Listen and follow The Wirecutter ShowApple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube | iHeartRadioApplying mascara or eyeliner can be difficult even when you don't have a disability. For people with arthritis, tremors, low vision, or other mobility issues, beauty routines can feel nearly impossible.This episode, Wirecutter beauty writer Ayanna Redwood-Crawford explains how accessible makeup tools can make those routines easier for everyone. She shares what makes a makeup tool genuinely accessible, why universal design benefits more than just the people it was created for, and how some brands have made products easier to use without sacrificing their formulas or affordability.This episode covers:Why accessible makeup is useful for everyone. Products designed for people with arthritis, tremors, or low vision can also help beginners, parents with their hands full, or anyone who finds makeup tools difficult to use. Testers appreciated products that were easier to grip and control, and many of them also had great formulas and finishes.What makes a makeup tool genuinely accessible. It’s not enough for a product to be labeled adaptive. Look for tools that address specific challenges, like gripping a mascara tube, controlling a brush, or applying makeup with limited hand movement.Why makeup doesn’t always have to be perfectly precise. Look for products that simplify tricky steps, like eyeliners with built-in wing stamps or buildable multisticks for color control and flexibility.Products we recommendAffordable grips that fit most makeup and tools Lyforx Foam Grip TubingLyforx Foam Grip TubingThese chunky foam tubes slide onto brushes, pencils, and slim cases, giving you added control. The inexpensive sets (six or nine pieces) come with tubes in three sizes, but they don’t fit every product perfectly.Buying options: $10 from Amazon, opens in a new tab(pack of six)A multiuse circular brush with a contoured handle Kohl Kreatives Medium CircleKohl Kreatives Medium CircleThis makeup brush has an ergonomic grip, a flat base so it stands on its own, and bristles that evenly distribute face makeup like foundation, concealer, and blush. But the company is based in the United Kingdom, so shipping may take up to 10 days.Buying options: $22 from Kohl Kreatives, opens in a new tabAn easy-to-hold eyeshadow brush Guide Beauty Blend & Crease BrushGuide Beauty Blend & Crease BrushThis brush has a smooth, bell-shaped handle with a ring that slips between two fingers for a more secure grip. Plus, its short length allows for just-close-enough eye makeup application.Buying options: $24 from Amazon, opens in a new tab$24 from Guide Beauty, opens in a new tabAn ergonomic, flattering mascara Tilt Lashscape MascaraTilt Lashscape MascaraThis mascara has a short wand with a rubbery coating that makes it easy to grip and maneuver, and the curved brush reaches every lash. But you may need multiple coats to achieve a thicker lash look.Buying options: $28 from Revolve, opens in a new tabA handy eyeliner that’s easier to apply SheGlam Get Foxy Eye Stamp & Liner PenSheGlam Get Foxy Eye Stamp & Liner PenThis eyeliner has a smooth-flowing pen and two built-in stamps for creating tiny wings on outer corners. But the tube is slim, which made it hard for some testers to grip.Buying options: $8 from Amazon, opens in a new tabA user-friendly tinted lip balm Tilt Grip Stick Hydrating Lip TreatmentTilt Grip Stick Hydrating Lip TreatmentYou don’t need a mirror or a steady grip to apply this sheer tinted balm. And it’s possible to open the ergonomic case, which has a magnetic cap, with one hand.Buying options: $26 from Revolve, opens in a new tabA versatile 3-in-1 makeup stick E.L.F. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi StickE.L.F. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi StickThis multiuse makeup stick is perfect for anyone who has trouble creating precise or detailed makeup looks. The sheer, buildable colors look great on eyes, cheeks, and lips, and they’re easy to blend with fingers. But the small case may be difficult to open for people with limited hand dexterity.Buying options: $6 from Amazon, opens in a new tab$6 from E.L.F., opens in a new tabA lighted makeup mirror for people with low vision Fancii Vera Vanity with 10x Lara MirrorFancii Vera Vanity with 10x Lara MirrorThis brightly lit vanity mirror has three light temperatures and comes with a removable magnetic magnifying mirror. But you have to twist in a screw (with a provided tool) to attach the mirror to its stand the first time you use it.Buying options: $141 from Fancii, opens in a new tab