Best AI makeup apps in 2026: an honest comparison

How we compared

We looked at what each app is built for: finding your shades, coaching you while you do your makeup, trying on looks, and editing photos. Features and prices change often, so check each app before you pay. We make Glam Bestie, and we say where another app is the better pick.

The apps

• Glam Bestie: best for finding your undertone, depth and shades, then being coached step by step, live on your own face. Free to start; works in the browser on any phone. It’s not a photo editor and doesn’t show branded products yet.
• YouCam Makeup (Perfect Corp): best for trying on many makeup looks, hairstyles and nail colors on your camera or photos, plus retouching. Free to download with ads; many tools need its subscription.
• Perfect365: best for one-tap makeover presets on photos or on the live camera. Free to download, with a paid plan.
• Facetune (Lightricks): best for retouching selfies, with some virtual makeup. Most AI tools are in the paid tier.
• FaceApp: fun face transformations such as age, smile and hair. It’s not built to teach makeup.
• Store and brand try-on tools: best when you already know which product you want: they show that brand’s shades on your camera.

Which one should you pick?

• “What shades suit me?” An app that reads your undertone and depth, such as Glam Bestie.
• “How do I actually do this look?” Step-by-step coaching on your own face, such as Glam Bestie.
• “How would this lipstick look on me?” A try-on tool: YouCam Makeup, or the brand’s own try-on.
• “Make my photo look better.” A photo editor such as Facetune or YouCam.

Questions