If there is one product that has exploded the “no make-up make-up” trend, it is The Minimalist by MERIT. This complexion perfecting stick has won over millions of users thanks to its second-skin finish, which is both natural, luminous and incredibly buildable.
Neither foundation nor concealer: an intelligent hybrid
MERIT describes The Minimalist as a “new generation perfecting complexion”. Not quite foundation, not quite concealer, it combines the best of both worlds.
Its melting formula is applied directly to the skin and blends perfectly with the complexion, without any material effect. Result: a fresh, natural and luminous finish, ideal for those who want unified skin without overloading with product.
A clean and efficient formula
If The Minimalist is so appealing, it is also for its impeccable composition. The stick is formulated without comedogenic ingredients, without heavy silicones or artificial perfume, and respects all skin, even sensitive.
Its creamy texture glides over the skin without clogging pores, providing light to medium coverage that can be modulated as desired — a major asset for a tailor-made complexion, from the most natural to the most sophisticated.
Care active ingredients for sublimated skin day after day
The Minimalist doesn’t just do makeup: it also takes care of the skin. Enriched with essential fatty acids, it nourishes the skin barrier and preserves hydration.
We also find theresea narcissus extract, an active ingredient recognized for its lightening properties, which helps to reduce pigmentation spots and even out the complexion over time.
A true 2-in-1 between makeup and skincare, designed for those who want effortless beauty – but ultra-effective.
A success supported by celebrities
Behind the MERIT phenomenon hides an army of prestigious fans: Cameron Diaz, Zoë Saldana, Ayo Edebiri and even Martha Stewart. Everyone swears by this “miracle” stick to display an impeccable complexion, without makeup effect.
On TikTok and Instagram, the hashtag #MeritMinimalist has more than 15 million views, while online reviews exceed 5,000 five-star ratings. A craze that propels The Minimalist to the rank of #1 selling complexion stick in the United States.
A natural finish, like a second skin
What is striking from the first application is the finesse of the result. The product blends perfectly, without demarcation or plaster effect.
The skin immediately appears smoother, more uniform, as if light were naturally reflected on the face. It’s this “perfect but vibrant skin” look that appeals to both minimalists and beauty addicts.
A very simple application
The Minimalist application is disconcertingly simple. Just draw a few lines on the face (forehead, nose, chin, cheekbones), then blend with a brush or sponge.
The product blends instantly, with no separating or need for powder. Its stick format makes it ideal for express touch-ups during the day or for traveling light.
Five years of uninterrupted success
In 2025, The Minimalist celebrates its five years, and the brand is celebrating more than 2.5 million copies sold worldwide.
A rare longevity in the world of makeup, often punctuated by fashion effects. Here it is quality, consistency and sincerity which have built consumer loyalty.
The opinion of the Beauty Test editorial team
It’s hard not to give in to temptation: The Minimalist ticks all the cult product boxes. Practical, elegant, clean, efficient… it simplifies the beauty routine while revealing the skin in its best light.
A “feel good” product that perfectly embodies the MERIT philosophy: less makeup, but better.
FAQ – The Minimalist by MERIT
1. Is The Minimalist a foundation or concealer?
Neither: it’s a Hybrid complexion stick that replaces both, for a natural and buildable finish.
2. Is it suitable for oily skin?
Yes, its light and non-comedogenic texture is suitable for all skin types, even combination or oily.
3. Should it be powdered after application?
Not necessarily: its natural and luminous finish lasts alone, but a light powder can be added to the T zone to mattify.
4. Can it be used for contouring?
Yes, by choosing a shade three tones darker than yours, it gently sculpts the face.
5. Where to find The Minimalist?
It is available in 30 shades on meritbeauty.com, at the price of $42.
