First Impressions: Why MERIT?
I’ll admit it—I’m a makeup junkie with a cabinet full of half-used products. But when I first heard about MERIT Beauty, I was skeptical. A brand promising “clean, minimalist makeup that actually works”? In an industry flooded with 20-step routines and overhyped launches, could MERIT really stand out?
After testing their best-selling products for three months, I’m ready to break down whether this brand is worth the buzz—or just another Instagram fad.
The MERIT Brand Breakdown: Less Is More?
Who They Are
Founded in 2021 by Katherine Power (of Who What Wear fame), MERIT Beauty is all about streamlined, high-performance makeup with clean ingredients. Their philosophy? “Fewer products, more impact.”
Why People Love It
✔ Clean formulas (EWG-verified, vegan, cruelty-free)
✔ Luxury feel, not luxury prices (most products under $40)
✔ Designed for real life—no complicated techniques needed
Potential Red Flags
⚠️ Limited shade ranges (though they’re expanding)
⚠️ Sheer coverage (not for full-glam lovers)
⚠️ No flashy packaging (if you love a luxe compact, this isn’t it)
Putting MERIT’s Bestsellers to the Test
1. The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick
💵 Price: $38
✅ Why It’s a Cult Favorite:
- Blends like a dream—fingers, brush, or sponge
- Buildable coverage (sheer to medium)
- Skin-like finish—no cakey texture
❌ Drawback:
- Not enough shades for deep skin tones (yet)
Best For: On-the-go touch-ups or “no-makeup makeup” days
2. Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil
💵 Price: $24
✅ Why It’s Always Sold Out:
- Non-sticky shine (rare for a lip oil!)
- Subtle tint that lasts 3-4 hours
- Hydrating—no weird film or dryness
❌ Drawback:
- Limited color payoff (sheer only)
Best For: Gloss lovers who hate tackiness
3. Bronze Balm Sheer Cream Bronzer
💵 Price: $30
✅ Why It’s My Holy Grail:
- Foolproof application—no streaks or patchiness
- Warm, natural-looking finish (no orange tones)
- Doubles as eyeshadow
❌ Drawback:
- Only 4 shades (needs more cool-toned options)
Best For: Beginners or anyone who hates powder bronzers
4. Great Skin Instant Glow Serum
💵 Price: $58
✅ Why It’s Worth the Splurge:
- Gives literal glass skin in 30 seconds
- Plumping + hydrating—no glitter, just glow
- Works under makeup or alone
❌ Drawback:
- Pricey for the size
Best For: Dry skin types or pre-makeup prep
How MERIT Stacks Up Against Competitors
| Brand | Price Range | Best For | MERIT’s Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| MERIT | $$ | Minimalist routines | Clean formulas |
| Glossier | $ | Dewy skin | More shade options |
| Kosas | $$ | Skincare-makeup hybrids | Fuller coverage |
My Take: MERIT wins for effortless, clean beauty—it’s what Glossier wishes it could be.
Real User Reviews (From Reddit & TikTok)
“The complexion stick is the only foundation I’ve ever finished and repurchased.” – u/SkinFirstBeauty
“I’ve bought 4 Shade Slicks… no regrets. The perfect ‘my lips but better’ gloss.” – @CleanBeautyBabe
“Wish the bronzer had more shades, but the formula is chef’s kiss.” – TikTok comment
Current Promos & Shopping Hacks
🔥 Summer Sale: 15% off first order with code MERIT15
🎁 Free Mini Lip Oil: With $75+ orders (limited time)
📦 Free Shipping: On all U.S. orders
Pro Tip: Their “The Minimalist” set ($98) is the best value for newbies.
Final Verdict: Would I Repurchase?
Rating: 4.6/5 ★★★★☆
✔ Pros: Clean formulas, idiot-proof application, no-makeup-makeup perfected
✖ Cons: Needs more shades, not for full-coverage lovers
Best For:
- Busy women who want 5-minute makeup
- Sensitive skin folks avoiding irritants
- Minimalists tired of clutter
Skip If:
- You love full-coverage foundations
- Need drugstore prices
- Prefer bold, pigmented colors
Shop My Top Picks | Browse All Products
Got Questions? Ask away—I’ve tried 90% of their lineup!
🎯 Key Takeaways
- Must-Try: Complexion Stick & Shade Slick Lip Oil
- Skip Unless… You want heavy coverage
- Best Deal: The Minimalist Set
- Final Word: “The only makeup brand I use daily.”
“It’s not makeup—it’s better skin in a tube.” – My 3-month verdict
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