In the beauty world, nothing is off limits when it comes to product development. Brands are always dreaming up all kinds of wild, kooky, bizarre formulations — a lot of which people end up really liking despite being a bit confused by it in the beginning. (Remember when we raised our eyebrows at unicorn highlighters when they first hit the market?) It’s not often that a truly unique and functional idea comes about, but when one does, it takes off full steam.
Such is the case with the latest trend in the beauty world: jelly-based products. Jelly is the texture of the moment — so much so it can be found everywhere from skin care to hair care to makeup aisles.
And while a product that looks and feels like Jell-O might come off as gimmicky, these innovative products boast a formula that quenches and nourishes skin in a way that earns them their rightful place in our medicine cabinet next to traditionally formulated beauty products.
Here, the six best jelly-textured makeup products that might look like a kid’s snack, but deliver results that are the real deal.
[ Next: 10 Bizarre Beauty Products You Definitely Won’t Find at Sephora ]
Jelly Makeup Products That Aren't Gimmicky
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Farsáli
Jelly Beam Illuminator, $40 at Sephora
The highlighter that started it all — the jelly craze, that is. Available in three shimmery hues, it applies like a gel but dries down to a powder that delivers a natural glow. If you want something a bit more intense, add more layers for a bold finish.
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ColourPop
Jelly Much Shadow, $8 at ColourPop
Don’t these eyeshadows have the cutest name (and an equally adorable price tag)? Beyond that, they are easy to use, super pigmented and blendable, so you don’t have to worry about any of the eight colors leaving your eyeshadow looking undefined.
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Too Cool For School
Jelly Blusher, $20 at Ulta Beauty
This jelly-based blush from cult-favorite Korean brand Too Cool For School is universally flattering. The texture changes into a powder when applied, imbuing the wearer with a natural flush. Plus, the mini tin makes it super travel-friendly; just chuck it in your bag and head about your business.
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Butter London
Eye Gloss, $24 at Butter London
Glossy eyes may look intimidating, but in reality, they’re pretty simple to pull off. This high-impact eye gloss makes the glossy-eyed runway look easy to achieve. The formula is forgiving and won’t create annoying creases, which tends to happen with a glossy look.
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Givenchy
Blush Memoire De Forme Pop Up Jelly Blush, $39 at Saks
Even prestige brands are getting in on the jelly action. This pretty blush with impressive payoff comes in a bright pink or peachy hue. It’s buildable and blends seamlessly for a subtle warmness or a more intense hint of color.
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Almay
Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite, $14.99 at Ulta Beauty
The iridescent glowy effect this playful highlighter delivers is just as stunning as its packaging. Bonus: The creamy formula can be mixed with foundation and adds moisture to your complexion. Hello, dewy skin.
