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Published Standard. Edition 2026.About GlowEditorial StandardsSubscribe
The Glow
110Australians read Glow each month 73Products in database 0Paid placements accepted Apr 2026Last audited

Merit: the honest verdict.

The clean, minimalist makeup brand built for busy professionals. Tested across four flagship products over eight weeks.

8.8/10
Glow score
Position
Minimalist · Everyday
Founded
2021 · USA
Available at
Sephora AU
Reviewed by
Ava Hartmann · Skincare Editor
Clinical aesthetician · 8 years in skincare editorial
Updated
April 2026
The verdict

The anti-maximalist makeup brand that landed.

Merit's positioning — makeup designed to be used quickly, minimally, and reliably — is genuine in the products. Flush Balm Cream Blush has restrained pigmentation that won't over-apply. Signature Lip is the daily-wear lipstick most people want. The brand solves the 'I don't want to think about makeup' problem better than most.

What they do right

  • Restrained pigmentation prevents over-application
  • Signature Lip is genuinely universal
  • Minimalist packaging feels considered
  • Skincare-first approach to makeup

What to know

  • Limited drama for event/photography use
  • Range expansion paced slowly

"The retinol ranking is the only skincare thing I've bookmarked. Every time I see a new product launch I check here first."

— Jess M. · Sydney · Reader since 2023