December 5, 2024
The Best Makeup Products of 2024: Pro-Worthy Picks and Everyday Favorites
2024 delivered a perfect blend of luxurious pro brands loved by industry insiders to surprisingly effective drugstore finds, bridging the gap between high-end luxury and budget-friendly. This year’s must-haves ensure whether you’re aiming for red-carpet glam or an effortlessly natural look, these products cater to every mood, skill level, and occasion. Let’s dive into the standouts of 2024 that are delivering exceptional results and redefining what it means to look and feel flawless.
For makeup artists, knowing about the latest products is a game-changer. Whether you’re just starting out, taking makeup classes, or already working in beauty or special effects makeup, adding these must-haves to your makeup kit gives you the flexibility to handle any look your clients want. Staying up-to-date with trends like these also keeps your work fresh and your clients happy.
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Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
What It Is: A hybrid product that functions as a primer, highlighter, or lightweight foundation, delivering radiant, glowing skin.
How to Use:
- Apply a thin layer under foundation for a luminous base.
- Dab it on high points like cheekbones and brow bones for highlighting.
- Wear it solo for a natural glow on low-maintenance days.
Why Influencers Love It: NikkieTutorials, a beauty icon known for her flawless finishes, swears by this product for achieving a natural glow and luminous complexion.
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Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
What It Is: A volumizing and lengthening mascara that creates fanned-out, dramatic lashes.
How to Use:
- Wiggle the wand from base to tip in a zigzag motion.
- Add two coats for intensified volume, letting each layer dry slightly.
Why Influencers Love It: KathleenLights consistently highlights this mascara in her tutorials, emphasizing its ability to deliver dramatic volume without the high price tag.
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NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
What It Is: A creamy, medium-to-full coverage concealer with a radiant finish.
How to Use:
- Brighten under-eyes by applying in a triangle shape and blending.
- Spot-conceal blemishes or redness with a dab, blending with fingers or a sponge.
- Use a lighter shade as a subtle highlight for facial dimensions.
Why Influencers Love It: Desi Perkins, known for her expertly blended looks, frequently praises this concealer for its ability to provide seamless coverage and a radiant finish.
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Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Setting Powder
What It Is: A silky, finely milled powder that controls shine, blurs imperfections, and locks makeup in place.
How to Use:
- Use a damp sponge to set concealer under the eyes and in crease-prone areas.
- Bake for 3–5 minutes, then dust off excess for a smooth finish.
- Sweep lightly over the T-zone to maintain a matte look.
Why Influencers Love It: Jackie Aina, a longtime advocate for inclusivity in beauty, recommends this powder for its ability to keep makeup fresh and flawless all day.
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Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer
What It Is: A high-shine lip gloss in universally flattering shades, offering a non-sticky, comfortable wear.
How to Use:
- Apply directly to lips for a glossy effect.
- Layer over lipstick to enhance shine and depth.
- Dab on the lip center to create the illusion of fuller lips.
Why Influencers Love It: Rihanna, the founder of Fenty Beauty herself, often showcases the Gloss Bomb as her go-to lip product, emphasizing its versatility and universally flattering appeal.
Key Takeaways
The 2024 lineup celebrates versatility, quality, and accessibility in makeup.
- Hybrid products like the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter simplify beauty routines without compromising results.
- Affordable options, such as Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara, prove that budget-friendly doesn’t mean a sacrifice in performance.
- High-performance staples like NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer and Huda Beauty Easy Bake Powder are ideal for flawless finishes.
- Fenty Beauty’s Gloss Bomb continues to set the gold standard for universally appealing lip products.
This year’s selections empower users to create looks that range from professional to everyday chic. Let these essentials inspire your next beauty transformation!
Authored by Lissette Waugh, Professional Makeup Artist and Founder of L Makeup Institute. With decades of experience in the beauty industry, Lissette is passionate about helping individuals perfect their craft and elevate their artistry. Follow her on Instagram @LissetteWaugh for more insights and inspiration.
