Best Times of the Year to Buy Cosmetics in the UK
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Looking to refresh your makeup bag without breaking the bank? Timing is everything.
In the UK, beauty lovers know that catching the best deals on cosmetics isn’t just about where you shop—it’s about when. From post-holiday clearance sales to seasonal promotions, the right moment can mean scoring your favourite products at a fraction of the price.
On this site, we regularly feature the latest Avon and Oriflame catalogues—two beauty giants that often lead the way with monthly offers, skincare launches, and limited-time bundles. But beyond these brands, there are key times throughout the year when nearly every retailer—high street or online—rolls out their most tempting beauty bargains.
In this guide, we’ll explore the smartest times of year to buy cosmetics in the UK, from Boxing Day blowouts to summer steals, and how you can make the most of loyalty perks, catalogues, and secret sale windows.
January Sales (Post-Holiday Clearance)
- Overview: After Christmas, stores clear out holiday gift sets and limited editions.
- Why it’s great: Deep discounts on makeup kits, skincare sets, and beauty tools.
- Mention: Oriflame often offers special New Year skincare combos in January.
Monthly Avon & Oriflame Campaign Launches
- Overview: Both brands release fresh catalogues monthly, with new promotions.
- Why it’s great: Exclusive discounts, limited bundles, and early access to new products.
- Tip: Subscribe to the catalogue updates on this site so you never miss a launch.
- Example: “Avon Brochure March” or “Oriflame Catalogue July” often include Buy 1 Get 1 offers.
Spring Sales (March–April)
- Overview: Retailers refresh their stock for the season with beauty promos.
- Highlights: Pastel palettes, lighter skincare, and Mother’s Day bundles.
- Mention: Boots and Superdrug often run spring promos both in-store and online.
Black Friday & Cyber Monday (Late November)
- Overview: Possibly the biggest discount window of the year.
- Deals to expect: Up to 50–70% off from high-street to premium brands.
- Mention: Avon and Oriflame occasionally offer Black Friday exclusives through their reps or online catalogues.
December: Christmas Gift Sets & Advent Calendars
- Overview: Beauty advent calendars, Christmas boxes, and stocking filler sets flood the market.
- Smart move: Wait until mid to late December—many start getting reduced!
- Mention: Oriflame often releases beauty calendars, while Avon’s Christmas range includes skincare, fragrance, and makeup packs.
Bonus: Special Brand Events & Online Exclusive Offers
- Avon’s ‘Beauty Week’ events
- Oriflame’s Member Deals
- LookFantastic’s Singles Day (Nov 11)
- Cult Beauty’s Birthday Sale (June)
- Tip: Always check online-exclusive discounts that don’t appear in catalogues.
Loyalty Days & App-only Offers
- Boots: Advantage Card Days
- Superdrug: Health & Beautycard member prices
- Avon/Oriflame: Offers via personal reps or app alerts