Lighting: The Make-or-Break Factor
When choosing a makeup vanity, lighting should be the first consideration. You don’t want a vanity that will make your makeup look perfect in your room but totally off when you step outside. A vanity with lights around the mirror is ideal; LEDs work best since they cool down and stay bright. For a more natural effect, look for a soft white light of around 4000K as opposed to warm yellow lighting, which may cause you to apply too much foundation. It is also important to consider whether the light is adjustable. You may require bright light for detailed work, like eyeliner, and softer light for quick touch-ups in a softer light. Vanities with just one overhead light should be avoided; they cast facial shadows, and makeup mistakes arise.

Storage: More Functional Than Just A Pretty Surface
A makeup vanity is not just a place to sit and do your makeup. A vanity is where you store all your things, and it must therefore have adequate storage. Consider what you have: is it a lot of little things like lipsticks and palettes, or larger things such as hair tools? For small things, dividers in your drawers will help. You will not have to dig in a messy drawer to find your favorite mascara. Some vanities have side shelves as well, which can store your brushes and skincare. If you do not have a lot of space, look for a vanity with secret storage, like a mirror that flips to hide a compartment. Just make sure there is enough countertop space to lay out your everyday products. You will not want to feel cramped when doing your makeup.
Size: Fit for Your Space
Don't get attached to your new makeup vanity until you know the exact measurements of the space where you plan to put it. A vanity that is too large will crowd your space, and one that is too small will cause frustration. Most bedrooms are well-suited with vanities that are 30 to 48 inches wide. In a small room, you may want to consider a wall-mounted or foldable option, as these will help with clearing up some floor space. Remember to consider the depth as well. You will want to have space to fully open the drawers without them hitting a wall or the other pieces of furniture. Leave enough room in front of the vanity for your stool as well. You should be able to comfortably sit with your legs under the table and not feel cramped .

Material: Durability Meets Style
The type of material a makeup vanity is made from determines how long it takes to care for it, as well as how long it will last. Wooden vanities are classic but can be damaged if liquid spills are left unattended, which is why it is vital to find one that has a protective finish. Cleaning acrylic or laminate vanities is a breeze as well; most spills can be wiped away with a damp cloth. The vanity mirror also needs to be of good quality; stay away from flimsy, thin mirrors that could warp eventually. Check the hardware as well: drawer handles and hinges should operate smoothly. It is very frustrating to deal with drawers that are sticky or handles that break off, so it is important to have quality hardware. Choose a material that complements the style of your room, but remember: looks should not replace durability. A good vanity should last for years.
Comfort: Focus On The Minor Details
Since you'll be spending a lot of time at the makeup vanity, it's important to have the right ergonomics in place. The height of the vanity is important; when you sit down, your elbows should rest comfortably on the surface, and your shoulders should be relaxed. If the vanity comes with a stool, it should be sturdy with a comfortable and padded deep seat for longer makeup application. During makeup application, the angle of the mirror is also important. Being able to tilt the mirror up and down allows you to see your face from different angles when you are contouring. It may be satisfying when the drawers open and close smoothly because it makes the routine easier. Above all, the makeup vanity should be designed to eliminate the effort in completing the routine, not add to it.