The annual 21Ninety Awards are back! They are a celebration of the best and brightest in beauty, hair, skincare, wellness and fashion. Every pick was made with Black and multicultural women in mind. The awards recognize must-haves in each category, highlighting innovative formulas, on-trend styles, and accessible luxury options that are raising the bar in the beauty industry. To select these favorites, 21Ninety tapped industry pros and influencers along with our own staff ensuring that each winner is not only high-performing but also has a proven track record of catering to Black and diverse customers.
21Ninety Awards Makeup Winners
This year, the makeup category winners were chosen by a distinguished panel of judges, including renowned makeup artist Tamar Israel and Board-certified Dermatologist Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip. These judges were selected for their expertise and influence in the beauty industry, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the unique needs and preferences of our community. Together with 21Ninety’s staff, they evaluated each product’s price point, effectiveness, ingredients, founding principals and overall brand reputation to ensure the selected winners truly represent the best of the best.
NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
Effectiveness, Ingredients, Brand Reputation
The NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation took the top spot for its remarkable blend of medium-to-full coverage with a natural, radiant finish. This foundation offers a breathable, fade-resistant formula. It enhances the skin’s smoothness over time, thanks to its infusion of raspberry, apple, and watermelon extracts.
“NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation gives the most beautiful, radiant, yet natural finish to your skin,” Israel raved. “Not only does this long-wearing foundation improve the smoothness of your skin over time, but the shade range matches the nuances of our melanated complexion to perfection. I love the versatility of this foundation as it works well on all skin types and pairs amazingly well with other makeup products in my routine.”
BLK Opal True Color Skin Perfecting Stick Foundation SPF 15
Price Point, Effectiveness, Black-owned/Founded
Another standout, the BLK Opal True Color Skin Perfecting Stick Foundation SPF 15, is celebrated for its versatility and flawless finish. This product is more than just a foundation. It’s a multi-purpose stick that conceals, highlights, and contours while nourishing the skin with vitamins C and E and protecting it with SPF 15.
“If you’re having trouble finding your perfect foundation shade, look no further because BLK Opal True Color Skin Perfecting Stick Foundation is absolutely flawless! This affordable foundation has been around for years, and rightfully so!” said Israel. “I especially love how the creamy pigment is multi-purposeful. The hydrating ingredients in this foundation make it perfect for women with dry skin and can be used on all skin types during colder months.”
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick
Price Point, Effectiveness, Brand Reputation
The Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick impressed the judges with its ease of use and long-lasting formula. This versatile eyeshadow stick offers a range of buildable shades that stay put for 24 hours without creasing or flaking, making it a must-have for any makeup collection.
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
Price Point, Effectiveness, Ingredients
Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush made the list of our best makeup products for its weightless, long-lasting formula that provides a natural flush. Available in both matte and dewy finishes, this liquid blush blends seamlessly into the skin, adding a healthy glow that lasts all day.
Ami Cole Lip Treatment Oil
Price Point, Ingredients, Black-owned/Founded
Ami Cole’s Lip Treatment Oil is recognized for its triple threat offering of treatment benefits, shine, and color. Infused with baobab seed oil, camellia oil, and passionfruit seed oil, this conditioning lip oil nourishes and protects the lips while adding a universally flattering sheer color.
Yves Saint Laurent Eyebrow Pencil
Effectiveness, Brand Reputation
A staff favorite, the Yves Saint Laurent Eyebrow Pencil, stood out for its precision and effectiveness. This dual-purpose tool redefines brows with a natural finish, making it a staple for any beauty routine.
“This pencil is a winner for its long-lasting formulation and color offerings that customers rave about,” said Arielle Poteau, 21Ninety Deputy Editor.
Ardell Wispies False Eyelash Multi Pack
Price Point, Effectiveness
For lash lovers, the Ardell Wispies False Eyelash Multi Pack is a game-changer. With an invisible, lightweight band and handcrafted uniformity, these lashes are perfect for both beginners and pros.
Poteau highlighted, “All beginner lash wearers should start here! These Ardell Wispies are super easy to apply and offer a great combination of natural with just a hint of drama.”
Sephora Collection 12HR Translucent Loose Setting Powder
Price point, effectiveness
The Sephora Collection 12HR Translucent Loose Setting Powder is celebrated for its lightweight, blurring formula that sets makeup beautifully.
“Sephora’s translucent powder offering can play with the big boys and won’t break the bank,” noted Poteau.
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