Last updated Jul. 17, 2024 by Peter Jakes
Perfumes serve as an extension of one’s personality and style, but trying out new scents can quickly become a costly affair. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to get free perfume samples if you know where to look. Here are 18 legitimate methods to get free perfume samples in 2023.
1. Department Store Beauty Counters
One of the easiest ways to get free perfume samples is by visiting department store beauty counters, such as those in Macy’s, Nordstrom, or Bloomingdale’s. Typically, beauty consultants are willing to provide small fragrance samples if you simply ask. They often also have promotional events where samples are distributed.
2. Subscription Services Free Trials
Many subscription services like ScentBird or Scentbox offer a first-month free trial where you can choose a perfume sample. While you may need to enter your payment information, you can cancel before being charged if you’re just after the free sample.
3. Online Retailers
Online beauty retailers such as Sephora and Ulta often include free perfume samples with any purchase. These samples are usually selectable at checkout, allowing you to try several options before committing.
4. Perfume Manufacturers’ Websites
Sometimes perfume brands offer free samples on their websites. Companies such as Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Gucci have been known to give away free samples periodically. Keep an eye on their official websites and sign up for their newsletters.
5. Fragrance Subscription Boxes
Many fragrance subscription boxes offer free trials that include several perfume samples. Services like Olfactorie and Fragrance.com often have a free or heavily discounted first month.
6. Free Sample Websites
Websites like Sample Source and Smiley360 often feature free perfume samples among their offerings. All you need to do is sign up and claim available samples when they become live.
7. Social Media Giveaways
Brands often run promotions and giveaways of free perfume samples on their social media channels. Following your favorite perfume brands on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter can keep you in the loop about these contests.
8. Loyalty Programs
Retailers and brands such as Beauty Insider by Sephora or Ultamate Rewards by Ulta offer free samples and deluxe sample sizes as part of their loyalty programs. By signing up, you can receive these bonuses, often with no purchase necessary.
9. Magazines
Perfume ads in fashion and beauty magazines frequently come with free scent strips or small vials as sampling options. Pick up the latest editions of Cosmopolitan, Vogue, or Elle to find these hidden gems.
10. Beauty Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes like Birchbox, Ipsy, and Allure Beauty Box often include perfume samples as part of their curated monthly selections. While there is a small subscription fee, the value often exceeds the cost.
11. In-store Tester Bottles
Don’t shy away from using in-store tester bottles located at perfume counters in department stores. While they only allow for a single-use spritz, it’s an excellent way to try on multiple fragrances in one trip.
12. Beauty Events
Keep an eye out for beauty events hosted by department stores, beauty retailers, or even mall popup shops. These events often feature giveaways, including perfume samples.
13. Bridal Shows
Bridal shows and wedding expos often have vendors giving away perfume samples as brides-to-be look for their perfect wedding scent. Check the events’ calendars in your city.
14. Friends and Family
Word of mouth is powerful. Ask friends, family, or coworkers if they have any samples they are willing to part with. Sometimes people have extra samples that they would be happy to give away.
15. Online Forums and Community Swaps
Join online forums like MakeupAlley, Reddit beauty communities, or Facebook groups where users often swap skincare and fragrance samples. It’s a great way to try new scents for free.
16. Email Sign-ups
Many perfume brands and retailers offer free samples as a part of their email sign-up incentive. Ensure you have a separate "shopping" email address to manage these newsletters.
17. Complimentary Samples with Orders
When ordering online from beauty retailers, check the box for "Free Samples" before completing your purchase. Websites like Nordstrom, Beauty Bay, and even Amazon offer this option.
18. Brand Ambassador Programs
Some brands recruit members for ambassador programs where participants receive free products, including perfume samples, in exchange for reviews and social media posts.
✓ Short Answer
Visit department stores, use first-month free trials from subscription services, shop online for free samples, and sign up for newsletters from perfume brands.
FAQs
Q1: Are these free samples truly free?
Yes, the samples listed are generally free, though in some instances, you may need to cover shipping costs or complete a minor task, like signing up for a newsletter.
Q2: Do I need to make a purchase to get free samples?
Not always. Some methods, like asking for samples at department store counters, do not require any purchase. However, grabbing samples with online orders or loyalty programs might involve a purchase.
Q3: How often can I request free samples?
This varies. In-store requests or email sign-ups usually have no limit, but subscription services with free trial samples are typically one-time offers.
Q4: Is it safe to get free samples from social media contests or community swaps?
Generally, yes, but always ensure the legitimacy of the giveaway and avoid sharing personal details (like payment information) unless on a verified and secure website.
Q5: Can I get free samples from every brand?
Not every brand offers free samples, but many high-end and popular brands do provide them through various channels.
Take advantage of these 18 methods, and you’ll surely find that next perfect scent without breaking the bank in 2023!
