Beauty suits you! Choosing the right illuminated makeup mirror design

Why do you need a mirror with lights on the sides or perimeter?

There is a mirror in any home, especially in which a woman reigns; such an important attribute today is not just an object that reflects everything around, but also a functional interior decoration.

A mirror that fits perfectly into the design refreshes the room

The variety of all models can be divided into two groups: light bulbs can be placed on the sides or the perimeter. This element of the interior, with its additional light, not only serves as a source of illumination for the boudoir, but also allows the lady to adequately prepare for going out.

The backlight will show the slightest imperfections in makeup

The backlight also relieves stress on the eyes, forced to peer closely at the reflection: it increases the sharpness of the displayed image and eliminates blur. What are the differences between the lighting located around the perimeter or the sides?

Light around the perimeter eliminates unnecessary shadows and falls evenly on the face

Side light is also evenly distributed thanks to symmetry

An important rule for side lighting: the backlight is located strictly above eye level, otherwise unnecessary shadows will appear.

Related article:

Dressing table with mirror and lighting. Options, interesting design solutions, parameters, color schemes, basic recommendations when choosing, useful tips - read in the publication.

Popular manufacturers

Among well-known companies engaged in the production of cosmetic equipment, the following European brands have good reviews:

• Ikea - offers the optimal balance of cost, appearance, durability;
• Babyliss – models are distinguished by their particular elegance and clarity of image, and are available in various constructive and design solutions;
• Beurer - products are characterized by beauty, clarity, average price category, and can be equipped with weak lamps (it is advisable to pay attention to this point);
• TouchBeauty – offers exquisite hand and table mirrors, wall mirrors belong to the expensive segment;
• Zierath produces practical, reliable and beautiful models suitable for the bathroom.

Today you can find many offers from Chinese manufacturers. When paying attention to such products, it is important to understand that the mirror must have a reliable, healthy coating. This can be confirmed by a quality certificate. If it is not publicly available, its availability must be verified by contacting the manufacturer.

Ikea

Babyliss

Beurer

TouchBeauty

Zierath

Types of make-up mirrors with lighting

We look at different types of structures that can be successfully integrated into the decor of your apartment. The design of the product itself can be anything you want, with any arrangement of light bulbs, even the lighting is different in color.

Some models even have a heating function - such wall paintings are placed in the bathroom, condensation does not accumulate on the mirror surface, and nothing interferes with admiring yourself

We are primarily interested not in decorative lighting, but in functional lighting. Let's get acquainted with the main types of mirrors.

Universal makeup mirror with light

Universal models are so called because they can be placed anywhere: on a table or wall. The dimensions of such products even allow you to take them on a long trip.

The miracle mirror is attached to magnetic latches

Manufacturers often make moisture-resistant models that serve well in the bathroom. There are also budget options with amalgam (paint and varnish) or aluminum coating. Such compositions react poorly to humidity.

You can place the mirror on a comfortable table, turning part of the room into a boudoir

Wall mirror with light for makeup

The stationary model with backlight does not have the opportunity to travel with the owner. However, there are such advantages as the fact that the angle of the mirror is constant, and the product itself is part of the interior.

There are models that allow you to adjust the distance from the wall and even change the angle of inclination

The lighting operates from a power source (battery or mains).

Tabletop makeup mirror with lamps

These are models that are attached to a table or a special stand. The dimensions of such products are convenient, and the second side is often reserved for a magnifying mirror. In such a reflection, the smallest imperfections in makeup are noticeable, which can be corrected immediately. Such surfaces are enlarged two or ten times.

Convenient and original

Dressing table with mirror and lighting

This is where the functionality really works! And a mirror, and light, and a table where it is convenient to place cosmetics, and separate drawers for them.

Everything you need is nearby: a functional mirror with lighting for the dressing table

Manufacturers often make models that have drawer inserts for dividing into compartments. This way, all your makeup tools will always be in order. The design of makeup tables with a mirror and lighting deserves a special mention. This is a variety of choices: you can buy a table that will complement the interior and even become an important accent in it.

Professional makeup artist table with lamps

If you need a professional table with lighting for a makeup artist, then choose products with special lamps located around the perimeter. Some light bulbs produce cool or warm light.

If you need to see the slightest wrinkles, then cold lighting is suitable for identifying imperfections.

Warm light relaxes the eyes

The number of light bulbs is also important. It’s bad if the light bulbs overheat, applying makeup will be very uncomfortable. Ideal lamps are LED.

Important! Two lamps must be at face level.

Varieties

The variety of models complicates the choice, but also opens up wide possibilities for users. You can easily take into account the dimensions of the room, the anatomical features of the body and other factors by choosing a mirror that will be most comfortable to use. Accessories are equipped with different types of lamps, and their quantity also varies. When choosing, you need to consider for what purpose the illuminated mirror is purchased.

Wall mounted

Most wall mirrors are large in size, with the exception of models installed as an additional accessory in the bathroom. The latter provide a round shape and lighting along the entire circumference of the structure. A convenient folding bracket makes it possible to move the mirror in a way that is comfortable for a woman.

A mirror with a magnifying function and backlight will allow you to see even the smallest skin imperfections and help eliminate them with makeup.

Wall-mounted models have a number of distinctive characteristics:

• stationary mount;
• medium or large dimensions;
• square, rectangular shape (round is less common).

Thanks to the optimal dimensions, you can carefully examine the reflection and remove existing defects. The standard size of accessories is 500 × 500 mm, but you can choose a larger product: 1200 × 600, 1000 × 1000, 700 × 500 mm and others. Such mirrors can be framed and save space on the dressing table. Some models have several doors, but they are characterized by heavy weight.

Tabletop

Cosmetic mirrors are quite compact in size, on average from 10 to 30 cm in diameter. Modest dimensions do not at all prevent a woman from getting a good look at her face. Often this mirror has a magnification function, and the design rotates 180 or 360 degrees. Tabletop models may have a long leg or a support in the form of a bar (somewhat similar to those used in photo frames). Basically, the mirror has a round or oval shape; it can be supplemented with a frame in which the lighting is mounted. The frame is made of plastic or metal; wood is used less often in tabletop products. The ideal lighting in this case is circular.

The advantage of tabletop structures is mobility; if necessary, they can be easily moved from place to place. It is important that the surface of the glass is perfectly flat. To check this, it is enough to place the device on a horizontal surface, then any, even the most insignificant, defects will be visible to the naked eye.

Manual

Among illuminated mirrors, these are the most compact products. They are mobile, making them convenient to take with you on the road. As a rule, such accessories do not have a long leg or a stable stand, which is why they are called manual. A popular option are copies in a case. The latter performs a protective function and also has a leg, thanks to which the product can be placed on the table. It is advisable that the case be made of genuine leather, then the mirror will have a presentable appearance for a long time.

The diameter of hand mirrors rarely exceeds 10-12 cm, and their lighting is not as bright as that of stationary models, so they are most often used as an additional accessory. The operation of the lamps is ensured by batteries. To save on consumables, it is recommended to install batteries of the appropriate size. The presence of a magnifying side makes the mirror more convenient to use, so this function is often provided by manufacturers.

Materials for making a makeup mirror with lights

From what, from what... are mirror surfaces created? Let's plunge into the world of production nuances and find out what material the main surface of the mirror and frame are made of.

Main surface and frame

The main surface requires treatment. Reflection, shades, as well as the service life of the coating will depend on its quality and features.

Amalgam coating is very inexpensive, but not moisture resistant

Aluminum coating is also considered budget-friendly. But they take into account that it can distort the outline, making unnecessary adjustments to the makeup.

It is better to take an aluminum mirror on the road

High strength is guaranteed by titanium coating, and image accuracy is also high. Sometimes the titanium reflection appears to have blue or gray highlights. Frames also come in a variety of shapes, often using plastic, wood or metal. Metal frames are chrome-plated, bronze or gold-plated. Wooden models are used only for a certain style of room.

Important! Silver coating is recognized as the best: it is resistant to damage and gives high-quality reflection.

Backlights

There are several types of lamps that are used for illumination. Incandescent lamps are short-lived and becoming a thing of the past. Halogen bulbs have a longer lifespan and work well even in humid conditions. Fluorescent lamps provide almost daylight, but at the same time they are prone to flicker, which negatively affects the eyes. Light-emitting diode backlighting (LED) is reliable, provides excellent light and is interesting in appearance.

Lamp options

Cosmetic makeup mirrors should create light that is as close to natural as possible, so the backlight must be chosen correctly. Many women install additional sconces on the mirror itself or place compact floor lamps on the table, but the illuminated model is considered the most convenient to use. Manufacturers use several types of lamps:

1. LED. The best option offered because it has a wide range of lighting. The lamps do not heat up and last a very long time.
2. Halogen. They tolerate moisture well, so they are used in mirrors intended for the bathroom. Their service life is several times longer compared to incandescent lamps.
3. Luminescent. They give clean and cool light, but are characterized by increased brightness, so the eyes get tired quickly.
4. Incandescent lamps. They are installed on budget models and are not reliable, so every year they become more and more irrelevant. Also, such products get very hot and do not provide pure light; they emit a warm glow that is not suitable for applying cosmetics.

Only LED lamps can provide neutral lighting close to natural.

You can also find models with LED strip. It can be located along the outer edge of the frame or built under the glass. The latter option is not bright enough to apply makeup, so it is often used for decorative purposes. External lighting can only be suitable if it has no shades.

LED

Halogen

Luminescent

Incandescent lamps

LED lights

Review of manufacturers of illuminated makeup mirrors

There are several brands that have earned recognition for their combination of quality and design. Many will appreciate a lighted makeup mirror from Ikea, which offers a wide range of products at reasonable prices.

Dressing room mirror with Ikea bulbs: the beauty of decor

The German brand Beurer is no less famous: quality, high accuracy of reflection. The backlight lasts exceptionally long. The Babyliss brand has earned people's love: these are any models, be it simple or professional. The manufacturer produces all types of mirror designs.

Nuances of choosing structural elements

Despite the same purpose, illuminated makeup mirrors differ in the following design elements:

1. Surface coating. There are amalgam, aluminum, titanium, silver.
2. Frame material. This element is made of plastic, wood, metal, MDF, chipboard.
3. Type of lighting. The package includes incandescent, fluorescent, halogen and LED lamps.

The clarity and accuracy of the image depends on the coating. The lamps provide lighting in cool, warm, natural tones. Frames give the structure stability and increase service life.

Mirror

The 4 types of coatings that create the mirror surface of the accessory have differences. Everyone has different durability, cost, moisture resistance, color rendition, and clarity of reflection. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Spectacular infinity mirrors in the interior, tips for making them

The degree of distortion is classified using designations from M4 to M0. It is advisable to select markings M0–M1 that are suitable not for decorative use, but for cosmetic procedures . Experts recommend choosing options with silver plating made in Russia.

Amalgam

Aluminum-copper alloy

Silver

Titanium

Frame

Equipping a product with a frame is not a mandatory production stage. Without frames, mirrors look weightless (since the lighting is mounted directly into the reflective surface), making them easier to fit into the interior. After all, this element is made in a certain style and must correspond to the design of the room. To choose a suitable frame for a mirror, it is advisable to pay attention not only to style, but also to strength, ease of care, and material of manufacture.

The most popular framing options are plastic and metal. They are combined with various types of interiors, withstand humidity, and have a wide range of prices. Of interest are combined mirror frames made from several materials, for example, wood and chipboard (in order to reduce the cost of the product). Exclusive options are made of ivory, mahogany with gilding and patina, inlay and mosaic.

Without frame

PVC

Chipboard

MDF

Tree

Metal

Lamps

Surface lighting can be internal or external. Several types of lamps are used for it, differing in power and backlight color:

1. LED lamps are the best option, providing bright, but not blinding lighting. They are distinguished by their durability and cost-effectiveness, which is why they are chosen by professionals.
2. Fluorescent lamps – have high brightness (suitable for short-term home use, long-term use may cause visual fatigue), and have a cool light.
3. Halogen – suitable for use in damp areas and have a long service life. The best option for facial care at home.
4. Budget incandescent lamps often burn out and require replacement, give off a yellow light, and emit heat during operation.

Making stylish illuminated mirrors with your own hands, stages of work

Another type of lighting most often used to illuminate round frames is LED strip. It is placed on the outer surface or under it (internal lighting). Makeup artists do not recommend choosing this type of lighting for applying cosmetics, since the power of the LED strip is insufficient. If such illumination is complemented by another type of lamp and provides colored lighting, then diodes can perform an exclusively decorative function.

LED lamps Fluorescent Halogen Incandescent lamps LED strip

How to choose a makeup mirror with light bulbs - recommendations from our editors

If you order an accessory in catalogs, you will need maximum attention to detail - buying it in person is much easier. Please answer the questions and you will better understand what is best to choose:

1. Which room is this product required for?
2. Do you need mobility of the structure?
3. Is a mirror only needed for applying makeup or is it needed for working with skin?
4. Any manufacturer preferences?
5. What image height would you like to achieve? We take into account that the height of the product is 120 cm and will reflect the body up to the knees. Length 60 cm - to the waist, 40 cm - only to the chest. The classic size is 50x50 cm, there are also 34x17, 11x11 cm.
6. Which light is preferable: warm or cool?

But now, having selected the necessary functionality, concentrate on the external decor of the product.

Tips for choosing

In order for an accessory to meet all the required parameters, it is necessary to immediately determine for what purpose it is being purchased. For applying creams, masks, and skin care, a small cosmetic mirror on a bracket that can be mounted on the wall is suitable. A large mirror with a smaller magnifying glass inside would also be a good option.

The next parameter is the placement of the lamps. Lighting should be sufficient, but not bright. For these purposes, it is better to choose models with LED lamps placed on three sides (on the sides and top). It is advisable that the lighting be neutral. Too warm will give a yellow tint to the face, too cold will allow you to see the smallest imperfections, but will be unusual for the eyes.

The lower placement of the backlight should be abandoned, since the flux will be dissipated incorrectly and unevenly.

The size of the mirror also matters. For comfortable application of makeup, a small accessory is enough - from 20 to 40 cm. But if you plan to do styling and install a mirror on the dressing table or near it, it is better to choose a larger design - at least 70 cm. In a spacious bedroom, a three-leaf mirror would be appropriate, giving maximum visibility . Of course, we should not forget about design, because the mirror should complement the interior favorably, and perhaps even be its main accent.

Determine for what purposes the mirror is purchased

Select lamp placement

Consider the size of the canvas and the design of the room

How to make your own mirror with light bulbs

Not everyone is eager to purchase a manufactured product. You can always show patience, creativity and put your hands to the transformation of faceless materials into a necessary and beautiful thing.

What materials and tools are needed for the job?

We are focusing on a model of a dressing room mirror with light bulbs for makeup artists, which we will make ourselves, so stock up on a mirror cloth and two wooden blocks. For drilling you need a drill, for processing the frame - sandpaper. Let's not forget about the tape measure, copper wire of two colors. When working with it, you will need wire cutters, as well as a fork.

The frame can be painted to suit your taste with any paint. For illumination, use lamps (25 watts). They are usually matte white in color. You can calculate the required amount in advance. The lamps need fuses, sockets, and bolts to attach them to the frame.

How to make a frame for a backlit mirror

The work takes place in several stages:

1. Making a frame taking into account the size of the mirror sheet. The timber is sawn at an angle of 45° at the ends.
2. The surface of the wood is sanded until perfectly smooth.
3. Now make marks with a pencil in the places where the holes for the cartridges will be drilled. The drill is in use.
4. Now paint the frame in the chosen color. You can go over the wood with stain and cover everything with varnish.
5. It's time to attach the mirror. To do this, you can take double-sided industrial tape designed for such products.

   White frame color is considered ideal

Next comes work with the lighting wiring.

How to make your own wiring to illuminate a makeup mirror

We divide the wire into colors. If you have blue and white, for example, you will need to separate 15 cm pieces.

We insert 2 blue and 2 white wires into each hole

When selecting cartridges, focus on the light bulbs. This is necessary to calculate the power and wiring with the switch.

Suitable bases: E27, E14. The cartridges are selected for them

The copper wires are stripped and twisted onto a socket screw, which is then secured to the frame. We connect the wire at one end to the first lamp on the line, and the other end is allocated for the plug.

Important! We connect the wires strictly by color!

Voila! The illuminated dressing room mirror is ready! You can already tell your guests how you made it yourself.

How to choose the optimal model

Choosing good backlit equipment is not difficult if you consider a few points:

1. Frequency of use. For professional use, it is advisable to choose a copy made from high-quality materials; for home use, it is budget-friendly, but convenient for everyday use.
2. Location. Humidity plays a role, since not all materials tolerate it.
3. Size. Large models are suitable for salons; for home use, it is advisable to choose a modification that matches the parameters of the room.
4. Price. Expensive goods are not always of high quality; it is important to pay attention to the materials used in production.

Professional make-up artists recommend choosing rectangular or oval wall-mounted models for home use. They allow you to evaluate the final result in combination with the outfit and accessories. The tone of the lighting is also considered an important element: something closer to daylight is more suitable; it faithfully reflects the color scheme and does not distort the combination of shades.

If you choose a mirror for professional use, then it is advisable to pay attention to its functionality:

• connection, possibility of power supply from mains and batteries;
• regulation of lighting angle, intensity and brightness;
• presence of magnifying lenses.

For beauty salons, image studios, and hairdressing salons, it is important that the design allows the client to be shown the result from different angles. For them, three-leaf and rotating mirrors are a priority.

Frequency of use

Placement

Size Cost

Style solutions

Style solutions can be found in the Ikea store catalog

With the correct selection of shape and frame, a dressing room mirror will only emphasize the style of the interior. For classical trends, strict geometric shapes are relevant - a rectangle or square. Frames are chosen light or gilded.

Ideally round or square shapes are used in minimalism, techno and other modern styles. The mirror canvas can be left without a frame or you can choose simple frames in black or another dark color.

For a minimalist style, an option with a minimal frame size or without it at all is suitable.

For country, Provence, and Scandinavian styles, you can choose any shape. Only the frame must be made of wood. For Baroque or Rococo styles, rectangular mirrors decorated with gilded frames are organic.

For the Scandinavian style, white paint or a natural wooden surface is suitable.

For a Roman-style interior, rounded shapes are trendy, matched with a massive light frame with ethnic patterns. The Art Nouveau style “loves” ornate forms - the mirror canvas is decorated with a wooden or metal frame.

For modernism, wide frames with gilding toning are suitable

An illuminated mirror can be made at home. In this case, all the details of the product can be selected to suit your requirements.