6 Lighting Options to Help You Apply Makeup Like a Pro

By Alexis Bennett
Updated Apr 29, 2019 @ 4:15 pm
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It doesn't matter how many YouTube tutorials you watch on contouring or creating a perfect crease cut. If your lighting is off, you more than likely won't get camera-ready results. Makeup artists and beauty bloggers know that the secret to a flawless finish starts with a correctly lit workspace.

When in doubt, natural light is always the best option. But if you're like me and have a bathroom that doesn't have any windows or isn't as bright as you'd like, there are alternatives. Something as simple as switching flourescent light bulbs for LEDs could make all of the difference. There are even cell phone cases with warm, white lights that make applying your makeup while on the go pretty easy, too.

Ahead, we've gathered our favorite tools that will give the dimmest areas picture-perfect lighting. Whether you're a makeup newbie or a DIY pro, these lighting options will help you achieve flawlessly even coverage every time.

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Reign Charm Holly Bathroom/Vanity Mirror

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$310
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Give your vanity table the ultimate glamorous makeover with this handy mirror. It comes in a black or white finish, and includes 12 dimmable light bulbs and two USB and standard outlets, so you can charge your phone or plug in your curling iron.

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LuMee Duo Marble Case

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$70
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Here's a cell phone case that's perfect for those moments when you need to reapply your lipstick in the back of a dark Uber. LED bulbs frame both the front and back cameras, creating a flattering glow. It'll give your nighttime selfies and FaceTime calls a well-lit ambiance, too.

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GE Reveal 75-Watt Energy Efficient Halogen Light Bulb

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$8 for a Pack of 2
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Natural daylight will always be your best friend when applying makeup. But if you're not lucky enough to have a sun-drenched apartment, it's easy to replace all bulbs with the GE Reveal. The halogen bulbs are designed to mimic the rays of the sun, so this is really as close as it gets to the real thing.

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OttLite Natural Daylight Makeup Mirror

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$30
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Here's a portable option you can keep at your desk for afternoon touchups. There are two light panels with natural illumination and the mirror has 5x magnification so you can get a perfect look.

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Glamcor Tec Multimedia Extreme with Selfie Function

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$523
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It's no surprise that celebrity makeup artists are obsessed with this game-changing light. Not only does it offer adjustable, flattering lighting, it's also lightweight and easy to pack and travel with. If you're serious about making sure you have the best lighting 24-7, this one is worth the investment.

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Jerdon HL88CLD LED Lighted Direct Wire Wall Mount Makeup Mirror

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$95
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Looking for something a tad more subtle to add to your vanity? This mounted swivel mirror offers 8x magnification, as well as evenly distributed light around the circumference.

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By Alexis Bennett