Makeup isn’t just a beauty essential—it’s art, fashion, and in some cases, a collector’s item. While most cosmetics get repurchased and panned, there are some rare makeup collections so elusive and iconic that beauty lovers are still hunting them down years after they’ve sold out.
In this article, we’ll explore the rarest makeup collections ever released, from luxury designer collabs to limited-edition seasonal launches. Whether you’re a beauty collector, a makeup enthusiast, or just love a good throwback, these collections are the stuff of cosmetic legend.
What Makes a Makeup Collection “Rare”?
Before we dive into the list, let’s define what counts as “rare” in the beauty world:
- Limited Production Runs: Many of these collections were produced in extremely small quantities. Once sold out, they were never restocked.
- Exclusive Collaborations: Some were released through one-time brand collabs with artists, celebrities, or fashion houses.
- Discontinued Products: Often, these products were never brought back despite public demand.
- Geographical Exclusivity: A few collections were only sold in specific countries or through exclusive boutiques.
1. MAC x Barbie (2007 Original Edition)
One of the most iconic collaborations in beauty history, MAC’s Barbie Loves MAC was a pink-drenched dream. Released in 2007, it featured doll-inspired lipsticks, eyeshadows, and blushes with custom packaging.
Why it’s rare: This collection was released in limited numbers and discontinued after a short run. Original pieces in good condition now sell for hundreds on resale platforms.
Collectors still seek:
- Springtime Skipper Eyeshadow
- Barbie Loves MAC Lipstick
- The Barbie-themed brush sets
2. Guerlain x Emilio Pucci Terra Azzurra Collection (2012)
A stunning summer collection that merged Guerlain’s bronzing expertise with Emilio Pucci’s vibrant Mediterranean prints. It included bronzers, eye palettes, and lip products, all wrapped in luxurious Pucci-designed packaging.
Why it’s rare: Released in 2012 and never restocked, this collab remains one of the most beautiful makeup-meets-fashion moments.
Most coveted piece:
Terra Azzurra Bronzing Powder & Blush, which came in a keepsake Pucci pouch.
3. NARS x Steven Klein Collection (2015)
This edgy, avant-garde collection featured provocative photography by Steven Klein and bold, dramatic makeup. It was praised for pushing beauty boundaries, featuring items like high-voltage lipsticks, haunting palettes, and themed gift sets.
Why it’s rare: It was only available for a short period and featured exclusive shades not seen in other NARS launches.
Highlights:
- Dead of Summer Eyeshadow Palette
- An Abnormal Female Lip Pencil Set
4. Pat McGrath Labs Star Wars Collection (2020 Original Release)
When the Queen of Editorial Glam, Pat McGrath, teamed up with Star Wars, the result was jaw-dropping. This galactic glam collection was limited to a few select items and featured holographic packaging inspired by the sci-fi saga.
Why it’s rare: Released in small batches just before the pandemic hit, the products sold out instantly. Unlike many of Pat’s collections, this one hasn’t seen a re-release.
Coveted items include:
- MTHRSHP: Galactic Gold Palette
- Lust Gloss in Pale Fire Nectar
5. Shu Uemura x Murakami Collection (2013 and 2016)
Japanese artistry met kawaii culture in this dreamy collab between Shu Uemura and iconic artist Takashi Murakami. The collection featured Murakami’s signature flowers and characters on palettes, cleansers, and tools.
Why it’s rare: Only released in Japan and select Asian markets, this is one of the most exclusive East Asian beauty drops.
Most memorable products:
- Cosmic Blossom Eye & Cheek Palette
- Anti/Oxi Cleansing Oil with Murakami floral packaging
6. Lisa Eldridge Lipsticks (First Edition – 2019)
When famed makeup artist Lisa Eldridge released her debut lipstick line, the world took notice. Her Velvet lipsticks featured a texture that mimicked actual velvet on the bullet—pure genius.
Why it’s rare: The first edition drop sold out in minutes and some shades, like Velvet Ribbon and Velvet Morning, were impossible to restock due to production limitations.
Why collectors care:
Aside from being formulated to perfection, the bullets themselves are truly a piece of beauty innovation.
7. Urban Decay Alice in Wonderland Book of Shadows (2010)
A collector’s dream, this palette featured pop-up artwork and shades inspired by Tim Burton’s film adaptation of Alice in Wonderland. It was part of Urban Decay’s famous “Book of Shadows” series.
Why it’s rare: It was one of Urban Decay’s fastest-selling launches ever. Many fans bought two—one to use and one to keep unopened.
Fun fact:
Some unopened palettes now sell for over $400 on collector forums.
9. CHANEL Les Exclusifs de Chanel Makeup (Asia Exclusives)
CHANEL occasionally drops makeup exclusives only sold in Asia, particularly in Japan or Hong Kong, such as special edition lipsticks or highlighting powders in collectible compacts.
Why they’re rare: Even dedicated CHANEL boutiques outside Asia never received these items. The packaging is often embellished with regional motifs, making them even more desirable.
Where to Find Rare Makeup Collections (If You’re Lucky)
If you’re on the hunt for discontinued or rare makeup, here are your best bets:
- eBay & Mercari (Japan and US versions) – Great for collector’s items, but beware of counterfeits
- Poshmarm & Depop – Some sellers specialise in limited-edition beauty
- Facebook beauty collector groups – Many rare finds are exchanged here
- Reddit (r/MakeupRehab, r/MakeupExchange) – Trusted peer-to-peer swaps
Final Thoughts: Are Rare Makeup Collections Worth It?
For most people, makeup is about function. But for collectors, makeup can be emotional, historical, and deeply artistic. Whether it’s a packaging masterpiece, a collaboration with a cultural icon, or a palette you missed and still dream about, rare makeup tells a story—and that’s what makes it so special.
If you ever come across one of these holy grails, treat it with care. Because in the beauty world, some treasures are truly irreplaceable.
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