Why Rare Beauty Still Dominates in 2026
As of January 2026, Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty remains at the pinnacle of the beauty industry. The brand's commitment to mental health through the Rare Impact Fund and its consistently viral product launches—like the Soft Pinch Liquid Blush and the newer 2026 complexion drops—have made it a staple. For users in Switzerland, the demand is higher than ever, yet local availability often lags behind the United States market.
The hype isn't just marketing. The products are formulated for ease of use and inclusivity, catering to a wide range of skin tones that are sometimes difficult to find in European boutiques. However, accessing the full catalog often requires looking beyond Swiss borders.
The Price Gap: US vs. Switzerland
If you are buying Rare Beauty products within Switzerland, you are likely paying a significant premium. Between retail markups, currency conversion buffers, and limited local competition, Swiss prices can be 30% to 50% higher than US MSRP. In the US, stores like Sephora and the official Rare Beauty website offer frequent sales, exclusive sets, and a much deeper inventory.
By purchasing directly from the US, you bypass the "Switzerland tax." Even when considering shipping, the total cost for a bulk order of your favorite essentials—highlighters, primers, and lip oils—often comes out significantly cheaper than buying locally. To see how these costs break down, you can use a shipping calculator to estimate the potential savings on your next haul.
How to Order from US Stores Directly
Most US beauty retailers do not ship directly to Switzerland, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive and they don't handle customs efficiently. This is where a reliable package forwarder becomes essential. By using a US-based shipping address, you can shop at any American store as if you were living there.
The process is straightforward. Once you sign up, you receive a dedicated US address to enter at checkout. If you encounter a store that does not accept Swiss credit cards, you can utilize the BuyForMe service, where an assistant handles the purchase on your behalf, ensuring you never miss out on limited-edition 2026 drops.
Step-by-Step Guide to US Shopping
- Step 1: Get your US address from a forwarding service.
- Step 2: Shop at Sephora.com or RareBeauty.com.
- Step 3: Use your assigned US address as the shipping destination.
- Step 4: Once your package arrives at the warehouse, choose your preferred shipping method to Switzerland.
For a more detailed breakdown of the logistics, check out this step-by-step guide on how the entire forwarding process functions from checkout to your doorstep in Zurich or Geneva.
Shipping Your Beauty Haul to Switzerland
When it comes to shipping from USA to Switzerland, speed and reliability are non-negotiable. Cosmetics are delicate and temperature-sensitive, so choosing a carrier that understands international logistics is vital. You can compare various international shipping rates to find a balance between speed and budget.
In 2026, shipping technology has advanced, allowing for faster transit times. Most packages from the US to Switzerland now arrive within 3 to 8 business days, depending on the service level you select. Consolidating multiple orders into one box is another effective way to reduce the overall shipping fee per item.
Navigating Swiss Customs and VAT
Importing goods into Switzerland involves understanding the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG) regulations. While Switzerland is not part of the EU, its customs rules are unique. You should be aware of import duties and the Value Added Tax (VAT) currently applicable in 2026.
Generally, if the VAT amount is less than 5 CHF, it is waived. However, for larger Rare Beauty hauls, you should expect to pay the standard VAT rate on the total value of the goods plus shipping. Being proactive about these costs prevents "sticker shock" when your package arrives at the Swiss border. Check our guide on GST/VAT and customs tax to stay updated on the latest thresholds.
Pro Tips for Maximum Savings
To get the best value when shopping for Rare Beauty in 2026, follow these expert tips:
- Shop Holiday Sales: US retailers have massive sales during Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday that far exceed any discounts found in Switzerland.
- Join Loyalty Programs: Sign up for Sephora Beauty Insider (US) to get free samples and points that can be used for mini Rare Beauty products.
- Consolidate: Don't ship one lipstick at a time. Wait until you have a full kit to save on shipping fees.
By taking control of where you shop, you can enjoy the full Rare Beauty experience without the Swiss markup. Start your US shopping journey today and see why thousands of Swiss beauty enthusiasts have made the switch to international forwarding.
