(Makeup)

These Trendy 2022 Makeup Launches Make The Perfect Gifts

Give the gift of glam.

November 2, 2022

Model with smoky metallic eyeshadow and dewy blush

It’s a good thing that the holidays are at the tail-end of the year — what better way to celebrate party season than experimenting with every exciting makeup trend of 2022? It feels like this year was particularly stuffed with both exciting microtrends like the celebrity-beloved green eyeshadow movement, as well as here-to-stay additions to the collective cosmetic consciousness (think siren eyes and under-eye blush).

Most of 2022’s trendy makeup launches seemed to fall into two camps: There are those dedicated to creating the softest, dreamiest complexions with weather-proof setting sprays, ethereal blushes, and camouflaging concealers; and those that speak to the year’s more creative trends. Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are stuffed with colorful graphic eyeliner styles and exciting lip color pairings that tie entire looks together. More than ever before, unbridled self-expression is leading the industry, and its tops brands are heeding the call with their best new formulas and products yet. The holiday season’s embracement of all things glitzy, glamorous, and happy-go-lucky, making it the perfect time to try out that smoky eye look you saved on TikTok a month ago. And if you find yourself constantly forwarding makeup tip clips to your group chat, consider your holiday shopping done — there’s a buzzy new makeup launch for everyone on your list.

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Never-Budge Setting Spray

Youthforia

Pregame Setting Spray

$36

Gen Z-favorite brand Youthforia is always scoring viral hits, but this new setting spray is on an entirely different level. The ultra-fine mist casts a literal shield over skin, protecting it from pollutants, hydrates, and keeps makeup in place all day. | Pros: Moisturizing; calming; radiant finish for added glow | Notable ingredients: Glycerin, centella, allantoin, hyaluronic acid |

Prismatic Highlighter

Clé de Peau

The Luminizing Face Enhancer

$95

You might just hear angels sing when you open this glistening limited-edition compact. The pastel tones in the crystal-cut powder illuminate, brighten, and highlight, making it clear why the luminizer has such a following — not to mention the decorative celestial packaging, which substantially ups this gift’s wow-factor. | Pros: Multi-tonal for dimensional radiance; silky texture; soft-bristled brush included | Cons: Limited-edition | Notable ingredients: Argan oil; vitamin E |

Lash-Amplifying Mascara

MAC Cosmetics

MAC Stack Mega Mascara

$28

If you’ve ever struggled with falsies, consider your prayers answered — MAC’s thickening, lengthening, and layerable foundation is all of the drama, non of the hassle. Unprecedented in its ability to layer and layer without getting bogged down by clumps and smears, it’s the internet’s favorite going-out mascara of the moment. | Pros: Comfortable formula; comb-like brush |

IRL Filter Powder

Danessa Myricks Beauty

Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder

$36

Paris filter who? Danessa Myricks’ entire Yummy Skin line is worth checking out, but TikTok is particularly obsessed with this new complexion-blurring balm. With a smooth texture that blends into skin like a primer but settles into a velvety powder finish, it obscures marks and blemishes while balancing shine and boosts foundation coverage. | Pros: All-day oil control; study-backed results; dispensing scoop included | Notable ingredients: Upsalite; olive-derived squalane; hyaluronic acid |

Do-It-All Shadow Sticks

e.l.f.

No Budge Matte Shadow Stick

Those enviably creative, Euphoria-inspired eye looks all over your Discover page? Way easier to nail with a creamy, glide-on stick with pigmented colors and a smear-proof formula. e.l.f.’s popular new range of matte shadow sticks comes in eight distinct shades for limitless possibilities — and they lend themselves especially well to trendy ‘70s-inspired makeup, too. | Pros: Twist-up packaging; matte finishes; tapered tip with built-in sharpener |

Shimmery Shadows

Too Faced

Mini Secret Santa Eyeshadow Palette

$29

It’s true, sparkly eye makeup of every kind is having a serious moment right now. As it happens, Too Face seems to be a fan of the trend and created the ultimate eight-pan shadow lineup to bring it to life at your first big holiday party of the year. Use the bolder shades to put a pop of color in the inner corner or drag it along the lash line in lieu of eyeliner — you’re guaranteed at least a few double-takes. | Pros: Eight trendy colors; mirrored compact | Cons: Limited edition |

Ultra-Precise Eyeliner

Jason Wu Beauty

The Kitty Dual End Eyeliner

$16

Best of both worlds, indeed. Nail just about every eyeliner trend of the year — hello, Zendaya-approved stiletto liner — with Jason Wu’s double-ended liquid-pencil duo. The laser-precise felt tip and comfortable grip makes drawing on cat-eyes and wings easier, while the smudge-able pencil end is perfect for the new waterline eyeliner resurgence. | Pros: Two-in-one design | Cons: One shade only |