If you’re a skincare lover who also loves a deal, you’ve probably compared prices between Costco and Amazon. Yes, Amazon gives you convenience and an endless catalog… but when it comes to deep savings on things you’ll actually use daily, Costco often still holds the edge. In fact, multiple pricing studies show Costco is ~21% cheaper on beauty & toiletries vs. Amazon.

In this blog post, I’m spotlighting 3 skincare & beauty items that are sold on both Amazon and Costco, but are cheaper (or better value) when bought at Costco. I’ll break down the price differential, the use case, and how to make sure your Costco buy actually gives you max savings (no overbuying, please).

Why Costco Often Beats Amazon (on Beauty Too)

Before we dig into the 5 products, here’s why Costco can outperform Amazon on beauty:

Bulk & multipacks: Costco often sells 2-packs, 3-packs, or larger sizes that give you more product per dollar.

Lower markup & membership leverage: Because Costco’s business model is based on membership and volume, they can run thinner margins than Amazon+third-party sellers.

Fewer middlemen: Many Amazon listings include markups, shipping, or seller premiums that push up the cost.

Consistent markdowns and promos: Costco rotates beauty “instant savings” promos that further widen margin gaps.

That said: you must check per-ounce/per-use pricing (and consider shelf life), because not all “bulk” buys are smarter if you waste product.

3 Skincare & Beauty Products Where Costco Beats Amazon (With Price Comparisons)

Here are three real examples where Costco’s pricing wins. (Note: prices fluctuate — always verify your local warehouse or Costco.com promos.)

1. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

*On Amazon, two tubes could cost ~$60-$70, whereas Costco gives ~25-35% savings by bundling.*

2. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

*Costco gives a ~20-25% discount per tube via the multi-pack offer.*

3. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

*Costco, again, saves you several dollars when buying the twin bundle.*

Why Costco Wins for the Long Game in Beauty

Sustainable savings: Buying in packs means fewer reorders, shipping, and handling costs over time.

Pressure on sellers: Costco's pricing model forces brands to compete, often pulling down Amazon middle-seller markups.

Loyalty & behavior: Beauty lovers who trust Costco for staples (cleansers, moisturizers, SPF) quickly see cumulative savings month after month.

Costco vs. Amazon Beauty: 3 Skincare Deals Where Costco Still Wins the Value Game