Beauty-Specific Write-Offs for Influencers

As a beauty influencer, your content isn’t just about trying the latest makeup trends or sharing your skincare routine; it’s a business. And like any business, you’ve got expenses that can (and should) be written off to reduce your taxable income.

Although you might already know about common deductions like cameras and editing software, beauty influencers have unique business costs that other creators don’t. (And because we only work with content creators like you, we make sure you know about them. (Book a call to learn more about them!) 

Let’s dive into the beauty-specific write-offs for influencers that can help you keep more of your hard-earned money. 

Makeup & Skincare Products

One of the biggest (and most obvious) expenses for beauty influencers is makeup and skincare. If you purchase products specifically for content creation, they’re deductible.

• Foundations, concealers, eyeshadow palettes
• Lipsticks, mascaras, highlighters
• Serums, moisturizers, cleansers

Anything new and trending that you’re testing or reviewing for your content can be deducted! That means the trending Lip Liner STAY-N or the R-E-M beauty glossy balm are fair game.

You’ll have to be selective, though. If you buy a product just for personal use, it doesn’t count. But if you’re testing it for reviews, tutorials, or sponsored content, keep that receipt.

Hair Care & Styling Tools

If your content includes hair tutorials, product recommendations, or transformations, hair care expenses are deductible.

• Shampoos, conditioners, treatments
• Hair dyes, styling sprays, heat protectants
• Curling irons, straighteners, blow dryers, and yes, even the coveted WavyTalk brush

If you’re heading to a salon for content purposes (such as filming a professional hair transformation), that service could also be deductible. 

Beauty Tools & Accessories

Beyond makeup and hair products, you probably rely on tools and accessories to perfect your look. The good news? Those expenses are 100% deductible when used for content creation.

• Makeup brushes and sponges
• Lash curlers, tweezers, facial rollers
• Nail kits, UV lamps, and press-ons for tutorials

If you’re showing your followers how to create a flawless look, the products you use to get there are business expenses. 

Costumes, Wigs & Special Effects Makeup

If you do character transformations, cosplay, or editorial makeup looks, wigs, face paint, and even costumes can be deducted if purchased specifically for your content.

• Lace front wigs, hairpieces, extensions
• Theatrical makeup, body paint, prosthetics
• Costumes and accessories used in themed videos

Important: While everyday clothing is generally not deductible, outfits purchased specifically and solely for content creation (and not worn outside of work) are deductible!

Professional Beauty Services

Although personal self-care isn’t deductible, services that contribute to your brand are.

• Professional makeup applications for photoshoots
• Manicures or nail art specifically for content
• Lash extensions if they’re part of your beauty brand

If you’re filming a review or documenting the process, these expenses may qualify, so track the date, time, and business purpose in addition to simply saving the receipt.

Beauty Subscription Boxes

Do you subscribe to monthly beauty boxes for unboxing videos, reviews, and discovery of new products? If these boxes are used for content, they’re deductible. But if you use them for personal use also, only the portion of the subscription used for your content is deductible.

• Ipsy, BoxyCharm, Allure Beauty Box
• K-Beauty subscription services
• Indie brand sampler boxes

Even sample-size products can count if they’re for a business purpose.

Skincare & Dermatology Treatments

If your brand revolves around skincare content, certain professional treatments may be deductible. 

• Chemical peels or facials for review purposes
• Laser treatments if you’re documenting the process
• Dermatologist-recommended products used for skincare content

Important: Routine personal skincare treatments (like facials just for self-care or Botox in general) don’t qualify.

Lighting, Backdrops, & Beauty Stations 

Creating the perfect beauty look isn’t just about the products. It’s also about presentation. Investing in good lighting and an organized beauty setup helps keep your content polished and professional.

• Ring lights, softbox lights, LED mirrors
• Custom vanity setups and organizers
• Decorative backdrops for filming

Your workspace is a huge part of your content, and the tools you use to improve production quality are business expenses.

Travel for Beauty Events & Brand Trips

Many beauty influencers attend makeup expos, brand trips, or influencer events. If you’re traveling to these events for work, those expenses are deductible.

• Flights, hotels, transportation
• Event tickets, networking fees
• Meals and content-related activities

If you’re attending beauty conventions, PR trips, or meeting with brands, those costs are all part of your business. 

Final Thoughts

The key to maximizing beauty-specific write-offs for influencers is keeping track of everything. Save receipts, log expenses, and note how each purchase ties into your content.

At the end of the day, beauty content is your business, and smart bookkeeping helps you maximize every tax benefit. Not sure if you’re claiming all your deductions? Book a call with us today and we will make sure you’re covered. So go ahead and stock up on those new palettes; just be sure they’re part of your content plan!