The holidays are an exciting time for beauty lovers, and Sephora’s Advent Calendars have become an annual staple for those seeking daily surprises in the run-up to December 25th. For 2024, Sephora has released a variety of advent calendars at different price points, promising an array of makeup, skincare, and self-care goodies. In this detailed review, we’ll break down what’s inside each calendar, evaluate if they’re worth it, and showcase the best alternative beauty calendars if Sephora’s are sold out.
The Sephora Advent Calendar Lineup for 2024
For 2024, Sephora has launched several calendars under its in-house Sephora Collection label, as well as curated editions featuring luxury and cult-favorite brands. The key options this year include:
- Sephora Collection Standard Advent Calendar – 24 beauty surprises for $50
- Sephora Collection Premium Advent Calendar – Larger products and a reusable tin for $89
- Beauty Insider Rewards Advent Calendar – Exclusive, redeemable with Sephora loyalty points (limited quantities)
- Other brand calendars via Sephora: L’Occitane, Charlotte Tilbury, Laneige, Maison Margiela, La Mer, and more
Let’s start by opening the standard option.
Unboxing the Sephora Collection Standard Advent Calendar
The Sephora Collection Standard Advent Calendar is the most accessible of the lineup, priced at $50 and featuring 24 daily treats. It is attractively packaged in a colorful box, geared toward those curious about Sephora’s own-range products.
What’s Inside?
- Mini skincare essentials (face masks, nose strips, hand masks)
- Travel-size makeup (lip glosses, nail polish, mini luminizers, brow gel)
- Basic beauty tools (nail file, scrunchie)
- Some repetitive items (sheet masks are notably featured multiple times)
Upon opening each drawer, you’ll find everything from blueberry eye masks for a morning pick-me-up to a glossed lip gloss perfect for daily wear. However, much of the value leans heavily on single-use sheet masks and mask-related products, which may not deliver the thrills or variety some buyers expect for $50. The range is fun but relatively basic, making it suitable for younger beauty fans or those new to Sephora’s house brand.
Standard Calendar Pros & Cons
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An In-Depth Look at the Sephora Premium Advent Calendar
For those looking to level up, the Sephora Collection Premium Advent Calendar (retail: $89) is this year’s stand-out. It immediately impresses with a big, gleaming silver tin that feels more like a cherished keepsake than ordinary packaging. Each product is individually boxed inside the tin, providing a “treasure hunt” feel throughout December.
Crucially, the Premium Calendar sports noticeably larger product sizes, with significantly more full-size makeup and beauty goodies compared to the standard version. While there’s some overlap (e.g., certain face masks and lip glosses), the product curation justifies the higher price.
Inside the Sephora Premium Advent Calendar (2024):
- Mango Hand Mask – For hydrating dry winter hands
- Shape & Set Clear Brow Gel – For tamed, styled brows
- Color Shifter Strange Botanicals Eyeshadow Palette (Khaki Illusion) – A mini palette for versatile holiday looks
- Vitamin Face Mask, Blueberry Eye Mask, Cherry Lip Sheet Mask
- Glossed Lip Gloss in 35 Confident & Outrageous Intense Lip Plumper in 02 Inferno
- Nail Polishes (Cocoa Cuddle & Pink Glaze)
- Matcha Tea Face Mask
- Vitamin C + E Super Glow Serum
- Vanilla & Cherry Lip Sleeping Masks
- Charcoal Nose Strip
- Love The Lift Mascara in Ultra Black
- Colorful Luminizer in Glitzy Gold
- Scented Body Mist in Monoi
- Clear Top Coat (for nails)
- All Day Hydrator
From skincare to makeup, the Premium calendar offers a robust collection delivering a genuine “advent experience.” The inclusion of a mini eyeshadow palette and a generous selection of full-size lip and face products sets it apart. Even practical inclusions, like a sturdy clear brow gel and nail top coat, add to the calendar’s usability.
Note: As of early November, this Premium calendar was fully sold out on Sephora’s website. However, it is still available at many Kohl’s locations (while supplies last).
Premium Calendar Pros & Cons
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Is the Sephora Advent Calendar Worth It?
After unboxing both main options, the verdict is clear: the Sephora Premium Advent Calendar is the best investment for most shoppers. For under $100, you receive:
- A generous assortment of full-size and deluxe products
- Balanced inclusion of skincare, color cosmetics, and pampering picks
- Attractive, sturdy packaging you can repurpose
The Standard Calendar offers good value for newcomers to Sephora or those curious about the brand’s skincare, but enthusiasts may find the product variety lacking and the experience less exciting. If you’re keen on value, the Premium’s product size, curation, and box make for a more celebratory December countdown.
Best Beauty Advent Calendar Alternatives in 2024
If the Sephora option you want is out of stock, don’t fret: there are plenty of other standout advent calendars to consider. Sephora also stocks luxury and indie beauty advent schedules from leading brands—these are the best picks this year:
- L’Occitane 24 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar – $84 at Sephora
Packed with skincare minis and bodycare heroes, ideal for those who love French beauty rituals. - Charlotte Tilbury Lucky Chest of Beauty Secrets – $210 at Kohl’s
A high-end experience with bestselling makeup and skin-perfecting minis. - Paula’s Choice 7 Days of Glow Advent Calendar
Focuses on powerful actives and radiant skin essentials for a week-long treat. - La Mer Wonder Express Advent Calendar – $600 at Saks Fifth Avenue
The pinnacle of luxury skincare, including iconic moisturizers and serums. - VOLUSPA 12-Day Candle Advent Calendar – $70-165
Candle fans will love this fragrant alternative, offering a new scent each day. - Kiehl’s 12-Day Holiday Calendar Set
Reliable skincare classics and travel-friendly favorites for every skin type.
These alternatives range from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy, catering to every type of beauty (and self-care) enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many products are in the Sephora Collection Advent Calendars?
The standard calendar includes 24 items, while the Premium edition has 24 larger or more valuable products. Some limited edition or points-based calendars may vary slightly in total count.
Why is the Premium Advent Calendar sold out on Sephora?
The Premium Advent Calendar sold out quickly due to its great value—many full-size products and collectible packaging at a reasonable price. It is still available at select Kohl’s locations as of early November.
Are the Sephora Advent Calendars worth it?
If you love a mix of makeup and skincare from Sephora’s own collection and want a fun way to try new items at a discount, these calendars deliver. The Premium version, in particular, stands out for value and product selection. However, seasoned beauty shoppers may appreciate calendars that feature more luxury or prestige brands.
What are some alternatives if the Sephora Calendar is sold out?
Check out advent offerings from L’Occitane, Charlotte Tilbury, La Mer, Paula’s Choice, Kiehl’s, and candle brands like VOLUSPA. These are available at Sephora, department stores, or directly from the brands.
Does Sephora restock their advent calendars?
Typically, once Sephora’s advent calendars are sold out for the season, they are not restocked. It’s best to act early or look for partner retailers (like Kohl’s) for remaining stock.
About the Author
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMPWTIevIlU
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a62778083/sephora-advent-calendar-review-2024/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emyXjA7q65U
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGt6NNt2nkY
- https://community.sephora.com/t5/Gift-Ideas/2024-Advent-Calendar/m-p/7018007
