Makeup kits contain a variety of different makeup, often everything you need to complete your full look, or focusing on one aspect such as contouring or eyeshadow. If you’re looking for makeup colors which have been carefully curated as complementing each other, or products to use as a professional makeup artist, makeup kits are a great choice.
We reviewed dozens of makeup kits to identify the best of the best. We looked at features including the range of colors, the quality and pigmentation, whether they’re cruelty free, and which aspect of makeup each kit is designed to focus on. Check out our list of the best makeup mirrors for flawless makeup application.
With an assortment of high-quality makeup, this compact kit has everything you need
Our top pick, the Pure Vie 132 Colors All in one Makeup Gift Set, stood out as a clear winner. This kit comes with a variety of makeup and colors.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Makeup Kits
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Overall | Pure Vie 132 Colors All in one Makeup Gift Set | 4.4 |
Runner Up | Maùve Professional Makeup Kit | 4.5 |
Best Budget Buy | SHANY All in One Harmony Makeup Kit | 4.4 |
Best Professional Makeup Kit | SHANY The Masterpiece Makeup Kit | 4.6 |
Best Starter Makeup Kit | BR Deluxe Makeup Palette | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Pure Vie 132 Colors All in one Makeup Gift Set
If you’re looking for a selection of top quality makeup, Pure Vie 132 Colors All in one Makeup Gift Set is our top pick. This kit is perfect for makeup enthusiasts, professionals, and novices alike. This kit is all-in-one makeup box.
It includes 94 shimmers and eye shadows, 12 different soncealers, 3 face powders, 3 blushers, 2 lip liners, 2 eye liners and 5 eyebrow powders. There are also 3 contouring shades, to help you perfectly sculpt and define your facial features. The contour colors can also be used as cream foundation – blendable to match your exact skin tone.
With great positive reviews on Amazon, this is the perfect choice of makeup kit.
Pure Vie 132 Colors All in one Makeup Gift Set Key Features:
- Waterproof makeup
- High quality ingredients
- Sturdy storage box designed for daily use and portable
Our Runner Up Pick: Maùve Professional Makeup Kit
The Maùve Professional Makeup Kit provides you with everything you need to get ready for any occasion. Packaged in a sleek, travel-friendly case, this kit includes a mirror so you can use it wherever you wish.
This makeup kit includes 45 pigmented matte and shimmer shades, 12 lip gloss pans, two lip gloss tubes, two eyeliners, one lipstick, and one mascara, light and medium concealer, one highlight shade, three blushes, and two bronzers. This kit is also perfect for the little performers in your life.
The Maùve professional makeup kit is idea for all skin tones and types. If you haven’t contoured before, then don’t worry! Each kit comes complete with face shape diagrams, and a contour mapping guide, so you’ll become a pro at applying this contour in no time.
Maùve Professional Makeup Kit Key Features:
- Includes a wide selection of colors
- Packaged in a travel friendly, mirrored palette
- Designed in Paris
- Cruelty-free; Maùve is a proud member of PETA
Best Budget Pick: SHANY All in One Harmony Makeup Kit
If you’re looking for quality on a budget, the SHANY All in One Harmony Makeup Kit is our pick. With a huge range of makeup included, you will find it easy to create a wide variety of makeup look to suit your skin tone.
This kit includes highly pigmented eyeshadows — in fact there are 98 shimmer eyeshadows, and 70 pastel eyeshadows, so you’ll never run out of options! It also includes 6 lip glosses, and 3 blushes. The highly pigmented colors mean that a little goes a long way. The range of 10 applicators mean you have everything ou need.
The SHANY All in One Harmony Makeup Kit folds into a handy cube shape, which has convinient handles on the top. This means it’s super easy to fold this kit up and take it on your travels.
SHANY All in One Harmony Makeup Kit Key Features:Â
- Designed in the USA
- Not tested on animals, SHANY is a member of PETA
- Includes applicator sponges, and brushes
- Makeup formulated with mineral oil for a quality finish
Best Professional Makeup Kit: SHANY The Masterpiece 7 Layers All in One Makeup Set
If you’re a professional makeup artist looking for a versatile, extensive, yet compact makeup kit, then SHANY The Masterpiece 7 Layers All in One Makeup Set could be just what you need. The makeup in this kit is highly pigemented, and of great quality.
This kit includes 4 eyeshadow palettes, 2 face palettes, and a lip palette. These all slot neatly into a smart storage box, meaning everything you need is right at your fingertips. Simply slide the palette you need out of the box, and set to work. All the makeup within this kit is designed to suit a wide range of skin tones and types.
All shades can be mixed to create the perfect color you’re looking for. The staggering 112 different eyeshadows come in a range of matte and shimmer shades. Many reviews on Amazon are from professional makeup artists who are impressed with the quality of all the individual aspects of this kit.
SHANY The Masterpiece 7 Layers All in One Makeup Set Key Features:
- Kit comes in a magnetic box with built in shelves
- Cruelty-free products, as SHANY is a member of PETA
- Designed in USA
- Includes eyeshadow, concealer, lip color, and blushes
Best Starter Makeup Kit: BR Makeup Set
If you’re looking for your first makeup kit, and want it to include everything you think you need (and more!), then the BR Deluxe Makeup Palette is perfect. The compact, round kit opens to reveal a mirror in the lid, and no less than 4 layers of makeup in a wide range of colors.
The clever design of this kit means it has an expandable, swing open layers, which reveal everything you need to get started creating a range of perfect makeup looks. The 26 shades of eyeshadow can be beautifully blended using the included compact brushes and double-ended smudgers.
The next layer contains 6 shades of face powder, bronzer, and blusher, so you’re sure to find the best one for your skin tone. This layer swings away to reveal 6 lipgloss colors, from daytime nudes, to vibrant pinks and reds, perfect for night time. These can also be blended to create the perfect individual shade. This layer also includes mini makeup brushes, smudgers, mascara, and eyeliner. Finally, pull out the bottom layer to reveal highlighter and setting powder.
BR Deluxe Makeup Palette Key Features:
- Designed in the USA
- Integrated mirror
- Includes eyeshadow, blush, lipgloss, powder, mascara, and brushes
- Compact design perfect for travel
Who Should Buy A Makeup Kit
If you love makeup, but are fed up with too many foundations, blushers, and individual eyeshadow pots cluttering up your dressing table, then a makeup kit is a great way of keeping all your favorite products in one easy to access kit. Equally, if you’re a professional makeup artist looking for a wide range of products, these kits offer great quality makeup at a good price.
Makeup kits are also excellent if you’re just starting to experiment with makeup, or are looking for a gift for a teenager. As all the makeup within an individual kit is designed to complement each other, you can be confident that your eyeshadow will match your blusher!
Makeup kits come in a wide range of varieties, including full kits which include everything you need for a full face of makeup. Other kits focus on just one aspect of your makeup, such as eyeshadow, or contouring. Whatever you’re looking for, there will be a makeup kit to suit you.
With an assortment of high-quality makeup, this compact kit has everything you need
Important Features to Consider
A makeup kit should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting the best makeup kit to suit your needs:
- Range of makeup included. Depending on the makeup you want to focus on, it can make more sense to select a kit designed for that particular feature. If you never wear eyeshadow, buying a full makeup kit will mean this section goes to waste. If you’re unsure, selecting a small makeup kit which covers all facial areas means you can experiment while working out what suits you best.
- Cruelty-free. Many of us are becoming more aware of animal testing, and want to ensure our makeup is as cruelty-free as possible. Others may be vegan, and would like to make sure their makeup doesn’t contain any animal products. Be sure to read the label of any makeup kit you’re interested in to make sure it meets your criteria.
- Travel friendly. If you want to take your makeup kit out and about, many offer integrated mirrors and clever storage compartments for storing brushes and mascara.
- Suitability for skin tone. Many of the larger makeup kits include a wide range of foundations that can be blended to create the perfect match for any skin tone. Smaller kits may include less choice and therefore not suit all skin tones. If you’re selecting a smaller kit, take care to choose one that suits your skin tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a makeup kit (and what’s in it)?
Makeup kits include a range of different makeup, and the contents of any kit will vary depending on the manufacturer and price. The majority of kits include a selection of foundations or face powders, blushers, eyeshadows, and lip colors.
Other kits focus on just one part of your makeup routine, for instance eyeshadow or lipstick palettes will just include a range of that particular product.
What do you need for everyday makeup?
The answer to this question really depends on how much makeup you personally want to wear every day. If you’re happy wearing a light covering of foundation, a quick sweep of mascara, and some lip gloss, then that’s all you need! In that case, your makeup kit can be pretty minimal, although you might consider keeping some eyeshadow and eyeliner for nights out, and special occasions.
On the other hand, you might prefer wearing more makeup on a daily basis, including primer, concealer, contour, and lipstick. Your makeup kit will probably be more extensive, and your routine a little longer.
What you need for every day makeup really depends on your individual preferences.
What order do you put your makeup on?
This is the order we recommend you apply your makeup. If you don’t wear all of the options, simply miss those ones out!
First, apply your primer. Next up is your foundation. Then, apply concealer if necessary. Now, apply contour. Then, set your face makeup with powder. Next up, apply your bronzer, then blusher.
Now, apply your eyeshadow, eyeliner, then mascara. Once that’s done, you can finish off your brows. Lastly, apply lipstick or gloss, and you’re all done!
How do I choose the right makeup colors for my skin tone?
Selecting the correct makeup colors to suit your skin tone can be tricky. Here’s a quick guide to get you started:
- Cool skin tones – choose peach, coral, and soft pink
- Medium skin tones – choose honey, bronze, and blue
- Olive skin tones – choose rosy pink, terracotta, and teal
- Dark skin tones – choose cranberry, bronze, and any bright colors
Other Makeup Kits We Reviewed
With an assortment of high-quality makeup, this compact kit has everything you need
We looked at 20 other makeup kits. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best makeup kits, they’re still the best of the rest and each is a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Professional Makeup Kits
- Starter Makeup Kits
- Makeup Kits for Teens & Young Girls
- Eye Shadow Palette Makeup Kits
Professional Makeup Kits
Belloccio Professional Beauty Deluxe Airbrush Makeup Kit
This airbrush makeup kit is designed to help professional makeup artists achieve a flawless, natural look which instantly conceals imperfections.
Key Features:
- Includes compressor, makeup brush, 4 foundation colors, primer, blush, and bronzer
- Eliminates contamination as makeup never touches hands or brushes
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologist recommended
- Includes user guide and link to video guide
Cost:Â $130
BR Carry All Trunk Professional Makeup Kit
This extensive all-in-one makeup kit includes 77 pieces, including 40 eyeshadows, 17 blushers, 4 face powders, and 4 concealers.
Key Features:
- Reusable trunk case
- Designed in USA
- Not tested on animals
- Mirror and brushes included
Cost:Â $35
Mehron StarBlend Cake Makeup All-Pro Makeup Kit
With 90 years experience in the beauty, stage, film, and photography industry, Mehron has created an extensive makeup kit which also allows for special effects for the TV industry.
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Available in 5 colors – fair, medium, dark, olive, and TV/video
- Includes instructional booklet
- Vegan, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free
Cost:Â $100
Pure Vie All in One Makeup Kit
This complete kit includes 94 eyeshadows, 12 concealers, 3 face powders, 3 blushers, and 3 contour shades.
Key Features:
- Portable carry case
- Mirror included
- Blendable shades
- High quality ingredients
Cost:Â $55
SHANY Makeup Artists Must Have Pro Eyeshadow Palette
This extensive eyeshadow set from SHANY includes all the must have colors – from neon green to matt red.
Key Features:
- Highly pigmented shades
- Cruelty free – SHANY is a member of PETA
- 96 medium size pan colors
- Made in the USA
Starter Makeup Kits
Benefit Cosmetics Date Night With Mr. Right Makeup Set
This compact kit from Benefit is the perfect starter set. It contains lipstick, highlighter, blusher, and mascara.
Key Features:
- Comes with a collectible Benefit makeup bag
- Suitable for most skin tones
- Mini sized cosmetics, perfect for travel and will fit in your handbag
- Perfect for date nights
Cost:Â $58
This affordable makeup kit by BR contains everything you need to create a range of looks for both day and night.
Key Features:
- Folds into an elegant shell shaped case
- Includes mirror, brushes, and mascara
- Eyeshadows, blush, and lipgloss
- A wide range of shades to suit all skin tones
Cost:Â $14
As a budget starter makeup kit which is perfect for travel, this kit by BR ticks all the boxes.
Key Features:
- Includes blush, lipgloss, eyeshadow, and powder
- Complete with mirror, and applicators
- 25 piece set
- Opens from sides and top, for easy access
Cost:Â $10
Charlotte Tilbury Instant Look in a Palette
This compact palette contains everything you need to create a classic smoky eye and flawless face in just 5 minutes.
Key Features:
- Numbered pans for easy application
- Compact folding case
- Neutrals can be accentuated for nighttime using black eyeshadow
- Includes Charlotte Tilbury’s iconic Bar of Gold highlighter shade
Cost:Â $90
Smashbox Try It Kit: Halo + BB Light
This starter kit contains bestselling essentials for a perfect complexion.
Key Features:
- Includes travel-size BB cream, and Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder
- Includes a baby buki brush
- Instructions included
- Use Halo or BB alone, or combine for a polished finish
Makeup Kits for Teens & Young Girls
This fun makeup kit is perfect for teens, and comes in a slimline pink storage box.
Key Features:
- Highly pigmented shades
- Includes 48 eyeshadows, 6 lipglosses, 4 blushers, and 1 highlighter
- Applicator brushes and mirror included
Cost:Â $13
Ecvtop Professional Makeup Kit
This compact yet extensive makeup kit is perfect for older teens looking for a range of quality colors.
Key Features:
- Includes 20 eyeshadows, 5 lipgloss, 2 blushers, 1 face powder, and 1 concealer
- Fashionable leopard case, with mirror, and eyeshadow brush
- Highly pigmented colors
Cost:Â $9
The elegant, vintage style packaging of this makeup kit is sure to appeal to teens, while the reasonable price makes it a great gift.
Key Features:
- Designed in USA
- Cruelty free – SHANY is a member of ETA
- Contains 48 eyeshadows, 4 blushes, and 6 lipglosses
Cost:Â $15
SHANY iLookBook Pro Ultra Compact HD Makeup Set
The sleek and stylish laptop design of this makeup set by SHANY definitely sets it apart from any other we’ve seen.
Key Features:
- Cruelty-free – SHANY is a member of PETA
- 75 eyeshadows, 4 blushes, and 4 face powders
- Includes professional brushes and sponges
Cost:Â $37
TownleyGirl My Little Pony Beauty Compact
This fun set is perfect for young teenage girls who are looking for a fun makeup kit.
Key Features:
- Latching case decorated with My Little Pony characters
- Includes lipgloss, eyeshadow, and blush
- Safe and non-toxic, water based formula
Eye Shadow Palette Makeup Kits
Beauty Glazed Shimmer Eyeshadow Palette
This palette of 15 colorful and glittery shades is sure to make you stand out.
Key Features:
- Highly-pigmented, long-lasting formula
- Perfect for special occasions
- Recommended to use primer under the eyeshadow
Cost:Â $10
Maybelline New York The Nudes Eyeshadow Makeup Palette
This eyeshadow makeup palette allows you to create a range of looks, from subtle neutral, to a dramatic smoky eye.
Key Features:
- Includes 12 eyeshadow shades
- Allows you to create 13 different looks
- Combination of matte and shimmer eyeshadows
Cost:Â $7
Morphe Pro 35 Color Eyeshadow Palette
This affordable palette contains a range of 35 professional grade eyeshadows.
Key Features:
- Allows you to create natural or dramatic looks
- Professional quality
- Smudge resistant
Cost:Â $23
Tartlette Amazonian Clay Matte Palette
This all-matte palette contains 12 exclusive colors
Key Features:
- Includes step-by-step look guide
- Large mirror within the lid
- High quality eyeshadow
Cost:Â $36
This palette includes 12 never-before-seen rose-hued neutral eyeshadows.
Key Features:
- Eyeshadows include Urban Decay’s Pigment Infusion System
- Includes matte, shimmer, and glitter shades
- Comes in a stylish, art-school inspired tin case
Cost:Â $67