{"id":1700534,"date":"2026-01-16T20:39:37","date_gmt":"2026-01-16T17:39:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1700534"},"modified":"2026-01-16T20:39:37","modified_gmt":"2026-01-16T17:39:37","slug":"im-a-makeup-artist-heres-my-honest-take-on-merit-beauty","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1700534","title":{"rendered":"I&#8217;m a Makeup Artist\u2014Here&#8217;s My Honest Take on Merit Beauty"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><main id=\"main_1-0\" class=\"comp main mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--two-column-right-rail sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">I&#8217;m a Makeup Artist\u2014Here&#8217;s My Honest Take on Merit Beauty<\/h1>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Ashley Rebecca is a NYC-based contributor for Byrdie, where she covers makeup, skincare, and more. She has 20+ years of experience as a makeup artist and has contributed to Byrdie for the past ten years.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"A seated woman holding a black cat, smiling at the camera\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ashley-rebecca-freelancer-bio-picture-byrdie-formatted-26a213c7f8c24ec390cd93222c1d2d2e-3.webp\" title=\"ashley-rebecca-freelancer-bio-picture-byrdie-formatted-26a213c7f8c24ec390cd93222c1d2d2e-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ashley-rebecca-freelancer-bio-picture-byrdie-formatted-26a213c7f8c24ec390cd93222c1d2d2e-3.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A seated woman holding a black cat, smiling at the camera\" title=\"ashley-rebecca-freelancer-bio-picture-byrdie-formatted-26a213c7f8c24ec390cd93222c1d2d2e-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nAshley Rebecca\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--x\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nAshley Rebecca is a NYC-based contributor for Byrdie, where she covers makeup, skincare, and more. She has 20+ years of experience as a makeup artist and has contributed to Byrdie for the past ten years.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on January 16, 2026 03:39PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<div id=\"list-sc_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7.webp\" width=\"4000\" height=\"3000\" alt=\"A model applying cosmetic products shown in two sidebyside closeup views\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7.webp\" width=\"4000\" height=\"3000\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A model applying cosmetic products shown in two sidebyside closeup views\" title=\"meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"article-intro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-intro mntl-block\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> It goes without saying that the beauty industry is crowded. With so many brands, new product launches every week, and formulas constantly evolving, there&#8217;s a lot to consider when shopping for makeup and determining what&#8217;s worth your money.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Intending to simplify your makeup routine and develop clean, innovative formulas, Merit Beauty has built a brand of timeless offerings that don&#8217;t compromise on quality. Initially launched as a direct-to-consumer brand, Merit Beauty has expanded into Sephora and built a notable social media presence (745K followers and counting on Instagram). Think of Merit Beauty as the brand that wants you to look and feel your best, every day, all while giving you products and formulas you&#8217;ll love for the long haul. <strong>I tested 10 of Merit Beauty&#8217;s most popular products\u2014here are my honest thoughts as a makeup artist.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc__content mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"15\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_1-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">01<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Great Skin Serum <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person touching their face showing skin texture and a hand with redpainted nails\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba.webp\" title=\"merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person touching their face showing skin texture and a hand with redpainted nails\" title=\"merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_1-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$38 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Skin prep is a step you can&#8217;t skip if you want beautiful makeup. You don&#8217;t need several products\u2014just a few that get the job done. The Great Skin Serum gives a dewy glow in just one application, hydrating and plumping skin with a lightweight finish. I love wearing this product on its own or under makeup, as it gives me the glow I&#8217;m looking for and makes my skin feel amazing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_2-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_2-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">02<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_2-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying a cosmetic product to their cheek using a stick applicator\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_2-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325.webp\" title=\"merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying a cosmetic product to their cheek using a stick applicator\" title=\"merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_2-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$38 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Think of the Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick as a skin tint and concealer in one. With buildable coverage, you can spot-treat specific areas or apply it evenly for an even complexion. The formula is light and doesn&#8217;t feel caky, even after building the coverage. With a light to medium coverage, it&#8217;s suitable for anyone looking to enhance their skin but who isn&#8217;t a regular foundation wearer. Packed with fatty acids that condition skin while locking in moisture, it&#8217;s a your-skin-but-better type of feel.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_3-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_3-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">03<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_3-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Brush No. 1 <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a persons face with a makeup brush applying foundation on their cheek\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_3-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014.webp\" title=\"merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a persons face with a makeup brush applying foundation on their cheek\" title=\"merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_3-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$33 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Brushes are essential for applying makeup. The No. 1 Brush is dense enough to blend out complexion makeup without streaking or pilling, and feels wonderfully soft on the skin. I prefer to use brushes with dense hair both personally and professionally because they blend products so well. I tested this brush to blend several cream products, and it worked wonderfully and did not irritate my skin.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_4-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_4-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">04<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_4-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A woman using a makeup stick on her cheek\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_4-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3.webp\" title=\"merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman using a makeup stick on her cheek\" title=\"merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_4-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$30 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Adding a warm flush to the skin can give that &#8220;just got back from vacation&#8221; look, but bronzer can be tricky to master due to its varied shades and tendency to look orange. The Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer melts into my skin without turning orange or ruddy, which is crucial for me as I&#8217;m so fair.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I found that applying it along the cheekbones and blending it upward gave my skin both warmth and a lift, and the balm is easy to both mix and layer. The formula is excellent for all skin types, especially dry skin, which may experience streaking with traditional bronzing powders. Think of this product as the most natural-looking, easy-to-blend bronzer in a conditioning balm formula.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_5-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_5-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">05<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_5-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Flush Balm Cheek Color <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A person applying cream to their cheek using a small container\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_5-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9.webp\" title=\"merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person applying cream to their cheek using a small container\" title=\"merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_5-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$30 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I love cream blush and wear it daily. I&#8217;m all about a natural-looking skin flush, which is why I instantly fell in love with the Flush Balm Cheek Color. It glides on the skin like silk, blends without streaking, and layers well for more saturation. The formula is light, unlike other cream blushes, which can deposit too much color on the initial swipe.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> On days when I want to wear minimal makeup, I reach for this blush to add the extra color I need. Microfine pigments work with the skin to enhance natural texture rather than cover it up. I found the best way to wear and apply this blush is to smile and use it on the apples of the cheeks, blending it out with a brush to distribute the color evenly.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_6-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_6-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">06<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_6-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Brow 1980 <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying eyebrow makeup using a brush\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_6-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54.webp\" title=\"merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying eyebrow makeup using a brush\" title=\"merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_6-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$24 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Brow pomades are a great alternative to a pencil when you want a full, fluffy look. The Brow 1980 pomade is easy to swipe through the eyebrows, depositing color on the hair and lifting brow hairs. With Kaolin clay and mineral pigments that provide a subtle tint to brow hairs, I find this pomade looks natural and is easy to apply. I achieve the best results when I take the brush, run it backward through my hair from the tail of my brow to the front, then use it to brush my brow hairs upward. Wear it alone or with a brow pencil for a more distinct shape.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_7-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_7-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">07<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_7-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Solo Shadow Eye Color <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A makeup brush applying eyeshadow to a persons eyelid\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_7-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6.webp\" title=\"merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A makeup brush applying eyeshadow to a persons eyelid\" title=\"merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_7-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$26 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Solo Shadow, available in both sheen and matte formulas, is ideal for applying color to the eyelid without committing to an intricate eye makeup look. I appreciate the sheen it gives and find it easier to use with a shadow brush than with my finger. The color does deposit sheerly, so if you want more saturation and contrast, you&#8217;ll need to layer it a few times for a more noticeable finish. It wears well both on its own and as a shadow base for powder eyeshadow formulas.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_8-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_8-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">08<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_8-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Day Glow Highlighting Balm <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Person applying makeup to their cheek using a cosmetic stick\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_8-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e.webp\" title=\"merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person applying makeup to their cheek using a cosmetic stick\" title=\"merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_8-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$32 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Day Glow Highlighting Balm gives your skin an instant glow and shine without looking greasy or feeling tacky. Highlighter comes in different formulas; this one is a dream, as you can swipe it on the cheek, blend it, and sheer it out with a brush. I like to apply it directly on top of my blush, then bring it up to the brow bone for added highlight. The round shape allows for the highlighter to be distributed evenly, with zero noticeable sparkle.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_9-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_9-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">09<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_9-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying mascara to their eyelashes using a wand\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_9-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923.webp\" title=\"merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying mascara to their eyelashes using a wand\" title=\"merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_9-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$26 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For lashes that need both a tint and a lift, this mascara helps you achieve both. Since it&#8217;s a tubing formula, it&#8217;s also easy to remove with just water or a gentle cleanser. I like the size of the brush and how easy the formula is to both wear and apply. For a more voluminous look, apply 2-3 coats of this mascara to enhance volume and achieve fuller, thicker eyelashes.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_10-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_10-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">10<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_10-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying lip gloss with a brush\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_10-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8.webp\" title=\"merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying lip gloss with a brush\" title=\"merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_10-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$24 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> My lips are often dry, so I always have a balm or lip oil on hand to keep them moisturized throughout the day. This Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil doesn&#8217;t deposit bold color, but it provides a subtle tint to the lips and leaves them feeling conditioned (omega-3 fatty acids and rosehip oil are the hero ingredients). The one thing I noticed the most is that there&#8217;s zero stickiness in the formula, which is hard to find in a lip product with a glossy finish. I reapply this lip oil throughout the day and love the feel of it, as it doesn&#8217;t cause my lips to flake with repeated use or build-up.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Makeup<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Face<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div id=\"recirc_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h2 id=\"recirc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc__heading mntl-text-block\">Related Stories<\/h2>\n<ul id=\"card-list-1_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list-1 card-list mntl-block l-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"card-list__item_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Person applying drugstore bronzer from L'Oreal to cheeks with cheek brush\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/best-drugstore-bronzers-byrdie-recirc-79ac06375c5548b8aabb2fc8c86d3536-6.webp\" title=\"best-drugstore-bronzers-byrdie-recirc-79ac06375c5548b8aabb2fc8c86d3536-6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/best-drugstore-bronzers-byrdie-recirc-79ac06375c5548b8aabb2fc8c86d3536-6.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person applying drugstore bronzer from L'Oreal to cheeks with cheek brush\" title=\"best-drugstore-bronzers-byrdie-recirc-79ac06375c5548b8aabb2fc8c86d3536-6\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 9 Best Drugstore Bronzers We Tested for Every Skin Tone and Type <\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_2-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"two testers holding drugstore setting sprays from Pacifica and e.l.f.\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-drugstore-setting-spray-tout-recirc-09ec036e8cb7461db22d4ea9dafd9dfc-7.webp\" title=\"byr-best-drugstore-setting-spray-tout-recirc-09ec036e8cb7461db22d4ea9dafd9dfc-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-drugstore-setting-spray-tout-recirc-09ec036e8cb7461db22d4ea9dafd9dfc-7.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"two testers holding drugstore setting sprays from Pacifica and e.l.f.\" title=\"byr-best-drugstore-setting-spray-tout-recirc-09ec036e8cb7461db22d4ea9dafd9dfc-7\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 10 Best Drugstore Setting Sprays We Tested for Long-Lasting Makeup<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_3-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Two people with a varying skin types testing concealers for every skin type and concern\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-concealers-tout-recirc-ed86570164fe4fac925cdf6cb062a0b1-6.webp\" title=\"byr-concealers-tout-recirc-ed86570164fe4fac925cdf6cb062a0b1-6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-concealers-tout-recirc-ed86570164fe4fac925cdf6cb062a0b1-6.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Two people with a varying skin types testing concealers for every skin type and concern\" title=\"byr-concealers-tout-recirc-ed86570164fe4fac925cdf6cb062a0b1-6\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 17 Best Concealers for Every Skin Type and Concern, Tested by Our Editors<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_4-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Person Before and After Application Of Bobbi Brown Color Correct Under Eye Color Correct Corrector\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-color-correctors-for-dark-circles-tout-recirc-b7ff6f304d004feaa5f6d28457d99739-5.webp\" title=\"byr-color-correctors-for-dark-circles-tout-recirc-b7ff6f304d004feaa5f6d28457d99739-5\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-color-correctors-for-dark-circles-tout-recirc-b7ff6f304d004feaa5f6d28457d99739-5.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person Before and After Application Of Bobbi Brown Color Correct Under Eye Color Correct Corrector\" title=\"byr-color-correctors-for-dark-circles-tout-recirc-b7ff6f304d004feaa5f6d28457d99739-5\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 8 Best Color Correctors for Dark Circles, Loved By Testers and Approved By Experts<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_5-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Gigi Hadid posing with styled hair and makeup\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/nyemakeup1-e6c5a1397cca41209ca521f1274f2875-5.webp\" title=\"nyemakeup1-e6c5a1397cca41209ca521f1274f2875-5\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/nyemakeup1-e6c5a1397cca41209ca521f1274f2875-5.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Gigi Hadid posing with styled hair and makeup\" title=\"nyemakeup1-e6c5a1397cca41209ca521f1274f2875-5\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">23 New Year\u2019s Eve Makeup Looks To Ring In 2026 the Glamorous Way<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_6-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Byrdie writer and makeup artist Ashley Rebecca before and after applying Dear Dahlia liquid blush\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/recircpng-8eb76868768746fb9add7e0a33b52e88-7.webp\" title=\"recircpng-8eb76868768746fb9add7e0a33b52e88-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/recircpng-8eb76868768746fb9add7e0a33b52e88-7.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Byrdie writer and makeup artist Ashley Rebecca before and after applying Dear Dahlia liquid blush\" title=\"recircpng-8eb76868768746fb9add7e0a33b52e88-7\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">I&#8217;m a Makeup Artist\u2014This K-Beauty Blush Is the Best I&#8217;ve Tried in Years<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_7-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Two individuals holding concealer products, one on the left wearing a yellow shirt and curly hair, the other on the right with wavy hair\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-drugstore-concealers-tout-recirc-bfcea868701946f193eeac985d9826c3-8.webp\" title=\"byr-drugstore-concealers-tout-recirc-bfcea868701946f193eeac985d9826c3-8\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-drugstore-concealers-tout-recirc-bfcea868701946f193eeac985d9826c3-8.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Two individuals holding concealer products, one on the left wearing a yellow shirt and curly hair, the other on the right with wavy hair\" title=\"byr-drugstore-concealers-tout-recirc-bfcea868701946f193eeac985d9826c3-8\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">10 Best Drugstore Concealers Makeup Artists Swear Rival High-End Options<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_8-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Two images side by side showing a person applying foundation with a makeup sponge\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-best-makeup-sponges-tout-recirc-ac05199ee5be4ac78c1fb966cb1cc29c-9.webp\" title=\"the-best-makeup-sponges-tout-recirc-ac05199ee5be4ac78c1fb966cb1cc29c-9\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-best-makeup-sponges-tout-recirc-ac05199ee5be4ac78c1fb966cb1cc29c-9.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Two images side by side showing a person applying foundation with a makeup sponge\" title=\"the-best-makeup-sponges-tout-recirc-ac05199ee5be4ac78c1fb966cb1cc29c-9\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 9 Best Makeup Sponges That Converted Me From an Exclusive Makeup Brush User<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul id=\"card-list-2_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list-2 card-list mntl-block l-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"card-list__item_9-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Person drinking from a cup with skincare patches under eyes holding hand to their face\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/winter-uglies-554063c09da745d389e0a5b9b64b5f3b-3.webp\" title=\"winter-uglies-554063c09da745d389e0a5b9b64b5f3b-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/winter-uglies-554063c09da745d389e0a5b9b64b5f3b-3.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person drinking from a cup with skincare patches under eyes holding hand to their face\" title=\"winter-uglies-554063c09da745d389e0a5b9b64b5f3b-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">10 Makeup Tips for Combating the &#8220;Winter Uglies&#8221;\u2014According to a Makeup Artist<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_10-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A person applies CoverGirl Easy Breezy Brow Powder Kit next to a person after applying CoverGirl Easy Breezy Brow Powder Kit\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-best-brow-powders-tout-2-recirc-741bae6a579d4eeda5f5fc190bf78d1e-6.webp\" title=\"the-best-brow-powders-tout-2-recirc-741bae6a579d4eeda5f5fc190bf78d1e-6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-best-brow-powders-tout-2-recirc-741bae6a579d4eeda5f5fc190bf78d1e-6.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person applies CoverGirl Easy Breezy Brow Powder Kit next to a person after applying CoverGirl Easy Breezy Brow Powder Kit\" title=\"the-best-brow-powders-tout-2-recirc-741bae6a579d4eeda5f5fc190bf78d1e-6\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 5 Best Brow Powders for Fluffy, Defined Arches<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_11-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A person applying powder makeup with a brush and showcasing the results in a sidebyside comparison\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-setting-powders-tout-recirc-4f3633cbaa014176a8baa293899a6ffc-7.webp\" title=\"byr-best-setting-powders-tout-recirc-4f3633cbaa014176a8baa293899a6ffc-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-setting-powders-tout-recirc-4f3633cbaa014176a8baa293899a6ffc-7.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person applying powder makeup with a brush and showcasing the results in a sidebyside comparison\" title=\"byr-best-setting-powders-tout-recirc-4f3633cbaa014176a8baa293899a6ffc-7\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">10 Best Setting Powders That Keep Your Makeup Looking Freshly Applied All Day Long<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_12-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A woman applying mascara in a splitscreen image showing her before and after using the product\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-mascaras-for-older-women-tout-1-recirc-592b71825f2d4a37a3944efc76de25ce-8.webp\" title=\"byr-best-mascaras-for-older-women-tout-1-recirc-592b71825f2d4a37a3944efc76de25ce-8\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-mascaras-for-older-women-tout-1-recirc-592b71825f2d4a37a3944efc76de25ce-8.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman applying mascara in a splitscreen image showing her before and after using the product\" title=\"byr-best-mascaras-for-older-women-tout-1-recirc-592b71825f2d4a37a3944efc76de25ce-8\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The Best Mascara for Mature Women That Won\u2019t Irritate Sensitive Eyes or Damage Fragile Lashes<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_13-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Two people applying waterproof mascara to their eyelashes\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-best-waterproof-mascaras-tout-recirc-4ad4677f553a4ad88f32f3d78b3cb0dc-9.webp\" title=\"the-best-waterproof-mascaras-tout-recirc-4ad4677f553a4ad88f32f3d78b3cb0dc-9\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-best-waterproof-mascaras-tout-recirc-4ad4677f553a4ad88f32f3d78b3cb0dc-9.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Two people applying waterproof mascara to their eyelashes\" title=\"the-best-waterproof-mascaras-tout-recirc-4ad4677f553a4ad88f32f3d78b3cb0dc-9\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">These 8 Waterproof Mascaras Withstand Humidity, Sweat, and Tears, According to Testers<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_14-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A woman holding cosmetic products in a cozy setting\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/koreanmakeup5-b7b4bab8caf64591af3d076df61905fc-3.webp\" title=\"koreanmakeup5-b7b4bab8caf64591af3d076df61905fc-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/koreanmakeup5-b7b4bab8caf64591af3d076df61905fc-3.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman holding cosmetic products in a cozy setting\" title=\"koreanmakeup5-b7b4bab8caf64591af3d076df61905fc-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">We Asked K-Beauty Experts for Their Favorite Korean Makeup Brands<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_15-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Person undergoing a cosmetic eyebrow procedure performed by another individual using a specialized tool\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/eyebrows_lead_recirc-1da4f48517d44298928ff81cf0c16b53-7.webp\" title=\"eyebrows_lead_recirc-1da4f48517d44298928ff81cf0c16b53-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/eyebrows_lead_recirc-1da4f48517d44298928ff81cf0c16b53-7.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person undergoing a cosmetic eyebrow procedure performed by another individual using a specialized tool\" title=\"eyebrows_lead_recirc-1da4f48517d44298928ff81cf0c16b53-7\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">What the Heck Are We Doing With Our Eyebrows in 2026?<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_16-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"LilyRose Depp with hair styled in curls posing\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr_di_balletlip_recirc-bf3270b11d9d4d6c90cf037c13ccbd87-8.webp\" title=\"byr_di_balletlip_recirc-bf3270b11d9d4d6c90cf037c13ccbd87-8\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr_di_balletlip_recirc-bf3270b11d9d4d6c90cf037c13ccbd87-8.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"LilyRose Depp with hair styled in curls posing\" title=\"byr_di_balletlip_recirc-bf3270b11d9d4d6c90cf037c13ccbd87-8\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Try Winter&#8217;s &#8220;Ballet Slipper&#8221; Lip Trend for the Prettiest, Most En Pointe Pout<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/main><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--two-column-right-rail sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">I&#8217;m a Makeup Artist\u2014Here&#8217;s My Honest Take on Merit Beauty<\/h1>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Ashley Rebecca is a NYC-based contributor for Byrdie, where she covers makeup, skincare, and more. She has 20+ years of experience as a makeup artist and has contributed to Byrdie for the past ten years.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"A seated woman holding a black cat, smiling at the camera\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ashley-rebecca-freelancer-bio-picture-byrdie-formatted-26a213c7f8c24ec390cd93222c1d2d2e-3.webp\" title=\"ashley-rebecca-freelancer-bio-picture-byrdie-formatted-26a213c7f8c24ec390cd93222c1d2d2e-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ashley-rebecca-freelancer-bio-picture-byrdie-formatted-26a213c7f8c24ec390cd93222c1d2d2e-3.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A seated woman holding a black cat, smiling at the camera\" title=\"ashley-rebecca-freelancer-bio-picture-byrdie-formatted-26a213c7f8c24ec390cd93222c1d2d2e-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nAshley Rebecca\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--x\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nAshley Rebecca is a NYC-based contributor for Byrdie, where she covers makeup, skincare, and more. She has 20+ years of experience as a makeup artist and has contributed to Byrdie for the past ten years.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on January 16, 2026 03:39PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<div id=\"list-sc_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7.webp\" width=\"4000\" height=\"3000\" alt=\"A model applying cosmetic products shown in two sidebyside closeup views\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7.webp\" width=\"4000\" height=\"3000\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A model applying cosmetic products shown in two sidebyside closeup views\" title=\"meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"article-intro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-intro mntl-block\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> It goes without saying that the beauty industry is crowded. With so many brands, new product launches every week, and formulas constantly evolving, there&#8217;s a lot to consider when shopping for makeup and determining what&#8217;s worth your money.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Intending to simplify your makeup routine and develop clean, innovative formulas, Merit Beauty has built a brand of timeless offerings that don&#8217;t compromise on quality. Initially launched as a direct-to-consumer brand, Merit Beauty has expanded into Sephora and built a notable social media presence (745K followers and counting on Instagram). Think of Merit Beauty as the brand that wants you to look and feel your best, every day, all while giving you products and formulas you&#8217;ll love for the long haul. <strong>I tested 10 of Merit Beauty&#8217;s most popular products\u2014here are my honest thoughts as a makeup artist.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc__content mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"15\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_1-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">01<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Great Skin Serum <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person touching their face showing skin texture and a hand with redpainted nails\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba.webp\" title=\"merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person touching their face showing skin texture and a hand with redpainted nails\" title=\"merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_1-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$38 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Skin prep is a step you can&#8217;t skip if you want beautiful makeup. You don&#8217;t need several products\u2014just a few that get the job done. The Great Skin Serum gives a dewy glow in just one application, hydrating and plumping skin with a lightweight finish. I love wearing this product on its own or under makeup, as it gives me the glow I&#8217;m looking for and makes my skin feel amazing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_2-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_2-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">02<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_2-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying a cosmetic product to their cheek using a stick applicator\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_2-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325.webp\" title=\"merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying a cosmetic product to their cheek using a stick applicator\" title=\"merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_2-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$38 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Think of the Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick as a skin tint and concealer in one. With buildable coverage, you can spot-treat specific areas or apply it evenly for an even complexion. The formula is light and doesn&#8217;t feel caky, even after building the coverage. With a light to medium coverage, it&#8217;s suitable for anyone looking to enhance their skin but who isn&#8217;t a regular foundation wearer. Packed with fatty acids that condition skin while locking in moisture, it&#8217;s a your-skin-but-better type of feel.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_3-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_3-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">03<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_3-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Brush No. 1 <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a persons face with a makeup brush applying foundation on their cheek\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_3-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014.webp\" title=\"merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a persons face with a makeup brush applying foundation on their cheek\" title=\"merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_3-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$33 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Brushes are essential for applying makeup. The No. 1 Brush is dense enough to blend out complexion makeup without streaking or pilling, and feels wonderfully soft on the skin. I prefer to use brushes with dense hair both personally and professionally because they blend products so well. I tested this brush to blend several cream products, and it worked wonderfully and did not irritate my skin.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_4-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_4-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">04<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_4-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A woman using a makeup stick on her cheek\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_4-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3.webp\" title=\"merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman using a makeup stick on her cheek\" title=\"merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_4-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$30 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Adding a warm flush to the skin can give that &#8220;just got back from vacation&#8221; look, but bronzer can be tricky to master due to its varied shades and tendency to look orange. The Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer melts into my skin without turning orange or ruddy, which is crucial for me as I&#8217;m so fair.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I found that applying it along the cheekbones and blending it upward gave my skin both warmth and a lift, and the balm is easy to both mix and layer. The formula is excellent for all skin types, especially dry skin, which may experience streaking with traditional bronzing powders. Think of this product as the most natural-looking, easy-to-blend bronzer in a conditioning balm formula.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_5-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_5-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">05<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_5-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Flush Balm Cheek Color <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A person applying cream to their cheek using a small container\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_5-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9.webp\" title=\"merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person applying cream to their cheek using a small container\" title=\"merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_5-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$30 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I love cream blush and wear it daily. I&#8217;m all about a natural-looking skin flush, which is why I instantly fell in love with the Flush Balm Cheek Color. It glides on the skin like silk, blends without streaking, and layers well for more saturation. The formula is light, unlike other cream blushes, which can deposit too much color on the initial swipe.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> On days when I want to wear minimal makeup, I reach for this blush to add the extra color I need. Microfine pigments work with the skin to enhance natural texture rather than cover it up. I found the best way to wear and apply this blush is to smile and use it on the apples of the cheeks, blending it out with a brush to distribute the color evenly.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_6-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_6-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">06<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_6-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Brow 1980 <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying eyebrow makeup using a brush\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_6-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54.webp\" title=\"merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying eyebrow makeup using a brush\" title=\"merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_6-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$24 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Brow pomades are a great alternative to a pencil when you want a full, fluffy look. The Brow 1980 pomade is easy to swipe through the eyebrows, depositing color on the hair and lifting brow hairs. With Kaolin clay and mineral pigments that provide a subtle tint to brow hairs, I find this pomade looks natural and is easy to apply. I achieve the best results when I take the brush, run it backward through my hair from the tail of my brow to the front, then use it to brush my brow hairs upward. Wear it alone or with a brow pencil for a more distinct shape.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_7-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_7-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">07<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_7-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Solo Shadow Eye Color <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A makeup brush applying eyeshadow to a persons eyelid\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_7-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6.webp\" title=\"merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A makeup brush applying eyeshadow to a persons eyelid\" title=\"merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_7-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$26 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Solo Shadow, available in both sheen and matte formulas, is ideal for applying color to the eyelid without committing to an intricate eye makeup look. I appreciate the sheen it gives and find it easier to use with a shadow brush than with my finger. The color does deposit sheerly, so if you want more saturation and contrast, you&#8217;ll need to layer it a few times for a more noticeable finish. It wears well both on its own and as a shadow base for powder eyeshadow formulas.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_8-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_8-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">08<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_8-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Day Glow Highlighting Balm <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Person applying makeup to their cheek using a cosmetic stick\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_8-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e.webp\" title=\"merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person applying makeup to their cheek using a cosmetic stick\" title=\"merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_8-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$32 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Day Glow Highlighting Balm gives your skin an instant glow and shine without looking greasy or feeling tacky. Highlighter comes in different formulas; this one is a dream, as you can swipe it on the cheek, blend it, and sheer it out with a brush. I like to apply it directly on top of my blush, then bring it up to the brow bone for added highlight. The round shape allows for the highlighter to be distributed evenly, with zero noticeable sparkle.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_9-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_9-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">09<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_9-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying mascara to their eyelashes using a wand\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_9-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923.webp\" title=\"merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying mascara to their eyelashes using a wand\" title=\"merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_9-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$26 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For lashes that need both a tint and a lift, this mascara helps you achieve both. Since it&#8217;s a tubing formula, it&#8217;s also easy to remove with just water or a gentle cleanser. I like the size of the brush and how easy the formula is to both wear and apply. For a more voluminous look, apply 2-3 coats of this mascara to enhance volume and achieve fuller, thicker eyelashes.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_10-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_10-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">10<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_10-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying lip gloss with a brush\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_10-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8.webp\" title=\"merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying lip gloss with a brush\" title=\"merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_10-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$24 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> My lips are often dry, so I always have a balm or lip oil on hand to keep them moisturized throughout the day. This Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil doesn&#8217;t deposit bold color, but it provides a subtle tint to the lips and leaves them feeling conditioned (omega-3 fatty acids and rosehip oil are the hero ingredients). The one thing I noticed the most is that there&#8217;s zero stickiness in the formula, which is hard to find in a lip product with a glossy finish. I reapply this lip oil throughout the day and love the feel of it, as it doesn&#8217;t cause my lips to flake with repeated use or build-up.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Makeup<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Face<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<div id=\"list-sc_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7.webp\" width=\"4000\" height=\"3000\" alt=\"A model applying cosmetic products shown in two sidebyside closeup views\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7.webp\" width=\"4000\" height=\"3000\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A model applying cosmetic products shown in two sidebyside closeup views\" title=\"meritbyr_leadrecirc-7ae4e4431ba84d0a9473c8577f3b8a22-7\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"article-intro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-intro mntl-block\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> It goes without saying that the beauty industry is crowded. With so many brands, new product launches every week, and formulas constantly evolving, there&#8217;s a lot to consider when shopping for makeup and determining what&#8217;s worth your money.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Intending to simplify your makeup routine and develop clean, innovative formulas, Merit Beauty has built a brand of timeless offerings that don&#8217;t compromise on quality. Initially launched as a direct-to-consumer brand, Merit Beauty has expanded into Sephora and built a notable social media presence (745K followers and counting on Instagram). Think of Merit Beauty as the brand that wants you to look and feel your best, every day, all while giving you products and formulas you&#8217;ll love for the long haul. <strong>I tested 10 of Merit Beauty&#8217;s most popular products\u2014here are my honest thoughts as a makeup artist.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc__content mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"15\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_1-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">01<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Great Skin Serum <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person touching their face showing skin texture and a hand with redpainted nails\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba.webp\" title=\"merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person touching their face showing skin texture and a hand with redpainted nails\" title=\"merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_1-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$38 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Skin prep is a step you can&#8217;t skip if you want beautiful makeup. You don&#8217;t need several products\u2014just a few that get the job done. The Great Skin Serum gives a dewy glow in just one application, hydrating and plumping skin with a lightweight finish. I love wearing this product on its own or under makeup, as it gives me the glow I&#8217;m looking for and makes my skin feel amazing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_2-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_2-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">02<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_2-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying a cosmetic product to their cheek using a stick applicator\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_2-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325.webp\" title=\"merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying a cosmetic product to their cheek using a stick applicator\" title=\"merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_2-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$38 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Think of the Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick as a skin tint and concealer in one. With buildable coverage, you can spot-treat specific areas or apply it evenly for an even complexion. The formula is light and doesn&#8217;t feel caky, even after building the coverage. With a light to medium coverage, it&#8217;s suitable for anyone looking to enhance their skin but who isn&#8217;t a regular foundation wearer. Packed with fatty acids that condition skin while locking in moisture, it&#8217;s a your-skin-but-better type of feel.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_3-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_3-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">03<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_3-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Brush No. 1 <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a persons face with a makeup brush applying foundation on their cheek\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_3-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014.webp\" title=\"merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a persons face with a makeup brush applying foundation on their cheek\" title=\"merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_3-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$33 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Brushes are essential for applying makeup. The No. 1 Brush is dense enough to blend out complexion makeup without streaking or pilling, and feels wonderfully soft on the skin. I prefer to use brushes with dense hair both personally and professionally because they blend products so well. I tested this brush to blend several cream products, and it worked wonderfully and did not irritate my skin.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_4-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_4-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">04<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_4-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A woman using a makeup stick on her cheek\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_4-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3.webp\" title=\"merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman using a makeup stick on her cheek\" title=\"merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_4-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$30 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Adding a warm flush to the skin can give that &#8220;just got back from vacation&#8221; look, but bronzer can be tricky to master due to its varied shades and tendency to look orange. The Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer melts into my skin without turning orange or ruddy, which is crucial for me as I&#8217;m so fair.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I found that applying it along the cheekbones and blending it upward gave my skin both warmth and a lift, and the balm is easy to both mix and layer. The formula is excellent for all skin types, especially dry skin, which may experience streaking with traditional bronzing powders. Think of this product as the most natural-looking, easy-to-blend bronzer in a conditioning balm formula.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_5-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_5-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">05<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_5-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Flush Balm Cheek Color <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A person applying cream to their cheek using a small container\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_5-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9.webp\" title=\"merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person applying cream to their cheek using a small container\" title=\"merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_5-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$30 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I love cream blush and wear it daily. I&#8217;m all about a natural-looking skin flush, which is why I instantly fell in love with the Flush Balm Cheek Color. It glides on the skin like silk, blends without streaking, and layers well for more saturation. The formula is light, unlike other cream blushes, which can deposit too much color on the initial swipe.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> On days when I want to wear minimal makeup, I reach for this blush to add the extra color I need. Microfine pigments work with the skin to enhance natural texture rather than cover it up. I found the best way to wear and apply this blush is to smile and use it on the apples of the cheeks, blending it out with a brush to distribute the color evenly.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_6-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_6-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">06<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_6-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Brow 1980 <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying eyebrow makeup using a brush\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_6-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54.webp\" title=\"merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying eyebrow makeup using a brush\" title=\"merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_6-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$24 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Brow pomades are a great alternative to a pencil when you want a full, fluffy look. The Brow 1980 pomade is easy to swipe through the eyebrows, depositing color on the hair and lifting brow hairs. With Kaolin clay and mineral pigments that provide a subtle tint to brow hairs, I find this pomade looks natural and is easy to apply. I achieve the best results when I take the brush, run it backward through my hair from the tail of my brow to the front, then use it to brush my brow hairs upward. Wear it alone or with a brow pencil for a more distinct shape.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_7-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_7-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">07<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_7-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Solo Shadow Eye Color <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A makeup brush applying eyeshadow to a persons eyelid\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_7-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6.webp\" title=\"merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A makeup brush applying eyeshadow to a persons eyelid\" title=\"merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_7-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$26 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Solo Shadow, available in both sheen and matte formulas, is ideal for applying color to the eyelid without committing to an intricate eye makeup look. I appreciate the sheen it gives and find it easier to use with a shadow brush than with my finger. The color does deposit sheerly, so if you want more saturation and contrast, you&#8217;ll need to layer it a few times for a more noticeable finish. It wears well both on its own and as a shadow base for powder eyeshadow formulas.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_8-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_8-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">08<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_8-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Day Glow Highlighting Balm <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Person applying makeup to their cheek using a cosmetic stick\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_8-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e.webp\" title=\"merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person applying makeup to their cheek using a cosmetic stick\" title=\"merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_8-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$32 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Day Glow Highlighting Balm gives your skin an instant glow and shine without looking greasy or feeling tacky. Highlighter comes in different formulas; this one is a dream, as you can swipe it on the cheek, blend it, and sheer it out with a brush. I like to apply it directly on top of my blush, then bring it up to the brow bone for added highlight. The round shape allows for the highlighter to be distributed evenly, with zero noticeable sparkle.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_9-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_9-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">09<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_9-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying mascara to their eyelashes using a wand\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_9-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923.webp\" title=\"merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying mascara to their eyelashes using a wand\" title=\"merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_9-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$26 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For lashes that need both a tint and a lift, this mascara helps you achieve both. Since it&#8217;s a tubing formula, it&#8217;s also easy to remove with just water or a gentle cleanser. I like the size of the brush and how easy the formula is to both wear and apply. For a more voluminous look, apply 2-3 coats of this mascara to enhance volume and achieve fuller, thicker eyelashes.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_10-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_10-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">10<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_10-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying lip gloss with a brush\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_10-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8.webp\" title=\"merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying lip gloss with a brush\" title=\"merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_10-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$24 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> My lips are often dry, so I always have a balm or lip oil on hand to keep them moisturized throughout the day. This Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil doesn&#8217;t deposit bold color, but it provides a subtle tint to the lips and leaves them feeling conditioned (omega-3 fatty acids and rosehip oil are the hero ingredients). The one thing I noticed the most is that there&#8217;s zero stickiness in the formula, which is hard to find in a lip product with a glossy finish. I reapply this lip oil throughout the day and love the feel of it, as it doesn&#8217;t cause my lips to flake with repeated use or build-up.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc__content mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"15\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_1-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">01<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Great Skin Serum <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person touching their face showing skin texture and a hand with redpainted nails\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba.webp\" title=\"merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person touching their face showing skin texture and a hand with redpainted nails\" title=\"merit8-d4aa512dea9a4777941f4c8f0488efba\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_1-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$38 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Skin prep is a step you can&#8217;t skip if you want beautiful makeup. You don&#8217;t need several products\u2014just a few that get the job done. The Great Skin Serum gives a dewy glow in just one application, hydrating and plumping skin with a lightweight finish. I love wearing this product on its own or under makeup, as it gives me the glow I&#8217;m looking for and makes my skin feel amazing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_2-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_2-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">02<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_2-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying a cosmetic product to their cheek using a stick applicator\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_2-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325.webp\" title=\"merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying a cosmetic product to their cheek using a stick applicator\" title=\"merit9-37005ae0a2914afcbdead1ebf77c1325\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_2-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$38 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Think of the Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick as a skin tint and concealer in one. With buildable coverage, you can spot-treat specific areas or apply it evenly for an even complexion. The formula is light and doesn&#8217;t feel caky, even after building the coverage. With a light to medium coverage, it&#8217;s suitable for anyone looking to enhance their skin but who isn&#8217;t a regular foundation wearer. Packed with fatty acids that condition skin while locking in moisture, it&#8217;s a your-skin-but-better type of feel.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_3-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_3-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">03<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_3-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Brush No. 1 <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a persons face with a makeup brush applying foundation on their cheek\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_3-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014.webp\" title=\"merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a persons face with a makeup brush applying foundation on their cheek\" title=\"merit6-448160be988349b0af0029eed7ea7014\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_3-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$33 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Brushes are essential for applying makeup. The No. 1 Brush is dense enough to blend out complexion makeup without streaking or pilling, and feels wonderfully soft on the skin. I prefer to use brushes with dense hair both personally and professionally because they blend products so well. I tested this brush to blend several cream products, and it worked wonderfully and did not irritate my skin.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_4-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_4-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">04<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_4-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A woman using a makeup stick on her cheek\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_4-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3.webp\" title=\"merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman using a makeup stick on her cheek\" title=\"merti5-b54af08c3c474e08b10596c5dedff8e3\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_4-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$30 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Adding a warm flush to the skin can give that &#8220;just got back from vacation&#8221; look, but bronzer can be tricky to master due to its varied shades and tendency to look orange. The Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer melts into my skin without turning orange or ruddy, which is crucial for me as I&#8217;m so fair.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I found that applying it along the cheekbones and blending it upward gave my skin both warmth and a lift, and the balm is easy to both mix and layer. The formula is excellent for all skin types, especially dry skin, which may experience streaking with traditional bronzing powders. Think of this product as the most natural-looking, easy-to-blend bronzer in a conditioning balm formula.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_5-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_5-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">05<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_5-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Flush Balm Cheek Color <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A person applying cream to their cheek using a small container\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_5-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9.webp\" title=\"merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person applying cream to their cheek using a small container\" title=\"merit10-dbc4747c57d2446da701046b345e61c9\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_5-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$30 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I love cream blush and wear it daily. I&#8217;m all about a natural-looking skin flush, which is why I instantly fell in love with the Flush Balm Cheek Color. It glides on the skin like silk, blends without streaking, and layers well for more saturation. The formula is light, unlike other cream blushes, which can deposit too much color on the initial swipe.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> On days when I want to wear minimal makeup, I reach for this blush to add the extra color I need. Microfine pigments work with the skin to enhance natural texture rather than cover it up. I found the best way to wear and apply this blush is to smile and use it on the apples of the cheeks, blending it out with a brush to distribute the color evenly.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_6-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_6-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">06<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_6-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Brow 1980 <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying eyebrow makeup using a brush\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_6-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54.webp\" title=\"merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying eyebrow makeup using a brush\" title=\"merit1-b821a02cbc844df0b5b605bbe6113f54\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_6-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$24 at Meritbeauty.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Brow pomades are a great alternative to a pencil when you want a full, fluffy look. The Brow 1980 pomade is easy to swipe through the eyebrows, depositing color on the hair and lifting brow hairs. With Kaolin clay and mineral pigments that provide a subtle tint to brow hairs, I find this pomade looks natural and is easy to apply. I achieve the best results when I take the brush, run it backward through my hair from the tail of my brow to the front, then use it to brush my brow hairs upward. Wear it alone or with a brow pencil for a more distinct shape.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_7-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_7-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">07<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_7-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Solo Shadow Eye Color <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A makeup brush applying eyeshadow to a persons eyelid\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_7-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6.webp\" title=\"merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A makeup brush applying eyeshadow to a persons eyelid\" title=\"merit2-7829773d15634abcb1201d5a5ccaa0b6\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_7-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$26 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Solo Shadow, available in both sheen and matte formulas, is ideal for applying color to the eyelid without committing to an intricate eye makeup look. I appreciate the sheen it gives and find it easier to use with a shadow brush than with my finger. The color does deposit sheerly, so if you want more saturation and contrast, you&#8217;ll need to layer it a few times for a more noticeable finish. It wears well both on its own and as a shadow base for powder eyeshadow formulas.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_8-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_8-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">08<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_8-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Day Glow Highlighting Balm <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Person applying makeup to their cheek using a cosmetic stick\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_8-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e.webp\" title=\"merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person applying makeup to their cheek using a cosmetic stick\" title=\"merit7-65c6f6454aca4fa487117d3cffff2e6e\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_8-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$32 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Day Glow Highlighting Balm gives your skin an instant glow and shine without looking greasy or feeling tacky. Highlighter comes in different formulas; this one is a dream, as you can swipe it on the cheek, blend it, and sheer it out with a brush. I like to apply it directly on top of my blush, then bring it up to the brow bone for added highlight. The round shape allows for the highlighter to be distributed evenly, with zero noticeable sparkle.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_9-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_9-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">09<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_9-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying mascara to their eyelashes using a wand\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_9-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923.webp\" title=\"merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying mascara to their eyelashes using a wand\" title=\"merit4-496d16030c2f4f318aa6c8a784a8d923\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_9-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$26 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For lashes that need both a tint and a lift, this mascara helps you achieve both. Since it&#8217;s a tubing formula, it&#8217;s also easy to remove with just water or a gentle cleanser. I like the size of the brush and how easy the formula is to both wear and apply. For a more voluminous look, apply 2-3 coats of this mascara to enhance volume and achieve fuller, thicker eyelashes.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_10-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-marker_10-0\" class=\"comp list-marker\"><span class=\"list-marker__index\">10<\/span><span class=\"list-marker__total\">of 10<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_10-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-list-item-title\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil <\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image mntl-sc-block-image--full-width figure-portrait figure-high-res\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying lip gloss with a brush\" class=\"lazyload mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_10-0\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8.webp\" title=\"merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8.webp\" width=\"3000\" height=\"4000\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a person applying lip gloss with a brush\" title=\"merit3-7f37ae190c744e52b99d85adf63035a8\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"mntl-figure-caption_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-figure-caption text-utility-100 figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Ashley Rebecca<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mm-trx-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".trx-sc-block-commerce__button\">\n<div id=\"mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce_10-0\" class=\"comp mm-trx-commerce-button-list--commerce mm-trx-commerce-button-list-block mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\"><span class=\"button-cta\">$24 at Sephora<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> My lips are often dry, so I always have a balm or lip oil on hand to keep them moisturized throughout the day. This Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil doesn&#8217;t deposit bold color, but it provides a subtle tint to the lips and leaves them feeling conditioned (omega-3 fatty acids and rosehip oil are the hero ingredients). The one thing I noticed the most is that there&#8217;s zero stickiness in the formula, which is hard to find in a lip product with a glossy finish. I reapply this lip oil throughout the day and love the feel of it, as it doesn&#8217;t cause my lips to flake with repeated use or build-up.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p> Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/merit-beauty-brand-review-11875651<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I&#8217;m a Makeup Artist\u2014Here&#8217;s My Honest Take on Merit Beauty By Ashley Rebecca Ashley Rebecca Ashley Rebecca is a NYC-based contributor for Byrdie, where she covers makeup, skincare, and more. She has 20+ years of experience as a makeup artist and has contributed to Byrdie for the past ten years. Byrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines Published on [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1700535,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83,226],"class_list":["post-1700534","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1700534","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1700534"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1700534\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1700535"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1700534"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1700534"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1700534"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}