Momo Angela photographs the best dressed guests at the spring 2026 shows in Tokyo.
“This Tower 28 mascara manages to add volume to my short lashes but without the messiness or flakyness. The product doesn’t smudge on my eyelids like other mascaras thanks to the bristles that really separate my lashes,” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle.
Best for Sensitive Eyes: Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
Kasey Spickard, a NYC-based celebrity makeup artist who prefers a tubing mascara to avoid clumps, raves about this long-wearing option “I was turned onto it by one of my clients who’s a touring comedian,” Spickard says. “She loves a full lash and this one doesn’t clump or transfer. I now swear by it.”
But the best part is that this pick is not only laugh (and cry proof), it’s also suitable for sensitive eyes. It has castor seed oils, shea butter and a tapered cone brush which helps you coat every single lash.
“This cruelty-free formula is really gentle on eyes, and I like to use it during allergy season when my eyes are at an all-time watering level,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary. “This formula stays put, never smudges and isn’t clumpy during application.”
Best for Thin Lashes: Kosas Soulgazer Lengthening & Lifting Peptide Mascara
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Kosas Soulgazer Lengthening & Lifting Peptide Mascara
Williamson also recommends this smudge-proof mascara if you have thin lashes. It’s packed with peptides that make lashes look long and strong, and won’t flake all day long.
“My favorite thing about this mascara is the curved brush,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary. “It’s this neat hourglass shape that helps you really curl up and lift your lashes during application, and it never gives off too much pigment. It even has helped my lashes grow a bit after using it for over a month now — they look and feel thicker and resilient.”
Best for Older Women: Clinique Try It On High Impact Mascara
Original video from Charlotte Twine testing Clinique Try It On High Impact Mascara
Aging often comes hand-in-hand with thin lashes or lash loss, which can make clumping even more obvious. This formula is a favorite of ours because it has a hydrating formula and soft fiber brush that adds volume without the gunk. It’s also ophthalmologist tested and safe for those who wear contacts.
“I’m a huge fan of Clinique skin care, but had never given their make up a try. Take it from me, Clinique High Impact Mascara is impressively good. I particularly recommend its wispy, layering, non-clumpy qualities. If you’re looking for more dramatic lashes, the key is to layer it on. The first coat came out super wispy and very natural, but as I applied layers, it became thicker and fluffier and more show-girl-like, if you will, with no clumps. My lashes are pretty sparse these days as I get older, and it takes a lot of scaffolding to make them actually appear visibly around my eyes, but Clinique’s mascara did an outstanding job without making them look all goopy. I’m putting this in my makeup bag right away,” says Glamour contributor Charlotte Twine.
Best for Length: Makeup by Mario Master Mascara Volumizing & Lift
Original video of Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing the Makeup by Mario Master Mascara Volumizing & Lift
Jonet Williamson, NYC-based makeup artist, swears by this long-lasting volumizing and lifting mascara. The formula has a blend of ProVitamin B5, castor oil, polymers and vegan wax that helps hug your lashes to give them volume and length.
“I love the brush of this mascara because it’s not overly thick, but not too thin either,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary. “It gives you just the right amount of pigment without looking inky and helps separate lashes for a voluminous, yet non-lumpy finish.”
Best for Short Lashes: Ilia Beauty Limitless Lash Mascara
Original video from Ariana Yaptangco testing Ilia Beauty Limitless Lash Mascara
- Pros: Gentle pigment makes application easy; contains arginine to condition lashes
- Cons: Pricey
Brielle Pollara, a New-Jersey based makeup artist, prefers this Ilia mascara for short, straight lashes and sensitive eyes. “The formula and hourglass shape of the brush work in conjunction to create a voluminous finish, and it’s formulated with provitamin B5 and arginine to promote stronger, healthier-looking lashes,” she says.
“Not only does it have a perfectly bristled brush that coats and separates all my lashes, but the deep brown color adds just the right amount of pop to my eyes without being overwhelming like some black mascaras can be. I prefer the subtle dimension it gives me. Best of all, it doesn’t budge an inch during the day, but comes off fairly easy at night,” says Glamour senior beauty editor Ariana Yaptangco.
Don’t Quit Your Week-Day Job
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are always ready for some football, but the gig of a lifetime is also not the main event as far as income goes.
ESPN reported in 2017 that NFL team cheerleaders made roughly $75 to $150 per game, an eye-opening moment for fans who assumed those glamorous performers were making bank. Or at least a living wage.
As seen in the first season of America’s Sweethearts, DCC alum Kelcey Wetterberg is a pediatric registered nurse, while then-newcomer Reece Allman (née Weaver), who returned for the 2024 season, worked at a Dallas florist to supplement her earnings from cheerleading.
According to the Dallas Morning News, cheerleader pay has since risen to closer to $400 per game, plus hourly wages for all the time spent preparing for games and making appearances.
Still, DCC alum Kat Puryear said on the Netflix show, “I would say I’m making, like, a substitute teacher [salary]…I would say I’m making, like, Chick-fil-A worker that works full-time” money.
Makeup has been around for years. From ancient kohl eyeliners to modern-day high-definition foundations, people have always used cosmetics to enhance their appearance and express themselves. Be it a bold red lipstick to showcase your bold and charismatic look or a subtle nude shade for a girl-next-door look, makeup has become an integral part of our lifestyle.
However, one skin concern that often arises is if makeup can cause skin pigmentation as well. With so many cosmetic and ingredients used in them, it’s worth exploring how makeup interacts with our skin and whether it truly contributes to pigmentation problems.
Understanding skin pigmentation and their causes
Pigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess melanin. This can be triggered by sun exposure, hormonal imbalances, post-inflammatory changes from acne or injury, certain medications, and even genetic predisposition. Among these, UV damage remains the most common cause in India, given our climate, dermatologist Dr Rinky Kapoor, Director and Co-Founder, The Esthetic Clinics, tells HT Lifestyle in an interview.
Can makeup trigger pigmentation?
As per the expert, wearing foundation, concealer, or lipstick and other makeup products don’t directly cause pigmentation. But certain practices and ingredients can worsen existing conditions. She further adds that using low-quality or expired products, heavy foundations that clog pores, or formulations with harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances can irritate the skin and trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
In addition to this, wearing makeup for long hours without proper cleansing also increases risk.
What ingredients to look for in makeup products to avoid skin pigmentation?
“Ingredients like fragrance, mineral oils, and certain preservatives may aggravate sensitive skin, while products without SPF leave skin vulnerable to sun damage, the leading cause of pigmentation,” says Dr Kapoor. She recommends choosing dermatologically tested, non-comedogenic products, removing makeup thoroughly before bed, and pairing makeup with a good sunscreen to reduce pigmentation risk.
Are there any natural remedies or lifestyle changes to reduce skin pigmentation?
“Lifestyle modifications such as regular sunscreen use, maintaining a diet rich in antioxidants, staying hydrated, and managing stress can help reduce further pigmentation,” suggests the expert. She also advises the use of natural remedies like aloe vera, green tea extracts, or turmeric to support skin health. However, here’s a word of caution from Dr Kapoor: “These should be seen as complementary, not primary solutions.”
What are the safest and most effective solutions to prevent or manage skin pigmentation?
The most reliable solutions are dermatologist-recommended treatments such as topical agents containing vitamin C, kojic acid, retinoids, or azelaic acid,” says Dr Kapoor. Depending on severity, procedures like chemical peels, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion deliver excellent results when supervised by experts. Prevention through consistent sun protection remains the foundation of managing pigmentation.
Safe makeup practices to prevent pigmentation
Pigmentation caused or aggravated by makeup is largely preventable with mindful habits. Here are some dermatologist-recommended practices:
Invest in quality products: Always choose trusted, dermatologically tested brands. Look for labels like “non-comedogenic” and “hypoallergenic” if you have sensitive skin.
Check ingredients: Avoid products with high concentrations of alcohol, artificial fragrances, or parabens if your skin reacts easily.
Never skip sunscreen: Since UV rays are the leading cause of pigmentation, applying sunscreen beneath makeup is crucial, even on cloudy days.
Remove makeup thoroughly: Double cleansing (using an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle face wash) ensures all residue, dirt, and pollutants are removed before bedtime.
Follow hygiene rules: Clean your makeup brushes and sponges regularly. Avoid sharing makeup to minimize bacterial transfer.
Perform patch tests: Before using a new product, test it on a small patch of skin to avoid allergic reactions.
When to see a dermatologist
If you notice persistent dark patches, uneven skin tone, or irritation after using makeup, consult a dermatologist. They can help identify whether the pigmentation is due to product sensitivity, sun exposure, or another underlying condition. Treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, or topical creams containing vitamin C, niacinamide, or hydroquinone may be prescribed.
In a nutshell, makeup does not directly cause pigmentation, but the real culprits are low-quality products, poor skincare practices, prolonged sun exposure, and neglecting proper cleansing.
By choosing safe products, maintaining proper skin hygiene, and protecting your skin from UV damage, you can enjoy makeup without worrying about pigmentation issues. Remember, healthy skin should always be the foundation of beautiful makeup.
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As summer slides into fall, we’re doing our seasonal wardrobe switch-over and swapping out our flip-flops for leaf-kicking boots. But what about your makeup? Enter, toasty makeup.
Between the sun-kissed radiance of the summer months and the caramelized softness coming into the autumnal season, this is a trending look that plays on your warm shades. You instantly warm the complexion for a sophisticated back-to-school glow, but with a sultry vibe for those darker evenings. Think sheer skin tints and bronzy pink blush, careful contouring, and caramel-shaded lips. Already, everyone from Emily Ratajkowski to Hailey Bieber and Tyla look to be a fan of the aesthetic. So here’s how to warm up to this season’s biggest makeup trend.
What does ‘Toasty Makeup’ look like?
Over on TikTok, toasty makeup is this season’s glam du jour. Using a colorimetry of brown, copper and orange tones, this beauty makeover is inspired by the gourmand shades of a toasted bread and caramel. The “toasted” effect from this tonal uniformity instantly brings a soft warmth to the face, without appearing artificial.
The result? A harmony of velvety browns and dark roast honey tones. The complexion is light and dewy, with light bases that let the skin breathe—consider applying your base with your fingers to really melt it in. The bronzy effect comes from the added sculpting touches after.
On the cheekbones, a peach or apricot blush diffuses a feel of radiance, giving the illusion of a summer freshness, with a smattering of sunburn-style blush across the bridge of the nose. With a highlight applied on the peaks of the face, subtle touches of champagne or gold catch the light in all of the right places. On the eyes, shadows come in shades of caramel, bronze, and smoky brown, applied in a halo across the lid to create a vaporous color. (You can achieve that by applying product lightly with the tip of your finger, or a super soft brush swept delicately across the lid crease). And finally, lips come in nude shades of honey, terracotta, or soft rose, with a glossy finish.
The finished look should feel luminous, sensual, and sun-kissed. It captures the spirit of an infinite summer, even at the start of the new school year.
Toasty makeup inspirations
Tyla
The South African singer sports a perfect example of toasty makeup, with her luminous complexion, iridescent eyelids, and warm rosy blush applied to the apples of her cheeks.
Donald Trump had some events and meetings yesterday in the White House, which I’ll get to in a moment. For most of his events, he either hid his right hand under the desk, or he placed his left hand over his right to hide the large bruise or whatever that is. On Monday, Trump didn’t slather off-color makeup on the bruise, like he was doing last week. Maybe his staff told him that the makeup was more noticeable than the bruise? Whatever it was, we can see the dark discoloration in a few shots from Getty (I’m including them below). My question: why isn’t this headline news? Every time Joe Biden stuttered or tripped, it was a banner headline in every newspaper, questioning Biden’s age and capability. Why not… just do the same thing with Trump, who is clearly unwell, who has tree-trunk cankles, and who rants constantly about weird sh-t like magnets?
As for the business of state… well, yesterday was a bad day. Trump announced that he will fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, because he wants the Fed to lower interest rates. He’s also had a hate-on for Cook because she’s a Black woman. Trump is also threatening to send federal troops into other American cities, especially Chicago. Washington DC is apparently a ghost town right now, with restaurants, bars and any tourist-friendly business getting crushed by the military presence in the city. Trump said, in the Oval, that “A lot of people are saying, ‘Maybe we’d like a dictator.’”
Trump: “A lot of people are saying maybe we’d like a dictator.” pic.twitter.com/2EpLkOaPZl
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 25, 2025
Photos courtesy of Getty, Backgrid, Cover Images.
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Washington, DIST United States President Donald J Trump signs a proclamation on the 4 year Anniversary of the Abbey Gate Bombing in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC. Trump is meeting with relatives of the thirteen US military members killed during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
Pictured: Donald Trump
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President Donald Trump during an executive order signing in the Oval Office of the White House. Trump is expected to sign two executive orders Monday aiming to end cashless bail in Washington and nationwide, marking the latest move in the administrations agenda to crack down on crime.
Featuring: President Donald Trump
Where: Washington, District of Columbia, United States
When: 25 Aug 2025
Credit: Al Drago/POOL via CNP/INSTARimages.com
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President Donald Trump during an executive order signing in the Oval Office of the White House. Trump is expected to sign two executive orders Monday aiming to end cashless bail in Washington and nationwide, marking the latest move in the administrations agenda to crack down on crime.
Featuring: President Donald Trump
Where: Washington, District of Columbia, United States
When: 25 Aug 2025
Credit: Al Drago/POOL via CNP/INSTARimages.com
K-Beauty might have flipped the world of skin care on its head, but the best Korean makeup is where the innovation really goes to show. Think: sheer, skin-like finishes with a whisper of natural-looking glow, intentional placement and formulas that are so featherlight, they feel like second skin.
“Korean products tend to prioritize hydration and natural-looking finishes,” says celebrity makeup artist Ham Gyungsik. “In contrast, Western makeup formulas typically emphasize a sun-kissed look, often relying on bolder pigments and more noticeable shimmer,” he explains.
“The biggest difference I’ve noticed is in the color stories—you generally get a lot of pastels, and soft pinky, peachy or purple shades in Korean cosmetics, whereas in Western makeup, you have more neutral colors,” says Judy Lim, a bridal makeup artist and content creator.
I love Korean makeup formulas for their unique texture—some are cushiony and soufflé-like, while others could only be described as ‘liquid glass.’ Whether it’s velvety blushers, glittery eyeshadow palettes, cushion foundations or the famed Korean lip tints, the world of Korean makeup knows no bounds (which is also why it can be a bit overwhelming for the uninitiated). Luckily, I spent the past two months on a mission to narrow down all the best formulas around, some of which are consistent bestsellers at Olive Young (a.k.a. South Korea’s Sephora equivalent). Plus, I’ve also quizzed celeb MUAs and bridal makeup artists on their top application tips.
The best Korean makeup, at a glance
Featured in this article
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The best Korean foundations
Original video from Denise Primbet testing TirTir Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation
After a formula that delivers a more dramatic result? Say less. This best-selling cushion foundation from TIRTIR offers exactly that—all the coverage, minus a cake-y feel.
“I often rely on it for longevity (be it for weddings, night-outs or long office days. It’s, hands down, the most long-lasting complexion product I own—the kind that doesn’t slip or slide regardless of how much I may be sweating. I also love the finish, not too matte and not too dewy. It delivers a blurred finish that still manages to look like my own skin,” says Glamour beauty contributor Denise Primbet.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Unleashia Don’t Touch Glass Pink Cushion
There aren’t many foundations out there that are just as natural-looking as this cushion compact from Unleashia. Infused with SPF50+UV protection, this clever formula delivers all the hydration and lightweight coverage you need for a “barely there” makeup look. Plus, since it comes enriched with a whole bunch of skin-soothing ingredients, it’s a solid contender for those of us with sensitive skin. The result? Glass-like finish and healthy-looking skin in a matter of minutes.
Courtesy of brand
Jung Saem Mool Cushion Foundation
Founded by renowned South Korean celebrity artist Jung Saem Mool, her namesake brand has gone absolutely viral for its famed cushion foundation, and deservedly so. Offering weightless yet buildable coverage, this formula delivers a gorgeous skin-like finish, leaving you with a natural-looking glow. The best part? The brand has just extended the shade range to 30 options (including cool-toned, warm-toned and neutral iterations) to suit plenty of skin tones.
Courtesy of brand
Entropy Makeup Organza Fit Spatula Foundation
“This foundation is one of the most innovative formulas I’ve tried,” says Primbet. “I love that it already comes with the spatula built-in to the applicator, making the application process super seamless while ensuring seamless coverage. Personally, I think it’s a great formula for everyday wear. It doesn’t pill, oxidize or feel too heavy throughout the day. In fact, whenever I wear it, I can always count on receiving a handful of compliments on my base makeup.”
The best Korean concealers
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Thesaem Cover Perfection Triple Pot Concealer
Whether your goal is to counteract dark under-eye circles, conceal blemishes or cancel out redness, you can’t go wrong with this pot concealer from Thesaem. Depending on your color-correcting preferences and your skin tone, each iteration includes three shades that can be used underneath or on top of your foundation to create an even-looking base. The coverage is easily buildable too, so you can easily adjust it to your desired finish.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing TirTir Glide&Hide Blurring Concealer
“This concealer has been an absolute game-changer in my makeup routine. Since it’s double-ended (the solid end is used for spot-concealing while the liquid end is similar to a traditional concealer), it includes everything I need to create a near-flawless base. Apart from using it to cover up my acne or discoloration, I often use the solid creamy end to define the outline of my lips. The liquid end, on the other hand, is one of the best non-creasing formulas I’ve used on my under-eyes. It blends like butter and feels super hydrating throughout wear,” says Primbet.
The best Korean blushes
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Fwee Mellow Dual Blush
One of our all time favorite Korean blush brands is Fwee. This duo blush palette features two shades and is a great option for anyone looking for a natural three-dimensional finish with a blurring effect. From your cool-toned pinks to muted mauve-y shades and peachy hues, it comes in an array of flattering shades that can also double as eyeshadow or a soft wash of color on your lips. “The texture of this blush is unlike anything I’ve tried. Super cushiony, velvety and bouncy—a dream to apply and blend,” says Primbet.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Kaja Cheek & Lip Dewy bar
If you find that traditional Korean blushes are a bit too natural-looking for your liking, consider this cream formula from Kaja, which offers buildable pigment while still feeling featherlight on the skin. Available in six shades, this dewy blush is formulated to leave a “glass”-like finish and a hydrating feel—courtesy of hard-working ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. “Grapefruit Gelato is a stunning ‘blonzing’ shade that doesn’t lean too warm or too cool, which also happens to be my favorite,” says Primbet.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing House of Hur Moist Ampoule Blusher
“I’d recommend this formula to anyone who doesn’t usually wear a lot of makeup (especially if you love a good skin tint), since it offers that minimal yet impactful coverage and glow that looks as though you’ve just had a hydrating facial. It feels like a nourishing serum that can easily be blended in using just your fingers. Although the pigment isn’t as dramatic, it still delivers an effortlessly chic look that’s great for everyday wear” says Primbet.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Fwee Blurry Pudding Pot
Looking for that diffused, soufflé-like finish? Meet the Fwee Pudding Pot, a hybrid blush formula that also doubles as a lip product, leaving a matte finish for that blurred look. Having gone viral all over TikTok for its fun packaging and bouncy texture, its shade range is nothing short of impressive. Whether you choose to apply it using a blush, your fingers, or the brand’s special silicone applicator, it’s a foolproof product that suits beginners and pros alike. The pigment is easily buildable too, so you can easily amp it up for a more dramatic result.
The best Korean contour
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Too Cool for School ArtClass contour
According to MUAs, Korean makeup is less about dramatic contour. Rather, it’s about intentional and lightweight placement, and this formula is, by far, one of the most quality products out there. Featuring three cool-toned shades in one compact, it helps mimic a natural shadow with ease, without looking muddy or resulting in any patchiness whatsoever. About the only qualm worth pointing out is that it doesn’t offer a great shade range, which could be an issue for deeper skin tones.
Best Korean highlighter
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Fwee Glitz Stone Highlighter
Full disclosure: you’re not going to achieve a ‘blinding’ look with most Korean highlighters, but if your goal is healthy-looking radiance, you can’t go wrong with this formula from Fwee. It comes in 12 shades in total—from silver, golden, rose gold iterations and everything in-between. “I love that the shimmer is not at all chunky. In fact, it’s so fine that it’s almost pearlescent, which is exactly what helps give my skin that ‘lit-from-within’ glow,” says Primbet.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Milk Touch Fairy Jewel Eye Glitter
While this highlighter may not be intended to be smeared on your face, it’s a gorgeous formula that helps add a little ‘zhuzh’ and definition to targeted areas like your eyelids, inner corners or your aegyosal. “I’m yet to try a liquid highlighter that would look just as ethereal as this formula from Milk Touch. Its thin brush applicator helps me use it strategically and intentionally to elevate my look in just a few swipes,” says Primbet.
The best Korean brow products
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Unleashia Shaper Defining Eyebrow Fixer & Penci
“I always struggle to find a thin brow pencil to help me create fine hair strokes that won’t look too ‘out of place.’ That is, until I got my hands on this formula from Unleashia. Unlike most brow products I’ve tried, I love that none of the shades lean too grey or too orange. Whether I’m going for a natural look or a more dramatic result, this pencil helps me achieve fluffy and defined brows in a matter of minutes. The best part? Even on the hottest of days, I’m confident in knowing that they won’t smudge or budge either,” says Primbet.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Unleashia Shaper Pomade Eyebrow Fixer
“As someone who comes from Asian heritage, I know all too well that it takes a village to keep my brows in place, yet I can always count on this shaping pomade to deliver a strong and natural-looking hold that will last all day long. If you’re someone who isn’t a huge fan of a dramatic laminated look and if traditional brow gels never really do the trick, you’ll love this formula from first use. Think: defined, fluffed-up brows that still look effortlessly groomed and natural,” says Primbet.
The best Korean eyeshadow
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Unleashia Glitterpedia Eyeshadow Palette
Be it a natural muted look, a bold wash of pink or a cute pop of glitter, these eyeshadow palettes come in a variety of iterations made for every taste and preference. Offering lasting wear, each palette features nine shades (including both shimmery and matte formulas), making them compact yet versatile enough to create just about any eye makeup look. Each color blends like butter, offering an impressive level of pigment without causing any fall-out.
The best Korean mascara
Original video from Denise Primbet testing OddType Unlimited Curl Lift Mascara
“I have a confession to make: I never really found a Western mascara that worked well on my Asian lashes, which is exactly what compelled me to find a Korean formula that would actually deliver. Since trying this lifting mascara from OddType, I never looked back. Not only is it waterproof and long-lasting, but it also delivers an extremely natural result, leaving my lashes slightly curled, defined and separated. Above all, the thin wand allows me to get even, root-to-tip coverage in just one coat—none of that clumpy or heavy feel,” says Primbet.
The best Korean setting powder
Original video from Denise Primbet testing About Tone Sebum Cut Powder
Although Korean makeup is all about that healthy-looking glow, a quick dab of setting powder around the T-zone ensures that your look is blurred in all the right places, leaving you with a lasting result. This finely-milled powder compact features a unique technology that helps control your skin’s sebum production while feeling extremely lightweight on the skin. It also doesn’t feel too drying either, which is a great bonus for any of us with drier skin types.
The best Korean lip products
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Unleashia Oh! Happy Day Lip Pencil
“If there’s one thing I love about Korean makeup is that it’s the antidote to a perfectly defined look. This blurring lip pencil from Unleashia is easily the best for softly sculpting and shaping your pout before applying your gloss or your lip tint. It glides on effortlessly, leaving a natural-looking shadow (a whisper of color, if you will),” says Primbet. You can also apply it all over for an even matte finish. Plus, since precision isn’t this product’s forte, top-ups are a lot easier too.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Unleashia Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm
Featuring a cushiony silicone applicator, this tinted lip balm offers a sensorial application process, leaving your lips glossier and more nourished than ever. Whether you’re after a subtle wash of pink, coral, mauve or if you’re in the mood for a clear glossy topper, this formula is a must for those “no makeup” makeup days. Packed with skin-loving components, it helps ensure lasting hydration and a near-instant soothing effect.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Rom&nd Glasting Color Gloss
“Every K Beauty enthusiast knows that Rom&nd lip products are a force to be reckoned with, and this lip gloss is one of my personal favorites. It’s non-sticky feel and an ultra-shiny finish can elevate virtually any lip combo. From rosy mauves to cool-toned pinks and neutral browns, the shades are universal enough to complement a variety of undertones and skin tones, delivering a natural hint of coverage and an instant boost of hydration,” says Primbet.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Oddtype Unseen Balloon Tint
Combining the feel of a lip oil, the shine of a lip gloss and the pigment of a lip tint, this formula from Oddtype ticks just about every box—all while keeping your lips nice and hydrated in the process. “My favorite part about using this tint is its unique brush-like applicator, which feels incredibly soothing and smooth on the lips. It also picks up the perfect amount of product, meaning you won’t need to dip into the tube more than once for a fully-covered look,” says Primbet.
Original video from Denise Primbet testing Fwee 3d Voluming Gloss
Be it the adorable and compact packaging or the wow-factor shade range, this lip gloss from Fwee is a best-seller for a reason. The angled applicator brush seamlessly cocoons the shape of the lips, while the formula blurs out any fine lines and imperfections, delivering a high-shine finish and a replenished feel. Its versatile nature makes it just as suitable to wear on makeup-free days as it is layered over your favorite lipstick for extra dimension. Thanks to its lightweight, non-sticky texture, it feels comfortable for hours while giving your lips that fresh, plumped-up look.
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Courtesy of brand
Entropy 2-in-1 Charm Shiny Glowy Lip & Cheek Gloss Tint
This lip tint from Entropy is a testament to South Korea’s approach to innovation. Having gone viral on TikTok for its charm-inspired design and an impressive shade range, this unique formula acts as both a lip tint and a hydrating gloss—a must for a high-shine look with a subtle wash of pigment. It also comes in a matte formula, which is equally as gorgeous and leaves a soft-blurred finish. “I’m not easily impressed with lip products, yet, since trying this formula from Entropy, I haven’t spent a day without applying it. I love the nourishing feel that helps avoid the tint from looking patchy or feeling drying throughout the day,” says Primbet.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best way to prep the skin for makeup?
“One of the defining characteristics of Korean makeup is the detailed skin prep routine, which plays a crucial role in the final look. Even the most basic routine usually includes several hydration-focused steps,” says Ham. He usually starts the process with a sheet mask or a toner pad, followed by an essence, ampoules and a moisturizer, before finishing up with a layer of SPF.
According to Judy, “Korean makeup is often done in very thin layers to keep the skin looking natural.” She says that compared to Western makeup trends, Korean makeup is less about higher contrast looks and is more about subtle techniques.
What are some of the key focuses of a Korean makeup look?
“While every step is important, base makeup is arguably the most critical element. A clear, radiant, healthy-looking complexion is the heart of K-beauty,” explains Ham. To achieve a near-perfect base, Ham advises to use color correctors underneath foundation to cancel out any under-eye darkness or redness. Next, he recommends applying your foundation gradually (in thin layers) for “a natural, glowing finish.”
“Blush is often applied as a cream or liquid, blending it seamlessly into the base. Depending on the skin type, a light dusting of powder may be used to set it,” he says.
As far as the lips go, Ham reiterates that “layering is essential.” Rather than relying on one type of a lip tint or a gloss, he suggests carefully curating multiple formulas for a juicy pout.
His first tip is to neutralize the natural lip color using a sheer base (this can be done using a blurring lip liner or a creamy lipstick). Next, use a small amount of vibrant color in the center of the lips and seal everything together using a glossy formula to enhance the shine.
What are the best Korean makeup application techniques?
According to Korean makeup artist Amy Lee, creating the Aegyosal (a unique technique that emphasizes the under-eye bags) is a great way to make your look appear more youthful and cute. This is often done by combining “soft highlight and contour techniques to create the look of smiling eyes.”
“Blush placement has moved slightly upward—now sweeping across the cheekbones toward the outer corner of the eyes for a more lifted, youthful look,” says Ham. He shares that according to the latest trend, there’s a trending word “mijigeun” (미지근) that translates to “lukewarm” or soft. With this in mind, Ham says that most brands are “releasing more products with sheer finishes and subtle, clear tones instead of bold, saturated colors.”
Now to the most important part—the base. “Korean makeup artists are a fan of the spatula technique that evenly applies a super thin layer of foundation onto the skin before patting it in with a dense sponge,” says Judy.
“The brows are also often lightened and filled-in softly, creating a straighter shape (instead of arched). Eyeliner is rarely drawn in an upturned cat eye shape, and is often drawn outwards or even downturned,” she says.
Elsewhere, the eye makeup is more or less understated—although some K Pop-inspired looks call for a touch of glitter. And as far as lashes go, Amy recommends making sure that you’re not using anything ‘too heavy or dramatic’. “It’s all about sticking to “natural, separated lashes,” she shares, so if you’re going for falsies, make sure to opt for individual lashes as opposed to strip lashes.
- Ham Gyungsik, Korean celebrity makeup artist
- Judy Lim, bridal makeup artist and content creator
- Amy Lee, Korean makeup artist based in New Jersey
“Working backstage for over 20 years at Louis Vuitton fashion shows, I am thrilled to now play such a key role in the launch of La Beauté Louis Vuitton, which is the result of extraordinary craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation,” McGrath says via press release. The inaugural lineup includes lipstick, lip balm, and a curated array of eyeshadow palettes, all conceived as cosmetics, yes, but also objets d’art to be kept, refilled, and treasured for years to come.
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