Beauty Makeup The 32 Best Gifts for Makeup Lovers in 2023 From luxe lipsticks to magical mascaras and curated kits, there’s something for every kind of makeup lover on this list. By Celia Shatzman Updated on October 7, 2022 @ 04:10PM Pin Share Tweet Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Reviews Why Shop With Us We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Sephora The holidays are always special, but that’s especially the case this year. “After the 2020 and 2021 holiday seasons, where many of us were unwrapping presents over Zoom or FaceTime, it feels like we’re finally back to being in person for celebrations and family gatherings over the holidays,” says Leigh Quilhot, Senior Director of Merchandising at Bluemercury. That means this year calls for an extra special present — but where should you start for the makeup lovers in your life? Since we’re back to being on the go for the most part, opt for a gift that reflects that. “People are traveling again for work and pleasure, and I love all of the miniature lipsticks or multi-tasking palettes that are perfect for throwing in your handbag or luggage,” Quilhot says. “For the trend-setter or risk-taker in your life, there are so many beautiful, limited-edition collections to create unexpected gifting moments. Even for the makeup minimalist, there are incredible value sets.” No matter what kind of makeup lover you’re shopping for, we’ve rounded up the best makeup gifts, below. Bluemercury The Lash Edit bluemercury View On Bluemercury.com Quite the steal with a value of $155, this Bluemercury exclusive has everything needed to draw attention to your eyes. “Our exclusive Lash Edit contains the best of the best routine essentials to achieve a flawless faux lash look, as well as necessities for an everyday look with a choice of best-selling mascaras,” Quilhot says. “This set comes in a luxe vegan leather drawstring pouch, which can be used as a chic accessory clutch. Pair with graphic black eyeliner to channel your inner Twiggy.” The Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Pencil in Jet, Chantecaille Deluxe Faux Cils Longest Lash Mascara, Kjaer Weis Volumizing Mascara, LashFood Conditioning Collagen Lash Primer, Lash Star Visionary Lashes 002, Lune+Aster PowerLash Eyelash Curler, and Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Rose Gold Eye Masks are all included. Price at time of publish: $49 IT Cosmetics Brushes for Ulta Prismatic Face Brush Set Ulta View On Ulta IT Cosmetics created this limited-edition four-piece makeup brush set exclusively for Ulta — and it’s perfect for gifting. Covering all the bases for makeup brushes, it includes the Airbrush Blurring Concealer Brush #103 for applying liquid and cream concealer, the Airbrush Flawless Highlight Brush #140 for strobing, the Airbrush Powder Wand Brush #108 with rounded and tapered bristles to pick up just the right amount of powder, and the Airbrush Complexion Perfection Brush #115 for natural-looking foundation. Not to mention the pink, prismatic handles give us total unicorn vibes and add a special flair to these brushes. Price at time of publish: $50 Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Palette Unlocked in Elephant Sephora View On Sephora “Hourglass always creates perfect complexion palettes during the holidays,” says Sephora Beauty Director David Razzano. “This one encapsulates finishing powders to create flawless filtered looks, and soft luminous bronzer and blushes for the perfect wash of color. These are great for anyone who loves to have perfected and radiant skin!” It also features spectacular packaging — the limited-edition palette has an exclusive elephant design by artist Katie Scott. Price at time of publish: $85 Gucci Lipstick Trio Set Nordstrom View On Nordstrom With a box almost too pretty to wrap, your recipient will be just as excited by what’s inside. The limited-edition set has three new formulas for a complete holiday lip wardrobe. Rouge de Beauté Brillant Glow & Care Lipstick in 214 Call It a Day stays put for over 24 hours yet is deeply hydrating. A lightweight formula, Rouge à Lèvres Voile Sheer Lipstick in 25 Goldie Red has a sheer finish to give lips a gorgeous glow. Rouge à Lèvres Satin Lipstick in 208 They Met in Argentina boasts a long-wear satin finish. All three of these will be the perfect finishing touch to any holiday party look. Price at time of publish: $97 Tom Ford Soleil Neige Eye Color Quad in Chalet Lust Sephora View On Sephora The fashion lover in your life will be thrilled to be able to wear Tom Ford across their lids. “[This quad allows anyone to] achieve a warm rosy, wintry glow,” Quilhot says. The multidimensional palette features four luxe shadows in rose gold and copper tones, making it a great option for everyday makeup looks and special occasions alike. We’re giving it bonus points for the charming name that evokes images of a chic ski lodge, too. Price at time of publish: $90 Tarte Maracuja Juicy Squad Lip Set Ulta View On Target The latest hit from Tarte is available as a holiday set, making this one of the best gifts for makeup lovers. The Maracuja lippies have won over Tartelettes everywhere for their insanely hydrating formula that feels like a balm but delivers the shine of a lip gloss. This set includes four for less than the price of two, including two limited-edition shades: Cranberry and Ginger. Price at time of publish: $39 Danessa Myricks Beauty Lightwork Vol. IV Transcendence Palette Sephora View On Sephora “If you’re reading this and the Transcendence Palette is still in stock, consider yourself blessed!” says Sephora Beauty Director Melinda Solares. “This is a destined-to-sell-out kind of all-over face, multi-use palette. It’s curated by the incredibly talented Danessa Myricks, with 14 color-shifting, chromatic shades in multiple transcending, luxe finishes. I know words like ‘chromatic’ and ‘transcending’ sound like big words, but just wait until you swatch this baby.” Price at time of publish: $125 ILIA The Complexion Set Ilya View On Iliabeauty.com Any makeup lover knows a flawless complexion is the essential base, so deliver just that with this limited-edition set. It includes a mini True Skin Radiant Priming Serum — a silicone-free primer that smooths and safeguards skin from environmental stressors; a full-size Soft Focus Finishing Powder that sets and blurs; a sustainably crafted Finishing Powder Brush that blends powder to natural perfection; and a full-size Multi-Stick Lady Bird which is a blendable cream formula for cheeks and lips in a neutral rose hue. With all that valued at $123, it’s a steal to get it for just $78. Price at time of publish: $78 Chanel Les 4 Ombres Tweed Limited Edition Multi-Effect Quadra Eyeshadow Palette Nordstrom View On Nordstrom When Chanel tweed is out of your budget, this eyeshadow is the next best thing. The eyeshadow quad comes in a charming matching tweed pouch that plays off the colors of the makeup inside. Each palette features a mix of matte, satin, and metallic finishes, with a light shade to highlight, two to contour, and a deep one to enhance your look. Plant oils provide the smooth texture while mineral pigments give the formula staying power. Price at time of publish: $88 Grande Cosmetics First Class Beauty Sephora View On Sephora Truly an upgrade for the eyes, this four-piece kit will have anyone’s lashes and brows soaring. The pretty in pink packaging contains a full and mini size of the uber-popular GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum, travel-size GrandeBROW Brow Enhancing Serum, and a mini GrandeLINER. Using these products will result in longer, healthier lashes and thicker brows — and will ultimately earn the gift giver extra points. Price at time of publish: $69 Sephora Favorites Makeup Must-Haves Sephora View On Sephora “I always tell people to grab the Sephora Favorites Kits early, because they are sure to sell out fast,” Razzano says. “This kit is a perfect example of why — you get to try all the must-have beauty products you’ve been hearing about at an incredible value. This could be gifted to anyone in your life who enjoys beauty, and they will absolutely love it!” It includes full sizes of the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Extreme Hold Laminated-Look Sculpting Wax, ILIA Limitless Lash Lengthening Clean Mascara in After Midnight, and KVD Beauty Tattoo Liner Vegan Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Trooper Black; deluxe sizes of Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer in Fenty Glow, and Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray; and minis of Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum, Natasha Denona Baby Retro Palette, Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, and Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush. Price at time of publish: $54 Wander x Tenoverten Mask & Mani Set Wander Beauty View On Wanderbeauty.com Cover all the bases with this collab between Wander Beauty and Tenoverten that features the two brands’ cult favorites in a limited-edition duo. Celebrating self-care in style, the set includes three full-size nail polishes from Tenoverten in R&R (soft pink), First Class (metallic gold), and Soirée (berry), along with six of Wander Beauty’s chic, selfie star Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks. Price at time of publish: $46 Chantecaille Longest Lash Faux Cils Mascara Bluemercury View On Bluemercury.com Treat your loved one to a luxe mascara that does much more than simply boost length. “This mascara makes your lashes look longer and fuller than ever with lash-boosting peptides,” Quilhot says. That means lashes will feel as good as they look, since the formula is also spiked with nourishing rose oil. The double helix brush works to comb through every lash, leaving defined volume behind. Price at time of publish: $74 Olive & June The 25 Days of Mani Magic Olive & June View On Oliveandjune.com Have a very mani Christmas with this charming advent calendar. Behind each little door is a fun surprise — including nail polishes, stickers, press-ons, dry drops, top coat, mini nail files, an overnight hand treatment, buffer, cuticle serum, and petite manicure tools. Those who celebrate Hanukkah can opt for The 8 Nights of Mani Magic and find similar treasures inside each door for every night. Price at time of publish: $65 Benefit Jolly Brow Bunch Ulta View On Ulta No one does brows quite like Benefit Cosmetics, making this a must-have gift for those striving for snatched arches. Everything needed for sleek, chic brows is included in full sizes: Gimme Brow+ to pump up the volume; Precisely, My Brow Pencil, which draws on hair-like strokes that look perfectly natural with 12-hour staying power; and 24-HR Brow Setter to keep it all in place. The adorable and reusable tin makes it gifting-ready, too. Price at time of publish: $35 Clé de Peau Beauté Limited Edition Lipstick Mini Set Clé de Peau View On Cledepeaubeaute.com You simply can’t go wrong with a luxe lipstick — and this striking set includes five of them encased in dreamy celestial packaging created by Parisian jeweler Elie Top. The set includes satin shades — Camellia and Triumphant Tawny — as well as elegant matte hues Legend of Rouge, Pink Honeysuckle, and Uncompromising Coral. Made to nourish your kisser, the formula is infused with argan oil and the brand’s Comfort Fit Oil for cozy wear. Price at time of publish: $98 Ogee Crystal Contour Collection Ogee Crystal View On Bluemercury.com View On Ogee.com View On Shopbop.com “We are loving this easy face trio that features a cream bronzer, blush, and highlighter from new organic ‘It’ brand, OGEE,” Quilhot says. Start a new crystal collection with shades that were inspired by rocks: Rose Quartz delivers a rosy hue to cheeks, Copper is a shimmery bronze that brings dimension, and Opal provides a gorgeous gleam wherever you apply it. Price at time of publish: $126 GXVE By Gwen Stefani Original Minis Mini Lip Kit Sephora View On Sephora Gwen Stefani’s signature bold red lip has become nearly as iconic as the singer herself. Now you can rock her exact look with her mini lip kit. The limited-edition set comes with three finishes of Gwen’s tried-and-true hue Original Recipe — a universal true red. For a matte finish, there’s the I'm Still Here Longwear Matte Liquid Lipstick; Original Me High-Performance Matte Lipstick has a velvety-matte finish; and Anaheim Shine High-Performance Satin Lipstick has a smooth, satin finish. Price at time of publish: $25 Bobbi Brown Holiday Embossed Highlighting Powder Bergdorm Goodman View On Bergdorfgoodman.com Bobbi Brown’s best-selling powder highlighter got a limited-edition holiday makeover. The prismatic holiday packaging will look as pretty on your recipient’s vanity as it will on their skin. The long-wear formula goes on like a powder but has the feel of a gel, and can be used on eyes and cheeks for a gorgeous gleam, courtesy of microfine pearl pigments that give off natural radiance. Price at time of publish: $52 NARS Rising Star Cheek Palette Sephora View On Sephora Get cheeky with NARS when you use their limited-edition blush palette, featuring six shades that work with all skin tones. Both the lightweight powders and the compact itself are adorned with stars for a holiday season feel. The pressed powder formulas feature translucent micro-spheres with pure pigment to make the most of each hue. There’s a shade for every mood and look: Guilty Pleasure (rose gold), Famous (bright pink), Golden Age (cool fuchsia), Limelight (pink mauve), Paramount (peachy coral), and Premiere (bordeaux red). Price at time of publish: $60 Lune+Aster Fabulous in Five! Double Booked Edition Makeup Set bluemercury View On Bluemercury.com “The Fabulous Five! Double Booked Edition Makeup Set is inspired by [Lune+Aster's] best-selling Double Booked shade, and includes top-selling vegan and gluten-free beauty essentials, as well as the never-before sold, limited edition Double Booked Face & Eye palette and the Vitamin C+E Lip Gloss in Double Booked, so you can effortlessly create a gorgeous, signature look in a flash!” Quilhot says. “This quintessential beauty set is $98 and has a $243 value.” Price at time of publish: $98 Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush 3-Piece Set Sephora View On Sephora In a world filled with celebrity beauty lines, Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty has remained a fan favorite for its formulas that deliver, and its built-in giveback program that benefits mental health. The brand’s best-selling blush is available this year in a gift-ready trio, including a full-size Encourage (a soft neutral pink) and two travel-friendly minis: Happy (a dewy cool pink) and the new Truth (a dewy mauve maroon), which is exclusive to the set. Price at time of publish: $30 Sephora Collection Wishing You Cream Lip Stain Set Sephora View On Sephora “If you know someone who loves long-lasting lip colors, you need to snag this right away,” says Sephora Collection National Artist Helen Phillips Dagdag. “With this value, you get four free lip stains in best-selling shades. Who doesn’t need Always Red and Marvelous Mauve?” There are six Cream Lip Stains total, ranging in hues from nude and pink to bright red. Price at time of publish: $30 PAT McGRATH LABS Mothership Mega: Celestial Nirvana Sephora View On Sephora As one of the most coveted beauty brands on the planet, anything by Pat McGrath Labs is sure to be one of the best gifts for makeup lovers. Known for creating some of the most iconic runway looks in fashion, celebrity makeup artist Pat McGrath infused her signature beautiful boldness into this limited-edition palette. There are 18 brand-new shades in four creamy textures, meaning the looks you can create are endless. Price at time of publish: $82 NYX Professional Makeup Holiday 24 Day Advent Calendar Ulta View On Nyxcosmetics.com Counting down to Christmas has never been more fun thanks to this 24-day makeup advent calendar from NYX. The limited-edition gift contains all anyone needs for merry makeup during the holiday party season — spanning through lips, face and eyes. It includes everything from a range of lipsticks and glosses to mattifying powder, eyeshadow, liquid highlighter, and finishing sprays — just to name a few items. Price at time of publish: $65 Huda Beauty Empowered Eyeshadow Palette Sephora View On Sephora If anyone knows empowerment, it’s Huda Kattan, a makeup artist and beauty blogger who brought her brand to international acclaim. It’s easy to see why that’s the theme of this eyeshadow palette, which is filled with bold shades of gold, copper, browns, and neutrals. The range of finishes — including matte, gel-liner hybrid, wet-look shimmer, and foiled chrome metallic textures — make this palette incredibly versatile. Price at time of publish: $67 Patrick Ta Major Headlines Blush Palette Vol. II Sephora View On Sephora True to its name, celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta knows how to make memorable makeup looks. This blush palette will help you recreate his in-demand aesthetic at home. The limited-edition face palette has two new blush shades (a pink and golden peach), two classic blushes, and a new highlighter pair including a creamy opal pearlescent powder and transparent gloss. No matter how you want to glow, this has got you covered. Price at time of publish: $58 Clinique Ready, Set, Refresh Skincare and Makeup Set Ulta View On Ulta Sneak in a little skincare with this kit that covers both bases. Tucked inside the adorable, gift-ready packaging is all the skincare and makeup essentials you need to get ready for the day. Best of all, each product works for all skin tones and types to take out the guesswork. There’s the All About Clean 2-in-1 Cleansing + Exfoliating Jelly, All About Eyes Eye Cream, Almost Lipstick in Black Honey, Clinique Happy Perfume Spray, Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator, Take Off The Day Cleansing Balm, and High Impact Mascara. Price at time of publish: $43 Too Faced Lip Injection Plumping Mobile Sephora View On Sephora Pump up the volume on your pucker with this limited-edition, travel-size lip plumper set. Designed to plump lips immediately and over time, the volumizing gloss also delivers hydration, nourishment, and shine. The trio includes Lip Injection Extreme in Original, and Lip Injection Maximum Plump in Original and Angel Kisses. Bonus: We bet your friends will wheely like the kitschy truck packaging. Price at time of publish: $36 Valentino Beauty Rosso Valentino Lipstick Set Nordstrom View On Nordstrom Sustainability has never looked so stylish. This Valentino case is a head-turner on its own — then there’s the lipstick, designed with a v-shaped bullet for precision application. One full-size lipstick is included (22R Rosso Valentino, a satin universal red). It also comes with four refills: 100R Roman Grace (a satin nude-pink), 107A Ode to Natural (a matte mauvy rose), 22A Rosso Valentino (a warm matte red) and 221R Red Show (a satin burgundy). Simply pop the refills into the full size packaging and have luxe lips wherever you go. Price at time of publish: $150 Freck Beauty Best of Freck Holiday Set Sephora View On Sephora Talk about a power couple! The TikTok-beloved brand is offering two of its best-sellers that make for the perfect stocking stuffer. With the price nearly slashed in half, it includes their Lashrocket Mascara, a nourishing formula loaded with peptides to improve the health and appearance of lashes over time. Then there’s Freck OG to create long-wearing, natural-looking faux freckles. Price at time of publish: $25 Cupcake Vineyards x butter LONDON Cupcake Pop and Polish Kit Little Wine Market View On Littlewinemarket.com Toast to the season (and to an incredible DIY mani) with this adorable limited-edition set. Butter London teamed up with Cupcake Vineyard to bring two chip-resistant nail lacquers to life inspired by the bubbly beverages. The two polishes — Back in a Prosecco (a metallic gold shimmer) and Color Me Moscato (a translucent confetti sparkle) — are made with diamond powder to brighten stained nails, and bamboo extract to strengthen. Along with the festive polish, the set includes two 187ml bottles of Cupcake Vineyard’s prosecco and moscato. Price at time of publish: $25 Why Shop With Us Celia Shatzman is a freelance writer for multiple publications including InStyle and Forbes,and has nearly two decades of beauty writing experience. To create this list, she included her favorite brands and personally tried and tested products, and also interviewed four beauty experts — Leigh Quilhot, Senior Director of Merchandizing at Bluemercury, Sephora Beauty Directors David Razzano and Melinda Solares, and Sephora Collection National Artist Helen Phillips Dagdag — for their product picks and holiday trend forecasting. 33 Luxury Beauty Gifts for Those Who Enjoy the Finer Things in Life