Plenty of pretend makeup sets exist for toddlers who want to glam up. Choosing the right set can be challenging if you don‘t know what to look for or want to pick up some pretend makeup for a gift.
To help, we‘ve researched you and found the ten best pretend makeup sets on the market. We considered only real recommendations from real parents and removed products with fake reviews. Our list features only the highest-quality products.
1. TOKIA Pretend Play Makeup (Best Budget Pretend Makeup Set)
The TOKIA Pretend Play Makeup is sized just like the adult products for a more realistic touch. This seven-piece set comes with various tools including a lip gloss with a working roller ball, a face brush, and an eye shadow brush. It also comes with a good-sized cosmetic bag.
What we love:
- The makeup looks and feels real enough
- Good durability to hold up against frequent use
We don’t like this as much:
- The containers may be tough to open at first.
2. AstarX Makeup Toys (Best Quality Pretend Makeup Set)
The AstarX Makeup Toys set offers toddlers 21 pieces of makeup products to play with. Toddlers can apply blush, eye shadow, lip gloss, and lipstick. All of the materials are water-based and non-toxic. This way, you don’t need makeup remover to take it off, and it shouldn’t irritate the skin.
What we love:
- Non-fragrant makeup that easily washes off
- Brushes are soft and a good size for small hands to hold
We don’t like this as much:
- Could do with a larger variety of colors
3. PlanToys Pretend Play Makeup Playset (Best Eco-Friendly Pretend Makeup Set)
This eight-piece PlanToys Pretend Play Makeup Playset focuses on being environmentally friendly. It features rubberwood material that’s free from any chemicals, and it comes with five cosmetic pieces, a makeup brush, a mirror, and an adjustable makeup toolbelt.
What we love:
- Wood is high-quality and long-lasting
- Caps on the lipstick and perfume pull off and stay on well
We don’t like this as much:
- Toolbelt could do with a zipper so the makeup won’t fall out.
4. Beverly Hills Doll Collection
The Beverly Hills Doll Collection may not apply real makeup, but it looks and feels real enough for tots to enjoy. There are several different products to use, such as pretend foundation, an eye shadow pallet, and brush applicators of multiple sizes. This kit even comes with an adorable, brightly colored cosmetic bag.
What we love:
- Features bright, kid-friendly colors
- It comes with a cute cosmetic bag that’s easy for toddlers to carry
We don’t like this as much:
- Tots might need some help opening some of the makeup pieces.
5. Senrokes Pretend Makeup
The Senrokes Pretend Makeup kit is a realistic-looking set that applies nothing to the skin. This features numerous accessories and utilizes rubber, plastic, and foam to create an effective illusion. There’s also plenty of glitter around from the bold eye shadow colors to the glitter pots themselves.
What we love:
- It comes with a well-made, fashionable makeup case
- It makes for an excellent gift
We don’t like this as much:
- Makeup containers may require some loosening up so toddlers can open them without help.
6. LOYO Girls Pretend Play Makeup Sets
The LOYO Girls Pretend Play Makeup Sets combine everything many toddlers love: bright pink colors, glitter, and unicorns. There’s a good resemblance to real makeup kits without the mess, as it features kid-safe, soft foam instead. It comes with a fashionable light pink makeup bag that features cute unicorn art.
What we love:
- Soft makeup brushes and nail polish brushes
- Easy to clean up and store away in the bag
We don’t like this as much:
- The lipstick could be made from a more durable material.
7. Make it Up, Glamour Girl Pretend Play Makeup Set
The Glamour Girl Pretend Play Makeup Set features eco-friendly EVA foam instead of real makeup. It’s still plenty colorful, though, and there are 13 total pieces included, like a compact, makeup brushes, foundation, and more. All of it is wrapped up in a vibrantly-colored, zippered cosmetic bag.
What we love:
- Durable, soft makeup brushes
- Realistic foam material with glitter that doesn’t flake off
We don’t like this as much:
- Compact lids could have a more robust design.
8. Pretend Play Kids Vanity Table and Chair Beauty Mirror
The Pretend Play Kids Vanity Table and Chair are among the ten best pretend makeup sets for toddlers, giving them an entire area for fashion and makeup fit for royalty. This set has a chair, a stylish mirror, and a full line of accessories like perfume bottles, lipstick, jewelry, and a hairdryer.
What we love:
- The set features interactive sounds and lights
- Accessories offer a good amount of versatility
We don’t like this as much:
- Nail polish could do with a brush inside.
9. PixieCrush Pretend Makeup Play
With the PixieCrush Pretend Makeup Play kit, toddlers can enjoy various products. Not only does it come with the standard brushes, compacts, and lipsticks like other sets, but this set takes it a step further by including realistic-looking mascara and foundation. Everything fits well in the polka-dot handbag.
What we love:
- Numerous pieces that resemble real makeup well
- It comes with a reliable, pretty handbag.
We don’t like this as much:
- Makeup cases are a bit difficult to open for younger children.
10. PixieCrush: Wooden Beauty Vanity Play Set
The Wooden Beauty Vanity Play Set from PixieCrush features high-quality wooden material. Its vanity has over a dozen accessories so toddlers can have a fun dress-up day. Pieces include compact lipstick, mascara, a necklace, a hairbrush, and clip-on earrings.
What we love:
- The vanity features an adjustable mirror.
- Realistic, versatile accessories
We don’t like this as much:
- It could be made from more robust material
Things to Consider When Buying Pretend Makeup Sets for Toddlers
When buying pretend makeup sets for toddlers, you must keep a few things in mind.
- Safety: Safety should be your top priority when selecting pretend toddler makeup sets. Ensure the products are non-toxic and do not contain any harmful chemicals or allergens, as your toddler might want to put them in their mouth. Look for sets that are specifically labeled as safe for young children.
- Age appropriateness: Consider the age range for which the pretend makeup set is designed. Toddlers have different developmental needs than older children, so choose sets suitable for their age and abilities. Avoid small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
- Quality: Look for durable pretend makeup sets that can withstand rough play. Check the materials used and ensure they are sturdy and resistant to breakage. Well-made sets are likely to provide a better experience and last longer.
- Realism: Toddlers love imitating adults, so look for pretend makeup sets that resemble real cosmetics. This can enhance their imaginative play experience and make it more engaging. Choose sets with vibrant colors and realistic designs.
- Washability: Consider whether the pretend makeup is washable or not. Opt for easily washable sets with water or gentle soap, allowing easy cleanup and preventing stains on clothes or furniture.
- Variety and creativity: Look for sets that offer a variety of pretend makeup items such as lipstick, blush, eyeshadow, and brushes. This allows toddlers to experiment and be creative with different looks, enhancing their imaginative play.
- Packaging and storage: Consider how the pretend makeup set is packaged and whether it comes with a storage case or bag. A designated container helps keep the items organized and prevents them from getting lost.
- Brand reputation and reviews: Research different brands and read reviews from other parents or caregivers to understand the pretend makeup sets’ quality, safety, and durability. Choose reputable brands known for producing safe and reliable toys.
- Personal preferences: Consider the preferences and interests of the toddler you are buying for. When selecting a pretend makeup set, consider their favorite colors, characters, or themes. This can make it more appealing and enjoyable for them.
Remember, adult supervision is crucial when toddlers play with pretend makeup sets. Even if the products are safe, monitoring their playtime and ensuring they are using the toys appropriately is important.