At the risk of over-generalizing, who really doesn’t love a good beauty kit? (Besides maybe someone who hates beauty, of course.) The fact is, beauty kits are beloved for a good reason. They’re convenient, compact, and typically an excellent value for money. Even more importantly: Right now, they’re especially great to have on-hand so you don’t have to go anywhere if you’re afraid of being exposed to COVID-19, or if you live in a state where salons and spas are still closed.
All this to say: Whether you’re shopping for yourself, or looking to get a head-start on your holiday gift list (because yes, it’s almost that time of year), you should have some beauty kits on your radar. They also make amazing presents, as they usually allow the person to play with multiple different products or tools from a brand.
Ahead, find nine of our personal favorites, all of which you can score on Amazon.
P.S. And by the way, this year Prime Day lands on October 13-14.
Teeth Whitening
This professional-grade teeth-whitening kit from Colgate reigns supreme in our book because it only takes a measly ten minutes to use, yet still manages to remove stubborn stains from the teeth. In fact, the brand claims it can make teeth up to seven shades whiter, and well, we’re here to tell you that’s no joke. After just four or five uses, I saw a significant difference in how bright and white my teeth looked (and I drink a lot of coffee), and my family even noticed, too. Also, did I mention the whole process couldn’t be easier? You simply add some peroxide-infused whitening gel to the mouth guard-like tray, plop it on for ten minutes, and boom: You’re all set.
Wax Kit
For at-home hair removal, we can’t recommend this easy-to-use wax kit enough. Why? Well, not only does it come with a digital wax warmer and four different wax bead options (flavors include coconut, dragonfruit, hibiscus, and sea salt), but it also contains a soothing pre- and post-wax oil that prevents irritation, as well as a complete guide on how to use the set. This is an excellent option for beginners for that reason, seeing as it basically spells everything out for you.
Manicure Set
This nail set comes with a whopping 16 tools, including clippers, a cuticle pusher, scissors, and several different file options — all for under ten bucks. Talk about a steal. In addition to the charming black-and-blue packaging, I really appreciate the fact that all of these tools work so well, despite being crazy-affordable.
Hair Cutting Set
If you’ve started leaning into the at-home hairdresser life since the pandemic hit, then it couldn’t hurt to treat yourself to some legitimate tools that’ll set you up for success. We like this kit because it comes with high-quality stainless steel scissors that feature an easy-to-hold ergonomic handle, which is ideal for beginners and experts alike. Additionally, it includes thinning shears, two combs, and hair clips, so you’ve got everything you need to give yourself — and your loved ones — a solid cut.
Hair Dye Kit
Oh, so you’ve turned into an at-home hair color chameleon, too? We love this for you. If you don’t already have some at-home hair dye necessities, this kit will come in serious handy, as it comes with items like hairdressing clips, gloves, bowls for dye, and several different brush options. While there’s an array of similar sets on Amazon, we’re partial to this one because it’s extremely budget-friendly — so just about anyone can try it. Plus, it comes with all the essentials that beginners need to do a solid job on their own.
Skincare Must-Haves
This powerhouse duo features Good Genes to gently exfoliate the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation — along with retinoid-infused Luna Sleeping Oil, which fades fine lines and wrinkles, as well as large pores and redness. Together, they work wonders on all skin types, leaving the complexion clearer, smoother, and brighter. What more could you ask for?
Makeup Tool Kit
We’re swooning over this highly affordable tool kit, which comes with all of the cruelty-free, kitten-soft synthetic brushes you need to do a full face of makeup — complexion, eyes, lips, brows, and all. As if that wasn’t enough, it also includes four colorful beauty sponges and a cute little mat that makes cleaning your tools easier. If you’re looking to add to your brush collection or give it a complete rehaul, you can’t go wrong with this kit.
Eye Makeup Kit
Yes to everything about this eye makeup set from one of our favorite drugstore brands in all the land: Physicians Formula. It comes with everything you need to make your eyes stand out — including a neutral eye shadow palette (my personal fave), two creamy eyeliners, and a jet-black mascara. I’ve worn the shadows and liners all day without them smudging, and the mascara is super pigmented but doesn’t budge at all once it dries down.
Hair Styling Set
This set, in particular, earned a spot on this list because it features five curling iron attachments that use tourmaline technology to seal in moisture and make the hair look shiny and smooth — sans all the heat damage. Another reason it slaps? It comes with its own travel case, as well as a protective glove that’ll keep you from burning your fingers.
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