Mascara, lip, complexion and color picks from brands sold through their official Amazon stores, with shade range and wear spelled out.
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An easy gift that needs no shade matching. Reviewers say it leaves dry lips noticeably softer by morning and that a jar lasts a long time, but some feel it is expensive for its size, and the core formula is close to a rich balm.
The default pick for long, separated lashes at a drugstore price. Reviewers praise how it reaches short and corner lashes; the trade-offs are that it can feel thick if you layer it and, being washable, it can smudge on oily lids.
A classic, low-risk gift because the sheer berry adapts to most lip colors and skin tones. Reviewers love the comfortable feel; the main complaint is that it fades within a few hours and needs reapplying.
The best-known budget gripping primer, and a good first primer to try. Reviewers say makeup clearly lasts longer on top of it; the trade-offs are a 30-second wait while it sets and a dewy finish that oily skin may need to blot by midday.
A luxury setting spray that suits normal to dry skin and makes a polished gift. Editors at TODAY, Marie Claire and CNN Underscored rate it for long wear and a fresh, non-powdery finish; it costs far more than drugstore sprays, and very oily skin may want a mattifying formula.
One of the most recommended drugstore bronzers for a natural, sun-warmed glow. Editors praise how easily it blends; the catch is a strong tropical scent and, per some reviewers, only moderate staying power.
Editors' favorite affordable powder blush right now: rich color that blends smoothly and lasts. It is very pigmented, so a light hand matters, and the scent bothers a few reviewers.
A dependable, affordable under-eye concealer that hides dark circles without looking heavy. Editors praise its smooth, brightening finish; the common complaints are the sponge applicator and a shade range that is narrower than newer brands.
A long-time favorite of makeup artists for mature skin that wants real coverage without a heavy feel. The trade-offs are cost, possible white cast in some shades, and that shade matching online takes care.
A budget brow pencil that reviewers often compare with much pricier micro pencils. The tip is precise and wears well; the main drawbacks are a fragile tip if you twist up too much and a slightly firmer texture than luxury rivals.