17 Best Makeup for Teens to Simplify Their Makeup Routine

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 15, 2024
Best Makeup for Teens
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As a teenager, you're likely excited to begin your makeup journey. No matter how old you are, the best makeup for teens can make you look better while enhancing your inner confidence. However, the journey of choosing the right products can be both exciting and somewhat overwhelming. In our study, we found that using the wrong stuff could age you, make you look too dramatic, or mess up your skin's natural protection. 

“Simplicity is the key when it comes to makeup for teenagers,” says board-certified dermatologist Lian A. Mack. Being a young beginner, opting for products that improve your skin instead of concealing it is the ideal way to shine without the worries of acne, breakouts, or skin irritation. But with numerous choices, how can you discover the right cosmetics that suit your skin and maintain healthy and youthful skin for years?

To simplify the process, we have carefully curated a list of teen makeup products that will provide flawless outcomes. Whether you're setting up your very first makeup kit or feeling uncertain about beginning your makeup journey, this comprehensive guide has got your back. Based on our observations, we have hand-picked some of the best cost-effective products perfect for teenage beauty. Continue scrolling to check out.

17 Best Makeup for Teens

Mascara is undeniably the most enjoyable makeup product to experiment with. This mascara is your go-to choice for instantly achieving ten times more lash volume. With four vibrant colors, you can tailor your look to be as bold as you desire. So, say goodbye to clumps and flakes and expertly coat each lash for a flawless finish. Just a touch of it can transform your appearance and elevate it. Get ready to achieve those fluttery, lengthy lashes with this best mascara for teens.

Pros
  • Smudge-proof
  • Water-resistant
  • Instant lash lift
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Cruelty-free
Cons
  • Very large applicator
  • Highly Buildable

    Milani Baked Blush - Luminoso

    Milani Baked Blush - Luminoso
  • A simple dab of blushes can elevate anyone’s cheek game. These baked blushes by Milani are richly pigmented and highly buildable, offering a delightful matte or shimmery finish that suits all skin tones. Available in 11 rosy hues that are customized according to the different complexions. The shade, Luminoso, true to its name, gives your skin a lovely, natural flush—perfect for teens stepping into the makeup world. Crafted with premium ingredients and sunbaked on Italian terracotta tiles, it bestows a warm, luminous finish and adds a natural radiance to your face.

    Pros
    • Richly pigmented
    • Highly buildable
    • Semi-sheer coverage
    • 100% vegan
    • No paraben preservatives
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Faulty packaging
  • Best to Blur Skin Imperfections

    MAYBELLINE Dream BB Fresh

    MAYBELLINE Dream BB Fresh
  • A BB cream is well-known to provide a natural makeup look for teenagers. This all-in-one beauty balm is your secret to hydrated, brightened, smooth, and enhanced skin tone. It's oil-free and available in 5 skin-tone perfecting shades. However, what sets it apart is SPF 30 protection and its outstanding ability to blur skin imperfections. Even a small quantity of this cream can provide you with lightweight coverage, refine your skin tone, reduce the appearance of pores, diminish redness, and offer skincare benefits. Plus, it's oil-free to provide a natural glow and fresh look.

    Pros
    • Smooth application
    • Hydrates skin
    • Lightweight formula
    • Dewy finish
    • Suitable for all skin types
    • Noncomedogenic
    Cons
    • Might oxidize
  • Best Waterproof Liner

    URBAN DECAY 24/7 Glide-on Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil

    URBAN DECAY 24/7 Glide-on Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
  • There's no better way to make your eyes stand out than gliding them with bold eyeliner. This eyeliner features an ultra-creamy and easily blendable formula that allows you to create precise lines or smudged, smoky looks with ease. The sharpenable tip ensures your lines stay sharp, and the waterproof formula guarantees it won't budge throughout the day. Choose from 38 vibrant shades to elevate your eye makeup game. Whether you desire a sleek, defined look or a sultry, smudged finish, this eyeliner pencil is your ideal companion for all-day wear and endless eye-catching appearance.

    Pros
    • Smudge-proof
    • Waterproof
    • Ease of application
    • Nourishing formula
    • Good color payoff
    Cons
    • Needs to be sharpened frequently
  • Provides Professional Finish

    Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling Mascara

    Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling Mascara
  • Elevate your eye game with a mascara that offers unbeatable performance and stunning results. This mascara for teens boasts a revolutionary instant curve-setting formula, ensuring that your lashes remain beautifully lifted and curled for an astounding 12 hours. The innovative design assists in grabbing, separating, and defining each lash, providing a mesmerizing look with unmatched volume and impact. 

    Pros
    • Enriched with Pro-vitamin B5 and Serin
    • It gives a satin finish
    • Long-lasting
    • Provides instant lash boost
    • Smudge-proof
    Cons
    • Isn’t waterproof
  • Lightweight Creamy Texture

    NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

    NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
  • If you're concerned about dark spots or acne scars, or if you have acne-prone skin, a small amount of concealer can be beneficial. This creamy concealer from NARS offers impeccable coverage that hides imperfections, dark spots, and blemishes, leaving your skin looking flawless and radiant. Its lightweight, creamy texture ensures easy application and blends seamlessly for a natural finish. This shade is expertly designed with a yellow tone, making it ideal for those with light to medium skin tones. Elevate your makeup routine with this iconic concealer that provides the perfect radiance to your overall look.

    Pros
    • Provide comfortable 16-hour wear
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Reduces the appearance of fine lines
    • Hydrating formula
    Cons
    • Not affordable
  • Best Tinted Effects

    COVERGIRL truNAKED Eyeshadow Palette- Nudes 805

    COVERGIRL truNAKED Eyeshadow Palette- Nudes 805
  • This nude eyeshadow palette is your best bet for simple and natural everyday perfect makeup looks. This eyeshadow palette from Covergirl offers a collection of versatile nude shades to create eye-catching styles. This eye makeup palette for teenagers helps you achieve a natural everyday look or a smoky, dramatic effect with no fuss. With easy-to-blend and long-lasting colors, it's perfect for any occasion. Enhance your eye makeup collection with this reliable, all-in-one palette that lets you express your unique style.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Highly-pigmented
    • Waterproof
    • Smudge-proof
    • Easily blendable
    Cons
    • Might flake
  • Vitamin E and Castor Seed Oil

    LAURA GELLER Italian Marble Lipstick - 05 Dolce

    LAURA GELLER Italian Marble Lipstick - 05 Dolce
  • Give your lips a treat with lipstick that not only makes them look great but also keeps them feeling soft and hydrated. Enriched with the goodness of Vitamin E and Castor Seed Oil, it provides both color and care to your delicate lips. With its sheer, hydrating, and lightweight effect, it will add a dab of timeless color and gorgeous depth to your lips. The Dolce shade is perfect for various occasions. Pamper your lips with a lipstick that combines style and nourishment, leaving your lips feeling as fabulous as they look.

    Pros
    • Sheer coverage
    • Hydrating formula
    • Perfectly blends into fine lines
    • Moisturizing
    • Easy to use and apply
    Cons
    • Not long-lasting
  • Best Lip Gloss

    Butter LONDON GLAZEN LIP GLAZE

    Butter LONDON GLAZEN LIP GLAZE
  • Add a touch of magic to your lips with butter LONDON's Glazen Lip Glaze in the whimsical shade "Fairy Dust'. This enchanting lip product delivers a natural finish while also displaying a burst of multi-dimensional shine that adds a 3D allure to your pout. With a luxurious, cushiony feel, this oil-based gloss is both comfortable and captivating. You can use it by itself or elevate your favorite lip color with a dash of shimmer. Just twist it, glide it on, and let the magical shade transport your lips to a realm of iridescent wonder.

    Pros
    • Luxurious texture
    • Gentle and non-irritating
    • Suitable for all ages
    • Cruelty-free
    • Buildable coverage
    • Subtle fragrance
    • Easy to apply
    • No sticky residue
    Cons
    • Not transfer-proof
  • Best Hypoallergenic Product

    LORD & BERRY Kajal Stick

    LORD & BERRY Kajal Stick
  • Take your eye makeup game to new heights with LORD & BERRY's Kajal Stick in the shade "Oriental Black". This intense black eyeliner is formulated with a soft gel base that contains pure pigment and has a creamy texture, delivering a smoldering, stunning look. Additionally, the gentle formula is safe to be used on the inner eye rim, ensuring comfort without any irritation. It's also long-lasting and smudgeable, helping you achieve a dramatic effect with a natural finish. Plus, it's cruelty-free too, so you can feel good and glamorous at the same time.

    Pros
    • Creamy formula
    • Suitable for on-the-go touchups
    • Minimal product wastage
    • Easy to blend
    • Non-irritating
    • Longlasting formula
    • Can be used on the inside of the eyelids
    • Rich color payoff
    Cons
    • May not be suitable for very oily lids
  • Best Protective Primer

    Tatcha The Silk Canvas

    Tatcha The Silk Canvas
  • A good primer is the key to achieving a flawless makeup application. This primer is your secret to making makeup last longer and achieving instant skin perfection. It provides a smooth canvas for your makeup, blurring imperfections and creating a flawless base. With its lightweight and velvety texture, it's the ultimate pre-makeup step for a long-lasting, polished look. This priming balm uses a special kind of silk protein and creates a very light and gentle layer on the skin that holds onto moisture. Elevate your makeup routine with Tatcha's Silk Canvas, ensuring your makeup stays fresh throughout the day.

    Pros
    • Velvety texture
    • Featherweight
    • Smooth and soft
    • Suitable for combination with dry skin
    • Smooths Uneven Texture
    Cons
    • Not affordable
  • Best All Skin Types Setting Spray

    SELF BEAUTY UNICONIC Glow Makeup Setting Spray for Face

    SELF BEAUTY UNICONIC Glow Makeup Setting Spray for Face
  • This cool makeup spray gives your skin a drink of water and locks your makeup in place without making it feel tight or dry. It's great for all skin types, especially if your skin is normal or dry. It has a lovely floral and musky scent that'll make you feel fresh. You can even keep a bottle in your bag to freshen up your look during the day. The microfine mist spray ensures even coverage, keeping your makeup in place for hours. Combined with the goodness of spearmint, oregano leaf, and melissa extracts, it gives your skin a good dose of moisture and makes it feel comfortable and relaxed.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting makeup setting
    • Dewy finish
    • Moisturizing and hydrating
    • Cruelty-free
    • Floral scent
    Cons
    • Might make you look oily
  • LAURA GELLER Jelly Balm Hydrating Lip Color- Just Peachy

     LAURA GELLER Jelly Balm Hydrating Lip Color- Just Peachy
  • This hydrating lip balm is enriched with Vitamin E and offers a semi-shiny finish. Its unique cushiony texture coats lips with a beautiful juicy color and a burst of moisture. Packed with ingredients like Squalane, it makes your lips smoother and healthier with regular use. You can use it daily to keep your lips from getting dry, and it's easy to apply even when you don't have a mirror nearby. Elevate your lip game with this easy-to-wear balm for a refreshed and luscious look.

    Pros
    • Semi Shimmery finish
    • Hydrates and soothes lips
    • Boosts fullness
    • Ultra-lightweight
    Cons
    • Limited staying power
  • Maybelline New York BABY LIPS Moisturizing Lip Gloss- 60 Berry Chic

    Maybelline New York BABY LIPS Moisturizing Lip Gloss- 60 Berry Chic
  • This trendy makeup product is admired by many for its affordability and ability to provide a pop of color and moisture. With its Berry Chic shade, it offers delightful hydration while adding vibrancy to your look. The moisturizing formula ensures your lips stay soft and supple while providing a glossy finish. Keep your lips looking and feeling great with this convenient and easy-to-apply lip gloss, perfect for daily wear.

    Pros
    • 0% Sticky
    • 100% Creamy Shine
    • Enriched with Vitamin E
    • 4HR Moisture
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Lacks tint
  • UCANBE Professional Makeup Kit for Women

    UCANBE Professional Makeup Kit for Women
  • This comprehensive set includes an array of essentials, featuring a palette with 180 eyeshadow colors, 2 blush shades, 2 powders, 1 eyeliner, and 4 eyebrow makeup sets. With both matte and shimmer options, it's designed to meet all your makeup needs. With plenty of highly pigmented colors that complements almost all skin type, a high-quality effect, and a soft, silky touch, this is a fantastic makeup kit for beginners that provide a professional salon-like finish.

    Pros
    • All skin tones
    • Professional touch
    • High-quality ingredients
    • In-built mirror
    Cons
    • Not long-lasting
  • hince Second Skin Cover Concealer- 21 LIGHT

    hince Second Skin Cover Concealer- 21 LIGHT
  • With full coverage and long wear, this concealer provides a second skin, but better. A dab of little quantity can help you to hide undereye dark circles, acne, and blemishes. With its mask-proof and sweat-proof quality, it won't let you down, no matter where the day takes you. Formulated with unique pigments, this concealer from “hince” helps you to make dark circles disappear with weightless full coverage. It not only hides blemishes but also gives your skin a nice glow.

    Pros
    • Weightless formulation
    • All-day staying power
    • Leaves no thickness
    • Buildable texture
    • High coverage formula
    Cons
    • Not for dark skin tones
  • Lisara Highlighter Beauty Wand

    Lisara Highlighter Beauty Wand
  • Add a dab of glow to your teenage makeup with some highlighter that complements your complexion. This highlight stick features a convenient cushion applicator, making it easy to apply. The liquid formula offers a silky-smooth and lightweight texture, making it a breeze to blend. Perfect for highlighting your face and body, it imparts a beautiful bronzed effect. Being comfortable and non-sticky, it won't make your skin feel heavy and mixes well with your foundation to give you a natural look.

    Pros
    • Multi-functional
    • Silky smooth, creamy formula
    • Easy to use
    • Suitable for all skin types
    • Additives free
    Cons
    • Poor packaging

    As per our expertise, we know that selecting the right product from a long list can be a little confusing. That's why we're here to make it easier for you. Look at some simple tips and advice on choosing the perfect one from our suggestions.

    A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply Makeup for Teenage Beginners

    • Start by Prepping Your Skin

    Make sure to start the process of makeup with a clean and moisturized face. Use a gentle cleanser to gently remove dirt from the face and follow it with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. However, if you have dry skin and want a dewy makeup finish, opt for smooth oil-based creams to create a smooth canvas for makeup. For those with oily skin, consider using a priming moisturizer. If you have sensitive skin, check the products or patch-test them before using. 

    • Add a Dab of Concealer

    Now, take a small amount of concealer and blend it to hide blemishes, dark circles, or any areas that need extra coverage. Apply it sparingly and mix well for a natural look.

    • Light Foundation of BB Creams

    Opt for a light or medium-coverage foundation, tinted moisturizer, or BB cream to even out your skin tone. Blend it evenly for a fresh, natural look. For teenage makeup, avoid using heavy foundations that can make you look older.

    • Enhance Your Eyes

    Apply a neutral eyeshadow shade to your eyelids. You can add subtle eyeliner and mascara to make your eyes pop. Remember, less is often more for a youthful appearance.

    • Finish with a Natural Flush

    Apply a soft blush to the apples of your cheeks and a tinted lip balm for a natural flush of color. Avoid heavy contouring and bold lip colors for a more age-appropriate look.

    Best Makeup for Teens with Some Makeup Hacks And Tips for a Natural Look

    • Less Is More

    Ensure to keep your makeup light and natural. Use a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer to even out your skin tone. Heavy makeup can make you look unnatural.

    • Focus on Skincare

    A good skincare routine is the foundation of great makeup. Cleanse, moisturize, and use sunscreen regularly to maintain healthy skin. Also, don’t fall for every trendy makeup product. Only use the products that suit your skin type.

    • Accentuate Your Eyes

    If you want to play up your eyes, use neutral eyeshadows and mascara. Heavy eyeliner and dark eyeshadows can look too mature for teenagers. You can also opt for graphic eyeliner to try new looks and style. 

    • Fresh-faced Blush

    Apply a natural-looking blush to the apples of your cheeks for a healthy flush. Avoid heavy contouring, which can be too intense for a young complexion.

    • Lip Balm And Light Lip Color

    Use a tinted lip balm or a light, natural lip color for a youthful look. Bold lip colors can sometimes appear too mature.

    • Blend, Blend, Blend

    Blend your makeup thoroughly to avoid harsh lines or an overly dramatic look. Investing in good makeup brushes can help you achieve a seamless finish.

    How Can Teenage Girls Get a Natural Makeup Look?

    • Before you start with makeup, always put on some moisturizer and a light primer. These things prep your skin correctly for makeup application and stop it from getting cakey, dry, oily, or shiny.
    • Stick to good-quality skincare products that are made for teens. Make sure they have ingredients that won't block your pores or hurt your skin. Teenage skin can get pimples more quickly, so use makeup that's right for your skin and won't hurt your natural and youthful glow. 
    • Always choose high-quality teen products that match your skin tone. When using concealer to hide annoying blemishes, pick the one that suits your skin type and complexion. After applying it, use loose powder to make sure it stays put and doesn't fade during the day. Also, try to avoid products that tend to get oxidized. 
    • Lastly, removing your makeup at the end of the day is crucial. Remember to include CTM (cleansing, toning, and moisturizing) in your daily beauty routine for healthy and flawless skin.

    Conclusion

    Almost every teenage girl dreams of creating her makeup vanity to enhance her natural beauty. While you are undoubtedly thrilled to explore every drugstore product for the first time, don’t forget to keep your makeup routine simple and minimal. A flawless makeup comes with a learning curve, and we bet your makeup skills will improve significantly by the time you reach your twenties. Don’t feel shy to experiment with the aforementioned best makeup for teens, and keep on exploring more until you are satisfied. When it comes to teenage makeup looks, less is always more, and it should complement the location and the event you are heading to. If you are a complete beginner, opt for simple and fuss-free formulations like BB or CC creams/tinted moisturizers, along with blushes and mascara. Follow a healthy skincare routine enriched with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, and other natural ingredients that suit your skin type. Lastly, maintain a healthy lifestyle and a clean diet to enhance your beauty naturally. 

    FAQ's

    What types of makeup do teenagers typically use?
    Teenagers typically use makeup products that are simple and fuss-free, like BB cream, mascara, eyeshadow, lipstick, and blush.
    What is the most suitable foundation for teenagers?
    Lightweight, oil-free foundations or BB creams are considered best for teens. It's recommended to choose one that matches their skin tone and provides natural coverage.
    Is it beneficial for the skin of teenagers to use makeup?
    Makeup can be safe for teenage skin if used correctly and removed thoroughly. Choosing non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic products can help prevent skin issues.
    What makeup products should teenagers avoid?
    Teenagers should avoid heavy or oily makeup products that can clog pores and cause breakouts. It's best to avoid products with harsh chemicals and excessive glitter.
    Is it okay for teenagers to use eyeshadow and eyeliner?
    Yes, teens can wear eyeshadow and eyeliner. The key is to choose age-appropriate, subtle shades and apply them in moderation for a natural look.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Sayantani, our certified beauty expert, believes that makeup is an essential part of enhancing personal style and beauty. Being a passionate makeup enthusiast, she embarked on a journey to discover the best makeup products that are great for beginners and pros alike. She conducted a thorough analysis of the requirements of teen makeup and compiled this comprehensive list to cater to various budgets, conditions, and needs.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health and fitness on board to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More