Why the World is Still Obsessed with Rare Beauty in 2026
It has been a few years since Selena Gomez first launched Rare Beauty, but as we move through January 2026, the obsession with the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush hasn't faded—it has evolved. What started as a viral TikTok trend has become a staple in every professional makeup artist's kit. The secret lies in the formula: a weightless, long-lasting liquid that blends like a dream and offers a pigment payoff that is frankly unmatched by competitors.
In the US market, we are seeing exclusive 2026 shade drops and limited-edition sets that rarely make it to international shelves in time. For beauty enthusiasts in Malaysia, the frustration is real. Local stores often face stock shortages or limited shade ranges, leaving fans hunting for 'Hope,' 'Encourage,' or the newer 'Visionary' shades in vain. As an industry veteran, I can tell you that the most savvy shoppers have stopped waiting for local distributors and have started going straight to the source: US retailers like Sephora US and the official Rare Beauty website.
The Price Gap: Why Buying from the US Makes Sense
You might wonder if it's worth the effort to buy from across the ocean. When you look at the currency conversion and the frequent sales offered by US retailers, the numbers often lean in favor of the US import. Beyond just the price, the availability of 'Value Sets'—which often include travel sizes of multiple shades—provides a much better cost-per-ounce than buying individual full-size bottles locally.
However, many US stores do not offer direct shipping to Malaysia, or if they do, the costs are astronomical. This is where the 'insider' strategy comes into play. Instead of paying retail shipping rates, experienced importers use a reliable package forwarder like comGateway. This gives you a dedicated US shipping address, allowing you to shop like a local and consolidate your purchases.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Rare Beauty Haul to Malaysia
Buying from the US is simpler than most people think. Follow this professional workflow to ensure your blushes arrive safely and affordably:
- Sign up for a US Address: Register for an account to get your own sales-tax-free US shipping address.
- Shop the Sales: Head to Sephora.com or RareBeauty.com. Use your new US address at checkout.
- Consolidate and Save: If you are buying from multiple stores (maybe some Fenty Beauty or Glossier to go with your Rare Beauty), wait for all items to arrive at the warehouse.
- Ship to Malaysia: Once your items are ready, choose your preferred shipping speed.
Before you hit the 'buy' button, it is wise to estimate shipping cost using an online tool. This ensures there are no surprises when your package is ready to cross the Pacific. You can also check the latest international shipping rates to see which courier service fits your budget and timeline.
Navigating Malaysian Customs and Taxes in 2026
One of the biggest concerns for Malaysian shoppers is the dreaded customs clearance. In 2026, the regulations for importing cosmetics remain relatively straightforward, but you must be aware of the de minimis value. Currently, goods imported into Malaysia with a total value (including shipping) below RM500 are generally exempt from certain taxes. However, for larger hauls, you should be prepared for potential import duties or SST requirements.
Check our guide on navigating customs tax to stay updated on the latest threshold changes for 2026. Being informed helps you avoid unexpected delays at the KLIA hub.
Expert Tips for Frequent Shoppers
If you find yourself importing makeup regularly, standard shipping accounts might not be enough. For those who want the VIP treatment, looking into Prime membership benefits can be a game-changer. These memberships often include discounted shipping rates, free package photos, and extended storage time at the US warehouse, which is perfect for waiting on those limited-edition drops to arrive.
Comparison Table: US vs. Local Shopping
| Feature | US Stores (via Forwarder) | Local Retailers |
|---|---|---|
| Shade Range | Full Collection + Exclusives | Limited / Best Sellers Only |
| Stock Availability | High (Frequent Restocks) | Often Out of Stock |
| Sales/Discounts | Frequent (Sephora VIB, Holiday) | Occasional |
| Shipping Time | 7-10 Days | Immediate (if in stock) |
Final Verdict
The Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush remains the gold standard for liquid blush in 2026. While the logistics of buying from the US might seem daunting at first, using comGateway simplifies the process, making it accessible to any beauty lover in Malaysia. By shopping smart, consolidating your packages, and understanding the local tax laws, you can build a professional-grade makeup collection without the 'out of stock' headaches.
