The Best Makeup For Teens That They'll Actually Use

Natural-looking makeup is great for teens, but who says they can’t have a little fun with their look? If anything, their younger years are the best time to do so. This Milk Makeup Holographic Stick is perfect for that because it’s fun but also subtle: a swipe of this vegan highlighter gives off a shimmery shine wherever you use it. It’s also made with mango butter, coconut oil, and avocado oil for a moisturizing feel.

Not ready for your teen to wear lipstick? Then opt for lipgloss instead, specifically this Tower 28 product. It’s hydrating and moisturizing, never sticky, and offers just a touch of sheer color while still looking nice and shiny.

Another great lip gloss option is the iconic Lancome Juicy Tubes. They come in a wide variety of different shades, and they offer lots of shine and a nice pop of color without being too much. This perfect formula glides on smoothly, promises four hours of lasting hydration, and is made with vitamin E to keep lifts soft.

NUDESTIX was actually started by two teen sisters, so they definitely knew what they were doing with their target audience. The crayon-like makeup is meant to be super portable and easy to use on the go (like at your locker). The sticks come in a convenient carry case that includes a little mirror so they can be reapplied anywhere. Plus, the makeup itself is great. This set comes with a highlighter, eyeshadow, and lipstick, all of which give off an “I-woke-up-like-this” color and glow.

Another fantastic lightweight foundation option is Ilia’s Skin Tint. It’s definitely a little up there price-wise, but if you’d prefer your teen to use a more natural makeup formula, then this is the way to go. This is a clean, tinted serum that offers lightweight coverage that really works, and has SPF 40 protection. It’s basically like skincare and makeup in one.

Many teens struggle to get out of bed to arrive at homeroom on time (and we don’t blame them), but the right concealer can help hide their tired eyes. The Lip Bar’s Cinnamon Caffeine Concealer — which comes in six skin-flattering hues — does double duty by covering dark circles and perking them up with a dose of (you guessed it) cinnamon and caffeine. (Yep, you’re going to want one for yourself, too). Socially-conscious teens will also appreciate that TLB is a Black-owned company and its products are vegan, diversity-inclusive, and cruelty-free.

Most teens are not about to ignore their eyebrows, so if you want them to use something foolproof, Glossier’s Boy Brow is the way to go. This magical little brow brush transforms eyebrows while also giving off a natural look. It’s super easy to use and the tints blend seamlessly with natural brow colors. And, you get points for getting them a product as trendy as Glossier. (P.S. You can find some shades on Amazon, as well.)

While Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty makeup line seems like it would scream “teen-friendly,” it’s actually full of really well thought out, sophisticated makeup. That said, it is, in fact, very teen-friendly. The cream blush is a favorite from the line, thanks to the fact that it’s highly blendable, feels creamy and hydrating on the cheeks, and is a breeze to apply. Any of the shades will give a lovely tint as it melts instantly into the skin.

A highlighter is a must-have for teens, and if you want something that doesn’t reflect like a disco ball, then go for Glossier Haloscope. This crayon-like stick of highlighter is incredibly moisturizing, it goes on so easily, it’s buildable and super blendable, and it has a beautiful color to it. The stick makes it easy to reapply whenever and wherever, and this product will also last forever.

Sure, you probably think your teenager already has baby skin on their own, but they likely don’t feel that way. This Maybelline primer is excellent at smoothing out skin and filling in any pores for an even, seamless look. It feels silky and lightweight, and it gives a slightly matte finish that’s not too overdone. And the colorful packaging is so cute!

This smooth-as-butter gloss is a bestseller for a reason! Lip Gloss Boss’ fan-favorite product is a gloss and balm in one; namely, it goes on shiny but locks in moisture like a balm (with a minty-flavored finish) for smooth, hydrated lips. And it serves even more purposes, too: It can be dabbed on lips, cheekbones, and brows for a dewy overall look. For a splash of color, check out the Magic Wand Lip Glosses, too.

Packed with neutral basics, this set is what you need to create a beautiful eye look. It comes with eyeshadows, eyeliners, and mascaras that enhance your natural look and add just a hint of color. The shades blend well together and you can mix and match for a look that is natural or dramatic.