If you’re a fan of makeup that enhances, not hides, Merit Beauty might already be on your radar. Their philosophy? Less is more—effortless, natural beauty designed for everyday wear.
I’ve been desperate to try this brand for what felt like forever, so you can imagine my excitement when they finally started shipping to Australia! Merit’s minimalist ethos feels like such a natural fit for my everyday approach to makeup, and after trying three of their products, I can safely say they live up to the hype. Just to clarify, this is in no way a sponsored post—I’m simply sharing my thoughts on the brand for anyone who’s been curious about trying it!
I’m definitely no makeup expert, and I rely on a simple routine because, honestly, I don’t have the time (or energy!) to spend hours in the morning applying countless products. I’m all about the one, two, three, and done approach, which is why I’m always on the lookout for products that make my makeup routine quick and easy! Check out my 5-minute daily makeup routine video above —I'd love to tell you I have an elaborate look for a night out, but let’s be real, I don’t get out that often, and my evening routine is pretty much just a slightly extended version of my usual 5-minute one anyway!
Before I jump in with my Merit review, one of the best parts about shopping with Merit is their free gift offer with your first order—a gorgeous tie-up makeup bag and when you spend over $150 there’s a sleek compact mirror too. The bag is chic and understated, perfect for travel or as a vanity organizer, and the mirror is just beautiful—ideal for quick touch-ups on the go. Honestly, my old makeup bag was in dire need of replacement, so I was thrilled to receive this free bonus gift!
So, here’s my honest review of the items I purchased…
1. The Minimalist - Perfecting Complexion Stick
AU$61
What I loved: The applicator feels really premium, and the product glides on effortlessly. It's ideal for quick touch-ups, exactly as promised. The colour match was perfect too—always a bit of a gamble when buying online, but you simply input the shade of your current product, and it suggests the closest match. I tried it out and got the Bisque, and when it arrived, it was spot on! I’d heard great things about this product being a game-changer for quick touch-ups, and I can confirm it definitely lives up to the hype.
What I didn’t love: This was always going to be tough when comparing to my favourite NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer, as it’s always been my go-to. While the Perfecting Complexion Stick came very close, I still find the NARS version offers a little more coverage. However, this is a personal preference, and as someone who suffers from perioral dermatitis, the NARS formula has always worked really well for me. After using the Merit stick a few times, I’m not sure it will last as long as the NARS one, but I’ll need to give it more time to see how it holds up in the long run.
Rating: 9/10 – I genuinely think this is a premium product, and it's one I’d definitely look to repurchase again. It pairs really well with my NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer for a more layered approach—perfect for areas that don’t need full coverage. It’s a great addition to my routine for those “lighter coverage” days!
2. Bronze Balm – Sheer Bronzer
AU$48
What I loved: I’ve been using a similar bronzer from Trinny London, and it’s been my favourite for quite some time. But after trying Merit’s version in Clay, I’m completely converted! The colour and texture are so similar to the Trinny London product, but the Merit applicator is definitely the standout. It’s incredibly easy to apply, and I’ve actually been using it more as a contouring product lately, which I’m really loving! It’s the perfect balance of bronzing and definition, and I’m all for it!
What I didn’t love: Absolutely nothing!
Rating: 10/10 – I will definitely be purchasing this one again!
3. Clean Lash – Lengthening Mascara
AU$42
What I loved: I’ve always found mascaras tricky and have spent a small fortune on ones that left me disappointed—by the end of the day, I often looked like a panda! NARS has been my go-to for a while, so I was a bit sceptical about trying Merit’s version. But I was honestly surprised! The applicator is the softest I’ve ever used—it glides over my lashes effortlessly. It lengthens beautifully and doesn’t smudge or leave me with black eyes by the end of the day. Plus, I’ve found it super easy to remove when I’m taking off my makeup, which is a huge bonus. Definitely a winner!
What I didn’t love: Absolutely nothing!
Rating: 10/10 – It glides on smoothly and doesn’t leave me with smudged black eyes by the end of the day, so that’s definitely a reason to repurchase!
Here are a few of products I’m also keen to try…
· Flush Balm – Cheek Colour
· Signature Lip – Lightweight Lipstick
· Brush No1. – Blending Brush
· The Brow Duo – Brow Essentials
Have you tried Merit? Let me know your must-have picks—I’m always on the hunt for new favourites!
Other Makeup Featured in My 5-Minute Makeup Routine
Here are all the other products I use on daily basis to complete my quick and easy 5 minute makeup look:
NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser - Alaska
NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer - Custard
Trinny London LASH2BROW - Chesnut
Trinny London LIP2CHEEK - Lady J
Glossier High Shine Lipstick - Vila
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution - Pillow Talk. Not featured, but a go-to lipstick
I hope you’ve found this Substack helpful! If you think any of your friends would be interested in learning more about Merit or are in need of a quick makeup routine, feel free to share it with them!
Until next time,
Julia x
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