Back to School Beauty Essentials

September 17, 2025

Back to School Beauty Essentials

New semester, new vibe, new beauty essentials.

Whether you're headed to your first college class or kicking off your senior year, back-to-school season is the perfect excuse to refresh your makeup bag. And good news: beauty on a budget is totally achievable—especially with our Friends & Family Sale just in time for student savings.

From campus-ready complexions to lip colors that go from lecture halls to late-night hangouts, here's your ultimate guide to the must-have, multitasking, makeup magic for the semester ahead.

Campus-Ready Complexion

Tinted Moisturizers for a Natural Glow

Your 8AM class doesn't wait, and neither should your skincare + makeup. Our tinted moisturizer is your ride-or-die for those sleepy mornings—it hydrates, smooths, and gives you that natural makeup for college glow in one step.

  • Lightweight foundation alternative
  • Skin-loving ingredients
  • Perfect for class-to-happy-hour transitions

Say hello to your new everyday tinted moisturizer.

Concealers That Do It All

Finals, study groups, and last-minute cram sessions? We see those under-eye dark circles. Luckily, the Laura Mercier Concealer is here to help you fake 8 hours of sleep.

  • Creamy, buildable coverage
  • Targets blemishes + tired eyes
  • A true college survival kit staple

If you're hunting for the best concealer for students, this one's your go-to.

Set It & Forget It

Whether you're hopping from the library to a club meeting—or a party—keep your look fresh with Translucent Setting Powder or Pressed Powder. Known for being iconic for a reason, it’s one of the smartest student makeup hacks out there.

  • Long-lasting powder = no midday meltdowns
  • Blurs imperfections
  • Budget setting powder win, especially during our Friends & Family Sale

Eye That Pop Between Classes

Quick-Apply Eyeshadow Sticks

No time? No tools? No problem. The Caviar Eye Shadow Sticks are one-swipe wonders that go on smooth and stay all day. Perfect for easy college makeup routines.

  • Creamy, blendable, beginner-friendly
  • No brushes needed
  • Ideal eyeshadow sticks for students

Toss one, or a few, in your tote and swipe on before class.

Everyday Liners & Mascara

When you need an instant confidence boost, look no further than your eyes. Our smudge-proof eyeliner and everyday mascara give your eyes just enough definition. 

  • Long wear = stays put through lectures
  • No raccoon eyes
  • College eye makeup made simple

Lips Made for Lecture Halls & Nights Out

Whether you're into barely-there nude gloss or bold reds that scream weekend, a curated lip wardrobe is the move.

  • Lip Gloss: Your everyday lip gloss for effortless shine
  • Lip Liner: Defines and holds color in place
  • Lipstick: Bold or neutral, it’s your personality in a tube

From affordable lip colors to best lipsticks for students, now’s the time to stock up.

Glow on a Budget

Blush, Bronzer & Highlighter—oh my! Get your glow on without blowing your budget.

  • Blush: Adds life to tired skin
  • Bronzer: Warms up the skin, and can even double as an eyeshadow
  • Highlighter: Instant radiance (even on 4 hours of sleep)

Grab your budget-friendly blush and more. 

Skincare Prep = Better Grades (For Your Skin)

Stress and late nights don’t just affect your GPA—they affect your skin. Keep it cute (and clean) with easy skincare staples:

Whether you're new to skincare or building a dorm-friendly, easy skincare routine, these picks are perfect for skincare for students.

Tools That Make You Look Like a Pro

If you’re still using your fingers for everything, it’s time to upgrade. Our Brushes & Tools make applying makeup easier—and more fun. Also, we have minis that fit right in your bag.

  • Perfect student makeup kit starter packs
  • Great for makeup on the go
  • Affordable, especially in bundles

Snag some beginner makeup brushes at a discount when you bundle with best-selling products to level up your routine without breaking the bank.

FAQs: Back-to-School Beauty, Answered

What’s the easiest back-to-school makeup routine for students?

Try a 5-minute makeup routine:

It’s the ultimate quick makeup for college—affordable, effective, and ready before your roommate finishes brushing their teeth.

How can I make my makeup last through long class days?

You need all-day lecture-proof products:

Trust these picks for long-lasting student makeup that won't disappear after lunch.

What’s the best budget-friendly makeup from Laura Mercier’s sale?

During Friends & Family? EVERYTHING. But top student budget beauty picks year-round include:

Score back to school beauty deals during our limited-time Friends & Family Sale.

What’s trending for back-to-school beauty in 2025?

The hottest 2025 beauty trends on campus?

It’s all about effortless, elevated beauty.

Ready to Slay This Semester?

Whether you're a freshman figuring out your routine or a grad student perfecting it, Laura Mercier’s back-to-school essentials have your back (and your face). Stock up on student makeup must-haves, prep that glow, and conquer the semester—beautifully.

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