Making your own DIY makeup is simple, fun, and often better for your skin than many store-bought options. Swap harsh chemicals for natural ingredients and enjoy cosmetics you can trust.
Choose from this collection of tried-and-true DIY makeup recipes and pick one to try first. Which will it be?
I’m a big advocate for DIY makeup for many reasons.
First, homemade makeup is generally much more affordable than commercial products.
Second, you can tailor recipes to your skin type—oily, dry, combination, or normal—and adjust shades to match your skin tone precisely.
Making natural makeup at home is also enjoyable. I often involve my kids in mixing and measuring; it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon together.
In this post I share my favorite DIY makeup recipes to inspire you to try a few. Some require a little more effort than others, but they all work well across different skin types.
My best advice: follow the recipes closely for the best results.
How to make your own makeup
Getting started requires a bit of preparation, but once you have your ingredients and tools, the process is straightforward and rewarding.
Read each recipe through beforehand so you can gather what you need. I also recommend focusing on one recipe at a time—make a single product, test it for a few days, and adjust as needed.
Concealer
Matching concealer to your skin tone is crucial, so mixing your own is a great option. Homemade concealer allows you to avoid unnecessary chemicals while creating the perfect shade for you.
Eyebrow gel
A simultaneous tint and tamer is highly convenient. A simple, budget-friendly eyebrow gel can keep brows neat and full all day without the need for frequent touch-ups.
Eye shadow
Making your own eye shadow is a creative project—mix colors and textures to suit your style. You can press shadows into a palette or store them in pots depending on what you prefer.
Eyeliner
Eyeliner is applied to a sensitive area, so using a non-toxic, gentle formula is important. Simple homemade eyeliners can be effective, safe, and easy to make.
Facial toner
Homemade facial toners are versatile and can be adjusted seasonally. Use a more astringent mix in summer to control oil, and a hydrating formula in winter to protect moisture balance.
Foundation
Making foundation may take a few tries to perfect the shade, but once you do, you’ll appreciate the customization and savings. Create a formula that matches your skin tone and type more accurately than many store-bought options.
Lip gloss
This kind of lip gloss uses nourishing, natural ingredients that add tint and shine while keeping lips soft and moisturized—ideal for every season.
Lipstick
Natural lipsticks often use fewer, kinder ingredients. A simple homemade lipstick can deliver the color you choose and help hydrate your lips at the same time.
Lip Liner
Lip liner defines and shapes the lips, enhancing natural color and creating contrast. A well-chosen liner paired with a complementary lipstick elevates any look.
Mascara
Many commercial mascaras contain unwanted ingredients. Making a simple, natural mascara at home can give you length and definition without smudging or harsh chemicals.
Setting spray/setting powder
Setting spray is one of my favorite DIY creations. It improves how makeup looks and helps it last longer, reducing smudging and keeping your look fresh. You can also make a homemade setting powder if you prefer a matte finish.
Makeup remover
If commercial removers dry your skin out, try a gentle DIY makeup remover. A thoughtfully made remover cleans, soothes, and removes makeup effectively—including around the eyes—while leaving skin comfortable and clean.
Mineral makeup
Mineral makeup is surprisingly easy to make and is simple to tint with brown oxides or mica powders to match your skin tone. Its ease of use and customizable shades make it a favorite for many DIY enthusiasts.
Tips
Follow each recipe closely, especially when starting. Precise measurements and steps help ensure good results. If a batch doesn’t turn out as expected, treat it as part of the learning process—adjust and try again.
Making your own skincare and makeup can be relaxing and empowering. One of the biggest benefits is knowing exactly what you’re putting on your skin—no hidden or questionable ingredients, just simple, nourishing components.
I enjoy creating a full routine at home, from makeup to tools like a homemade brush cleaner. Experiment, have fun, and share which recipes you try and how they work for you.