Sometimes the only makeup you have time for is a 10-minute routine consisting of just the basic beauty essentials. Moms, wives, and full-time students can relate! I’m all three of these things, so it’s vital for me to achieve the “fresh face” look with as few makeup products as possible.
Merit’s minimalist “The Definition Set” has served me well for a while, but curiosity got the best of me when I found that Julep’s Everyday Easy Kit was less than triple the cost of Merit. Here’s how they stack up: 💄
The one with products you’ll actually reach for, and nothing you won’t… Julep
Julep had me at "everyday essentials." Their 4-piece kit promised to be a one-way ticket to a radiant look, without spending an eternity in front of the mirror or breaking the bank. You’ll get:
- Cushion Complexion Concealer that spot corrects and evens skin tone
- Eyeshadow Creme to Powder 101 stick in “Putty Matte”, a light pink shade
- Skip the Brush 2-in-1 Color Stick for Cheeks and Lips in Muted Mauve
- Length Matters mascara in Black
This set is a dream come true for those who, like me, want to look radiant without wasting tons of time. The eyeshadow stick is pigmented, the concealer is smooth, creamy, and full coverage, and the mascara lengthens my short lashes better than any others I’ve tried—10/10 recommend!
Merit’s The Definition Set feels luxurious, but not comprehensive. It doesn’t come with anything for eyes, meaning I’ve had to supplement it with additional products.
Plus, Merit’s set is almost triple the cost: Julep’s set costs $58 whereas Merit’s is $145, but I get so much more use out of my Julep kit.
The one that gives you that radiant “clean girl” look… Julep
Julep’s Cushion Complexion Concealer stole my heart with its buildable coverage. Whether I want to spot treat my under eye bags or apply it as a foundation for fuller coverage, I look flawless and airbrushed. The cushiony applicator felt like a pillow on my skin!
Skip the Brush in the shade Muted Mauve adds a luminous touch to my cheeks and lips, and I loved the consistency of it—perfect for a touch of color. I like that it’s 2 products in 1, which saves room in my makeup kit. ✨
The eyeshadow glides onto my eyelids like a dream and doesn’t crease, and it has a built-in smudger so no brush is required. I also didn’t experience any clumping or spidery lashes with the mascara. 🕷️
Merit’s The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick was a bit drying and looked dry after application, and the cheek color was very sheer and didn’t really show up on my complexion.
The one with a bronzer and highlighter … Merit
Merit’s kit includes a highlighter, bronzer, and a brush, which are great inclusions if you're looking to emphasize certain features. I thought the bronzer was smooth, but I felt it was too sheer, especially if you have a warmer complexion.
Merit’s brush is a nice touch, but I blend with my fingers! The eyeshadow’s built-in smudger means there’s no need to buy bulky tools.
The one that doubles as skincare… Julep
Don’t freak out: Julep’s products are skincare-infused! We’re talking:
- Turmeric extract to brighten
- Camellia oil and Vitamin E to moisturize
- Hyaluronic acid
- Grapeseed oil for collagen repair
- Sweet almond oil to protect from UV damage
- Vitamin B5 to condition and strengthen
Merit’s kit has sea daffodil extract to help diminish the appearance of pigmentation, but Julep goes above and beyond with its ingredients. 🌿
My favorite is… Julep!
Julep had me at hello: it’s WAY cheaper than my former Merit set, and with free shipping to top it off, Julep proves that clean, high-performing skincare doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
If you're on the hunt for makeup that celebrates your natural beauty and fits seamlessly into your fast-paced life, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Julep's Everyday Easy Kit a try!
