FAQs

Why do I need to become a member?
Because our prices are so significantly discounted and quantities so limited, our shopping events are open to registered members only. If you have friends who are interested in getting the Skinny, you can receive referral credit for inviting them. Please click Invite A Friend for details.

How do the shopping events work?
Each week, the Skinny debuts a new shopping event with a luxury brand at up to 70% off retail.

Each shopping event begins with an invitation email to our members. You'll receive an overview of the brand, and a selection of products we think you'll like based on your skin type and preferences. Click on the link in your email to visit the shopping event, where you can watch educational videos, learn about the brand's story, and take a closer look at all the products on sale.

Shopping events last one week, or until sold out. If you missed a favorite brand, don't worry! Most brands are available direct from the company's website, and often we'll have a brand on sale more than once.

I have a skincare question. Can I ask you?
By all means! If you have a question about any of our products, or about your skin, please ask us on Twitter (@ShopTheSkinny) or Facebook. Remember that our responses are for informational purposes only. Although a licensed aesthetician answers your questions, our advice can't and shouldn't replace that of your doctor's.

How do spa service purchases work?
When you purchase a luxury spa service through the Skinny, we send your name, contact information, and the service(s) you booked directly to the spa. You should receive a gift certificate in the mail within a week of the shopping event. If you're in a rush, you're welcome to call the spa directly to book your appointment. Just make sure to wait two business days after your purchase, so they'll be sure to have your information.

How many shopping events are in one day? How long do they last?
Each Skinny shopping event lasts one week, or until the products are sold out. Currently, we are offering one shopping event per week. In the future, we'll have multiple brands on sale at the same time.

How do you maintain quality control and make sure you're obtaining fresh products?
It is our commitment to provide our members with quality skincare and spa treatments--and quality means fresh. Some of the products we sell are over-stocked or changing packaging. Some are from great up-and-coming brands who want to introduce their products to Skinny members. All of the products are fresh, NEVER expired.

How do you guarantee that the skincare is still efficacious and is still of good quality?
We ensure the quality of our product in two ways. First, we work directly with the product manufacturer or spa, not third-parties. And second, it's part of our contractual agreement with each brand that they provide fresh, retail-quality product. Our goal and that of our partners is to ensure you have an great brand experience... after all, we want you to return!

How does shipping work?
The Skinny brings you the great deals, and either the brand or The Skinny will ship your products directly. You will receive a confirmation email with customer service information. You can also find brand contact information on your My Orders page. Also, we at The Skinny are here to help. You're welcome to contact us at info@shoptheskinny.com with customer service questions. More detailed contact information is available under the Contact link in the lower left corner.

How long does it take to receive a shipment?
The Skinny will fulfill your order within 1-2 business days. Please allow an additional 5-7 business days for shipping. Realistically, you could get your package sooner. However, if you haven't receive it within 7-9 business day, you're welcome to contact us at info@shoptheskinny.com for more information.

Some products in my order said "not eligible for return." Why is that?
The skin care company you purchase from may have a policy against returns. Therefore, some items for sale on The Skinny are not eligible for return. But remember, freshness is guaranteed, and our videos can help you make sure you're choosing the right product. Final Sale products are indicated (in bright orange) as such in your shopping cart.

What do you mean by "personalized recommendations"?
When you registered for The Skinny, we asked a few questions to get a feel for your skin type, problem areas, and favorite brands. When we send out our weekly emails announcing new shopping events, we tailor the products in your email to match these preferences. If you need more help deciding, watch our product videos or look for the tags hanging below each product.

What do the tags mean?

Eye - Safe to use around the eye area, or specially formulated for use around the eye area.
Aging - Customized with age-fighting ingredients or designed to reduce the signs of aging.
Green - Includes natural or organic ingredients, is a certified product, or uses environmentally friendly manufacturing procedures.
Baby - Appropriate for pregnant women and nursing mothers or a product formulated for infant use.
Acne - Appropriate for those with acne or blemish-prone skin.
Sun - Contains sun protection or helps heal sun damage.

Why did you decide to start The Skinny?
Lauren has a background in luxury skincare, and most recently worked in business development at a top-of-the-line skincare company. She's a licensed aesthetician, who also founded an awesome independent skin care review blog, Face Parlour. Lauren spent her time as a blogger interviewing skincare movers and shakers, trying out new products, and getting a feel for the best brands out there. She decided to take her love of great skincare brands to the next level and start The Skinny, by teaming up with seasoned web guru Paige Steinman. Together, they built The Skinny, with Lauren's knowledge of great skin care brands and Paige's tech know-how (and great taste in wallpaper.)