Beauty lovers, listen up: Sephora, whose Beauty Insider program has already been a big hit with customers, has announced a major update to this loyalty program. Beauty Insider Cash is an addition to the cult-favorite Beauty Insider program, which allows Beauty Insider members to earn cash back on their purchases (opens in new tab). Still to come: Sephora has extended the ability to offer free shipping on online orders and, if customers choose, to "donate" points to non-profit organizations.

Sephora is known for its Beauty Insider (open in new tab) rewards program, which consists of three status levels. All registered members earn points based on what they spend in stores and online stores, and shoppers can move up the ranks based on how much they spend in a year; VIB Insider status is given to customers who spend $350 or more in a year, Rouge Insider status is given to customers who have spent more than $1,000 in purchases in a year.

In the past, Beauty Insiders of all levels received free beauty birthday gifts and could redeem bulk points for travel-sized versions of the industry's top-rated beauty brands. Rouge customers, on the other hand, were the first to know about product launches and could redeem points for personalized beauty experiences such as makeovers, meet-and-greets, and exclusive events.

Beauty Insider Cash was added, allowing members to apply their reward points to receive a discount off their purchase (e.g., $10 off for 500 reward points). In addition, free shipping was extended to include all tiers under certain conditions: free shipping on $35 or more for VIB customers and free shipping on $50 or more for insiders.

Sephora's birthday gift has also been updated, allowing members to choose between hair and body. Sephora is also rolling out more in-person experiences that can be redeemed for reward points, including exclusive trips, meet-and-greets, and facials with skin care professionals. Finally, customers can "give back" by donating points to charitable organizations.

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