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Updated July 15, 2024: This article on the best products from Alix Earle’s makeup routine was updated with new product picks from Earle and additional editor testing review notes. Our editors are currently testing additional Earle-approved products for consideration in this guide.
Alix Earle is everyone’s GRWM girl crush. Whether it’s tips for glowing skin, an eye-popping technique for longer-looking lashes, or the liquid blush you simply must try, when Earle recommends a product, shoppers — and her 7 million TikTok followers — take note. We tested the essential products and tools Earle uses in her ‘It’-girl glam beauty looks, selecting the best of the best that deserve a spot in your makeup bag.
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Since Earle took off on TikTok in late 2022, a few things have stayed consistent in her beauty looks, like wide-awake eyes, flushed cheeks, glossy lips, and ultra-glowy, bronzed skin (she lives in Miami, after all). Earle’s party-ready makeup looks and approachable tutorials have turned sleeper hit beauty products into veritable sensations. Take Drunk Elephant’s Bronzing Drops, one of the first items that Earle popularized. Her rave reviews caused the liquid bronzer to sell out for weeks at a time, even though the item has been available for five years.
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If you don’t have time to scroll through hundreds of Earle’s GRWM videos, a great place to see most of her top recommendations is at her Amazon storefront. There, she shares her favorite beauty goodies she deems worthy of a Prime Order, along with fashion, home, and lifestyle picks. She also annually curates a shopping page with the best Prime Day beauty deals as-seen in her viral videos — which you’ll be able to shop directly from on July 16 and 17 when Amazon Prime Day 2024 finally arrives.
Earle’s round-up product recommendations are viral sensations in their own right. Her “lash routine” video — that showcased the Tweezerman Eyelash Curler with a double-dose of the now-internet-famous Benefit Roller Lash Mascara and Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof mascaras — racked up over 11 million views, while her Sephora sale recommendation TikTok from April stands at nearly 5 million views.
Earle’s makeup bag includes a few repeat brand appearances: Benefit Cosmetics, Tarte, Nars, and Rare Beauty makeup products make cameos in many of her GRWM posts, along with Amazon makeup brushes and tools that paint her face to perfection. Earle has also been candid about her experience with acne and the skin care products for hormonal acne that she loves, sharing the spot treatments, pimple patches, acne serums, and acne-friendly foundations that she relies on during flare-ups. Almost every item in her makeup bag is friendly for breakout-prone skin types.
Any TikTok-loved beauty product that Earle uses rarely goes on sale and tends to sell out quickly, so when you find an Alix-approved product in stock, you’ll want to order it quickly. Four editors put Alix Earle’s makeup routine to the test — yes, we’re glowing! — these are the items that we can’t put down.
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Top Products in Alix Earle’s Makeup Routine
L’Oréal Paris Makeup True Match Lumi Glotion
Editor testing and review notes: “If you love to start your makeup routine with a gleaming base, this lotion is a foolproof choice. It’s budget friendly but delivers an identical result to some of the more expensive options on the market. I’ll wear it on bare skin for a little radiance during the summer, and under makeup during wintertime to make my skin look less dull.” — Senior Beauty & Lifestyle Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan
What testers say: “If you’re looking for light coverage and glowing skin, I highly recommend it. I use this as a base layer and then cover with translucent loose setting powder and that’s it! You can also use this alone. It will definitely compliment tanned skin with the extra glow. Great price!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $12.99
Laneige Lip Glowy Balm
Editor testing and review notes: “When it comes to a daily lip balm, Laniege just raised the bar to heights I’ve never seen before. I was first attracted to its yummy flavors, like Vanilla, Berry, and even Gummy Bear, but nothing could have ever prepared me for the formula’s incredible softening effect and smooth glossy finish. It’s not sticky or too slick, but just right for curing dry lips and adding serious shine. The tint is subtle enough to wear with a bare face, no-makeup-makeup looks, or for topping over other high-glam lip products. I have different flavors sprinkled among my work bag, purse, and even at my friend’s apartment — this instant hydrator has become my newest holy grail.” — Commerce Writer & Producer Olivia Cigliano
What testers say: “Out of all the recent lip launches, this one sticks out to me as being everything that we’ve been asking of lip products. It’s smooth, not sticky, and thick enough to provide real moisture and lasts long enough that as soon as I feel it wear off I can reapply without it feeling way too soon. I definitely back this as a great lip balm!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $19
Neutrogena Cleansing Makeup Remover Face Wipes, Pack of 2
Editor testing and review notes: “These are the gold standard makeup remover for a reason. Each wipe comes well-moistened, and gently removed a full-face of product, from foundation to waterproof mascara. These are my go-to when I’m traveling and need to wipe away dirt and oils for an instant skin refresh.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “These wipes make it very easy to remove my make up. They are soft to the feel and very refreshing. I have used them for years now. Great value for the money”
Price upon publish date of this article: $9.97
Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops
Editor testing and review notes: “My fair skin tone can quickly look washed out if I’m low on sleep or vitamin D, so I’m always trying new bronzers and face tanners that give my complexion a little warmth. Drunk Elephant’s bronzing drops are a lifesaver when I need to get out of the door in the morning: Rather than taking time to buff and blend bronzer carefully, I just mix these bronzing drops into my moisturizer, and I’ve got a radiant complexion as soon as I’m done smoothing my face cream on. They don’t streak or turn you orange — the formula has the perfect neutral bronze to warm you up.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “The perfect bronzing drops! Ever since I bought this product, I can’t stop mixing it with moisturizer and sunscreen for the most radiant glow and shine!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $38
Opi Nail Laquer in “Suzi Talks with Her Hands”
Editor testing and review notes: “I love how long-lasting and shiny Opi nail polishes wear, so when Alix Earle announced on TikTok that she entered her gray nails era, I had to try this color. It’s the perfect chic, neutral shade for every day and any season. I always keep an eye for it when I’m at the salon.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “I love the coverage this polish has — it looked like shellac! This is a gorgeous shade of gray that goes with just about anything. Love it.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $9.99
Saie The Base Foundation Brush
Editor testing and review notes: “This brush does it all — it blends foundation, concealer, and cream cheek products like a dream. It’s one of the best brushes I’ve ever used and I love it as an on-the-go multitasking tool because it truly can address my whole face. It blends foundation faster than I’ve ever seen, it’s very soft while still firm, and is a convenient compact size. The handle is also flat, so you can stand it up on your vanity.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “This brush is fantastic, and has made me switch permanently from using a sponge. It’s amazing how much less product I need to use for application! The bristles are dense yet soft with great coverage.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $26
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
Editor testing and review notes: “Whenever I need a pencil liner restock, I make a beeline to Urban Decay. The black shade is intensely pigmented — along with the brown and purple colors I’ve tried from the line — and effortlessly glides onto my eyelid or waterline in a smooth, opaque line. It’s ideal for smudgy eyeliner looks too, because its creamy texture provides tons of playtime to easily blend. It lasts all day long, though, if you have particularly watery eyes or wear contacts like me, I recommend using a bit of setting powder at the outer corners of the eyes as I’ve noticed slight smudging from time to time.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “Urban Decay has always been a reliable brand for me, and this product is no exception. It glides on easily and is able to be manipulated with a smudge or angled brush while still staying put once in place. It’s pigmented and buildable. It operates closely to a gel liner in pencil form.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $23
Tweezerman Eyelash Curler
Editor testing and review notes: “Consider Tweezerman the gold standard of eyelash curlers. It grabs every lash in one pinch and creates a lash-lifting, lasting curl that won’t fall after a healthy dose of mascara. If you love to curl your lashes, this should already be in your makeup bag.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “I have been looking everywhere for an eyelash curler that actually works and this is the one! I never write reviews, but I had to share the news for others. I have saggy eyelids and wide eyes and it curled my eyes immediately without pinching.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $14.49
Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer
Editor testing and review notes: “This bronzer gives such a natural halo glow to the face. Like the name suggests, it’s a buttery-smooth powder and has a super fine shimmer. It’s a true bronzing finishing powder that adds a warm, sun-kissed effect to the face, rather than definition like a matte bronzer would. This product has a tropical, sunscreen-like scent too, so keep that in mind if you’re sensitive to makeup with fragrance.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “I’ve hit pan on this at least three times — something I almost never do with makeup. It goes on so easy, and even when I’m a little heavy handed it gives a natural, sun-kissed finish. It’s also my go-to eyeshadow. Will never waste money on a luxury bronzer again.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $13.48
Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Brush + Sponge Kit
Editor testing and review notes: “Real techniques brushes are a must-have, especially for beginners. They’re affordable, multi-functional, and so high quality. I use every tool in this makeup brush set; the Expert Face Brush for buffing foundation or concealer, the Blush Brush for applying cheek products or setting powder, the smaller Deluxe Crease Brush and Setting Brush for under eye concealer or highlighter application, and the sponge as a secret weapon for all-over blending or baking.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “The flat makeup brush is the best for liquid blush and liquid contour. I use the medium size brush for highlighter and the smallest brush for concealer. The real technique brushes are the best. They never shed and they’re super easy to clean.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $16.83
Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm
Editor testing and review notes: “Tarte’s Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm feels more like a plumping lip oil than a traditional balm — that’s likely courtesy of the formula’s trio of plant-based oils. Beyond its cushiony texture, what I love most about this balm is its even color payoff. One swipe gives you an even touch of color, but two swipes provides the look of a stain with a rich gloss layered on top. I needed to reapply every hour or so, but it feels so good on my lips, I’m always happy to do it.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “The shade ‘Rose’ is a perfect nude shade for fair skin — it’s a beige pink that’s almost the color of my lips, and it makes them look so smooth and juicy. The formula is glossy and thick in a good way, with a little stickiness that helps it last longer. It feels very moisturizing and has a buttery coconut scent. The product is soft and melty so be careful to only click up a little at a time —3 clicks is enough for an application.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $24
Saie Glowy Super Gel Lightweight Dewy Multipurpose Illuminator
Editor testing and review notes: “This super smooth, luminizing gel is my makeup bag secret weapon. While other liquid highlighters can appear patchy or glittery on my skin, the Saie Glowy Super Gel in Sunglow seamlessly melts into my complexion. Like Earle, I like to apply this directly on to my skin before I go in with face products, or it works great mixed with foundation for a lit-from-within bronze glow.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “I love how the ‘Sunglow’ shade is like a bronzer and the star glow is like a highlighter! ‘Sunglow’ is the most beautiful bronzey-shimmery color that mixed with moisturizer, gives instantly brightens up to my face. It is one of my essential steps in my beauty routine and is way easier than putting on and blending a full face of traditional bronzer. I love the way it glows in the sunlight. I ALWAYS recommend this product, especially for a beginner to the makeup or skincare world.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $28
Pimoys 6-Piece Velour Triangle Powder Puff
Editor testing and review notes: “I was hesitant to buy yet another type of beauty sponge. But I truly love these much more than any other type of sponge. Helps specifically with under eye concealer and setting powder. I use one sponge to pat in my concealer, and a different one for the setting powder, and it works flawlessly.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “I have never used these before so I decided to try them. I love how they come with multiple ones so if needed to use on the go you can leave one in your makeup bag or bring with you in your purse to touch up. They do the job and the material is so soft. I am so glad I tried these I will always use them!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $5.99
Saie Sun Melt Cream Bronzer
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve always preferred powder bronzer, partly because I could never find a natural-looking shade in cream or liquid, but this bronzer has made me a believer. With a buffing brush, it blends so easily to a natural finish, does not give me an orange cast, and is super buildable. It feels hydrating without feeling like it could slip off your face, and melts well with other cream or liquid cheek products. I’ve gotten so many compliments whenever I wear it.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “Best cream bronzer ever. I’ve been having it for about a year now. It lasts forever! And looks so good on the skin.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $32
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lipliner
Editor testing and review notes: “If you’re looking for a your-lips-but-better lip liner, Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk lip liner is a well-worthy cult-favorite. It’s the perfect nude pink — and comes in three shades to match your skin tone — and makes for a natural color if you’re into over lining your lips. I love how it works as a chameleon shade, because I can pair it with brown lipsticks, pink lip glosses, or a nude lipstick, depending on my mood.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “Love! This is the longest wear liner that I have come across. And when it starts fading, hours later, it turns into a gorgeous lip contour. 10/10!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $25
Benefit Cosmetics 24-Hr Brow Setter Clear Eyebrow Gel with Lamination Effect
Editor testing and review notes: “Benefit’s 24-Hr Brow Setter Clear Eyebrow Gel works magic on my thicker brows — the spoolie has two bristle lengths that allow me to easily coat each hair. Many clear brow gels that deliver such a strong hold can end up flaky or feeling sticky throughout the day, but this one sets my brows with a weightless feel.” — Director of Commerce Adam Mansuroglu
What testers say: “I wish i would’ve tried this product sooner! I’ve tried so many of brow gels from all the cheap affordable brands only to end up with flakes and zero hold. This stuff ACTUALLY holds my thick heavy brows up and lasts through an entire day, even when I sweat at the gym.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $26
Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer
Editor testing and review notes: “Whenever a friend texts asking for a concealer recommendation, Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer is my no-brainer response. This iconic formula is full-coverage, but it’s not like other cakey, full-coverage concealers — it’s a hydrating one. Its small doe-foot wand makes it easy to target the inner corners of your eyes and blend out to cover your under-eye area with your fingertips or a makeup sponge. I wore it on my wedding day, so I can attest that it photographs well, and it truly doesn’t budge.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “I have been using this concealer for four years on my combo skin and will never go without it. I wear moisturizer and sunscreen everyday, and this layers so perfectly! It can stick to dry patches, but just moisturize and you’ll be fine. It looks so natural and covers everything. Tip: take out the black stopped plug and you’ll have triple the product left in the bottle!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $32
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Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Matte Powder Bronzer
Editor testing and review notes: “An oldie but a goodie, Benefit’s Hoola Matte Powder Bronzer has made appearances in my makeup bag for years. This top bronzer has a finely milled powder texture, which allows the pigments to lay down and blend naturally on my skin without any patchiness. The original shade (shown) works beautifully on my fair skin, but Benefit has four variations on Hoola for deeper skin tones, too.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “I needed a lighter shade of bronzer for the winter when I am paler. I tried the lightest color in the bronzer and it is absolutely perfect. I could probably use it in the summer as well because I don’t get that much darker.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $36
Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara
Editor testing and review notes: “Better Than Sex is an iconic Too Faced mascara for good reason. It’s a top option for those who love to pump up the length and volume thanks to its intense thickening power and chunky hourglass wand. This waterproof iteration is my go-to in the summer months when I’m swimming or sweating, but also serves as a great long wear mascara for year-round use. It doesn’t flake, smudge, or budge, while still being fairly easy to remove at the end of the day with makeup remover. I can always rely on a dramatic lash effect and a locked-in curl with this product.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “This has been my go-to mascara for years. If you want a lengthening, volumizing and DEFINITELY waterproof mascara, look no further! This mascara will not budge. I have very watery eyes and really struggle finding mascaras that don’t bleed or actually last on me — this has ended my search. Go lighter if you’re looking for a more natural look, go heavier if you’re looking for a falsies vibe. Either way, it is always a win!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $29
Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Liquid Lip Blush & Cheek Tint
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve been using this product for years and years — it never steers me wrong. It’s doesn’t dry fast or leave patchy color like other stains I’ve tried, and I love how easy it is to blend with my fingers (which I found to be the best application method). The formula is very thin so it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing anything on your skin. Matching your lips to your cheeks will always get you the most natural all-over flush, and I’m obsessed with results whether I’m wearing the classic rose shade or the pinky Floratint.” — Cigliano
What testers say: This is a must have if you are into blushes! I love this blush so much!! It gives such a pretty natural blush stain. You can apply as little or as much as you want to give whatever pigmentation you desire. I also like the smell of this product, the fresh, floral scent is so calming and you can also apply it to your lips. Love!!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $24
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray
Editor testing and review notes: “This face finisher is always my go-to when I know I’ll need to stay glammed for long hours that lead into the night. It locks your look in place and creates a flawless finish that I’ve never seen from makeup setting sprays before. I particularly recommend this spray for special occasions, like weddings or events where there will be a lot of photo-ops.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “My makeup won’t move after I use this! This product is 100% worth the price. I’ve even tried applying makeup to my hand and using this setting spray on top and there was absolutely no smudging.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $38
Benefit Cosmetics Tickle Golden Pink Powder Highlighter
Editor testing and review notes: “Most highlighters are shades of champagne, gold, or pearl. Benefit’s Tickle Powder Highlighter, on the other hand, is a gorgeous rose. The pink tone is amazing for brightening your skin while illuminating it — I sweep this on the high planes of my cheeks to perk up my complexion. It’s also stunning for an inner-corner highlight on your eyes.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “I bought this to add a little shimmer over my blush, but this is a two-in-one blush and shimmer. It is very pink and has a nice glowy finish.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $35
Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer Stick
Editor testing and review notes: “Bronzers are one of the beauty products that require careful attention when you’re applying the product — too much, and you risk looking orange. Warm Wishes Bronzer Stick, on the other hand, comes in natural sun-kissed shades, and is so pleasantly sheer that you can dot it onto your skin and blend it in without looking in a mirror. The only critique I have has to do with packaging; the cap is prone to slipping off if it’s rustling around in a makeup bag.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “I’ve looked for years to find a color that looks good on me and this is finally it. Perfect color match, the formula is so good it blends beautifully. Lasts all day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $26
Tarte Fake Awake Vegan Waterline Highlight Eyeliner
Editor testing and review notes: “While I don’t love the look of a waterline eyeliner, Tarte’s Fake Awake Vegan Waterline Eyeliner is one of few I’ve tried that doesn’t irritate my sensitive eyes. The peachy nude tone glides on super smoothly with just one coat, so you don’t have to worry about it snagging on your delicate eye area. If you’re like me and don’t love a waterline look, this still has great value in your makeup bag as an inner corner brightener.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “This is the best natural waterline pencil I’ve used. It stays in place and doesn’t run. I was surprised at how creamy it was, not so much so that it smears as soon as its on. I will definitely be purchasing another when I’m out.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $22
Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking & Setting Powder
Editor testing and review notes: “I have combination skin that’s prone to oiliness in my T-zone, and Huda Beauty’s Easy Bake Setting Powder is a favorite for its prowess in smoothing away shine. On top of delivering a filter-like effect on my skin, the Cherry Blossom shade — a pretty light pink — sets my concealer while doing double duty to brighten and disguise dark circles. The powder is very finely milled, melting into makeup without separating or creasing during hours of wear.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “I held out for so long because of how expensive this was but I’m truly a believer now! It hasn’t caused any breakouts — I have very sensitive acne prone skin. Worth every penny!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $38
Patrick Ta Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo
Editor testing and review notes: “I couldn’t resist snagging this duo during a Sephora sale after I saw it all over my FYP, and it’s just as beautiful in person. Patrick Ta’s renowned blush process requires a lot of trust — I’m always wary of cake face with it comes to adding wet products over powder, but I quickly learned to never question his genius. The powder applied incredibly pigmented and was super easy to diffuse with a fluffy brush, and a gentle dab of the cream on top gave my cheeks a lit-from-within glow. Plus, the mirrored rose gold packaging looks stunning on my vanity. For $36, you technically get two blushes in one.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “I was never a fan of cream blushes before this one!! i love this color ‘She’s That Girl,’ as it’s a perfect mix between a peachy and pink blush!! It adds such a beautiful glow and the powder is amazing as well! I will repurchase every time.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $38
Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil
Editor testing and review notes: ““This lip oil left my lips feeling soft, smooth, and plush after application. It maintains a slick — not sticky or slippery — texture for about three hours of wear and did not transfer outside my lip line or onto my teeth. Upon each application during our testing period, I found myself removing excess product from the large doe foot applicator, as it can deposit too much product on my lips in one swipe. The product effectively rejuvenated my dry lips (after being outside in winter temperatures down to 20 degrees) and is impressive compared to other lip oils and hydrating lip glosses I’ve tried.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “After using this product for a few days the first thing I noticed was how long it lasts! It is an incredible product with great coverage and color! I can’t wait to try the other shades.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $26
Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation
Editor testing and review notes: “Haus Lab’s foundation has quickly become a favorite. It’s lightweight, extremely spreadable, easy to blend, and melts like butter. It delivers a radiant, luminous, hydrating, healthy-looking complexion — what’s better than that? It also claims to be long-lasting, and I can attest that it truly is. The foundation is suitable for all skin types, but I would recommend those with oily skin make sure they set their face. Overall, this product makes my skin look filtered — I’m obsessed. Pro tip: a little goes a long way.“ — Cigliano
What testers say: “I was skeptical when I first tried this because it felt a little thicker than I was used to, however after trying for a few days, I fell more and more in love. Tip: start with less and build. Once I learned how to blend more evenly with the brand’s angled foundation brush, I realized how smoothly this goes onto my skin. What blew me away was how even and healthy this made my skin look! I used this for a more full coverage look on nights out and to a wedding in the heat. The foundation held up with zero separation! I’m a huge fan!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve tried dozens of mascaras on the market, but ever since I got a hold of Benefit’s Roller Lash Mascara three years ago, it’s become the only mascara I re-order as soon as I’m running low. This product does everything I need — add volume, separate my lashes, and enhance the curl — thanks to the tiny little hooks that grab the individual lashes. Aside from that, I love that the lid is made of a textured rubbery material, which makes it easy to grip and helps with the application process. Plus, it’s super easy to remove with a cleansing balm or makeup remover and doesn’t leave residue on my eyes the next day.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “I’ve been using this for over five years and I won’t use anything else. I put all my girls on to this mascara and they all love it too. This is the best mascara — it doesn’t smudge easy, holds a curl, and I hear all the time my lashes are gorgeous!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $29
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder
Editor testing and review notes: “This super fine powder is one I often opt for over loose setting powder to set my under eyes. It has a visible blurring effect that smooths lines and evens out my texture. I love its buildable finish — it looks natural and not dry or cakey on top of the skin. It does what the ideal powder should do — mattify, set, and blur.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “This powder is an absolute game-changer especially for setting the under eye area. I used this when I did my sister’s makeup recently and she almost immediately purchased for herself because it was such a difference — she literally looked almost five years younger.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $48
Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette
Editor testing and review notes: “For everyday makeup, matte, neutral eyelids are my go-to. Makeup by Mario’s palette provides so many options that range from subtle to statement-worthy: All of the colors in this palette deliver dynamic color payoff, as they’re easy to diffuse out for a soft look or pack on for something more bold. I love how light the shades feel on my eyelids and the fact that they never crease.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “This is very very pigmented, not chalky, and has no fallout at all — which I love so so much. I would buy the product again for sure. Also the mirror is so clear and pretty, it’s perfect!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $50
Nars Afterglow Liquid Blush
Editor testing and review notes: “Nars Afterglow Liquid Blush is so fun to play with — the fluid’s sheer payoff makes it impossible to mess up. I’ll dab two dots per cheek on bare skin for a just-left-the-gym flush, or pack it on over tinted moisturizer for a little more drama. Its subtle luminosity makes highlighter purely optional.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “I rarely get excited about new makeup products, but this Afterglow Liquid Blush is my absolute favorite. It goes on easily and blends beautifully. The colors are gorgeous and are very natural but also easy to build for more intensity.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $32
Too Faced Born This Way Concealer
Editor testing and review notes: “The Too Faced Born This Way Concealer has become my absolute favorite over the last year. And I’m super picky with concealer — I need hefty coverage for my dark under eye circles, but I’m also very prone to creasing. Considering the dozens of concealers I’ve tried from drugstore to prestige, this one checks all my boxes. Not only does it last all day and provide reliable coverage for any spot on my face, it also has a unique blurring effect I haven’t found from any other brand. I love that I can skip foundation and cakey complexion products with this concealer, too.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “I’ve been using this concealer for almost a year. I usually don’t write reviews unless it’s something I constantly use and this is one of them! This is my third bottle. It offers amazing coverage on my dark circles or any acne I might have. I can build it up if I’m doing a heavy makeup look.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $36
Rare Beauty Always An Optimist 4-in-1 Prime & Set Mist
Editor testing and review notes: “Since testing this face mist, I’ve told all my friends to give it a try, explaining that it’s basically a hydrating mist that just so happens to make your makeup last longer. Not only does this set your makeup in place, but it also makes your glam look more radiant and fresh. The nozzle disperses the ultra-fine mist evenly across my skin without any lingering droplets, so I don’t have to run over it with a makeup sponge. Because the mist is so fine, the bottle lasts for ages — I’m only halfway through the tube I cracked into six months ago.” — Cigliano
What testers say: “This product has become a must every time I put make up on. It makes everything better and lights up my face. It’s also super refreshing! I really love it!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $27
Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Flawless Foundation
Editor testing and review notes: “Those with combination skin types know the struggle of finding a foundation that tamps down shine without making dry areas look dull. Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation is one of select few that work with my skin in any season: It doesn’t make my complexion slick during summer, nor does it leave me dull in the doldrums of winter. The consistency is on the watery side, which makes it easy to apply thin layers I can build up to my desired level of coverage. When I’m looking for less coverage, I’ll mix this foundation with a touch of moisturizer for a skin tint-like finish.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $69
YSL Beauty Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick
Editor testing and review notes: “A nearly $40 lip balm is a definite splurge, but when the formula is as multitasking as YSL Beauty’s Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick, it’s worth every cent. During my month-long testing window with the product, my main conclusion is that this little tube is a textural anomaly. The Showcasing Nude shade I tried has the color payoff of a lipstick, the feel of a lip balm, and the sheen of a high-shine lip gloss. You can layer the light pink shade over lip liner à la Alix, or wear a tinted shade on its own.” — Sullivan
What testers say: Great staple and holy grail. I have both the clear and no. 15. So beautiful. So nourishing. This stuff makes my lips feel so good. Even hours later it feels nourished. The stain that the number 15 leaves is absolutely beautiful. I don’t know why more people don’t talk about this. These are great!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $39
Who Is Alix Earle?
Alix Earle is a TikTok creator who took off in fall 2022 for her approachable, unfiltered Get Ready With Me-style videos. The University of Miami graduate and New Jersey-native is primarily known for her beauty-centric TikTok videos, most of which showcase her makeup techniques and struggles with acne, however social media-scrollers also tune in for fashion inspiration. Earle has partnered with her favorite beauty brands, like Tarte, Laniege, and Benefit Cosmetics, and is also a podcast host.
Alix Earle’s Amazon Storefront
Searching for more Alix-approved items? One of the simplest ways to shop Earle’s favorites is taking a quick trip to her Amazon storefront. Amazon Storefronts allow creators to share their favorite Amazon beauty products, duvet covers, and so much more. Earle’s edit includes categories like beachwear finds, Amazon makeup brushes, handbags and purses, women’s perfume, and Amazon gift ideas galore.
Looking for an Amazon deal? Alix has you covered! When Amazon Prime Day arrives on July 16 and 17, she always flags and updates her favorite Prime Day beauty, fashion, and home deals to keep her followers in-the-know. Plus, you can always browse her Amazon favorites to snag exclusive flash-deals year-round — on top of super speedy and free shipping.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Products in Alix Earle’s Makeup Routine
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to select the best makeup products in Alix Earle’s routine, four WWD Shop editors watched dozens of Earle’s most popular GRWM TikTok videos and sifted through her Amazon storefront, taking note of the products she reaches for the most. We cross-checked customer reviews, researched the items, and narrowed down a list makeup products and tools products to test. Over the course nine months, our editors assessed the products through several rounds of first-hand testing, narrowing down our selections to include the 35 best makeup products. Learn more about us here.
Before you go, check out more editor-loved TikTok beauty products:
Meet the Testers
A panel of five testers contributed to this extensive shopping guide for the best drugstore foundations. Our testers include the authors of this story, Olivia Cigliano, the Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD, and Claire Sullivan, the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News, as well as Adam Mansuroglu, the Director of Commerce for Footwear News and WWD, and two additional testers. Our beauty test team is comprised of a range of beauty preferences and skin types, including some with sensitive and acne-prone skin. Each WWD Shop editor tester examined formulas, shade ranges, and finishes over several test periods to determine whether they live up to Earle’s recommendations and are satisfactory for a wide range of beauty lovers.
Meet the Authors
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits beauty, fashion and lifestyle stories. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, as well as the latest shopping trends and clothing brands. Sullivan has tested and reviewed a number of Alix Earle’s favorite products in her makeup routine, including these Benefit Cosmetics products. Learn more about us here.
Olivia Cigliano is the Commerce Writer and Producer at WWD and Footwear News. She is a New York City-based fashion and lifestyle writer, riding the pulse of trends and digital culture. Her previous bylines can be found on CR Fashion Book and Elite Daily. When she’s not writing shopping content at WWD and FN, she can be found scrolling TikTok “Get Ready with Me” videos to discover trending beauty products to add to her beauty bag. She updated this article in July 2024 with up-to-date product picks from Earle’s most recent TikTok videos and additional editor test notes.