How-To Choose the Right Blank Makeup Palette

Picking the right blank makeup palette isn’t just a business choice—it’s the difference between a product your customers love and one they toss aside. If you’re buying in bulk, you don’t want surprises like shattered pans or cheap plastic that feels like a toy.

You’ve probably run into it—clients asking for customizable, on-the-go palettes or complaining about lids that don’t snap shut. Too many options. Not enough guidance. You’re not alone.

This guide is here to help you cut through the noise. We’re breaking it down by types, materials, must-have features, and smart steps to make customizing easy and cost-effective.

Let’s get straight to the stuff that matters—and save you from wasting time, money, or another round of “this isn’t what we expected.”

Types of blank makeup palettes

Single-Pan Eyeshadow Palettes

Perfect for custom pigment combos or branding flexibility, single-pan palettes give buyers and users control, minus the clutter.

• Refillable and magnetic for easy swaps

• Ideal for highly pigmented, individual colors

• Allows brands to offer fully custom color lines

• Easy to test-market seasonal or limited shades

• Great for travel kits or giveaways

👉 “The single-pan format is still our most requested design for limited-edition campaigns,” says Luna Tang, product lead at Topfeel.

Multi-Pan Face Makeup Palettes

When it comes to full-face coverage, multi-pan face makeup palettes are the go-to for high-volume packaging that keeps everything in one sleek tray.

1. Holds contour, blush, highlight, or powder in large-capacity pans

2. Saves space and simplifies packaging logistics

3. Allows full-face routine in one product

4. Can include built-in mirror and brush slot

5. Perfect for bundling with seasonal gift boxes

6. Custom pan layouts for different target markets

Magnetic Blush & Highlighter Palettes

This type is a smart choice for refillable beauty. With interchangeable pans, magnetic blush and highlighter palettes bring function and flair.

The magnetic design is secure enough for shipping but flexible enough for end-user customization. Whether it’s a soft matte blush or a bold glow highlighter, each pan pops in and out with ease.

Bonus Tip: Bulk buyers often pair these with empty magnetic trays for upselling.

Mirror-Embedded Travel Palettes Short on space, big on convenience—these mirror-embedded palettes make travel beauty effortless.

✓ Built-in mirror makes touch-ups on-the-go super easy

✓ Compact enough for handbags or carry-ons

✓ Locking clasp keeps pigment safe in motion

✓ Great for business travelers and content creators

✓ Can include mini pans and dual-purpose shades

Applicator-Slot Bronzer Palettes

Nobody likes hunting down tools. That’s why palettes with built-in applicator slots are making waves—smart, sleek, and super practical.

• Keeps bronzer tools organized and mess-free

• Often includes brush holder or sponge space

• Ideal for custom face makeup or glow kits

• Makes the product feel premium with no extra cost

• Empty slot designs make repackaging simple

From a wholesale angle, these palettes reduce accessory SKUs while increasing value perception. That’s a win-win for suppliers and clients alike.

6 steps to customize your blank makeup palette

Build your ideal blank makeup palette by aligning product vision with smart packaging decisions—this section is your cheat sheet for getting it just right.

1. Select Eyeshadow, Blush & Highlighter Pans

• Choose pigmented eyeshadow pans for bold or smoky looks

• Add blush options with varied undertones (rose, coral, berry)

• Use highlighter shades—champagne, pearl, or gold—for glow seekers

• Offer mix-and-match refill slots to boost palette flexibility

• Include soft and bold colors in each category to cover all skin tones

Let your buyers mix up shades like a sundae bar—more variety, more conversions.

2. Choose Makeup Finishes: Matte or Shimmer

1. Matte textures = great for clean, subtle looks

2. Shimmer finishes = sparkle for that “pop” moment

3. Add metallic or satin for variety in glam palettes

4. Consider glitter pans for special occasion kits

5. Balance the ratio of finishes based on your target audience

3. Pick Application Tools: Brushes or Sponges

If you’re offering precision blending, go with slim synthetic brushes. For a softer, cushiony swipe, include sponges or mini beauty blenders.

• Pros of brushes: • Better for powders

  • Ideal for crease work with eyeshadow

• Pros of sponges: • Seamless blending for highlighter or blush

  • Easier for newbies

💡 Add a tool slot in the palette—customers love having everything in one tidy place.

4. Define Desired Effects: Natural vs. Dramatic

Different folks want different vibes. A natural effect needs soft tones, blendable textures, and just a hint of color. Think: everyday wear with subtle blush and matte eyeshadow. On the flip, a dramatic look goes all-in with bold pigments, metallic finishes, and rich highlighter for the ultimate glamorous finish. So, when you’re curating pans, ask yourself: Do your buyers cater to office warriors, party queens, or both?

5. Incorporate Cruelty-Free, Vegan Attributes

✔ Cruelty-Free = No animal testing, ever

✔ Vegan = No animal-derived ingredients in pigments or binders

✔ Ethical packaging = Brands want the whole deal

✔ Certifications matter—leaping bunny, PETA, etc.

✔ Plant-based formulas? Now you’re talking future-ready

Wholesale buyers want palettes that don’t just look good—they need to feel right ethically too.

6. Optimize for Travel-Friendly, Long-Lasting Use

Design for durability and ease—people are doing touch-ups on trains, at desks, even mid-Zoom. Keep it compact, ensure snap closures, and offer long-lasting wear claims (especially for humid or busy environments).

A palette that survives daily chaos? That’s a buyer’s dream.

On-the-go touch-ups: Blank palette convenience

Quick touch-ups shouldn’t be a hassle. Let’s talk smart, travel-friendly palettes that save time and space.

The truth? No one wants to fumble with a bulky kit when they’re running late or halfway through a long day. Makeup brands are catching on, and if you’re sourcing makeup packaging for wholesale, here’s what your buyers expect—and frankly, what their customers demand.

Why buyers love these compact, essential palettes:

• Compact = Convenience Palettes that slide into a purse or clutch are gold. Think slim, lightweight, no wasted space, with just the right number of pans for everyday wear. Whether it’s natural look shades or a quick dab of highlighter, compact equals carryable.

• Built-in Mirror? Heck yes. If it doesn’t have a mirror, don’t even bring it to the table. It’s the go-to for mid-day touch-ups at work, in the car, or even mid-flight.

• Quick Application is key A tiny blending brush or sponge applicator tucked inside? Jackpot. Users want fast fixes without digging through their bag. Make it versatile, make it simple.

• Travel-friendly equals brand-friendly These kinds of palettes aren’t just cute—they’re space-saving, refillable, and ideal for limited edition collections. Great for promotional kits and subscription boxes too. Bonus points if they’re cruelty-free and made with durable hinges that don’t give out on day five.

What Topfeel’s Design Lead Has to Say:

“Compact palettes are more than a trend—they’re the future of everyday beauty.” —Lena Gu, Lead Designer at Topfeel Packaging

“When brands want something that feels elevated but still pocket-size, we design around that. It’s about making it easy to go from ‘morning rush’ to ‘Glam at 6 PM’ with one hand and a small mirror.”

Buyer tips for choosing the right travel-friendly palette:

1. Look for refillable designs Your B2B buyers love options. If they can swap in pans for seasonal shades or new collections, you’re giving them built-in value.

2. Check for mirror size and placement It should be usable—not just for show. Side mirrors are awkward; top-lid placement works best.

3. Don’t skip the applicator slot A tiny space for a sponge applicator or eyeshadow brush goes a long way. Literally.

4. Surface durability matters These palettes go through it all—zipped, dropped, banged around in carry-ons. Make sure the case holds up and doesn’t scratch like cheap plastic.

Plastic vs. Magnetic Palettes: Which to choose?

Looking for the best fit for your makeup packaging lineup? Here’s how plastic and magnetic palette formats measure up.

Lightweight Plastic Formats

• Portable makeup packaging for brands on the go

• Great for travel kits, holiday editions, or everyday wear collections

• Cost-efficient and light to ship

• Custom molds give you creative freedom

A lightweight design isn’t just about cutting grams—it’s about making packaging that flies off shelves. Portable makeup in durable plastic is super appealing to buyers who want compact size without compromising style. That empty plastic palette you’re customizing could be in thousands of handbags tomorrow. It’s a smart bet for fast-selling, budget-friendly lines.

Secure Magnetic Tray Designs

Magnetic palettes are the go-to when brands need something chic and reusable. Let’s break down how they hold up against plastic palettes:

Z-palette alternatives and magnetic cases offer customizable inserts that big brands love for limited editions.

Cost-Effective Material Comparisons

1. Material Cost Analysis: Plastic vs magnetic price ranges vary by mold and finish.

2. Value for Money: Budget-friendly options usually lean plastic, but magnetics win on long-term investment.

3. MOQ Sensitivity: Plastic palettes are better for low-MOQ runs; magnetics work better for large, ongoing collections.

Cost-effective palettes don’t just save dollars—they help your clients feel like they’re getting the most bang for their buck. If you’re balancing affordability and flexibility, magnetic might cost more upfront, but they often pay off as refills roll in. For flash-sale launches or promo runs? Plastic’s your hero.

3 key factors for your perfect blank makeup palette

When choosing blank makeup palettes in bulk, the difference is in the details. Here’s what packaging buyers should really keep an eye on.

Pan Configuration & Makeup Categories

Choose wisely based on your core product line: • Eyeshadow palettes benefit from small, evenly spaced pans

• Blush or contour kits shine with larger pan sizes and square shapes

• Highlighter or lip products often do better in round pans for smoother pickup

• Concealers call for deeper pans, especially when using cream formulas

Balance functionality and layout—no one wants a palette that’s pretty but totally impractical. Buyers, always consider pan shape and depth to match the texture of your product. Going magnetic? Make sure those pans snap in with zero rattle.

Finish Selection & Desired Look

1. Matte Finish – Classic and clean. Great for a natural look or work-ready face.

2. Shimmer Finish – Adds sparkle to glam eyeshadow kits.

3. Satin Finish – Smooth like butter. Ideal for blending into a radiant look.

4. Metallic Finish – Bold, dramatic, and runway-ready.

5. Dewy Finish – A glow-getter’s favorite for that lit-from-within vibe.

Product Attributes & Application Tools

Want products that sell themselves? Here’s how to pair product features with the right tools for your palette:

Blendability → Use soft, domed makeup brushes for powder formulas.

Pigmentation → Pair with flat eyeshadow brushes for intense payoff—especially with bold colors.

Longevity → Cream formulas need secure pan inserts and a sponge applicator to lock in lasting coverage.

Formula type matters → Powder = compact pan depth

→ Liquid = needs leak-proof pan seals

→ Cream = pair with fingertip-friendly formats or rounded applicators

Makeup sponges? Great for face palettes. Brushes? Better for intricate contour kits. It’s all about how the customer will use it—not just how it looks in the box.

Messy eyeshadows? Find a streamlined palette solution

Secure Pan Inserts & Blendable Formulas

1. Start with magnetic inserts to secure each pan firmly—no more loose pans rattling around.

2. Pick refillable tray formats that make pan swaps easy for retailers.

3. Choose pressed powder formulas with high blendability to cut down on fallout.

4. Test for pigment lock—shades should hold tight without flaking in transit.

This setup keeps your eyeshadow formula both pretty and protected.

Integrated Mirror for Easy Touch-Ups

Mirror or no mirror? It’s not just about vanity—it’s about travel and touch-up convenience.

• A built-in mirror saves space and adds value.

• Users can reapply anywhere—on the train, at work, in the club.

• It bumps your product into the “premium” category without a huge cost jump.

• Compact palettes with mirrors are a go-to for beauty subscription boxes.

Buyers love the grab-and-go vibes when it’s got that integrated mirror magic.

Dedicated Applicator Compartments

• Keep your makeup brushes and sponges in their lane.

• Add a brush compartment or applicator storage to avoid cross-contamination.

• It’s not just neat—it’s hygienic.

• Bonus points if it’s a separate section with snap-in holders.

• Beauty brands want easy tool organization to show their polish.

This one’s a no-brainer for packaging that’s as functional as it is fabulous.

Snap-Lock Closures for Long-Lasting Protection

A solid snap-lock means no spills, no smashed pans, no angry customers.

A good palette should snap shut like it means business. If it’s got a magnetic closure, even better. You’re locking in not just the pigment but the whole palette protection promise.

This feature alone can save you thousands in returns from crushed or dust-exposed makeup. It’s the low-key hero in travel-safe makeup packaging.

Conclusion

Choosing the right blank makeup palette is kinda like finding the right pair of jeans—it needs to fit, feel good, and make sense for the occasion. If you’re ordering in bulk, you’re not just picking packaging—you’re picking what your customers will hold in their hands every single day.

• Material matters: plastic is light; magnetic feels luxe

• Combo palettes sell faster—eye + face = value

• Built-in mirrors and tools boost travel appeal

• Customization helps brands stand out on crowded shelves

At the end of the day, buying in bulk shouldn’t feel like guesswork. Work with suppliers who know the ropes, offer sample runs, and speak your language. When your packaging fits your product and your audience, it’s not just another order—it’s a smart investment in your bottom line.

FAQs

What types of makeup can a blank makeup palette hold?

A blank palette can hold all kinds of products:

• Eyeshadow in matte, shimmer, or glow

• Blush and highlighter for face kits

• Bronzer pans for sculpting sets

• Lip colors or balm for full-face kits

• Mixed formats for all-in-one looks

Are magnetic palettes good for travel?

Not really. Magnetic palettes look nice, but they’re heavier and might open in bags. For travel, plastic palettes with secure closures are more reliable.

What tools can be added to a blank makeup palette?

You can add different tools depending on your product style:

• Eyeshadow brush or blending brush

• Sponge applicator for creamy textures

• Small face brush for blush or bronzer

• Finger wells for cream highlighter or lip color

• Dual-ended tools to save space

Is plastic or magnetic better for samples?

Plastic is usually better. It’s lighter, cheaper, and safer in bulk shipping. Magnetic is more stylish, but plastic wins when you’re sending out lots of samples.

Can I get blank makeup palettes with vegan or cruelty-free labels?

Yes. Many suppliers now offer that. You can print those labels right on the palette or its outer box. It matters a lot to today’s clean beauty buyers.

What kinds of finishes go in face palettes?

These are common in blush, bronzer, and highlight palettes:

• Matte for subtle skin

• Shimmer for brightness

• Satin for soft glow

• Glow for dewy finish

• Metallic for high-shine

What makes a blank makeup palette good for branding?

You can design everything—shape, layout, mirror, tools. This helps your brand stand out, match a target look (natural, glam, etc.), and tell a clear story.