In the age of dupes and discounts, we’re always on the lookout for a good deal. However, there are some products that really are worth going the extra mile for. While you can probably skip a $100 mascara, there are some items we recommend saving up for. We’ve tried a lot of luxe makeup, and these are the products we think are worth the splurge. Might we suggest you add them to your holiday wish list?
Makeup products worth the splurge
Dior Forever Matte Skin Care Foundation SPF 15 ($57)
As someone who wears foundation maybe once a month, it takes a lot for me to think one is worthwhile. In a panic, before a wedding with my face bespeckled with pimples, I turned to this Dior foundation, and it performed a miraculous vanishing act with my blemishes.
Cle de Peau Concealer SPF 27 ($75)
This undisputed cult classic concealer is almost always in my bag for emergencies and on-the-go reapplication. It’s been beloved for so long by celebrities and makeup artists alike because it really is that good.
Pat McGrath Labs Mothership XI: Sunlit Seduction ($128)
With all the celebs that credit Pat McGrath’s makeup for their face beats—see Taylor Swift, Emily Ratajkowski, Kylie Jenner—you know it’s quality stuff. Any of the Mothership Eyeshadow Palettes are well worth the price tag, but we’re partial to this palette with tons of universally wearable shades.
Byredo Corporate Colours Eyeshadow ($75)
Paying over $70 for a makeup palette this size might seem steep, but Byredo makes some of the most gorgeously pigmented shadows out there. Plus, when the case is closed, it doubles as art. All the palette options are stunning but this one is an editor fave.
Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick ($48)
Trust us, you’ll want to wear this blush daily even though right now you think you love all your other blushes equally. It’s soft and silky and imparts the most gorgeous, pigmented flush.
U Beauty The Super Tinted Hydrator ($108)
It’s worth noting this tinted hydrator won’t provide full coverage, but it will hydrate skin like the best moisturizer out there while giving skin a soft blurring effect that feels like a filter in real life. It’s the perfect base for a no-makeup makeup look.
Dior Lip Addict Lip Maximizer Gloss ($40)
Unfortunately for our wallets, TikTok is right. The viral Dior gloss is worthwhile. Sure, there are some great dupes out there, but we think it’s worth it to treat yourself to the real thing, especially in one of the gorgeous pigmented shades like Mahogany or Bronzed Glow.
Tom Ford Shade & Illuminate Contour Duo ($95)
A good contour is priceless, which makes this best-selling duo worth every penny. The cream-to-satin formulas come in a darker shade for all your contouring needs and an illuminating option to enhance the high points of the face.