You might be wondering what a cosmetic mirror is. There are different kinds of mirrors available on the market so you must choose the one according to your needs and specifications. The quality of the mirror does not only depend on its clarity and lighting. You also need to consider the magnification and placement of the mirror. Let us learn more about cosmetic mirrors below.
What is a cosmetic mirror? A cosmetic mirror is also called a vanity mirror or a makeup mirror. These types of mirrors are specifically built for makeup and grooming purposes. They come in a wide array of shapes, styles, sizes, and functions. Cosmetic mirrors can be wall-mounted, free-standing, or portable.
What are cosmetic mirrors? Where is the best place for a cosmetic mirror? How do you choose the best cosmetic mirror? What type of lighting is best for a cosmetic mirror? These are some of the questions that we will discuss. Below, we shared tips and ideas on how you can find the best cosmetic mirror according to your needs and preferences.

About Cosmetic Mirrors
Cosmetic mirrors are also called vanity mirrors or makeup mirrors. Women use them for applying makeup while men also use them for shaving. Cosmetic mirrors are also referred to as magnifying mirrors or tabletop mirrors. Some people also called them pedestal mirrors. Regardless of what they are called, they are usually used for makeup applications.
Cosmetic mirrors are available in various designs, styles, and features. For tabletops or walls, round, oval, and square-shaped cosmetic mirrors are ideal. They have various features and settings. You can find cosmetic mirrors with magnification and lighting. With the wide array of choices available, you will find the one that suits your needs and budget.
Where is the Best Place for a Cosmetic Mirror?
If you want to place the cosmetic mirror permanently, you can mount it into a wall. This saves space and also makes it more convenient to use the mirror. If the mirror has an extendable arm, you can position it for a comfortable viewing angle. On the other hand, make sure that you install the cosmetic mirror into the wall at the proper height. There should be plenty for the extendable arm of the mirror to swing without hitting the cabinets or shelves. Take note that location is everything. Take a look around the room and decide where the cosmetic mirror best fits.
It is also ideal for the cosmetic mirror to be mounted on the wall because it is safer. This is especially true if you have kids. They cannot accidentally hit or knock over the mirror. You can also choose to place the mirror at the top of the table or your bedroom cabinet. Consider the size of the mirror when purchasing so that you can decide where to place it best. We have also shared this article titled, what is a vanity mirror used for? You can check out the article for more tips and information.
How to Choose the Best Cosmetic Mirror
Some of the things that you need to consider when choosing the best cosmetic mirror for your needs include lighting, style, location, versatility, and magnification. These factors will determine the best mirror that you need. Let us learn more about these factors below.
Style
One of the things that you need to consider when choosing a cosmetic mirror is style. You can find a wide array of cosmetic mirrors so you can rest assured that you will find the one that you need. You can choose a cosmetic mirror with a metal frame that is designed to stand upright on a table. The metal frame is heavy which provides added stability.
Another option that you can have is cosmetic mirrors with foldable stands and plastic frames. These types of mirrors are easy to store and are also portable. You can also choose a wall-mounted cosmetic mirror if you want to install it permanently.
Lighting
Another thing that you need to consider when choosing the best cosmetic mirror is lighting. Nowadays, cosmetic mirrors are equipped with lighting for added illumination. This is beneficial because good lighting is required when applying makeup. You can find a wide array of lighted cosmetic mirrors. On the other hand, you need to consider the type of lighting that the mirror emits before you purchase it.
The best cosmetic mirror features warm white LED lights that are built-in to the frame. Warm lights are ideal for makeup application because they provide a natural light source for an accurate makeup application. The lights on the mirrors can be adjusted. You can adjust the brightness of the lights according to what you need.
Versatility
You also need to consider the versatility of the cosmetic mirror. Nowadays, cosmetic mirrors are equipped with high-technology features. These features help you get the best angles when it comes to makeup application and grooming. Some of the features that you can choose from include removable faceplates, and tilting arms. On the other hand, because of their versatility, these types of cosmetic mirrors are more expensive. We have also shared this article that discusses if Bluetooth mirrors need electricity. Check out the article for more information.
Magnification
Another thing that you need to consider when choosing the best cosmetic mirror is magnification. Cosmetic mirrors are usually double-sided. Meaning, one side is a normal mirror and the other provides magnification. Magnification varies from 3 to 15 times. High magnification mirrors are ideal for applying mascara, eyeliner, or makeup applications that need attention to detail. Aside from that, magnification is also helpful when it comes to using tweezers to pluck eyebrows.
Video – Magnifying Makeup Mirrors: Choosing the Best One for You
Cityline shared the video below on YouTube. It discusses magnifying mirrors and how to choose the best one for you. In the video, makeup artist Dino Dillo discusses what you should know when choosing a magnified makeup mirror. Watch the video for more information.
Location
You also need to consider where you will place the mirror. Usually, cosmetic mirrors are either tabletop or wall-mounted. Take note that the location of the mirror will determine the type that you choose. Make sure to place the mirror in a comfortable location. If you have kids, you should place the mirror securely on the wall to avoid any accidents.
What Type of Lighting is Ideal for a Cosmetic Mirror?
The ideal type of lighting for cosmetic mirrors is soft white light. This light is perfect for any skin tone. Aside from that, regardless of what makeup color component you use, they will look legit under white lights. Moreover, because natural daylight is ideal when putting on makeup, you need to choose a light that matches the color. Take note that the color rendering of the cosmetic mirror in daylight is very important. Mirrors with higher rendering show a closer look at the actual visual effect. We have also shared this article titled, are LED mirrors good for makeup? Check out the article for more information about the topic.
What Type of Mirror is a Cosmetic Mirror?
A cosmetic mirror is a concave mirror. You might also have heard about a parabolic reflector. This mirror is shaped like a paraboloid or a satellite dish rather than a sphere. Concave mirrors focus light inward which magnifies the object. Because of this, it enables you to see your face better when you are applying makeup.
What is the Best Magnification for a Cosmetic Mirror?
For general makeup applications, a magnification of 1X is ideal. On the other hand, you can choose a cosmetic mirror with up to 10X magnification if you are doing more precise tasks that need attention to details like blending eye shadows.
How Big Should a Cosmetic Mirror Be?
A cosmetic mirror can be as small or as big as you would like it to be. If you want to place it on your desk, you should choose a size that is at least one inch smaller than the width of the desk. Moreover, you can choose to have a cosmetic mirror that is about one or five inches smaller on both sides than the width of the table.
What are Lighted Cosmetic Mirrors?
Lighted cosmetic mirrors are mirrors that are equipped with lights. The lights can emit various tones such as warm, cool, and neutral. Make sure that you choose the right lights because having the wrong lighting can affect the result of your makeup. Incandescent lights are a good choice because they emit warm, flattering hues to help you apply makeup. Moreover, you can choose LED lights that are energy-efficient. Do not use lights with rose or yellow hues. You can also check out this article that discusses what lights makeup artists use. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
Conclusion
You have reached the end of this article that discusses what a cosmetic mirror is. We have found out that a cosmetic mirror is another name for a vanity mirror or a makeup mirror. These mirrors come in a wide array of styles, shapes, and designs that you can choose from. Above, we have also shared tips on how to choose the best cosmetic mirror for your needs and preferences. Check out your local home depot for a wide array of options that you can choose from. Thank you for reading!