How We Research and Test Makeup

Every commercial article must state whether it is based on hands-on testing, expert-reviewed research or research-only analysis.

Evidence tiers

Hands-on tested

The editorial team used the exact product and documented the test conditions relevant to the page. The article explains what was observed rather than using a badge as a substitute for evidence.

Expert-reviewed research

The analysis was reviewed by a person with relevant makeup or beauty experience. This label does not imply that the reviewer personally used every product.

Research-only

Conclusions are based on verified product information, current availability, credible supporting material and comparative analysis. No personal wear-test claim is made.

Selection process

• Define the reader, use case and decision criteria before selecting products.
• Verify the exact product, variation, current US availability and material facts.
• Compare strengths and limitations with the closest relevant alternatives.
• Check whether the evidence supports the article’s wording and evidence label.
• Recheck unavailable, reformulated or disputed products before maintaining a recommendation.

Updates

An updated date should reflect real editorial work. Product removal, reformulation, evidence-tier changes and materially revised conclusions should be recorded in the article’s update notes.

See the product selection policy for inclusion standards.