Makeup advent calendars have become increasingly popular as a fun and luxurious way to count down to the holidays. Offering daily surprises with beauty products ranging from lipsticks to skincare, they make for an exciting treat for makeup enthusiasts and a perfect gift idea. 

However, with so many options on the market, choosing the right makeup advent calendar can be overwhelming. To ensure you get the best value and experience, here’s what you should look for when selecting the perfect makeup advent calendar.

Product Variety

One of the most important things to consider in makeup advent calendars is the variety of products included. A good advent calendar should offer a well-rounded selection of makeup, skincare, and beauty tools, giving you a taste of different products and brands.

Makeup Selection: Look for calendars that include a range of makeup products, such as lipsticks, eyeliners, mascaras, eyeshadows, and blushes. A calendar that provides a variety of shades and formulas will give you the chance to try out different looks throughout the holiday season.

Skincare and Tools: Some advent calendars go beyond just makeup and include skincare essentials like cleansers, serums, and moisturizers. Additionally, makeup tools like brushes, beauty sponges, and tweezers can add value to your calendar.

Exclusive Items: Limited-edition or exclusive products can make the calendar feel extra special. Many brands include holiday-themed shades or travel-sized versions of their bestsellers, making the experience even more unique.

Quality of Products

While the allure of receiving 24 or 12 products is exciting, it’s important to ensure that the quality of the products matches your expectations. Some advent calendars may pack in low-quality or sample-sized products that don’t offer good value for the money.

Well-Known Brands: Advent calendars from established makeup and beauty brands tend to offer higher-quality products. Brands like Charlotte Tilbury, MAC, and Benefit often release premium calendars with full-sized or deluxe mini versions of their highly rated products.

Avoid Filler Products: Some lower-quality calendars may include too many filler products like generic nail files or single-use samples, which can be disappointing. Focus on calendars that offer a majority of well-formulated, usable products.

Customer Reviews: Before making a purchase, check customer reviews and unboxing videos to gauge the quality of the products in the calendar. This will help you determine if the products are worth the investment.

Size of the Products

Another key factor is the size of the products in the advent calendar. Many calendars offer a mix of full-sized, mini, and sample-sized items. While smaller sizes are perfect for travel or trying new products, getting a decent number of full-sized products is important for ensuring value.

Full-Sized vs. Mini: Look for advent calendars that balance full-sized items with travel-sized versions. Full-sized products provide more value, while mini versions allow you to try out products without committing to the full size.

Deluxe Samples: Deluxe samples (larger than typical sample sizes) can also be a good compromise, as they often contain enough product for you to get a sense of its performance over a few weeks.

Price and Value for Money

Makeup advent calendars come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to luxury calendars that can cost several hundred dollars. When shopping for an advent calendar, consider how much you’re willing to spend and what kind of value you’re getting in return.

Set a Budget: Advent calendars can be an investment, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that higher-priced calendars often feature full-sized, high-end products, while more affordable ones may focus on minis or drugstore brands.

Calculate Value: To assess whether a calendar is worth the price, look at the total retail value of the products included. Most brands will advertise the value of the contents, which should ideally be higher than what you pay for the calendar itself.

Watch for Discounts: Many retailers offer discounts or promotions on advent calendars during Black Friday or holiday sales. Keep an eye out for deals that can help you snag a premium calendar at a lower price.

Personal Preferences

Choosing the right makeup advent calendar depends largely on your personal beauty preferences. Think about what kinds of products you use the most and what excites you.

Favorite Brands: If you have a favorite makeup brand, it might be worth investing in their advent calendar. Many beauty brands release their own calendars with fan-favorite products, giving you a curated experience from a brand you already love.

Skin Tone and Type: Some calendars may include makeup items that work better for certain skin tones or types. For example, foundation or concealer shades may not be universally flattering, so opt for calendars that focus on products like eyeshadow or lip gloss, which are more universally wearable.

Vegan and Cruelty-Free Options: If you prioritize ethical beauty, look for advent calendars that offer vegan or cruelty-free products. Many brands highlight their ethical practices, and some calendars are entirely dedicated to eco-friendly beauty products.

Packaging and Presentation

The presentation of a makeup advent calendar adds to the overall experience, making it feel festive and luxurious. Beautifully designed packaging not only makes a great gift but also enhances the joy of opening each product.

Holiday-Themed Design: Many advent calendars feature festive, holiday-themed packaging, adding to the excitement of counting down the days to Christmas. Look for calendars that reflect the spirit of the season.

Reusable Packaging: Some calendars come with packaging that can be reused as storage boxes or organizers after the holidays, adding to their long-term value.

Choose the Ideal Makeup Advent Calendar

Choosing the perfect makeup advent calendar involves considering the variety, quality, and size of the products, as well as your personal beauty preferences and budget. By paying attention to these factors, you can find a calendar that delivers a delightful experience and great value, making the holiday countdown extra special. 

Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting someone else, a well-chosen makeup advent calendar can be a luxurious way to enjoy the festive season.

Published by: Martin De Juan