Exclusivity clauses: what they cost you and what to charge

Read three things

• Scope: 'competing skincare brands' is fine. 'Any beauty, wellness or personal care brand' blocks half your inbox.
• Length: 30 days around the post is normal. 6 to 12 months is a retainer, and should be paid like one.
• Start date: from the post date, not from the day you signed. Some contracts start the clock at signature and the post is six weeks later.

What it is worth

A simple rule that holds up: about 20% of your Reel rate for every month of exclusivity. At a $1,000 Reel rate, 3 months of exclusivity is $600. At 12 months it is $2,400, which is usually more than the post itself, and that is the point. If they want you off the market for a year, the price should make them think about whether they mean it.

If the brand says exclusivity is 'standard' and not paid, ask them to remove it. Most will. The ones that will not are the ones who know what it is worth.

Wording that keeps it narrow

• 'Creator will not post sponsored content for the following direct competitors: [named list]' beats any category description.
• 'Exclusivity runs for 30 days from the date of Creator's final deliverable.'
• 'Exclusivity applies to sponsored posts only and does not restrict organic mentions, affiliate links or existing partnerships.'
• 'Existing partnerships listed in Schedule A are excluded.' Then list them.

Keep reading

• How much to charge for a sponsored post in 2026
• Usage rights in brand deals, explained
• The brand deal contract checklist: 14 clauses to read before you sign