Makeup Gifts for Teens: Easy, Fun and Gentle Picks

Shopping for a teen who's getting into makeup? The best gifts are easy to use, fun to carry around, and gentle enough for everyday wear. Here's how to choose, plus our favorite picks at every budget.

What teens actually want

• Easy wins. Products that look good in one swipe, with no technique needed.
• Things to carry. Lip products that fit in a pocket, bag or keyring get used every day.
• A little sparkle. Shimmer and shine feel special without being a lot.
• Room to choose. Shade is personal. When in doubt, let them pick.

Choose gentle, simple formulas

A first makeup bag should be simple. Sheer, buildable color is forgiving for beginners, and fewer products means less to learn. Look for vegan, cruelty-free makeup if values matter to them; every ELIL product is both. Suggest a quick patch test on the inner arm before using anything new near the eyes.

Starter picks under $20

• ELIL Peptide Tinted Lipbalm ($14.99): a comfortable balm with a touch of tint, in Coconut, Strawberry and Birthday Cake. An easy first lip product.
• ELIL Hydrating Lip Oil ($14.99): glassy shine, and each tube clips onto a keyring with a strawberry charm, so it goes everywhere.
• ELIL Lustre Lip Gloss ($16.99): high shine without stickiness, in shades from soft nude to plum.
• ELIL 3 IN 1 C.E.L ($14.99): one color for cheeks, eyes and lips. A whole look from one product.

Gift sets for a bigger moment

• ELIL Glam Eyes Gift Set ($28.99): the diamond-studded waterproof mascara with a Dual Dance eyeshadow (a matte and a shimmer in one compact). Ready for parties and photos.
• ELIL gift card ($10 to $100): the safest choice when you're not sure of their shades. They pick what they love.

Shopping for more people on your list? Our holiday lip and eye gift ideas cover every budget.

Tips for parents

• Ask what they like. A shade they chose gets worn; a shade picked for them often doesn't.
• Start sheer. Tinted balms and glosses are an easy, low-pressure start.
• Teach good habits. Remove makeup before bed, don't share mascara, and replace mascara every three months.
• Keep it fun. Makeup is a way to play and express yourself. Our 5-minute everyday routine is an easy place to start together.

New to ELIL? Use WELCOME10 for 10% off your first order.