Don't Buy a Big Stak (At Least Not Yet)

If you're new to SUBTL, there's something I want you to know:

You don't need to buy a big Stak right away.

I hear from women all the time who love the concept but feel like $100 is a lot to spend on something they haven't tried yet. I get it. That's a real commitment when you're not sure about your shade, your skin type, or whether a new routine will actually stick.

So here's what I'd do instead.

As the founder of SUBTL, if I were building my very first makeup Stak on a budget, I'd start with just three products. The right three can give you a quick everyday routine that helps you look put together without overthinking it. And the total? Under $50.

Here's exactly how I'd do it.

The Best 3 Products to Start Your Stak

If you want a simple, minimal makeup routine, these three products give you the most versatility for the least amount of money.

1. Start With Concealer ($16)

The first product I'd add to my Stak is Concealer.

It's the one product I would never skip.

Our Concealer is designed to do more than just cover dark circles. Many customers use it as a lightweight foundation, applying it where they need coverage and blending it out. That means one product can help with under-eye coverage, redness and evening out skin tone, and spot concealing. It's quick, flexible, and easy to apply, even if you only have a few minutes to get ready.

And if you're unsure about your shade, we offer free shade exchanges, so you can always get the right match.

2. Add Bronzing Balm for Warmth and Definition ($18)

The second product I'd add to my Stak is Bronzing Balm.

Bronzer is one of the most versatile products in a minimal routine because it can replace multiple steps. With one product, you get warmth to bring life back to your skin, contour to add subtle shape, and definition that makes your face look more awake.

Instead of juggling several products, Bronzing Balm quietly does the work of three.

3. Finish With Lip and Cheek ($14)

The final product I'd add is Lip and Cheek.

This is one of the easiest ways to simplify your makeup routine because it works in two places. Use it to add color to your cheeks and a natural tint to your lips. With one product, your face instantly looks more complete.

What a 3-Product Routine Looks Like

When you combine these three products, you get a surprisingly complete routine:

• Concealer for coverage
• Bronzing Balm for warmth and definition
• Lip and Cheek for color

That's three products, $48 total, and a full everyday look.

For many people, that's all they need to feel ready for the day.

Why the Stak Is Designed to Start Small

The Stak was never meant to be something you have to buy all at once. It was designed to be built over time.

You can add new products whenever you're ready, swap products as your routine changes, or replace just the item you run out of. Your Stak can grow with you, or stay small if that's what works best.

The goal isn't more makeup. It's a routine that feels easy to keep up with.

What Our Customers Are Saying

"I'm 42 with combo skin. I have officially ditched my usual concealer and only use Subtl concealer. It's buildable, good coverage, and stays most of the day."

— Julie S., Verified Buyer

"This new balm goes on so smoothly. I have pretty much used my fingers to apply it. Great color and coverage. So easy to use."

— Beth P., Verified Buyer

"I have found my blush color. Since getting this lip and cheek color, Mauve in the Maldives, I have worn it every single day for weeks. It's beautiful on my light olive skin."

— Julie S., Verified Buyer

"As a mom of 2 and full time employee, this SAVES my life. I look put together and fresh, not cakey and overdone. A 5 minute face will make or break my whole day."

— Jennie W., Verified Buyer

Can You Add More Products Later?

Absolutely.

Once you've used your Stak for a while, you might decide to add Highlighter, Eyeshadow Duos, BB Powder, or Lip Glaze.

Because the Stak is modular, you can build it piece by piece. And since every customer gets free shipping for life, you can always come back later to add something new without worrying about shipping costs.

The Best Way to Start Your First Stak

If you're feeling overwhelmed by makeup or trying to simplify your routine, here's my recommendation:

Start with three products and use them for a week. See how they fit into your mornings.

You might find that three products are all you need to feel a little more put together and ready for the day. And if you want to build from there, your Stak will be ready.

Not sure which shades to pick? Take our free Stak Quiz and we'll match you in under 2 minutes. Or build your own custom Stak and start with exactly what you need.

Happy stacking!

— Rachel, Founder of Subtl

Clean Ingredients You Can Feel Good About

Every Stak product is formulated with ingredients like Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter, Plant-Derived Squalane, and Vitamin E. Everything is vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, talc-free, and fragrance-free. You can see the full ingredients list here.