How to Say Makeup in Spanish | MostUsedWords.com
As of 2026, knowing how to express common beauty-related terms like "makeup" in different languages is incredibly useful for language learners. If you're curious about how to say makeup in Spanish, the answer is maquillaje (IPA: /ma.ki.ˈʎa.xe/). This term encompasses cosmetics and beauty products used across Spanish-speaking countries.
2,500 most common Spanish words with IPA pronunciation & bilingual example sentences
What is "Makeup" in Spanish?
The term maquillaje includes a wide range of cosmetics such as foundation, mascara, lipstick, and eyeshadow. It refers to the act of applying these products to enhance facial features or create different looks.
Meaning of "Makeup" in Spanish
Want to improve your Spanish?
The Spanish Frequency Dictionary series covers the 10,000 most common Spanish words — ranked by how often native speakers actually use them, with IPA pronunciation, English translations, and bilingual example sentences at every level.
Browse all 4 volumes →The word maquillaje encompasses cosmetics and beauty products used for enhancing one's appearance. Here are some interesting facts:
- Maquillaje is derived from the verb "maquillar" (to apply makeup).
- The term is gender-neutral, so it remains unchanged regardless of the speaker’s gender.
- To talk about applying makeup, use the reflexive verb maquillarse. For example: "Me voy a maquillar" means "I'm going to put on makeup."
- In Spanish, you can find specialized terms like desmaquillante (makeup remover) and rímel (mascara).
Take a look at our series of frequency dictionaries to learn Spanish words fast. Stop learning hard, and start learning smart!
Cultural Uses of Makeup in Spanish-Speaking Countries
The use of makeup varies across different cultures within the Spanish-speaking world. For example:
- In Spain, terms like pintalabios (lipstick), sombras de ojos (eyeshadow), and base de maquillaje (foundation) are commonly used.
- In Mexico, the term cosméticos is often used alongside maquillaje.
- In Argentina, you might hear pintura de cara (face painting) in addition to maquillaje.
Comparison with Other Romance Languages
The term for makeup in other Romance languages like French (mascara, fondation, rouge à lèvres) and Italian (cipria, ombretta, rossetto) shares similarities but also has distinct differences. Understanding these variations can enhance your language skills.
How to Say "Makeup" in Spanish: Sample Sentences
Here are five sample sentences using maquillaje:
- ¿Dónde puedo comprar maquillaje de calidad en Madrid?
(Where can I buy quality makeup in Madrid?)
- Necesito un lápiz labial nuevo para mi kit de maquillaje.
(I need a new lipstick for my makeup kit.)
- ¿Cuál es tu producto de maquillaje favorito?
(What is your favorite makeup product?)
- Ella es una experta en maquillaje artístico.
(She is an expert in artistic makeup.)
Build Your Spanish Vocabulary Systematically
The fastest way to grow your Spanish vocabulary is to start with the words you'll actually encounter every day. The Spanish Frequency Dictionary covers the 2,500 most common Spanish words, each with IPA pronunciation, an English translation, and bilingual example sentences.
Browse the full range of Spanish frequency dictionaries to find the volume that matches your level.