When it comes to cosmetics, finding a brand that aligns with your values and delivers on quality can be difficult. But if you’re on the hunt for makeup products that are easy to apply, look beautiful and natural, AND prioritize clean ingredients and sustainability… this post is for you!
In this MERIT makeup review, we’ll delve into the brand that’s been making waves in the beauty industry and on social media. There’s no way you haven’t seen it pop up on your feed before – so I’m here to break down all of the products I’ve tried. Let’s go!
What is MERIT Beauty?
MERIT is a modern cosmetics brand that emphasizes clean beauty, simplicity, and sustainability. It was founded by Katherine Power – who also cofounded Who What Wear, Avaline Wine and Versed!
She created MERIT to fill a space in the luxury beauty industry. While there are a lot of luxury beauty brands, not all of them are clean, well-edited and made to bring out someone’s natural beauty.
In addition to their beautiful packaging, MERIT products are also formulated without harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, making them suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones.
DOES MERIT BEAUTY EVER HAVE SALES?
Unfortunately MERIT doesn’t do sales – at least not very often. That being said, they do a Cyber Week sale every year so keep an eye out around Black Friday for details!
They also have sets which are the best way to save if you are looking at getting multiple products. Their products are also included in the Sephora sales in the spring and fall, too.

Key Product Categories
Complexion:
One of MERIT’s signature products is their Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick. This is meant to be replace both your foundation and concealer in one little stick. They also now have a serum called Great Skin that you can apply before your makeup.
Cheeks:
The Flush Balm cream blush is a fan favorite, providing a natural flush of color to your cheeks. They also have a Bronze Balm, as well as Day Glow highlighter.
Eyes:
Merit offers a Brow 1980 Volumizing Pomade and a Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara, as well as a brand new Solo Shadow eyeshadow.
Lips:
The Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oils are a standout product, but don’t sleep on their lipstick either!
Brushes:
MERIT offers 2 brushes – Brush No. 1 is a blending brush for face products like the Minimalist Stick, Blush Balm, etc. Brush No. 2 was designed for their new eyeshadow.
Sets:
Want to try a bunch of products? Check out their sets! It’s the best way to get a discount if you are stocking up.
My MERIT Makeup Review
Now, let’s dive into the MERIT makeup products that I’ve tried!

Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick
The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick was made to replace both your foundation and concealer. This has become my go-to product on “no makeup” days because the Bisque color blends with my skin so easily.
It offers really buildable coverage but still feels really natural. And it takes me less than 30 seconds to cover up my dark circles and any blemishes or redness. Truly the perfect product for anyone who wants something quick and easy to help them feel pulled together.
I also love that I can easily throw it in my purse for touchups throughout the day! So convenient.

Bronze balm
This product is a great cream bronzer for beginners. They claim it’s the easiest bronzer ever and I totally agree. It’s really sheer, so instead of a harsh contour, it’s more of a buildable way to add warmth to your face. I have shade Clay.
Truthfully, I usually reach for my Rare Beauty bronzer over this one, but I still really like this one – again, especially on those light makeup days.

Flush Balm
The first flush balm I ordered was Cheeky and I didn’t love it on me. I’d often put it on my lips (which is a nice perk!) but skip it on my face.
Then I saw that the color Stockholm was back in stock – and that color changed the game for me. It’s a stunning baby pink color that blends like a dream.
But wait… it gets better! Merit just sent me the Rouge color and NOW I’M IN LOVE. It is the perfect red both on cheeks and lips. I love that it’s buildable so you can go full glam or more subtle. It’s just the best.

MERIT Eyeshadow
Solo Shadow is MERIT makeup’s newest product. It’s a buildable cream-to-powder eyeshadow that comes in 8 different shades. Four of those are neutrals and the other four are more fun statements.
I got Social and Vachetta and both of them are super wearable colors. I also found them very easy to apply AND they stayed on all day without creasing or smudging at all. Really impressive.

Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara
I don’t usually get excited about mascara because my lashes don’t curl and I hate when mascara smudges on my face – but I have to give some props to this mascara. It’s lengthening, it doesn’t clump, and it doesn’t smudge. Like AT ALL. Even on the bottom lashes! It’s also easy to take off at the end of the day.
Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil
The Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oils are a must-try for those who want a pop of color on their lips without compromising on hydration. They’re easy to apply and give you a glossy finish that somehow isn’t sticky at all. It’s amazing, which is why I am distraught that I can’t find mine to take a picture for this post. It’s a purse somewhere…

Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick
I don’t think I’ve ever loved a lipstick like I love this one. It’s so lightweight and hydrating, it feels like you have nothing on. I have the shade Millennial and it’s such a great natural pink with a soft satin finish. Out of all of the products in this MERIT makeup review, I think this one is my favorite. It’s so good!
Final MERIT Makeup review
Overall, I think MERIT is absolutely worth a shot if you’re in the need for new makeup products. Their commitment to clean ingredients, sustainability, and simplicity really set them apart from so many other options out there.
And whether you’re a makeup aficionado or a beginner, MERIT’s products are easy to use and perfectly unfussy. When they say they’re the easiest 5 minute face, they mean it. You only need like 3 minutes with these products and you’re good to go.
I love that they’re all about enhancing your natural beauty in a way that will make you reach for them day after day, instead of just on special occasions.
I hope you love these products as much as I do!
