Buying Guide for All-in-One Makeup Kits
Why buy an all-in-one makeup kit?
One of the best reasons to buy a makeup kit is because it can be an affordable way to expand your makeup collection instead of buying items individually. But additionally, if you’re not sure what items pair well with each other, a makeup kit usually takes the guesswork out of this process. For example, if you’re trying to figure out the perfect contour, a good contour kit will include highlight, contour, and concealer, so you have all the materials in one place.
What should you consider when buying an all-in-one makeup kit?
- Formula: In most cases, you’ll find that makeup comes in liquid, cream, or powder formulas. While there are variations such as dewy versus matte or satin finish, focusing on the top three formulas offers a better starting point. Powders are usually the easiest option for beginners as they can be pretty goofproof and offer a slightly shallower learning curve compared to liquid and cream.
- Makeup Type: While some kits include everything you would need for a full-face application (i.e., foundation, eye shadow, liner, blush, etc.), you’ll often find that these kits tend to target specific areas of the face. For example, you can find eyeshadow kits that offer a wide range of pressed shadows. Alternatively, some complexion makeup kits will combine foundation with highlight and blush.
- Size: Similar to makeup type, makeup kits can vary widely. Some are compact and intended to be travel-friendly. Meanwhile, others are better suited for at-home use, especially if you have a dedicated vanity table or place to store it.
- Container: Not all makeup kits come with storage containers. Finding a makeup kit made of separate palettes or even individual color pans is possible. While this might be ideal for a makeup artist or more seasoned makeup enthusiast who already has dedicated storage set aside for their makeup, the lack of built-in storage could be a problem for a budding makeup fan just starting their beauty journey.
Do all-in-one makeup kits include tools?
While not a requirement, it’s always good to see if a makeup kit comes with tools. This includes brushes, sponges, and even other beauty tools like tweezers or lash separators, depending on your selected kit. Especially if you’re beginning to build your makeup collection, a kit with tools can help you grow your skillset while ensuring you have the right tools for every application you attempt.
Our Picks for the Best All-in-One Makeup Kits
Pros: If you’ve ever dreamed of having one of those massive palettes with everything you need to create the perfect eye look, this smart option from SHANY is perfect. It offers a wide range of eyeshadows in shimmer, pearlescent, and matte hues. Better still, it comes with blush, lip color, and starter beauty tools to help you learn how to apply shadow.
Cons: If you’re looking for a full-face solution, this isn’t it. Additionally, you may find that the smaller pans mean you’ll get less product which can be an issue as pigmentation can be sheerer on darker skin tones.
Bottom Line: First-time makeup wearers will appreciate the wide color range with this primarily eye shadow-focused kit.
Pros: If you want to give someone a gift that keeps on giving, this massive makeup kit from SHANY is a fantastic starting point. Along with a wide range of eyeshadows, this set comes with false lashes, complexion makeup, face gems, blotting papers, makeup remover, and a full set of brushes as well as lip and eyeliners.
Cons: Although comprehensive, there’s a catch with this set. The company reserves the right to send you an assortment that might vary from what you see in the pictures.
Bottom Line: This comprehensive makeup kit is an impressive choice for those who love to have everything at their disposal when tasked with any project.
Pros: Not everyone wants to bring a massive makeup kit when they’re traveling—or even in their purse for touchups. This compact solution features an easy-to-transport solution that folds down into a small size that easily fits in your purse or luggage. It comes complete with eyeshadow, lip gloss, mascara, and liner.
Cons: This is a nice basic makeup kit, but while the product page advertises 64 colors, there are under 40. The case may be hard to open and harder to slide the trays out of their compartments.
Bottom Line: If travel-friendly is a priority, this compact makeup kit comes with a commendable selection of shadows and lip colors, along with eyeliner and mascara.
Pros: This fun two-tier set is an excellent option if you want a makeup kit with shelf appeal. While the focus is on the wide range of matte and glitter shadow hues, you’ll like that it also comes with a blush, concealer, and lip creams. Better still, simple applicators and an eyeliner help build makeup confidence.
Cons: This may seem like a children’s play makeup kit for quality control. The pans for the eyeshadow are tiny.
Bottom Line: if you’re shopping for a starter set for a budding makeup enthusiast, this is an excellent option with a decent selection of neutral, colorful, and glittery shadows along with blush, lip colors, and concealer.
Pros: If you’ve ever caught your child playing in your expensive makeup, this fun, kid-friendly makeup kit may be a better alternative. It features real makeup in age-appropriate hues, including fun glitter pans. In a compact and self-contained kit, you’ll get 16 shadows, six lip glosses, and four blushes. Plus, there are shadow and blush applicators.
Cons: Durability will be a concern depending on how old your child is and how they tend to treat their toys.
Bottom Line: This simple and kid-friendly makeup kit is a great way to introduce makeup without encouraging techniques that are too advanced.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re trying to restock your makeup collection or are looking for the perfect gift for that makeup-obsessed person in your life, a good all-in-one makeup kit is the solution. You can often save money by purchasing a bundle instead of individual items. In other ways, this allows you to expand your makeup repertoire by trying out new items that you might have otherwise skipped.
