drying out before you finish the tube.


milk makeup holographic stick mini in supernova2
Sephora

Milk Makeup Holographic Stick Mini In Supernova

You know that unusual highlighter shade everyone is rocking? The one you actually kind of like but would never invest in full-size? You should test out the small version. It will last just long enough for the trend to run its course.

glamglow gravitymud firming treatment mini2
Sephora

Glamglow Gravitymud™ Firming Treatment Mini

Face masks are fun, but if you’re not a daily user, they’re not usually worth stocking up on. Grab a selfie-worthy formula, like this shiny silver peel-off version, to have on hand. If you truly love it—aka use every last drop—then splurge on the bigger option.

kate somerville exfolikate intensive exfoliating treatment mini2
Sephora

Kate Somerville Exfolikate® Intensive Exfoliating Treatment Mini

This stuff claims to deliver big results. But since it’s a pretty strong treatment, consider trying it first in a travel size. See if it works for you before going broke buying the real deal (the full-size version of this product is a whopping $175). It’s the best way to justify the purchase if you really love it.

fenty beauty by rihanna bomb baby mini lip and face set2
Sephora

Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Bomb Baby Mini Lip And Face Set

We love trying new buzzy products. But we love it even more when they come in a set so we can properly sample them all. Scoop one of these up on the way to checkout and you’ll get three raved-about products for the price of one.

st tropez tanning essentials self tan express bronzing mousse mini2
Sephora

St. Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse Mini

Have a big tropical trip booked when you’re at your pastiest? A small bottle of self-tanner will add just enough life back into your sun-deprived skin. The best part is you won’t be stuck shuffling around a huge bottle of it in your already-crammed bathroom cabinet post vacay. 



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Brianna Lapolla formerly held the role of Senior Commerce Editor at PureWow covering all things shopping across beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. Now, she's putting her 12 years of...