Makeup

Makeup for every look, from foundation and concealer to mascara, lipstick and nail polish. Shop drugstore favourites and luxury brands in one place.

Makeup for every face, every look and every budget

Makeup is about enhancing what you already have, whether that means a fresh, barely-there base for the office or a bold lip and smoky eye for a night out. Our makeup department covers face, eyes, lips and nails, plus the brushes and tools that make application easier. You will find professional artistry brands, prestige houses and affordable high-street favourites side by side, so it is easy to mix splurges with everyday essentials.

Building a flawless base

A good base starts with skincare. Moisturise first, then use a primer if you want extra grip or a smoother finish. Choose foundation by coverage and finish: sheer and skin-like for everyday, medium to full when you want to even out redness or marks. Match the shade on your jawline in daylight and check the undertone, warm, cool or neutral, rather than just light or dark.

• Oily skin: matte or soft-matte foundations and a light dusting of powder in the T-zone.
• Dry skin: hydrating, dewy or satin formulas, with powder used only where needed.
• Mature skin: lightweight, flexible textures that do not settle into fine lines, and cream blush for a natural glow.

Eyes, brows and lips

Mascara is the quickest way to open up the eyes; choose volumising, lengthening or curling formulas depending on your lashes, and waterproof versions for long or emotional days. Neutral eyeshadow palettes are the most versatile, while eyeliner adds definition from subtle to dramatic. Well-groomed brows frame the face, so a brow pencil or gel is worth adding to any kit. For lips, creamy lipsticks are comfortable, matte formulas last longest and glosses add shine and the look of fullness.

Tools make the difference

The right brush or sponge helps products blend smoothly and last longer. Dense brushes are ideal for liquid foundation, fluffy brushes for powder and blush, and small tapered brushes for blending eyeshadow. Clean brushes and sponges regularly with a gentle cleanser to keep them hygienic.

Brands in our makeup range

Discover prestige makeup from Christian Dior, Lancome, Estee Lauder, Shiseido, Clinique and Tom Ford, artistry favourites such as MAC, Kryolan, Smashbox and It Cosmetics, and affordable brands including Catrice, Essence, ArtDeco, Gosh and Maybelline. Nail lovers will find Opi, Essie, Mavala and Sally Hansen.

Frequently asked questions

How do I make my makeup last all day?

Start with well-moisturised skin and a primer, apply thin layers rather than one thick one, set the T-zone with powder and finish with a setting spray.

How often should I replace makeup?

Check the open-jar symbol on the packaging, which shows how many months a product stays at its best after opening. Mascara is usually best replaced every three to six months.

Can I wear makeup on sensitive skin?

Yes. Look for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas, keep tools clean and always remove makeup before bed.

Shop makeup by category

• Face makeup
• Foundation
• Eye makeup
• Mascara
• Lip makeup
• Nails
• Makeup tools and brushes
• Affordable makeup