10 Best Bulbs For Makeup, According To An MUA – 2024
Colorful palettes & beauty blenders apart, good lighting is the key to flawless makeup.
Tim Quinn is a celebrated beauty expert and makeup artist with over two decades of professional experience. His extensive expertise spans various mediums, including television, print, and film. He has received numerous awards and recognitions, including being labeled one of the "25 Beauty Stars" by W magazine, Genius Award by Elle Magazine, and Beauty Tsar by Hollywood Magazine.
Read full bio of Tim Quinn
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
Read full bio of Rajeshwari Das
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
Read full bio of Srijita De
Image: Shutterstock
If you don’t have the best bulbs for the makeup table yet, we will tell you why you should invest in one right away. Lighting is not only vital for your selfies; it is crucial to make your makeup look perfect too. No matter how practiced your hands are, not having a solid light source that will give you the perfect lighting could make your makeup look patchy and uneven. Investing in the correct lights might feel like a daunting task as technical terms like wattage and lumens are not something you deal with every day. To make sure there are no mistakes, here is what you need to look for in your bulb that will help you choose the one with the right color and temperature. There are bulbs that are crafted specially to illuminate dressing tables, consume less energy, and illuminate perfectly. Tim Quinn, a beauty expert & makeup artist, says, “ Lighting is everything when it comes to makeup. Invest in quality bulbs and a high quality mirror, especially one with a magnifier. Such a mirror will allow you to see your face up close and help you seamlessly perfect your look!” For keeping your makeup flawless always, here are 10 bulbs that make your makeup look professional each time you flaunt it.
In This Article
10 Best Bulbs For Makeup Application That Will Brighten Up Your Vanity
1. Best Energy-Saving:JandCase 5W G25 LED Bulb
This is a great vanity bulb, especially if you are looking for the energy-saving kind. It consumes 5 watts, goes up to 500 lumens of brightness, and is equal to 60W fluorescent lighting. Since the energy is cut down to 90%, you will reduce the costs of bulb replacements. These bulbs are great for vanity mirrors, chandeliers, pendants, bathroom mirrors, living room spaces, and dining rooms. These fluorescent lights are easy to install in light fixtures and cause no buzzing or flickering. This product has multiple positive reviews on Amazon for its energy efficiency and lasting ability.
Pros
- Less energy consumption
- Long-lasting
- Easy to install
- No buzzing, humming, or flickering
Cons
- Some may find them smaller than regular bulbs
"These LED bulbs are long-lasting and help me brighten my spaces. I can do my makeup without worrying about making it uneven due to bad lighting. The dim lights may have a bothersome buzz but it does not annoy me after some time."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 507 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
2. Best Circular Bulb:Technical Precision Zadro Replacement Bulb
The Technical Precision Zadro replacement bulbs are ideal for circular lighted mirrors, perfect for makeup and beauty influencers to achieve a studio-quality look. These color-correcting bulbs emit a 6500K cool white natural daylight at 120V power supply and easily last for about 12000 hours. The surround light has a well-balanced and flawless illumination, which is the perfect choice to help you enhance makeup application without hurting your eyes.
Pros
- Multiple uses
- Long-lasting
- Magnifying lights
- Value for money
Cons
- Not easy to install
"This bulb shines brightly and really helps me do my skin care and makeup. I have installed it easily and also noticed that it is long-lasting. I use it with caution to avoid unwanted electrical issues."
3. Best Mercury- And Lead-Free:Hansang G25 LED Globe Light Bulbs
Ensure that your makeup looks great with these energy-saving vanity bulbs that provide the best artificial lighting. They offer high lighting efficacy and little heat generation, making them the perfect replacement for regular incandescent bulbs. They provide stable lighting performance that can last up to 30,000 hours, making them long-lasting and durable. These low-heat bulbs don’t contain any mercury or lead, making them safe for you and your family. Also, the tried-and-tested bulbs are easy to install as they require the standard American E26 screw base. This video gives you more information about the product.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Mercury and lead-free
- Stable performance
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Must not be used in damp locations
"These Hansang LED bulbs are bright. They have transformed my dimly lit bathroom. They have enhanced the space and now I can apply my makeup flawlessly."
4. Best Replacement Option:Jerdon 25W Bulbs
The Jerdon 25W Replacement Bulbs were originally designed to replace burnt-out bulbs in Jerdon Style lighted mirrors. However, they can be conveniently paired with other 25W candelabra-based models and brands. These incandescent bulbs offer warm lighting which makes for the perfect natural lighting for statement-making makeup looks.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Compatible with multiple brands
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Brightness may vary when paired with different brands
"These bulbs are so good! I have placed them around my old makeup mirror. They are bright and help me put my makeup evenly."
5. Best Water-Resistant:Odaban Makeup Vanity Lights
Looking for vanity lights that switch from white to warm and still provide you with sufficient light from all directions? Then this product is meant for your vanity. The dimming bulbs have adjustable colors from a scale of 1-10, where 10 is the brightest. You can also choose the color temperature from cold white light to warm amber lighting. The bulbs are pretty water-resistant and have a rating of IP65. This design can withstand damp environments and water mist. So, you can install them in your bathroom vanity without any problems. In addition, the vanity lights come with 10 suction cups, which make the installation process easy and convenient, without the tedious job of drilling or possibly damaging the mirror.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Water-resistant
- 10 levels of brightness
- 3 color temperature modes
- Energy saving
Cons
- It may produce a humming sound when the brightness is on full
"I installed these vanity mirror lights easily. They came with strong adhesives but did not ruin the sides of my mirror. I often reposition them as per my needs."
6. Best Easy-To-Install:Brighttown Hollywood Style Led Vanity Mirror Lights Kit
If corded-electric style vanity lighting is more your style, then this Light Kit is a good choice. The vanity bulbs provide soft and natural light with no harsh glare and don’t harm the eyes. In addition, the highly durable design of the lights makes it a cost-effective investment. Furthermore, they are easy to install without drilling any holes or setting up any complicated wiring. Also, you can adjust the brightness because the bulbs are dimmable; you can adjust the brightness with the smart touch dimmer feature in the kit.
Pros
- Durable lifespan
- Dimmable bulbs
- Easy to install
- No glare
Cons
- It may not be water-resistant
"The vanity lights come with adjustable brightness options. I have installed them easily around my medium-sized mirror. They stick properly but I have also put some extra tape around."
Pro Tip7. Best Eco-Friendly:Lohas G25 Globe Light Bulbs
Light up a dull vanity with these E26 comfortable LED light bulbs, which are comfortable on the eyes and take up 80% less energy. The high-performance lighting provides you with a relaxing and bright atmosphere, and you can apply your makeup easily. Additionally, the bulbs are eco-friendly and have a durable design, so they won’t need constant changing and will last you a long time. There is no UV or IR, lead or mercury, so they won’t harm your face. The bulbs are made from quality plastic shell material, which means they won’t break easily.
Pros
- Durable lifespan
- Eco friendly
- Consumes 80% less energy
- Mercury and lead-free
Cons
- It may not be dimmable
"These LED bulbs give me a clean white light. These lights are truly ideal for my makeup application. They help me do my makeup seamlessly."
8. Best For Makeup Application:Shinestar Bright LED Globe Light Bulbs for Bathroom
For eliminating shadows, you will need an artificial light that brightens up your surroundings from all directions. This is why the Shinestar Bright LED Globe Light Bulbs for Bathroom is your best bet for makeup application. Not only is the 8-pack makeup light, super energy saving, but the brightness is double that of regular incandescent bulbs. Furthermore, the premium quality, shadow-free bulbs are made super sturdy and well-constructed. Additionally, the bulbs can be used for pendant lights or any standard E26 base, besides lighting up your vanity mirror.
Pros
- Wide application
- No humming or flickering
- Durable lifespan
Cons
- It may not be available in warmer colors
"These LED bulbs are simply the best! They brighten up my makeup table without heating up or making me feel uncomfortable. I like that they are long-lasting and help me even out my makeup look. I think they are great for daily use."
9. Best UL-Certified:Sunco Lighting 6 Pack G25 LED Globe
Due to the stellar overhead lighting, these light bulbs are a favorite among fans and professional makeup artists. You won’t regret purchasing these makeup lights as they are Energy Star and UL-certified. With this type of bulbs, you will get optimum performance and they are safe to use. They start up instantly, and you won’t experience any discomfort with them. Additionally, these energy-efficient vanity light bulbs have a dimmable feature so that they suit any mood or décor. Reviewers mention that these bulbs offer soft white light that feels comfortable to the eyes.
Pros
- Dimmable
- Versatile
- Saves up to 85% energy
- Durable
Cons
- The bulbs may hum when put in a dimmable mode
"These LED vanity bulbs help brighten up my bathroom. They give me natural light without hiking up my bills. The warm white option offers a soft light without excessive glare. I like their build quality as well."
10. Best USB Charging:Tom-Shine LED Vanity Lights for Mirror
These cult-favorite vanity lights are worth the purchase, especially if you want your makeup to look immaculate every time. The LED lights can be changed to 3 natural color temperatures, making them superior to ordinary mirror lights. You can also adjust the brightness levels of the vanity light bulbs by tapping on the sensor based on your glamor needs. The bright color lights come with a USB charger, so you can plug into a power bank or your laptop to charge them. Additionally, the lighting is super easy to install, and you can quickly fix it on your mirror with minimal hassle.
Pros
- Adjustable brightness
- Easy to install
- USB charging
- 3 natural color temperatures
Cons
- It may not be energy efficient
"This mirror light can be easily installed and comes with a strong suction hold. It has adjustable brightness which helps me do my makeup with ease. I like its cordless design because rewiring is always an issue in my household."
Now that you are aware of the best light bulbs for makeup mirrors available online, you have to know some important factors before deciding on your purchase. Our buying guide will help you understand the components to look for when shopping for the best light bulb for cosmetic application.
How To Buy The Best Bulbs For Makeup Application
- Color temperature
Look for a range of color temperatures between 2700 to 3000 Kelvin range, which is considered ideal for makeup application. Warmer lights are preferred because they are close to natural light and will provide you with the best experience.
- Accuracy
LED lights for makeup application are popular because they save energy, last for a long time, and offer exceptional results. This means that you don’t have to constantly worry about replacing light bulbs. If you choose the right one, you won’t have to change the bulb for years.
- Dim control
Dim lighting is useful if you want to adjust the brightness of your vanity area and get a more comprehensive view of what your makeup will look like. This is useful if you are heading somewhere with subdued lighting, and the soft light will give you a sense of what your makeup will look like.
Infographic: Types Of Bulbs To Skip To Prevent Makeup Mishaps
Lighting can make or break your makeup look. If you do not have access to natural light, makeup bulbs can come to your rescue. They can help you apply makeup precisely without making your face look too cakey. But what if you invest in the wrong bulbs? Check out the infographic below for types of makeup bulbs that you must dodge.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a professional beauty guru, every makeup space needs high-definition, studio-quality lighting for expertly crafted looks! Without perfect light in your vanity, your makeup might come off uneven and full of flaws. The Technical Precision Zadro Replacement Bulb is the best vanity light bulb for circular lighted mirrors, ensuring well-balanced and flawless lighting and longevity. The Brighttown Hollywood Style LED Vanity Mirror Lights Kit offers soft and natural light that is not glaring and very comfortable on the eyes. The Jerdon 25W Bulbs are an easy-to-install option that offers warm natural light, perfect for makeup application. If you wish to wear your makeup without much hassle and click fabulous selfies afterward you must invest in good lights that will consume less energy but build the perfect ambiance for your makeup practice sessions. Choose bulbs that are easy to install and do not make a buzzing or humming noise or flicker after a while. However, avoid bulbs that cannot be brightened or dimmed and have a glaring effect
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cool or warm light better for makeup?
It’s recommended that you use warm white lighting for makeup application if you are heading out for a candle-lit dinner. However, suppose you are having a casual brunch with friends and spending the day outdoors, in that case, choose natural daylight color temperature. On the other hand, if you spend the day in an office or a classroom, you can choose a cool white color temperature.
Is soft white or daylight bulb the best lighting for makeup?
Natural daylight is the best type of lighting for makeup. It lets you see the true colors.
What wattage is the best for makeup?
Generally, a 75-100 watt bulb works best while you apply your makeup.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Srijani Roy Chowdhury, the author of this article, is a makeup aficionado and finds immense joy in experimenting with makeup tools. Knowing that good lighting is of utmost importance while doing makeup, she went ahead and did extensive research on makeup bulbs and read many product reviews for the same to curate a list of the best ones for her readers. This list recommends makeup bulbs that consume minimal energy and help you achieve a flawless makeup look.
Read full bio of Tim Quinn
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Rajeshwari Das
Read full bio of Srijita De
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.