Makeup For Men Is Booming Right Now! Here Are The Best Men’s Makeup Kits
In this article, I’ve rounded up the absolute best 25 men’s makeup brands right now, in 2022.
Over the last few years, guys across the globe have caught on to makeup’s transformative powers.
Nowadays, whether we’re talking maximalist eye makeup or just covering the odd blemish, makeup for men has become a daily thing for more than just metrosexual dudes.
We’ve all been touting the benefits of a little bit of concealer or a touch of primer, and designers like Tom Ford have been hawking makeup catered specifically towards men for years.
After all, why wouldn’t you use every single weapon in your arsenal to help you look as handsome as possible?
Hesitant to trawl the shelves at Sephora or spend any more time than necessary bingeing chaotic YouTube tutorials?
I’m here to help by tracking down the best 25 makeup brands for men you should know about right now.
Without further ado, these are the best men’s makeup labels in 2022.
1/25
ALTR LONDON MEN’S MAKEUP
from $19.99
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“With a small range of men’s skincare products that improve appearance, it’s easy to see why the Altr for Men skincare brand is fast becoming popular with today’s Men’s Grooming Industry.”
Alex Doyle, the founder, launched the brand because of his endless skincare problems.
Suffering from issues ranging from acne to eczema, Alex tried numerous pharmaceutical and medical solutions, but to no avail.
Eventually, a female friend recommended a concealer and non-irritable moisturizer.
While not quite suitable for his skin type, the products helped overcome confidence issues.
Nowadays, Altr London is the best alternative makeup for men out there, at affordable prices, from natural ingredients.
2/25
DIOR BEAUTY FOR MEN
from $29
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Prep your skin for the latest Dior Makeup with a moisturizer from the Dior Homme Dermo Skincare line and then enhance it with a few touches of foundation from the Dior Backstage line.”
Like any Dior product line, makeup and cosmetics for men are bound to play on eccentricity.
By twisting an everyday object as the punk designer used to do, Peter Philips, Dior’s Creative and Make-up Director, focuses on metallic silvers matched with false eyelashes in the inner corner of the eye or under the lower lash line.
Lines, colors, shades, and makeup are designed to match haute couture, almost like a diamond or an abstract metal object that captures and reflects light.
3/25
VIOLET VOSS
from $15
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Violet Voss has a broad selection of colors for men seeking to create a neutral or bold look. In particular, the shadows provide pretty color coverage that lasts a long time.”
It is ideal for men who want to get their daily dose of magic with Violet Voss’s wide range of sunset palettes.
Created by a team of makeup artists, it only makes sense that Violet Voss has garnered a significant following all over Instagram and YouTube.
A color story inspired by the magical colors of the sunset, your eyes are sure to be the main attraction.
It provides iconic everyday warm neutrals and complementary pops of colors to achieve all the looks you desire and more.
I like Violet Voss’ addicting formulas and the perfect mix of mattes, shimmers, and metallics.
Always pigmented and highly blendable.
4/25
STRYX MAKEUP FOR MEN
from $8
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“With natural pigments that can hide acne, razor burns, scars, and more, Stryx men’s makeup products are restoring your healthy skin look in seconds.”
Stryx was founded on a basic insight: Men seek to look handsome.
Stryx began the day a pimple nearly ruined a wedding.
Every man has an experience from a first date, important meeting, or daily video call where a blemish can distract from their best performance.
5/25
L’OREAL MEN’S MAKEUP
from $7.99
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Not only makers of the best makeup products for men, but also experts in content creation such as application techniques to help men look and feel like the best version of themselves.”
It is ideal for men working from home, sick of staring at themselves during video calls.
If you’ve noticed imperfections in your appearance that were previously not as obvious to you, Loreal makeup label is for you.
There’s a reason makeup for men is trending; after all, gone are the days when applying makeup to enhance self-confidence was reserved for women only.
6/25
WAR PAINT FOR MEN
from $10
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their skin, and War Paint gives a choice about the products and tools you can use to help you feel confident every day.”
How many of you remember the entrepreneur who went to introduce War Paint For Men to the Dragons’ den?
After a great pitch and a successful partnership, War Paint – a young British makeup for men label – has become a global success that lacks branding despite making up excellent products.
The brand’s vegan, cruelty-free bronzer is ready-made to help you in your glowing reemergence from the pasty clutches of lockdown.
7/25
ARTIST COUTURE
from $10
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“More than just a makeup brand for men, Artist Couture has become a community of bold and fearless #GLOWGETTERS!”
Founded by celebrity makeup artist and beauty influencer Angel Merino, Artist Couture was created to inspire self-expression and celebrate individuality through makeup artistry.
The label has redefined the concept of “nudes” with their lavish new palette that reign supreme amongst the rest of men’s makeup.
This palette features eight buttery mattes, one richly pigmented metallic, and three multidimensional high pearl finishes in an array of neutral, calm, and warm tones.
These shades have been carefully curated to design wearable day looks to dramatic evening looks.
Take your artistry to the next level and transform your eyes with this versatile, glow-getter-approved palette!
8/25
THE ORDINARY MEN’S MAKEUP
from $11.90
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“The brand has long been beloved by men interested in neutrally branded products that offer a whole lot of bang for their bucks.”
I first explored The Ordinary’s makeup for men products back in June.
First, I loved the overall sturdiness, variety of shades, and, most important, the value and those assessments still hold up.
To apply the company’s makeup products, avoid smearing—pat gently with a ring or pinky finger, and remember: a little goes a long way.
9/25
FENTY MEN’S MAKEUP KIT
from $19
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Fenty’s makeups for men are available in 50 different colors for all skin types, complexes, and more.”
I still remember Daniel Kaluuya when he set the internet alight when it was revealed he wore Rihanna’s Fenty beauty brand to the 2018 Oscars.
His stardom and choice for makeup spurred the business to create a series of online makeup tutorials specifically for men.
Nowadays, four years later, Fenty’s makeup lines are used by every man, from celebrities to actors and the next-door neighbor.
10/25
TARTE COSMETICS FOR MEN
from $19
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“All Tarte makeups for men are formulated with a blend of naturally derived ingredients designed to perform.”
Tarte Cosmetics is an American cosmetics company headquartered in New York City, taking the beauty industry by storm.
It was founded by Maureen Kelly in 1999; her first product was a cheek stain that was used the following year for the cover of Self magazine.
Made from clinically proven, vegan-friendly ingredients, Tarte’s makeup for men is formulated without parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, triclosan, sodium lauryl sulfate & gluten.
11/25
MMUK MAN MAKEUP KIT
from $23
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Masculine, captivating, and even unparalleled are words that best describe the brand’s luxurious range of makeup for men.”
Featured in leading British men’s grooming Blog Manface, Men’s Lifestyle Guide, GQ, Esquire, and Men’s Health, MMUK MAN has a lot to shout about.
MMUK MAN’s products are showcased in bold black matte packaging, which wouldn’t look out of place on any man’s bathroom shelf.
Whether you’re looking for a foundation for men to cover light blemishes, concealer sticks to target those unsightly spots, or products to maintain that post-holiday tan; this is the brand for you.
12/25
TOO FACED MEN’S MAKEUP
from $24
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“By focusing on love-at-first-sight looks and palettes that possess skin-like quality, Too Faced has delved into the things men love, progressing from the confines of the makeup counter into a full-fledged name-brand men can’t get enough of.”
From flawless foundations to rich lipsticks and, not to mention, #1-selling mascara, there’s a reason Too Faced is beloved by so many men.
Even with a brand as famous as Too Faced, knowing which beauty products to add to your makeup bag and spend your money on is still crucial.
Need a matte eyeshadow palette for everyday use? What about a colorful shade of lipstick that lasts all day?
And how could you forget a setting spray to ensure your makeup stays in place?
Too Faced has got you covered with all of the above and then some.
13/25
4VOO MENS LUXURY MAKEUP
from $34
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Sitting up there with the very best in the men’s makeup market and loved by some of the biggest names in the music and entertainment industry, this is your opportunity to cut your complexion from red carpet royalty.”
With the likes of Johnny Depp, Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Dustin Hoffman officially endorsing 4VOO Men’s Cosmetics, there is little surprise that this brand’s popularity has surged so much.
4VOO’s makeup range includes their hugely popular Shine Reduction Powder, Face and Body Bronzer, and Confidence Corrector Cover Stick, as well as their high performance and wonderfully natural brow gel and eyeliner.
4VOO has developed a luxury range of makeup formulas just for men, worn by thousands of people across the globe.
Manufactured in Canada and designed by the legendary male beauty guru Marek Hewryk, put your best face forward every day with the makeup line designed for professional gentlemen.
14/25
NARS MEN’S COSMETICS
from $18
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“The iconic makeup brand NARS has been around since before modern beauty mogul Kylie Jenner was even a twinkle in her parents’ eyes.”
Founded in 1994 by the French makeup artist and photographer Francois Nars, NARS is an OG in the makeup space.
But that doesn’t mean it is obsolete; on the contrary, NARS is as beloved as ever by makeup enthusiasts.
The cosmetics line began with twelve lipsticks sold at Barneys New York.
Since then, NARS has created various multi-use beauty products and is now a subsidiary of Shiseido.
15/25
ILIA MAKEUP FOR MEN
from $26
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Potent makeup for men formulas designed with active skincare ingredients that shield skin from environmental stressors.”
ILIA is a makeup brand for men and women who believe in ‘skin that looks like skin’ via a radiance that comes naturally.
With transparency as the brand’s guide and color as its vehicle, the designers at ILIA challenge the conventions of clean beauty to create something radically new.
Above all, all ILIA makeups for men are potent but safe formulas designed to protect and revive your skin.
16/25
CALVIN KLEIN MEN’S MAKEUP KIT
from $7.99
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Not every natural ingredient is good for the skin, nor is every synthetic bad. CC makeup for men is where those two collide with conscious, carefully-selected ingredients and no compromises.”
Calvin Klein makeup for men and daily essentials are designed to revive your look instantly.
It all comes back to vibrancy, vivid washes of color, and a fuss-free philosophy with a focus on making your skin look and feel alive.
With many of the brand’s products acting as multi-use, for easy application on the go, you can make it up or make it down—we’ll always make it simple.
17/25
YSL BEAUTY KIT FOR MEN
from $29
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“This collection of men’s makeup products features foundation, concealer, mascara, eyeliner, and even bronzer, all geared to help modern-day men put their best face forward.”
YSL has redefined the boundaries of makeup for years; concealers, makeup, and general male skincare are all available from this world-leading brand, leaving men out there with flawless yet stylishly subtle complexions.
Exceptional, world-class, outstanding…The list goes on and on when listening to the reaction of reviewers all over the world of this brand.
Whether you’re a model, Instagram star, fashion blogger, or average Joe keen to upgrade your complexion, you can do so with complete ease and professionalism with this range.
Style magazines and men’s makeup blogs have nothing but praise for this YSL men’s makeup range.
18/25
SHISEIDO MEN’S COLLECTION
from $25
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Shiseido’s men’s makeup collection comprises several best-selling and award-winning products such as the Multi Solution Gel, the Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector SPF 42, and the Moisturizing Emulsion.”
Shiseido was started in 1872 in Ginza, Tokyo, as Japan’s first private pharmacy.
Since then, the brand has expanded to become an internationally bestselling makeup and skincare brand.
Looking at their men’s range, Shiseido offers many products to create a targeted skincare routine.
These include cleansers, moisturizers, and treatment products, all utilizing some of the most advanced formulas Shiseido has created during its long history.
19/25
FORMEN MAKEUP FOR MEN
from $29.99
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Love the brand’s trio wheel – designed for men with multiple skin issues — like most of us. It contains the best concealers for men in a convenient and portable package.”
House of Formen is the world’s first male cosmetic house, specializing in professional makeup for men.
Formulated to discreetly fix specific issues such as banish male acne, facial shine, under-eye bags, oily skin, and imperfections, House of Formen is a men’s makeup brand you must give a try.
20/25
TOM FORD BEAUTY FOR MEN
from $34
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“There is no more dramatic accessory than a perfect lip. It is the focus of the face and can define a look. Each lip color is Tom Ford’s ideal of an essential shade.”
Tom Ford Beauty is a covetable collection of cosmetics and fragrances, shaped with Tom Ford’s singular vision of modern glamour and crafted with the ultimate quality and luxury.
The label was launched in 2016 when Tom Ford introduced Tom Ford Black Orchid, a luxurious and sensual fragrance of rich, dark accords.
21/25
GIVENCHY BEAUTY MISTER COLLECTION
from $30
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Givenchy men’s makeup is part of the brand’s Universal Range. Clever, transportable, easy to use, and highly effective, each Mister has a specific function and is shared to help everyone assert their style.”
COLLECTION MISTER by Givenchy means intuitive textures that are incredibly easy to apply, state-of-the-art formulas, and neutral, modern, and graphic packaging.
The four beauty essentials of the Mister range are designed to enhance the beauty of men and women in the blink of an eye.
22/25
Hourglass COSMETICS FOR MEN
from $15
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“The foundation-and-concealer for men from Hourglass is so creamy, and the coverage is impressive that you’ll fall instantly in love with this brand.”
Hourglass, the cruelty-free beauty brand, is known for its innovation and commitment to reinventing luxury cosmetics.
The complexion, color, and skincare are crafted to be undetectably transformative while effortless to apply.
Paradigm products feature cutting-edge formulas with active ingredients and covetable packaging that elevate expectations of how a product should look, feel, and perform.
First, the brand’s range of shades for men is impressive; no wonder so many makeup artists tout this cult-favorite stick.
23/25
BENNY HANCOCK MEN’S MAKEUP
$25
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Founded on the belief that makeup for men should enhance rather than conceal, Benny has developed high-tech, wearable formulations using superior ingredients to achieve the most natural finish.”
Benny Hancock is a global industry pro makeup artist who has spent over a decade painting the faces of celebrities, supermodels, and VIPs.
Benny is a leading authority on high-performance makeup, and having spent years working closely with men’s skin, he appreciates how men’s skin differs from women’s and the look men want to achieve.
His work has been praised by fashion and grooming insiders and featured in some of the world’s leading style publications.
24/25
MAKEUP FOR EVER MEN’S KIT
from $23
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Loved by all-gender makeup artists, students, and select industry professionals (estheticians, cosmetologists, salon/spa professionals), Makeup For Ever pioneers the gender-free makeup market.”
It was created in 1984 by makeup artist Dany Sanz, Make Up For Ever is a French cosmetics brand owned by LVMH.
LVMH acquired the brand in 1999 and accelerated its growth.
Nowadays, Makeup For Ever is a professional makeup brand that provides men and women performers with the makeup and tools needed to transform for the stage.
Creators of high-performance makeup products for professional makeup artists and makeup fans all around the world, the label is distributed in over 60 countries and more than 2200 points of sale around the world.
25/25
LANCOME MEN’S MAKEUP
from $25
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“If skincare is what you spend on, it might be worth looking elsewhere. But if eye makeup for men is your thing, Lancome is definitely worth the splurge.”
Lancome is a French luxury perfumes and cosmetics house that distributes products internationally. Lancome is part of the L’Oreal Luxury Products division.
L’oreal is the parent company and offers skincare, fragrances, and makeup at higher-end prices.
Lancome’s fragrances are divine, and the makeup, in general, is lovely.
But, Lancome’s mascara is superb, and the eye shadows are unique.
Conclusion
Men’s makeup has come a long way since you surreptitiously borrowed a dab of your sister’s concealer to cover a zit.
Debate what it means for masculinity if you like. We’re not going to; it is just a makeup product, be that a lip balm or a concealer stick for a wide range of skin tones; men’s makeups are skin products.
Nowadays, you can get cosmetics engineered explicitly for men because men get those spots before a date, too.
And the dark circles because we thought one more drink wouldn’t kill us.
And the creases in the skin after working a 50-hour week.
The big difference in male makeup from female, or the crazy, contoured artistry you might see on RuPaul’s Drag Race, is that this makeup is designed to be invisible.
It’s more like grooming 2.0, a subtle evolutionary step from your daily moisturizer that slaps an Instagram filter on your face in real life.
Choosing not to cover up a pimple or add a little pop to a look is a bit like vowing to fix that leaky faucet without any wrench—by willfully ignoring the handiest tools in the box, you hamstring yourself from the outset.
You don’t need to have beauty guru levels to give men’s makeup a go.
And you don’t need to be a da Vinci with the makeup brush, or a Dürer with the eyebrow pencil, to apply men’s makeup.
Maybe you want to touch up a few blemishes now and then and even out your skin tone.
Or camouflage dark circles. A small collection of products can help with all that.
We don’t think it’s a revolution or feminization gone berserk.
It’s just an option – one you can take or leave as you see fit to fine-tune your appearance.
And if you do, below you’ll find everything you need to know about the products to get expert advice on how best to use them.
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Now it’s your turn…
Which one of these men’s makeup brands is your favorite and why?
Are there any other makeup brands for men you’ve tried and want to add to this list?
Comments below, please!
