Shopping
The best places to buy beauty products online
Eight trusted beauty shops from around the world, what each does best, and how to shop safely.
6 min read
Written and reviewed by Beauty World Editorial · Last reviewed October 2026
The shops
France · worldwide
Sephora
Prestige and exclusive brands, in-store testers and a loyalty programme.
Best for: Luxury makeup and trending skincare.
Visit storeUSA
Ulta Beauty
Drugstore to luxury in one place, plus frequent sales.
Best for: Comparing affordable and high-end options.
Visit storeUnited Kingdom
Cult Beauty
A tightly curated mix of niche and indie brands.
Best for: Discovering new, well-reviewed brands.
Visit storeUnited Kingdom
LOOKFANTASTIC
A very wide range that ships to many countries.
Best for: International shoppers.
Visit storeGermany · Europe
Douglas
One of Europe's largest beauty and fragrance chains.
Best for: Fragrance and European brands.
Visit storeIndia
Nykaa
A huge range with shades and prices for Indian shoppers.
Best for: Shoppers in India and South Asia.
Visit storeHong Kong
YesStyle
Korean and Japanese skincare and makeup.
Best for: K-beauty and J-beauty fans.
Visit storeWorldwide
Amazon Beauty
Convenience and fast delivery.
Best for: Basics. Buy from official brand stores to avoid fakes.
Visit storeSafety
How to shop safely online
Avoid fakes
Buy from the brand's site, an authorised retailer or an official brand store on a marketplace. Prices far below normal are a warning sign.
Check dates
Look for the batch code and the open-jar symbol. Ask for a replacement if a product arrives near expiry.
Read the return policy
Opened skincare and makeup often can't be returned. Check before you order.
Compare prices
The same product can cost very different amounts across shops. Factor in shipping and customs fees.
Disclaimer
About these picks
Beauty World is not paid by any of these shops. Availability, prices and shipping vary by country, so always check the shop's own site.
