My 2024 Makeup MVPs: The Products That Rocked My World!

A deep dive into the makeup gems that made my year.

MrsMelissaMMrsMelissaMJan 2025
My 2024 Makeup MVPs: The Products That Rocked My World!

Watch the full video

Mentioned Products

Hello, darling friends! I'm so thrilled to finally share my 2024 makeup roundup with you. This year has been a whirlwind of incredible beauty discoveries, and I can't wait to spill the tea on the products that truly stole my heart. These aren't necessarily brand-new releases, but they were new to me, and that's what matters, right? So, let's dive right in!

1. Doll 10 Doll Skin Anti-Stress Skin Perfector

This product was a genuine surprise. I discovered Doll 10 this year (and yes, a full Doll 10 dedicated video is coming soon!), and this skin perfector completely blew me away. Initially, I expected it to be a lightweight skin tint or a primer, but it offers the coverage of a foundation with the ethereal feel of a tint. The color-correcting abilities are remarkable. Even though the shade range isn't extensive, it seems to magically neutralize redness and create an even, balanced skin tone. I first heard about this from Lisa J (the brilliant founder of BK Beauty) during a TikTok live. Seeing it on her skin, I knew I had to try it. And let me tell you, on my 50-year-old skin, it's absolutely gorgeous. It's lightweight, doesn't accentuate texture or fine lines, and just makes my skin look healthy and radiant. If you're looking for light to medium coverage with a perfected, natural finish, this is your holy grail. It's become a staple in my routine, perfect for those days when I want a "no-makeup" makeup look.

2. Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation Hydration and Longwear

Okay, this one is a splurge, but I might have stumbled upon the ultimate foundation for mature skin. I typically hesitate to spend a fortune on foundation, but the description of this Chanel beauty intrigued me. Hydration and longwear? Sign me up! And it truly delivers on both promises. I'm wearing it on one side of my face today (with the Doll 10 on the other), and honestly, no matter what my skin is doing – whether it's dry, red, dehydrated, or showing those pesky wrinkles – this foundation makes it look its absolute best. It has a beautiful, luminous finish that doesn't look cakey or settle into fine lines. I bought this in early fall, and I'm almost out – that's how much I adore it. I've put almost all my other foundations aside and have been rotating between this and the Doll 10. This Chanel foundation is my go-to when I want my skin to look flawlessly smooth and polished. It's worth every penny.

3. Tower 28 Swipe All-Over Hydrating Serum Concealer

I haven't used any other concealer this year. This is the one. It's a serum concealer, so it nourishes and treats your delicate under-eye area while providing excellent coverage. The texture is incredibly thin and lightweight, yet it effectively conceals dark circles and imperfections. It's also self-setting, which means no creasing! And you only need the tiniest amount, so the tube lasts forever. Anyone who's seen my dark circles knows I struggle with them, but this concealer is a game-changer. I'm on my third tube since it launched a few years ago – that's a testament to my love for it. It's truly a must-have in my makeup bag.

Swipe All-Over Hydrating Serum Concealer
Swipe All-Over Hydrating Serum Concealer

Tower 28

tl;dr

Nourishing serum concealer.

Pros
  • Lightweight, self-setting, excellent coverage.
Cons
  • Limited shade range.

4. Averil Waterproof Eyeshadow Primer

While I love my Anastasia Beverly Hills primer, it can be a bit too white for my skin tone. I was searching for something more skin-toned, and this Averil primer from Amazon fit the bill perfectly. It's waterproof (a lifesaver for my sweaty eyelids – anyone else relate?), and while it claims to be a concealer, I wouldn't recommend using it for that purpose. It's a bit too thick and could crease under the eyes. However, I do use it as a concealer primer. I have an age spot that I like to conceal, and I dab a bit of this primer on it after doing my eye makeup to help my concealer adhere better and diffuse the appearance of the spot. As an eyeshadow primer, it's fantastic. It intensifies the vibrancy of eyeshadows and makes them last all day. I do set it with a light dusting of translucent powder to prevent creasing (those sweaty eyelids again!), but this tube has barely been used, so I know it'll last me a long time. It's a great affordable option.

5. One/Size by Patrick Starrr Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder in Pink

I'm completely obsessed with this pink powder! I even did a whole video dedicated to pink powders, and this one from One/Size reigns supreme. It's brightening, pore-blurring, and just makes my skin look incredibly smooth and diffused. It has a subtle luminosity that gives the skin a healthy glow without looking shimmery. It's not drying at all, and I even use the leftover powder on my brush under my eyes to set my concealer. It's truly a multi-tasking marvel.

Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder
Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder

One/Size by Patrick Starrr

tl;dr

Brightening pink setting powder.

Pros
  • Pore-blurring, multi-tasking, subtle luminosity.
Cons
  • Limited availability.

6. Tarte Dual-Ended Setting Powder Brush

This brush (the one I just used for the One/Size powder) is another new favorite. I've loved the Hourglass Veil Powder Brush for years, but this Tarte brush is even softer and more pliable. It works beautifully with both cream and powder products, making it incredibly versatile. I use one side for highlighter and the other for setting powder. It's also less expensive than some high-end options, and you can often find it on sale at TarteCosmetics.com.

Professional Dual Ended Complexion Brush for Blending and Even Application, Angled Sculpting Applicator for Concealer, Foundation, Setting Powder
Professional Dual Ended Complexion Brush for Blending and Even Application, Angled Sculpting Applicator for Concealer, Foundation, Setting Powder
tl;dr

High-performance natural cosmetics.

Pros
  • Cruelty-free, high-quality formulas.
Cons
  • Higher price range.

7. BK Beauty Complexion Trio Brushes

BK Beauty released this brush trio towards the end of the year, and I instantly fell in love. The set includes three brushes: the 116, a round foundation brush; the 115, a contoured foundation brush; and the 114, a unique angled brush. The 116 provides a bit more coverage than a typical skin tint brush, and I can even use it for concealer under my eyes. The 115 is the perfect size for smaller faces and works great for bronzer and contour. The 114 is ideal for getting into the inner and outer corners of the eye and cleaning up concealer or even lip lines. These brushes are incredibly soft and blend makeup seamlessly.

BK Beauty Core Complexion Trio Makeup Brushes Set (3PC) – Foundation, Concealer, and Blending Brushes for Liquid, Cream & Powder – Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Ultra-Soft Face Makeup Brushes
BK Beauty Core Complexion Trio Makeup Brushes Set (3PC) – Foundation, Concealer, and Blending Brushes for Liquid, Cream & Powder – Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Ultra-Soft Face Makeup Brushes
tl;dr

Trio of complexion brushes.

Pros
  • Soft, versatile, seamless blending.
Cons
  • Limited availability.

8. Moira Dual Brow Highlighter Pencil

You know how much I love Moira! This dual-ended brow highlighter pencil is a true gem. I use the shimmery end in the inner corner of my eyes, under my brow arch to lift and define, and even on my cupid's bow for a touch of highlight. The matte pink end is perfect for brightening the under-eye area and concealing any redness. It's just as good as the Benefit High Brow pencil but at a fraction of the cost.

Dual Brow Highlighter Pencil (001, Light Pink)
Dual Brow Highlighter Pencil (001, Light Pink)

Moira

tl;dr

Dual-ended brow highlighter pencil.

Pros
  • Versatile, affordable, effective.
Cons
  • Limited shade options.

9. Moira Statement Shimmer Liners

I snagged these from the Moira website before they launched anywhere else. I'm wearing the shade Deep Taupe today, although it's not as deep as the name suggests. These liners have a beautiful, subtle shimmer – almost metallic, but not overly shiny. I also picked up Royal Blue (which is more of a teal) and Violet (a vibrant purple that I didn't have in my collection). Moira eyeliners are known for their long-lasting power, and these are no exception. They stay put in the waterline all day long!

10. Kosas Brow Pop Dual-Action Filling and Shaping Easy Eyebrow Pencil

I have a complicated relationship with brow pencils, but this one from Kosas is a winner. It has a spoolie on one end and a tiny triangular tip on the other. The unique shape is perfect for creating realistic-looking brow hairs and filling in sparse areas with precision. It's not too stiff or too creamy, and the color payoff is excellent. It lasts all day without smudging or fading.

Brow Pop Dual-Action Filling and Shaping Easy Eyebrow Pencil
Brow Pop Dual-Action Filling and Shaping Easy Eyebrow Pencil

Kosas

tl;dr

Dual-action eyebrow pencil.

Pros
  • Precise, long-lasting, excellent color payoff.
Cons
  • Limited shade range.

11. Morphe Huephoric Rush 3-in-1 Silk Blush in Pleasured

This balm-like blush from Morphe is absolutely stunning. I'm wearing it today, and it gives my cheeks a beautiful, healthy flush. It's a brightened pink with a peachy undertone. The balmy texture creates a dewy, hydrated finish. If you prefer a matte look, you can set it with a powder blush.

Pleasured Huephoric Rush 3-in-1 Silk Blush - Morphe | Ulta Beauty
Pleasured Huephoric Rush 3-in-1 Silk Blush - Morphe | Ulta Beauty

Morphe

tl;dr

3-in-1 silk blush.

Pros
  • Beautiful flush, dewy finish.
Cons
  • May require setting for matte look.

12. Too Faced Melting Bronzing and Sculpting Stick in Chocolate Mousse

I've been using this contour stick non-stop. I love the way it applies and blends seamlessly into the skin. The Chocolate Mousse shade is perfect for my skin tone year-round. The creamy formula is ideal for mature skin, as it doesn't emphasize texture or fine lines.

13. One/Size by Patrick Starrr Turn Up The Base Infinity Beauty Sponge

This uniquely shaped sponge is another favorite. It's contoured and comes to a point, making it easy to use in smaller areas or to pick up excess makeup (which is what I primarily use it for). You can also use it to apply cream or powder products.

Turn Up The Base Infinity Beauty Sponge
Turn Up The Base Infinity Beauty Sponge

One/Size by Patrick Starrr

tl;dr

Contoured beauty sponge.

Pros
  • Precise, versatile, easy to use.
Cons
  • Limited availability.

14. Fenty Beauty Trace'd Out Pencil Lip Liner in RiRi

These Fenty lip liners are amazing. They're incredibly long-lasting, which is rare for a creamy lip liner. I like to fill in my lips completely, blot, and then fill in again for a budge-proof, stain-like effect. The RiRi shade is my favorite, but the red shade is surprisingly good too.

Riri Trace'd Out Pencil Lip Liner - FENTY BEAUTY by Rihanna | Ulta Beauty
Riri Trace'd Out Pencil Lip Liner - FENTY BEAUTY by Rihanna | Ulta Beauty

Fenty Beauty

tl;dr

Long-lasting lip liner.

Pros
  • Creamy, long-lasting, excellent color.
Cons
  • Limited shade range.

15. Persona 24HR Waterproof Eyeliner in Brown

This eyeliner went viral this year, and for good reason. While it's not specifically designed for the waterline, it stays put there for hours. I have it in brown, which is a beautiful deep chocolate shade.

Brown 24 HR Waterproof Eyeliner - Persona | Ulta Beauty
Brown 24 HR Waterproof Eyeliner - Persona | Ulta Beauty

Persona

tl;dr

24-hour waterproof eyeliner.

Pros
  • Long-lasting, deep color.
Cons
  • Not specifically designed for waterline.

16. Charlotte Tilbury Mini Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara

This mascara is fantastic for creating dramatic, fanned-out lashes. It has a wetter formula, so I wipe off the excess before applying. The curved wand is great for getting close to the lash line.

Black Travel Size Exagger-eyes Volume Mascara - Charlotte Tilbury | Ulta Beauty
Black Travel Size Exagger-eyes Volume Mascara - Charlotte Tilbury | Ulta Beauty

Charlotte Tilbury

tl;dr

Volume mascara with curved wand.

Pros
  • Dramatic lashes, travel-friendly.
Cons
  • Wetter formula requires careful application.

17. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara

This is another mascara I've been loving. The unique wand creates beautiful volume and length. It holds curl and doesn't smudge.

Amazon.com : L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara, Volumizing and Lengthening Mascara, Washable Longwear and Smudge Resistant Make Up, Blackest Black, 0.33 Fl Oz : Beauty & Personal Care
Amazon.com : L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara, Volumizing and Lengthening Mascara, Washable Longwear and Smudge Resistant Make Up, Blackest Black, 0.33 Fl Oz : Beauty & Personal Care
tl;dr

Volumizing and lengthening mascara.

Pros
  • Holds curl, doesn't smudge.
Cons
  • Limited shade options.

18. e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Core Lip Shine in Glimmer

This is a hybrid between a gloss and an oil. It's not sticky or too slippery, and it has nourishing ingredients.

19. ColourPop So Juicy Plumping Glossy Lip Oil

This is another gloss-oil hybrid with a plumping effect. I love the formula.

It's a Date So Juicy Plumping Glossy Lip Oil - ColourPop | Ulta Beauty
It's a Date So Juicy Plumping Glossy Lip Oil - ColourPop | Ulta Beauty

ColourPop

tl;dr

Plumping glossy lip oil.

Pros
  • Nourishing, non-sticky, plumping effect.
Cons
  • Limited color options.

20. Doll 10 Doll Squad Palette 2.0

This neutral-leaning cool-toned palette has a beautiful navy and silver. I love the formula and the color story.

Doll Squad Palette 2.0
Doll Squad Palette 2.0

Doll 10

tl;dr

Cool-toned eyeshadow palette.

Pros
  • Beautiful color story, great formula.
Cons
  • Limited shade range.

21. Morphe Rich & Foiled Going Platinum Eyeshadow Palette

This nine-pan palette is mostly neutral browns with a stunning metallic silver.

 Rich & Foiled Going Platinum Eyeshadow Palette - Morphe | Ulta Beauty
Rich & Foiled Going Platinum Eyeshadow Palette - Morphe | Ulta Beauty

Morphe

tl;dr

Neutral and metallic eyeshadow palette.

Pros
  • Versatile shades, stunning metallic.
Cons
  • Limited color variety.

22. ColourPop Sundown 15 Color Eyeshadow Collection

This is the palette I used on my eyes today. It has great neutrals and a gorgeous burgundy duochrome.

That's it for my 2024 makeup roundup! I hope you enjoyed it and discovered some new products to try. I'd love to hear about your favorite makeup discoveries of the year in the comments below!

Sundown 15 Color Eyeshadow Collection
Sundown 15 Color Eyeshadow Collection

ColourPop

tl;dr

15-color eyeshadow collection.

Pros
  • Great neutrals, beautiful duochrome.
Cons
  • Limited availability.