Naming note: MAC’s loyalty program first launched as MAC Select and is now known in most regions as M·A·C Lover Rewards. The name may have changed, but the heart of the program remains—tiered benefits that unlock early access, free samples, birthday gifts, and exclusive experiences.
What the membership is—and why it matters
The M·A·C Lover program was designed for two audiences at once: passionate makeup fans who want first dibs on limited collections, and professional artists who rely on M·A·C for work, education, and events. As a consumer member, you earn points on every purchase, enjoy samples and surprise gifts, and—at higher tiers—get pre-shop access to launches before they hit the public. Pros can apply to M·A·C PRO for exclusive discounts and masterclasses. Together, these memberships create an insider network that combines artistry, access, and education.
How the current tiers work (consumer loyalty)
Most markets now offer three consumer tiers based on annual spend. Names vary (usually Bronze, Silver, and Gold), but the spend thresholds are similar worldwide:
- Entry tier (free to join): start earning points and access special offers immediately.
- Mid tier (around $150 per year): adds a birthday gift and early access to select drops and collaborations.
- Top tier (around $500 per year): adds complimentary 2-day shipping on qualifying orders, exclusive event invites, and an upgraded birthday reward.
Your status lasts for the rest of the year you qualify plus the entire following year, after which you requalify based on your new annual spend.
The point system at a glance
- Earn: usually 1 point per $1 on eligible purchases, whether online (logged in) or in-store (with your loyalty email). Bonus points may apply for reviews or event participation.
- Redeem: exchange points for rewards like products or discounts, visible in your online account. Occasionally, M·A·C runs Points for Dollars Off promotions at checkout.
- Reset: points and tracked spend reset every January 1, but your tier status remains active through that year before renewal.
How to qualify and sign up
Joining is free and takes just a minute—online or in-store. You’ll provide your name, email, and location, plus your birthday so the system knows when to trigger your birthday benefits. Always shop while signed in to earn points automatically, and if you’re shopping in-store, make sure your purchase is linked to your loyalty email.
What benefits you actually get
Everyday perks that start at sign-up
Even at entry level, members enjoy free samples at checkout for online orders, tracked returns, and access to members-only offers. You’ll also get early notifications about new launches and collaborations—so perks start stacking from day one.
Early access privileges
Once you reach Silver or Gold, you’ll receive email invitations to pre-shop select collections before public release. Access is usually time-limited (24–48 hours) and exclusive to logged-in members. These pre-shop windows are especially valuable for limited packaging or cult-favorite shades that sell out fast.
Birthday perks
Birthday perks grow as you move up tiers. Silver members earn 2× points for the whole month, while Gold members earn 3× points and receive a special birthday gift. It’s the perfect time to restock your favorites and make those points work harder.
Samples and mini experiences
MAC keeps things fun with choose-your-sample options at checkout. The selection rotates frequently—from mini skincare to lipstick or fragrance vials—so check before you finalize your cart. During key promos, you’ll also find sample kits or discovery bundles to explore new formulas without commitment.
Insider shopping & artist access
M·A·C blends shopping with artistry. You can book in-store appointments for lessons or shade matches, or chat live with a MAC Artist online for expert guidance. Higher-tier members get invitations to exclusive events—from new-launch demos to VIP shopping nights—both in-person and virtual.
Exclusive product launches you can expect
Limited editions and collaborations are core to the M·A·C DNA—and loyalty members often see them first. Typical early-access events include:
- Lunar New Year capsules (like Luxe Luck) with dragon-embossed highlighters, collectible lipsticks, and shimmering eyeshadows—usually exclusive to pre-shop invites.
- MACnificent Me and other themed collections that repackage fan-favorite formulas in limited-edition designs—a collector’s dream.
Keep an eye on patterns: limited packaging, embossed powders, and artist-curated palettes are the first to go.
Artist events and masterclasses
For consumers, invited events include in-store demos and livestreamed looks with MAC Artists. For professionals, the M·A·C PRO track offers pro-only masterclasses—from editorial skin to SFX and backstage techniques. For freelancers, pairing PRO with Lover Rewards is the best of both worlds: savings and education.
Sample programs and value testing
Sampling is baked into the M·A·C experience. Expect at least one free sample choice per online order. Seasonal discovery kits and value sets make it easy to try new formulas affordably. The Offers page often features “add a mini” deals, refer-a-friend bonuses, and limited promos—perfect to combine with birthday multipliers.
Insider shopping scenarios
- Pre-shop a collab: as a Silver or Gold member, you log in through an email link to unlock a hidden collection 48 hours early and grab exclusive items before sell-out.
- Birthday month restock: take advantage of 2× or 3× points to stock up on Studio Fix, Hyper Real, or MACStack while earning double rewards.
- Sample for shade testing: add minis or sachets to test foundations or skincare before purchasing full sizes—simple and smart.
What professional artists should know (M·A·C PRO)
M·A·C PRO is an application-only program for verified makeup artists, students, and industry professionals. It offers significant discounts, pro-exclusive events, early product access, and ongoing education. For artists building their kit, these savings and insights can be game-changing—especially when paired with the perks from the consumer loyalty program.
Real examples: past exclusives and member-only moments
- Lunar New Year “Luxe Luck” releases showcased embossed highlighters and limited lipsticks that sold out within hours—classic early-access favorites.
- Value and discovery sets around holiday season bundle bestsellers like M·A·CStack Mascara or curated lip kits at special prices.
- Masterclass tie-ins: M·A·C regularly hosts trend or technique workshops, with loyalty and PRO members receiving invites first.
Feedback and community
Members can earn bonus points for submitting verified reviews and are often invited to share feedback after events or masterclasses. These insights help M·A·C fine-tune future launches and experiences—so your voice genuinely matters.
How to maximize MAC Lover as a beauty enthusiast
- Join and add your birthday immediately to activate your rewards month.
- Shop logged in or ensure your in-store purchases are linked to your account.
- Reach Silver early with planned purchases to unlock pre-shop access and birthday perks.
- Save big purchases for your birthday month to take full advantage of 2×–3× points.
- Use samples and minis to test shades or formulas before investing in full sizes.
- Watch your inbox for pre-shop alerts and act fast—limited collections move quickly.
- Review products you’ve tried to earn bonus points and help others discover their match.
- Book an Artist session for expert tips—whether it’s perfecting eyeliner or complexion prep, the education value is real.
How to maximize if you’re a working artist
- Apply to M·A·C PRO and maintain your credentials for pro-only pricing and education.
- Plan major kit restocks during your birthday multiplier month to maximize savings and points.
- Track event calendars for seasonal masterclasses—runway, holiday, or SFX—ideal for keeping your artistry sharp and your kit current.
The bottom line
Whether you remember it as MAC Select or know it today as M·A·C Lover Rewards, the program delivers what beauty insiders value most: free samples, birthday perks, and early access to the brand’s most anticipated releases. Add M·A·C PRO for artists, and you have one of the industry’s strongest ecosystems—where shopping, artistry, and community meet.
