With so many shapes, brands, and price tags, finding the best makeup brushes can be overwhelming. That’s why we searched and reviewed the top brushes for foundation, eyes, and more to help you find what you need right away! In this guide, we’ve included options for beginners, pros, and budget-savvy beauty lovers. Consider this your no-stress resource to brushes that really work!

Snap Guide

• Best beginner set: Real Techniques Everyday Essentials
• Best luxury brush: Sigma F80 Kabuki
• Best eyeshadow brush: MAC 217S Blending Brush
• Best travel set: e.l.f. Complete Mini Kit
• Cleaning tip: Wash every 7–10 days with a gentle brush cleanser

How to Choose the Best Makeup Brushes

The right brush should feel soft on your skin and let you apply products evenly. It should also last through repeated washes without shedding. Ideally, this brush should also work great with your chosen products: synthetic bristles for liquid and cream formulas or natural fibers for powders. 

Despite the steeper tag prices, high-end brushes remain popular because of their luxe finishes. Thankfully; many budget-friendly dupes perform just as well, as long as you treat them with proper care.

The Best Makeup Brushes in 2025: Reviewed and Rated

Below are our top recommendations for each category: foundation, concealer, blush, eyeshadow, eyeliner, and all-in-one sets. We also included the suggested products for specific requirements. 

Best Foundation Brush

Flat-top kabuki brushes remain the gold standard for a flawless base. The Sigma F80 delivers pro-level coverage, while Real Techniques’ version is a budget-friendly dupe.

Verdict: Get a Sigma F80 if you want a pro finish. For cost-conscious makeup artists, Real Techniques is a great budget dupe.

Best Concealer Brush

Look for small, tapered brushes to target areas under the eyes and cover blemishes. The Sephora Collection PRO Concealer #57 is precision-perfect and gentle on delicate skin.

Verdict: Buy this for spot concealing and for applications under the eyes.

Best Blush Brush

A fluffy, dome-shaped brush can seamlessly blend powder blush. The e.l.f. Angled Blush Brush is a top budget pick while MAC’s 168S remains a pro favorite.

Verdict: Buy e.l.f. Angled Brush Blush for everyday use; buy MAC 168S if you want the premium feel and can afford the similarly-premium price.

Best Eyeshadow Brush

Every kit needs a fluffy blending brush. The MAC 217S is legendary, while Real Techniques’ Eye Shade + Blend set is a drugstore win.

Verdict: Buy MAC 217S if you’re planning to invest in just one brush; buy Real Techniques as part of your starter kit.

Best Eyeliner Brush

Angled liner brushes make liquid or gel eyeliner easier. The Morphe M432 is firm yet flexible, delivering clean wings without skipping.

Verdict: Buy Morphe M432 if you’re struggling with gel/cream liners.

Best Multi-Tasking Brush Sets

For beginners, a capsule set is smarter than buying individual brushes. Real Techniques Everyday Essentials offers 5 must-have brushes under $20. For pros, Zoeva’s 15-piece set covers every technique with luxe precision.

Verdict: Buy Real Techniques Everyday Essentials as a capsule kit; buy Zoeva Complete Set if you want a full pro kit.

Caring for Your Makeup Brushes

A brush is only as good as the care you give. Here are a few tips to take care of your brushes:

• Don’t use your brushes when they’re dirty; they work poorly and also harbor bacteria that can irritate skin. 
• Wash face brushes weekly and eye brushes every 7–10 days. 
• Use a gentle brush cleanser or baby shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and lay flat to dry. 

With regular care, even budget brushes can last for years.

Pick Brushes Worth Your Money

The best makeup brushes aren’t always the most expensive. Rather, they’re the ones that actually work for your skin, blend seamlessly, and make application effortless.

Our verdict? Invest in a few core brushes you’ll reach for every day, and skip the bundles. With the right set, your makeup routine becomes faster, smoother, and a whole lot more fun.

Ready to upgrade your kit? These are the only brushes we definitely recommend for all. Tell us what you think.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.Love and Sunshine

Even the very name lets you know that this is a perfect summer fragrance.

2.Tahiti Island Dream

You’ll smell like a tropical bliss with this coconuty scent.

3.Cotton Blossom

Very understated and unobtrusive, this clean, fresh scent is ideal for those who cant stand the overpowering sweet scents.

4.Japanese Cherry Blossom

One of the most popular fragrances and loved by so many people. This Cherry Blossom scent is sweet but not overpowering.

5. A Thousand Wishes

You can tell by the color and sparkly design that this is from their holiday line of fragrances, but it works well for summer as well.

6.Magic in the Air

Bring a little magic into your life this summer with this fresh scent guaranteed to turn heads.

7. Amour

Send yourself some summer love with this scent guaranteed to bring compliments all summer long.

8. Forever Red

One of my absolutely favorite scents from Bath and Body works, and the longevity is better than many of the others.

9. Be Joyful

I think this is one of their holiday scents but it works for any time of the year.

10.Almond and Vanilla

I’m obsessed with any vanilla scent, so I don’t need to tell you that this is a must for your bath and body works collection.

Which of these Bath and body works fragrances are you working with this summer. Let us know in the comment section below.

More summer articles you might have missed

12 Stunning Lip Glosses You Need This Summer

The Best Hair Removal Products to Use This Summer

T3 Cura Hair Dryer

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Great for all hair textures this digitally-controlled blow dryer is air enhanced with negative ions to dry hair quickly. It also helps to fight frizz making it a perfect beauty tool for the humid summer months.

Foreo Luna play

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This waterproof facial cleanser is made from silicone and is great for all skin types. It is phthalate-free, hypoallergenic and guarantees up to 100 uses.

Herbivore Facial Roller

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Created to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and puffiness. This beauty ritual dates way back to the 7th Century and also helps with detoxification.

Pocket Atomizer

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Great for tossing in your purse during travel. You can fill it up with your favorite perfume and bring it with you wherever you go. This atomizer holds 1.69 oz of fragrance, giving you about 65 sprays.

SKIN INC.Optimizer Voyage Tri-Ligh

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Disclaimer, this one will cost you a ‘pretty penny,’ $265 to be exact. However, despite the heft price tag, this award-winning, at- home spa device combines colored LED Chromotherapy and low-frequency stimulation to help tackle multiple skin issues. It helps with blemishes, uneven skintone, dull skin and addresses other signs of ageing.

Infrared Flat Iron

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This beauty tool uses infrared technology to increase shine, strengthen hair and fight frizz. It goes up to 450 Fahrenheit and has titanium plates.

More beauty articles you might have missed

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Summer Glosses You Need to Try

1.Laura Geller Color Luster Lip Gloss Topper- Gilded Honey

The perfect summer vibes and a shade that every girly girl will love. I would describe this color as a mix between a light shade of orange and a light shade of bronze.  It is infused with antioxidants, and also nourishes and moisturizes dry lips while delivering a high shine glitter finish.

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2.Bh Cosmetics -Rosey Ray

Perfectly priced at about 5 bucks this collab between Bh Cosmetics and Instagram influencer and makeup guru ‘It’s My Raye Raye‘ is a match made in heaven. The rosey nude color flatters any and every skin tone while the lip gloss nourishes and hydrates lips while adding shine.

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3. Maybelline Baby Lips Gloss

If you’re obsessed with the baby lips chap stick then you can kick things up a notch with the gloss version. These come in three different shades, Pink-A-Boo, Taupe With Me and A Wink Of Pink. The formula is non-sticky and contains vitamin E.

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4. Colorpop – Champagne Mami

As the name suggest this is a stunning light orange or champagne colored lip gloss– the perfect pop of color for the summer . It has subtle shimmer and sheer tint and is  enriched with jojoba oil to moisturize and nourish.

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5.Revolution Amazing Lipgloss -Raspberry

Step your makeup game up a notch with this highly pigmented, and stunning raspberry gloss from Makeup Revolution London.

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6.REVEAL Ultra Shine Anti-Aging Lip Gloss- Romance

This richly pigmented lip gloss glides on smoothly for a high-shine finish while nourishing your lips. It also promises to help minimize the appearance of fine lines with ingredients such as Argan oil, Vitamin E, Avocado Oil, and Baobob Seed Oil.

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7. Anastasia Beverly Hills- Dusty Lilac

If you want to try a new color, this dusty lilac from ABH is a great option to try and a pretty safe one too. Its a unique shade that you wont see anywhere else; its fun and flirty and perfect for the summer season.

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8. Jouer Cosmetics High Pigment Pearl Lip gloss- Maui

These high pigment pearl glosses are available in 7 different colors, but Maui is perfect on its own or even on top of a lipstick. These lip glosses are lightweight and creamy and infused with coconut oil.

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9.LA Splash Sinfully Angelic- Divinity

A pretty pink gloss with lots of shimmer and shine, this is another safe choice that won’t disappoint. It is highly  pigmented with a smooth, non-drying finish.

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10. Glitterati Lip Top Coat- Entice

This is a great way to wear your matte lipsticks during the summer, and this shimmering top coat was designed for just that! While it doesn’t feel very glossy on the lips, it promises to lock in a sparkling smooth finish.

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11. Dose of Color Classic Gloss- Undressed

The perfect nude lip gloss for summer on days when you want to go for an understated makeup look. This is a vegan-friendly and cruelty-free gloss with a patent shine.

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12.Color Your Smile Lighted Lip Gloss -Cocoa Bean

A glossy brown shade from Gerard Cosmetics, Cocoa Bean works well on different skin tones. It is a a great option to wear to the office or for days when you want to glam up your look, but you  dont want to wear a pink or orange gloss. This lighted lip gloss has a rich, creamy and buttery lip texture with a decadent glossy finish.

Do you have any of these stunning summer lip glosses in your makeup bag? Which one is the favorite on our list? Tell us in the comment section below!

More summer beauty tips you might have missed?

7 Must Have Beauty Products for Summer

10 Summer Hair and Makeup Styles We Love

Revlon Be fabulous hair recovery

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Revlon’s entire hair recovery line is a range of products enriched with proteins and moisturizing ingredients such as Creatine,Betaine, and Keratin that helps to repair the hair.This Keratin infused shampoo is ideal for damaged hair.

Lisse Design Keratin Shampoo

This keratin-rich shampoo helps contains Hydrolyzed Keratin Complex  and quaternized Collagen and is also blended with an effective emollient Babassu oil for supple hair.

Hask Keratin Protein

This smoothing shampoo promises to soften and renew your hair and it is free of sulfates and parabens.

CHI Keratin Shampoo

Cationic Hydration Interlinc, CHI for short. This shampoo adds shine and elasticity while helping to prevent breakage.

Nika Beauty Excellence

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These line of products contain  KEROXYNE COMPLEX, which helps to reconstruct severely damaged hair from the inside, restoring strength, elasticity and shine.

Creightons Crème de Coconut & Keratin

Not only will this leave your hair smell like a tropical paradise,thanks to the coconut but that’s not all. The Keratin strengthens, hydrates and nourishes hair whilst gently cleansing it.

Nth Degree Smoothing Argan Oil and Keratin

This Kertain infused shampoo formula promises to effectively cleanse the hair without stripping its natural oils. The added Argan oil delivers serious moisture to every strand.

Dove Damage Therapy

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A great one to have on the list of Keratin Shampoos. Dove has been such a trusted skincare brand if this is as good as their body wash then count me in. This damage therapy shampoo promises intensive repair and protection against breakage.

Brazilian Keratin Therapy shampoos

These Brazilian Keratin Therapy shampoos are perfect for those who wear hair extensions. This exclusive blend of cocoa butter, coconut and avocado oils delivers moisture and shine to dull hair.

Have you ever tried keratin shampoos? Which one on our top 10 list if your favorite? Let us know in the comment section below. We love getting your feedback.

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What’s Your Summer Shade?

1.Ultra Violet- Butter London

Pantone color of the year for 2018 this stunning purplish shade is pretty much sold out on every website. However, you can get it on the company’s website if you purchase their face and nail kit which features ultra violet in a smaller size.

2. Mojito Madness- Essie

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You had me at ‘Mojito’!  Mojito madness is described as a fun loving lime green with a high, glossy shine finish. The brush provides a streak free application, and it has a 4.9 star rating on the company website— so I think this is a good one to grab for the summer.

3. Ecume- Nars

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Don’t ask me to explain the name, but this beautiful shade of white is so perfect for summer I can hardly contain my excitement.This nail polish from Nars features a flexible, high-gloss finish for a freshly painted look that lasts.

4.Roguish Red- China Glaze

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My motto has always been, ‘when in doubt go red’! The color works for every season and summer is no different, it really just depends on the shade. For summer, I prefer bright, shiney reds with a sort of orange undertone.This one from China Glaze is a perfect example.

5. Ocean Ever After-Nails inc

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Bring out your inner mermaid with this self-made mermaid nail polish duo from Nails Inc. The set contains two fun shades; ‘mermaid parade’ is a soft baby blue color while ‘Ocean ever after’ is a sparkling sea blue. Both can work together or alone.

6. Fear or Desire- Essie

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Step out of your comfort zone and try something new and fun this summer, who knows you might like it. This bright orange color is not for the faint of heart, you’ll get lots of attention, but it certainly screams summer doesn’t it?

7. Sun, Sea and Sand in My Pants- Opi

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This gorgeous yellow nail polish from Opi is the quintessential color for the summer season. Perfect for so many different skin tones, your nails will be the envy of all your friends.

8. The Fuchsia is Bright-Essie

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Aside from the clever name (lol) it’s hard to imagine this stunning fuchsia color not looking good on every single skin tone. This is one of those vibrant magenta pink colors that tend to work no matter how light or how dark you might be. You and all your friends can wear the same color polish, and that’s pretty rare.

Have you tried any of these stunning nail polish colors from our list? let us know in the comment section below which colors you are planning to rock this summer!

More nail articles you might have missed

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Exclusive Black Friday Beauty Bargains —Shop Before It’s Too Late!

Calling all beauty lovers: Black Friday beauty bargains have officially dropped, and it’s time to shop till you slay! Stock up on essentials, indulge in luxe products, and get ready to glow—all while saving big. Let’s go!

1. Prime Time for Primers

Primers are the unsung heroes of any flawless makeup look, and Black Friday is the perfect time to grab top-tier options. With markdowns on brands like Smashbox and Milk Makeup, these essentials can finally fit your budget.

• Pro Tip: Look for sets that come in travel sizes— they’re perfect for trying new products without committing to bigger buys.
• Steal Alert: Ulta is rumored to feature markdowns on bestselling primers. Opportunities like these can help you upgrade your routine without breaking the bank.
• Why It Matters: A good primer doesn’t just prep your skin; it extends the wear of your entire look, making it a must-buy during this event.

2. Foundation Frenzy

Finding the perfect foundation can be like finding your soulmate: tricky, but oh-so-worth it. Black Friday brings markdowns on luxurious options like Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r and Estée Lauder Double Wear, which means you can splurge without regret.

• What’s Trending: Lightweight, breathable textures are becoming the go-to for everyday wear.
• Why It Matters: A good foundation is the base of your entire look. Investing in one during these promotions ensures your makeup game stays strong all year long.
• Pro Tip: For a complete base routine, consider limited-edition sets that include matching concealers or powders

3. Eyeshadow Palettes: Unleash Your Inner Artist

Nobody needs another eyeshadow palette, but when Natasha Denona or Urban Decay comes at a reduced cost? Game over. Black Friday is the perfect excuse to add a new palette to your collection.

• Best Finds: Sephora’s lineup often includes palettes offered at significant savings.
• What’s Trending: Metallics and jewel tones are dominating holiday collections. These shades work beautifully for both parties and casual looks.
• Quick Tip: Mini palettes in gift sets are ideal stocking stuffers—or, let’s be real, a little treat for yourself.

4. Lips That Speak Volumes

From matte liquid lipsticks to hydrating balms, Black Friday is the time to shine. Brands like Charlotte Tilbury and Pat McGrath usually roll out irresistible markdowns, making it easier than ever to grab iconic shades.

• Top Picks: Bold reds and classic nudes are always in style for holiday parties.
• What’s Trending: Finishes like vinyl glosses and powdery mattes are having a moment.
• Don’t Miss: Bundles featuring lip liners and glosses provide everything you need for a polished pout.

5. Luxe for Less: High-End Highlights and Blush

Luxury makeup items can feel like a stretch during the year, but Black Friday is the perfect moment to splurge guilt-free. Highlighters and blushes from brands like Hourglass and Dior often come with big savings.

• Why It’s Smart: A luminous blush or highlighter can elevate even the simplest makeup look.
• Pro Tip: Multi-use products like cream blushes that double as lip tints provide maximum versatility.
• What to Look For: Limited-edition sets with exclusive shades or packaging— they’re ideal for collectors or gifting.

6. Mascara Madness

A good lash moment doesn’t have to stretch your wallet. Black Friday provides buy-one-get-one promotions on mascaras and lash primers, making it easy to stock up.

• Favorite Finds: Too Faced’s Better Than Sex and Benefit’s Roller Lash frequently shine during Black Friday events.
• What’s Trending: Bundles that include eyeliner and makeup remover for a complete eye set.
• Pro Tip: Some brands introduce exclusive formulas during the holiday season, so stay alert!

7. Tools of the Trade

Good tools are the backbone of flawless makeup. Whether you need new brushes, sponges, or a game-changing beauty gadget, Black Friday is the ideal time to invest.

• What’s Trending: High-tech tools, like the Dyson Airwrap, continue to top wishlists this season.
• Hot Buys: Sigma Beauty and Real Techniques brush sets are popular picks that offer both quality and style.
• Pro Tip: Sets that include storage pouches keep your tools organized and travel-ready.

Final Touches

No beauty haul is complete without the extras! Makeup removers, setting sprays, and skincare-infused makeup are staples you’ll want to explore.

• Why It’s Smart: Brands frequently bundle these essentials with other purchases, adding more value to your haul.
• Insider Scoop: Apps like Sephora and Ulta often feature flash promotions for quick shoppers, so be ready to pounce.

Quick Tips to Maximize Your Haul

• Plan Ahead: Make a wishlist and research your favorite brands ahead of time.
• Sign Up for Emails: Early brand notifications often give you an edge over other shoppers.
• Shop Early: Popular items sell out quickly, so set your alarm!

FAQs

1. When do Black Friday beauty sales start?
   Most sales begin the week of Thanksgiving, with early deals starting as soon as Monday.
2. Where can I find the best Black Friday beauty bargains?
   Top retailers like Sephora, Ulta, and department stores are great places to start.
3. Are online beauty deals better than in-store?
   Often, online deals include exclusive discounts and early access, so it’s worth checking both.
4. What products should I prioritize during Black Friday?
   Focus on high-value items like palettes, foundations, and skincare sets.
5. How do I avoid overspending?
   Make a wishlist and stick to it—watch for bundled products to save more.
6. Do luxury beauty brands offer Black Friday discounts?
   Yes, many luxury brands, like Dior and Charlotte Tilbury, participate with rare discounts.
7. Are Black Friday beauty deals final sale?
   Most are, but check return policies for specific brands and stores.
8. Can I stack coupons with Black Friday beauty bargains?
   Sometimes! Check retailer-specific policies for additional savings opportunities.
9. What’s the best time to shop online?
   Early morning or late night to beat the rush and avoid sold-out items.
10. Will there be additional beauty deals on Cyber Monday?
    Yes, many brands extend Black Friday sales or offer new deals on Cyber Monday.

Turn Your Wishlist into Reality!

These Black Friday beauty bargains are turning wishlists into hauls. From luxurious highlighters to essential mascaras, everything you need can finally be within reach! So shop smarter and shine brighter!

The beauty deals don’t stop here! Click here for expert advice and the ultimate guide to finding the best Black Friday beauty bargains before they’re gone.

I’ve been meaning to write an e.l.f. contour palette review for a long time, but I never got the chance. I celebrated Thanksgiving, I got sick, and then I got busy with coming up with holiday blog posts for you. I want to make sure as early as now you already have the right outfit and great makeup. You should already have your skin prepped for late night outs and lots of parties. But my review’s been screaming in my head, so I have to let it out.

e.l.f. Contour Palette Review: Does It Really Work?

Pros

• Can be used for highlighting, sculpting, and contouring
• Works well for light to medium skin tones
• Affordable
• Blendable
• Easy to carry or portable

Cons

• Can be powdery for your taste
• Pigmentation is so-so but is buildable (I can live with this, though! )

As with my other makeup reviews, my e.l.f. contour palette review will be based on a couple of factors. I will be as honest as possible, but note this is my personal opinion, which means my makeup results may not be the same as yours. Nevertheless, I hope I can help you decide whether this product is a good makeup investment.

Packaging

The packaging is no different from other e.l.f. Cosmetics products like the blush palette.  It comes in a sturdy black plastic pan. It doesn’t look as chic as, say, packages from Anastasia Beverly Hills, Charlotte Tilbury, or Hourglass, but it still appears kind of elegant. It’s definitely not flimsy.

As you can see, it is slightly bigger than my palm, but it remains comfortable to hold. It is also compact, so it’s an awesome makeup for ladies on the go.

The packaging also bears the net weight of the product and nothing else, which I like as it makes the case look clean. Oh! You should know that each pan can be popped out and replaced with another one. I’m not sure if e.l.f. has come up with singles but I like the idea. I tried replacing them with my Bobbi Brown blushes but they just simple didn’t fit.

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This is how the palette looks like once you open the case. Notice the e.l.f. “trademark”? Yeah, there’s the big mirror again! This is actually one of the things I love about e.l.f. Big mirrors mean big coverage. I can quickly determine whether I am putting my makeup right.

Not only that, you can remove each of the small pans so you can mix and match them with other e.l.f. Cosmetics products. Isn’t that cool? It’s a simple, convenient, and smart way of customizing your makeup.

Palette

Like other e.l.f. Cosmetics products, this one is a quad palette, which is nice since you get to save more money (although $6 is already HUGE savings for you). It contains one shimmer and three mattes. From the top left, you have a semi-white shimmer for highlighting. Next to it is a semi-light yellow matte for setting your concealer. Below, you have the bronzer (on the left) and the contour (on the right).

In other words, the palette has everything you need for basic contouring, which I find pleasantly surprising. For this reason, too, this palette is great for anyone who likes to learn simple highlighting and sculpting. Since there are fewer shades to deal with, you are less likely to make mistakes or feel overwhelmed by the idea.

Application

If I’m impressed by its packaging and palette, will I also feel the same way after I applied it? This, ladies, is the essence of my e.l.f. Contour Palette review.

As a start, I made swatches with my makeup finger and brush, and you can already see how the shades are well defined due to my skin tone, which is light medium. I also love the fact the highlighter doesn’t create too much shimmer, so I can wear my barely there look more easily and confidently.

Applying this may be a struggle at first if you’re used to cream-based makeup. This is really powdery. If there’s any consolation, it’s the fact the powder settles well on the skin and is not an issue to blend. I am happy with the effects of the contour, but I am even happier at how it hides my skin imperfections Surprisingly, the pan with the yellow-like powder is really good for setting my concealer. The highlighter, on the other hand, is really subtle and could create that natural glow.

Here’s another kind of e.l.f contour palette review. Check out how it holds up with a Kat Von D palette. (Hint: the result may surprise you!)

Verdict

So what’s my final say for this e.l.f. contour palette review? Two words: worth it. While you can’t expect to look like a pro makeup artist with this one, this is your future best friend for everyday chic and occasional glamor makeup. It goes beyond its purpose, which is contouring, and gives you the basic makeup you need to achieve a contoured, smooth look you want – all for an affordable price of $6! However, I wouldn’t ditch my Kat Von D Contour Palette for this, that one deserves a Holy Grail status!

Don’t forget to get yours today here. Use my promo code NCSAVE10 and enjoy a discount!

A perfect way to make you look gorgeous in addition to your perfect contour is with a stunning outfit! Get this now!

Do you have your own e.l.f. contour palette review? Share them in the comments section! Need more highlight makeup reviews? Read this. 

Follow our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest accounts to get the latest makeup, hair and nail trends!

The beauty industry has grown exponentially in the last decade, different indie makeup brands from small beginnings have started out in different basements all across the world to satiate the growing demand of makeup that is different, performs well, and speaks to one’s personality.

These Indie Makeup Brands Deserve Your Attention

Truly, social media and diversity have taken the makeup industry to new heights. It’s no longer required for a small company to spend thousands of dollars on advertising alone because of their following on Facebook and Instagram is more than enough to spread the word out. It is through social media that we learn of these awesome indie makeup brands that made this list and we want to share it with you!

Consumer brands can be a bit boring, so check out these indie makeup brands worth your money and your time. I can’t wait for you to try them out so read on!

Dose of Colors

This brand came out of California created by Anna Petrosian, a makeup artist from Burbank. Its flagship product is the liquid matte lip, highly pigmented with beautiful rich colors of pinks and purples. It is also well received for its cruelty-free formula and long lasting wear.

Makeup Monsters

This indie makeup brand was founded just recently, January of 2015 to be exact, by Samantha Muth. What started out as a small company operating from home has quickly grown to include lipsticks and highlighters. Its aesthetic focus is funky and colorful. Getting really good reviews out of its products, this brand seems like it’s well on its way to becoming big. I’m in love with their liquid lipsticks, I honestly think it’s one of the best in liquid lipstick world! LOL Honestly, I think it’s better than Jeffree Star Cosmetics.

Melt Cosmetics

Melt Cosmetics was founded by two women passionate about makeup, they have come up with ingenious design concepts even in the way they package their eyeshadows. This company has been steadily growing with their liquid lipsticks and their eyeshadows are slowly being recognized by more people in the makeup industry.

Check out how it started in the video by the co-founder, Lora Arellano, below:

Illamasqua

Illamasqua has been around for a while, in fact, this indie makeup brand has award winning products  professional makeup artists use. In this list, this is the only high-end makeup brand to be featured and I think it is worth the mention, especially with their Avante Garde aesthetics and the overall Haute feel of the brand.

Lonely Planet Cosmetics

The Lonely Planet Cosmetics brand is an indie makeup brand which runs its store on Etsy. It has received really good reviews especially on their liquid lipstick formula that feels really light on the lips and are not drying at all. It doesn’t hurt that they are a vegan line too and completely cruelty-free, as far as I can gather.

Fyrinnae Cosmetics

Fyrinnae cosmetics creates complicated eyeshadow pigments, out of all the indie makeup brands on the list, this is probably the only brand I can’t get much material on. Aside from the fact that there have been reviews about their products even up to 4 years ago on Youtube, so it’s safe to say they’ve been creating beautiful colored pigments for a while now.

RCMA (Research Council of Makeup Artists)

This indie makeup brand is a family-owned business which started a long time ago. Their products are simple but they are complex in nature. They are most raved about by professional makeup artists because of their powder and foundation products, hand-made and done by batches to ensure the highest quality possible out of their products. I have this in my kit and personally, I reach for this often. I recommend this for pro use. If you’re not a professional makeup artist it could be a challenge to use and to get to know the product. Like most makeup products, it has a learning curve and it takes the experience to really get the most out of this bad boy.

Sugarpill

Sugarpill Cosmetics specializes in rich, vibrant, highly pigmented colors. It was founded in 2003 and has been serving the makeup community with different fun and funky product selection, like lipsticks, eyeshadows, nail polish, false eyelashes, and even brushes.

Makeup Geek

Makeup Geek is one of the more successful indie makeup brands out in the market today. It started out as a passion hobby of a makeup artist and Youtube vlogger and has been creating beautiful, buttery eyeshadows which are loved by professional makeup artists and consumers alike. This brand has actually been on everyone’s radar and has appeared on my pages a few already, like this listicle I did on the best cult beauty brands.

Juvia’s Place

A video posted by Juvia’s Place (@juviasplace) on Oct 25, 2016 at 6:17pm PDT

I had just recently heard about Juvia’s Place and how awesome and pigmented this indie makeup brand’s eyeshadows are. I heard somewhere that the inspiration for the brand is women of color, the brand website doesn’t however specifically say, but I can see how their pressed shadows and their swatches would match a woman of color beautifully and I can’t wait to try these shadows for myself.

Want to see more indie makeup brands? Check out this video by VintageorTacky:

Well, what do you think of these awesome, delicious looking indie makeup brands? Don’t they look cool? Let me know which ones you’ve tried already in the comments section below and if your makeup fix isn’t complete yet, take a look at this other indie makeup brand with a black highlighter as one of their products.

If you already have some of these products, I want to see how they look on you, go ahead and share your makeup creations on my Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages!

Do you get intimidated wearing mascara simply because you feel like you can’t bear to use it? I am. The mere thought of having to lengthen my lashes makes my eye water. The fact is I can barely see, without my contact lenses so mascara has become somewhat a thing of the past for me. I’d rather not have long and lush lashes if that means sporting unsightly red eyes as well.

Are These The Best Mascaras For Sensitive Eyes?

Nonetheless, I haven’t really given up on my dream of wearing long and luscious eyelashes. It’s this yearning that led me to look for the best mascara for sensitive eyes. To my surprise, there are actually many products in the market that cater to my needs. The products are not only for those who wear contact lens like me but for those who have allergies and whose eyes get easily irritated as well.

Check this list to find out the best mascara for sensitive eyes. You might be surprised to find out there are many options  you can purchase depending on your budget and preference.

1. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Shu Uemura Ultimate Natural Mascara, $28.00

Forget about the pricetag and focus on what this product can do. This product is on top of my best mascara for sensitive eyes simply because it’s everything I want in a mascara. It’s waterproof, it won’t clump and it lengthens like you’ve never seen any other mascara did. On top of these, it is also quite easy to take off – an extremely rare find for waterproof products.

2. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | RMS Defining Mascara, $28.00

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This product is tagged as the favorite among those who wear contact lenses. It boasts of a super wet formula that allows easy application. It comes with a small brush applicator making it stress-free to precisely apply the mascara. If you’re choosing this product, make sure not to blink for around 30 seconds or right about the time it dries. Otherwise, you’ll find the mascara smudge on your eyes.

3. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Origins Ginzing Brightening Mascara to Lengthen & Lift, $19.50

Being an Ophthalmologist tested product speaks volume about this mascara. It promises to give long lush lashes without leaving them looking clumpy or spiky. Thanks to the product’s rosemary extracts, which conditions the lashes thus giving it a healthy flicker. It also comes with caffeine and ginseng that invigorates sleepy eyes.

4. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Clinique High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara, $20.00

Here’s another product that’s advertised to do everything you would wish for in a mascara. Get volumised and ultra-thick lashes with high definition in a quick stroke. It’s hypoallergenic, like all mascaras from the brand, but it’s on top of the pack considering what it can provide.

5. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara, $21.00

Don’t be fooled by its bamboo tube housing as this natural mascara can deliver glamorous results. The brush comes with spiky features, which lengthens lashes. It also comes in a creamy formula, which is surprisingly not chunky on the lashes. It even provides added volume. The best part is it isn’t stiff even several minutes after application so you can curl the lashes again without much effort.

6. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Almay One Coat Nourishing Lengthening Mascara, $8.53

Your local drugstores are actually home to one of the best mascara for sensitive eyes. If your aiming to have an everyday go-to mascara, then Almay is the answer. It gives you naturally long lashes. People wouldn’t even know or notice you’re actually wearing a mascara. It’s hypoallergenic and Ophthalmologist tested plus it’s permeated with Vitamin B5 and aloe.

7. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Green People Organic Mascara, $19.00

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Who wouldn’t rave about a mascara that’s 98% organic? I am definitely a fan of this product as it has sunflower oil, Vitamin E and beeswax as its main ingredients. These components are what provide nourishment to the lashes, plus they volumise and lengthens at the same time. This is undeniably a must-have.

8. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Nat Origin Lengthening Mascara

Here’s another natural and organic mascara you would absolutely love. This product is loaded with a lot of good stuff including organic shea butter, essential fatty acids, organic jojoba oil and red seaweed extract. This was especially created for contact lens wearers and those with the most sensitive eyes.

9. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100 % Natural Lash Boosting Mascara, $9.55

Dramatic lashes are possible even with natural products. This has been proven by this mascara from Physicians Formula. Apart from being hypoallergenic and Ophthalmologist proven, it’s also fragrance-free and gluten free. Best part? It doesn’t come with a hefty price and can be bought at your nearest drugstore.

10. Best Mascara for Sensitive Eyes | Dr. Hauschka Mascara, $19.34

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This best mascara for sensitive eyes comes in three colors – black, aubergine and pearl anthracite. It has rose wax, beeswax, and Candelilla, which actively protects each lash. The product boasts of its rapid-drying formulation so there’s really no waiting time to get thick and fine lashes.

If you’re leaning toward buying a natural mascara, watch the video below from Teri Miyahira for her review:

These are just some of the best mascara for sensitive eyes. You can switch them up to really see which one works best for you considering your needs and preference. With your mascara in place, it’s time to try Kim Kardashian’s sexy smokey eye makeup.

What’s your take on my list? Do you know of best mascara for sensitive eyes not mentioned in this post? Share them with me in the comments section below. Complete your eye makeup with this budget-friendly eyeshadow dupes. 

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