The glitz and glamour of award shows like the Golden Globes often come with a side of juicy drama. This time around, it was the whispered exchange between Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift that caught everyone’s attention. Speculation swirled that their hushed conversation was about Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamet. But like most award show gossip, guesswork made a mountain out of a molehill since Timothee later clarified that there was no rift between Selena and Kylie, effectively shutting down the rumours.
But this tiny spark of celebrity intrigue provides the perfect segue into a much-anticipated face-off in the beauty world: Kylie Cosmetics vs. Rare Beauty. Both brands, born from the fame and creativity of two leading ladies have been making waves in the cosmetic industry. Here’s what we think of their products, and if they’re really worth the hype surrounding them.
Rare Beauty
Founded by the eponymous star from Only Murders In The Building, Rare Beauty was launched by Selena Gomez in 2019 in an attempt to create something more than a beauty brand. As Selena says, “I think Rare Beauty can be more than a beauty brand—it can make an impact. I want us all to stop comparing ourselves to each other and just start embracing our own uniqueness.”
Products Worth The Hype
The Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil is a personal favourite. I love how this lip jelly turns into a tinted oil, leaving my lips feeling hydrated without any stickiness. Furthermore, the blend of jojoba and sunflower seed oil not only nourishes my lips but also adds a subtle plumpness, making them look and feel amazing.
Similarly, the Soft Pinch Liquid Blush feels incredibly light on my skin and blends effortlessly for a natural, long-lasting flush. The product’s botanical blend is gentle and soothing, making it a staple in my routine for a radiant, flushed-from-within glow.
The Kind Words Matte Lip Liner is another favourite. The liner offers smooth application and a waterproof formula The matte finish is just perfect, and I love that it defines my lips without overpowering my lipshades.
Products Not Worth The Hype
One of the products that absolutely did not work for me was the Perfect Strokes Universal Volumizing Mascara. I found that it doesn’t quite work for my shorter lashes, tending to clump and flake more than I’d like plus it does not hold up at all in Mumbai’s humidity – smudging under my eyes more often than I’d like.
Another product I did not enjoy was the Stay Vulnerable Melting Blush. While I loved the colour and initial look of this cream, it fades in a few hours and tends to shift if I touch my face, or even layer it. For the price point, this is a pretty low-performance product.
Kylie Cosmetics
Kylie Cosmetics is the brainchild of the youngest Kardashian, Kylie Jenner – the very same company that put her on Forbes list of Youngest Self-Made Billionaires (which was later revoked). Supremely popular among the GenZ youth and celebrities alike, here are the products we liked and a few that really did not deserve the hype they got.
Products Worth The Hype
I have to say I’m a fan of the Pressed Blush Powder since it provides a natural, matte flush that tends to last all day and blends into my skin seamlessly. Additionally, the lightweight, buildable formula makes it easy to achieve the perfect intensity of colour required to elevate my look.
The Classic Matte Palette is another great product you can splurge on. The ten matte shades are pretty versatile and you can use them to create both – natural, or dramatic eye looks. The products are super blendable with a great colour payoff, making this palette a must-have.
The Setting Powder is an absolute lifesaver for locking in my makeup and keeping the shine at bay. Furthermore, this is one product that feels extremely weightless and works for any skin tone.
Products Not Worth The Hype
The Liquid Matte Lipsticks are bit too drying for my taste since I usually prefer creamier formulas anyway. Additionally, the colours tend to appear much darker on my skin than expected, making me wish they showed how the shades look on various skin tones. This product also received tonnes of backlash during its launch, following which the formula was recreated.
Last, I’d like to have a word with the person who pitched Kylie Skincare. First and last question: why? While the packaging feels luxurious, the performance is basic and not life-changing. It’s okay for beginners but does have the capacity to irritate sensitive skin after prolonged use.
So, there you have it! Each brand has its hits and misses, and it’s all about finding what works for you. Whether you’re looking for that perfect blush, a reliable setting powder, or a lip product that doesn’t dry out your lips, there’s something in both lines that could catch your fancy. Remember, makeup is a personal journey, and it’s okay to mix and match until you find your ideal beauty companions!
Featured Images: Instagram