How to Try Makeup Before You Buy, Online or IRL

May 09, 2023

By: Jazmine A. Ortiz | Makeup.com by L'Oréal

We’d never complain about shopping for new makeup, but when it comes to finding the perfect foundation match or the most flattering shade of red lipstick, it’s no secret that things can get a little confusing. Luckily, there are now more virtual try-on tools than ever that can help you try on new makeup products, without even having to leave the comfort of your home. And if you are up for an in-person shopping day, there are also plenty of in-store makeover services you can try for free. Below, find our favorite ways to try on makeup, in-person and online, at absolutely no cost.

The Best Virtual Makeup Try-on Tools

Lancôme

Lancôme’s virtual try-on service lets you experiment with varying shades of eye, lip and face makeup, all from the comfort of your bed or couch. It’s a great way to identify a favorite new lip color or eyeliner shade before you click “add to cart.”

Giorgio Armani Beauty

Try on a variety of luxe eye, face and lip products with Giorgio Armani Beauty’s virtual try-on tool. The service helps take out some of the guesswork of finding your shade in the cult-fave Luminous Silk Foundation and picking a Lip Power lipstick shade to add to your wishlist.

NYX Professional Makeup

If you’re home and want to partake in a beauty consultation experience in your PJs, head to the NYX Professional Makeup website to video chat with one of the brand’s beauty advisors. You can virtually try a foundation shade or get a lipstick recommendation. Plus, you’ll get feedback in real-time!

L’Oréal Paris Beauty Genius

Looking to update your look with a new hair color or lip color? The L’Oréal Paris Beauty Genius Virtual Try-On feature uses augmented reality technology to allow you to test out hair colors and makeup before you purchase them. You can try the Makeup Genius Virtual Try-On Tool here and the Hair Color Genius Virtual Try-On feature here.

Maybelline New York Virtual Makeup Try-On

Maybelline New York has its own virtual shade try-on technology that’s worth a whirl if you want to try before you buy. You can see which shade of the Maybelline New York Fit Me! Matte + Poreless Foundation is best for you before pressing “add to cart.” You can also compare between four different shades and share your selfie on social media to ask your friends what they think about your new style. Click here to use Maybelline’s Virtual Makeup try-on technology on your phone or computer now.

YSL Beauty

Use the YSL Beauty virtual try-on tool to try on lipsticks, mascaras, eyeshadows, concealers and more from the brand. Whether you use the live camera or upload an existing selfie, you'll be able to try on a range of shades without stepping foot in the store or opening your wallet.

In-Store Makeup Try-on Services

Nordstrom

Stop into Nordstrom to receive a free in-store beauty service or to be paired with a beauty stylist. Before heading in, check out the store’s list of complimentary beauty services to see if there’s something you’re interested in. Many brands offer mini beauty treatments such as a cat-eye session with Lancôme or a ten-minute makeover with Giorgio Armani Beauty. For a more personalized service, request a Nordstrom Beauty Stylist who will help you find products that meet your preferences and goals.

Bloomingdale’s

Similar to the Nordstrom Beauty Stylist experience, Bloomingdale’s also has their own version. You can book an appointment with an associate at an in-store beauty counter (like YSL Beauty, Lancôme, Giorgio Armani Beauty and more) for everything from a 30-minute skincare consultation to a one-hour makeover. Appointments run all day, every day, which means the excuses to treat yourself are endless.

Additional Reporting By: Ariel Wodarcyk Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn

How to Try Makeup *Before* You Buy, Online or IRL