SKIP: Cosmetics and Skincare

Cosmetics duty-free savings are real but marginal — typically 5–15% versus department stores, which lags behind the 20% average discount available during Sephora VIB events. The same products are usually available cheaper on brand websites during sales, via Amazon, or by using a first-time purchase gift-with-purchase offer. Duty-free cosmetics are only genuinely compelling for travellers from countries with high import duties on cosmetics (Australia, India) or those seeking exclusive gift sets.