What to look for in a makeup stick

Makeup sticks offer quick, versatile application for on-the-go beauty routines—here’s what to keep in mind when choosing one.

1. Formula and Finish

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Consider whether you want a matte, dewy, or satin finish, and choose a formula that suits your skin type. Creamy formulas blend easily and work well for dry or normal skin, while matte formulas may be better for oily skin.

2. Multi-Use Versatility

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Some makeup sticks are designed for use on cheeks, lips, and eyes, while others are specialized. Decide if you want an all-in-one product or one that targets a specific area.

3. Shade Range

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Look for brands that offer a wide variety of shades to match your complexion or desired look. A good shade match ensures natural-looking results.

4. Blendability and Wear Time

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Check reviews or product claims about how easily the stick blends into the skin and how long it lasts without fading or creasing. Long-wear formulas are ideal for busy days.

  1. 1
    Sculpted Face Stick
    2,634 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A multi-use, clean makeup stick to bronze, highlight, contour, or blush.
  2. 2
    The Multiple Sculpting Stick
    78 REVIEWS
    NARS’ iconic multi-purpose stick, now designed to sculpt and define cheeks.
  3. 3
    Exagger-Eyes Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
    818 REVIEWS
    Speedy, easy cream eyeshadow stick with up to 24-hour long-lasting wear.
  4. 4
    Skin Enhancer Blush, Bronzer & Highlighter Multi-Stick
    187 REVIEWS
    Skin Enhancer Blush, Bronzer & Highlighter Multi-Stick delivers a dewy rush of color and boost of 24-hour moisture to face, cheeks, and lips.
  5. 5
    Skin Corrector Stick

    Bobbi Brown

    579 REVIEWS
    A medium coverage color-correction stick that neutralizes dark undereye circles & other discoloration around the face for up to 12 hours of coverage.
  6. 6
    Phyto-Rouge Shine Refill

    Sisley Paris

    20 REVIEWS
    Hydrating and plumping lip balm
  7. 7
    Glow Skin Highlighter Stick
    110 REVIEWS
    This lightweight gel highlighter stick glides on smoothly, brightening and moisturizing skin and leaving a natural-looking pearlescent glow.
  8. 8
    The Multiple

    Nars

    610 REVIEWS
    New, reimagined formula of NARS’ iconic multi-purpose stick with vibrant, versatile shades for cheeks, lips, and eyes.
  9. 9
    Caviar Stick Eyeshadow

    Laura Mercier

    1,466 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A 24HR long-wear eyeshadow stick with creamy, rich color that effortlessly glides, blends and builds without tugging, flaking, smudging or creasing.
  10. 10
    Le Phyto Rouge

    Sisley Paris

    98 REVIEWS
    An intense lipstick combined with skin care to provide a balm-like sensation.

What to look for in a makeup stick

Makeup sticks offer quick, versatile application for on-the-go beauty routines—here’s what to keep in mind when choosing one.

1. Formula and Finish

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider whether you want a matte, dewy, or satin finish, and choose a formula that suits your skin type. Creamy formulas blend easily and work well for dry or normal skin, while matte formulas may be better for oily skin.

2. Multi-Use Versatility

Citrus catapult arrow

Some makeup sticks are designed for use on cheeks, lips, and eyes, while others are specialized. Decide if you want an all-in-one product or one that targets a specific area.

3. Shade Range

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for brands that offer a wide variety of shades to match your complexion or desired look. A good shade match ensures natural-looking results.

4. Blendability and Wear Time

Citrus catapult arrow

Check reviews or product claims about how easily the stick blends into the skin and how long it lasts without fading or creasing. Long-wear formulas are ideal for busy days.