"Is it a dupe, or is it better?" We spent 30 days testing the internet's most controversial $22 rainbow
palette against luxury brands. Here is our honest, unfiltered verdict.
Every few years, a makeup product comes along that seems to break the internet. It defies the logic that
"expensive equals better" and forces professional makeup artists (MUAs) to reconsider their kit staples. In
2025, it was the DE'LANCi 54-Color "La Catrina" Eyeshadow Palette. Now, as we move through
2026, the question remains: Is it still relevan
We didn't just swatch this palette; we lived with it. We wore it to festivals, we stress-tested it under
studio lights, and we analyzed every single ingredient listed on the back.
If you are tired of spending $60+ on palettes that offer five shades of beige and one lonely pop of blue,
this review is for you. We're diving deep into why this $20 giant is still dominating Amazon charts and
TikTok feeds alike.
📊 Trend Analysis: Is It Still "Viral"?
Before investing in a 54-pan behemoth, it's fair to ask: Is this just a micro-trend?
Our market research indicates that the La Catrina palette has transitioned from a "viral hit" to a
"Cult Classic" status. While the initial spike of viral videos occurred in late 2023, sales
consistency has remained steady. Why? Because it fills a massive gap in the market.
- The "Festival" Factor: Every festival season (Coachella,
Burning Man, Pride), searches for this specific palette spike by 300% due to its unique UV-reactive
neons.
- The "Pro-Kit" Staple: Makeup schools are increasingly
recommending this as a starter kit for students who need color variety without the Morphe price tag.
Expert Insight: "Products usually die off after 6 months. The fact that DE'LANCi is still a
top-seller in the 'Costume Makeup' and 'Eyeshadow' categories suggests it works. It's not hype anymore; it's
reliability."
🎨 The Color Story: A 3-in-1 Powerhouse
Most palettes choose a lane: neutral, colorful, or glittery. The La Catrina palette refuses to choose.
Opening the magnetic closure reveals a layout that is essentially three palettes in one.
1. The "Buttery" Mattes (29 Shades)
The backbone of the palette. You get a full spectrum of rainbows: primary reds, deep navies, sunshine
yellows, and—crucially—a true matte black and bright matte white. These allow you to lighten or deepen any
other shade, giving you infinite custom colors.
2. The UV Neons (4 Shades)
This is the feature that sells the palette. Located strategically in the mix are four special neon formulas.
Under daylight, they are shockingly bright. Under UV/Blacklight (like at a club or bowling alley), they
glow.
3. The "Pressed" Glitters (13 Shades)
These act more like foils. They have a slightly emollient (oily) base, meaning they stick to the finger and
the eye without needing glitter glue, although we recommend it for longevity.
🔬 Ingredient Deep Dive: Safety & Formulation
We believe in transparency. A $22 palette with 54 shades raises questions about ingredients. We analyzed the
INCI list so you don't have to.
⚠️
Important Note for Sensitive Skin:
This palette contains Talc and Propylparaben. While these are
FDA-approved and standard in 90% of drug-store makeup, users with specific allergies to parabens or
those who prefer talc-free formulas should be aware.
|
Ingredient |
Function |
Our Verdict |
| Mica |
Provides the shimmer and base
texture. |
Safe. Standard cosmetic base.
|
| Mineral Oil
|
Binding agent for glitters.
|
Occlusive (good for moisture),
but can be heavy for oily lids. |
| Talc |
Absorbent, anti-caking. |
Common, but ensures smooth
blending. |
| Dimethicone
|
Silicone that gives "slip".
|
The reason the mattes feel
creamy, not chalky. |
⚡ Performance Test: 12-Hour Wear Test
We applied the shade "Skull" (a deep blue) and "Marigold" (a shimmer yellow) to a primed lid at 8:00 AM.
- 8:00 AM: Application is seamless. The blue is intimidated
but blends out with a fluff brush.
- 2:00 PM: (6 Hours): No creasing. The shimmer has stayed
put with zero fallout on the cheeks.
- 8:00 PM: (12 Hours): The matte colors have faded slightly
in vibrancy (about 10%), but the glitter is locked on.
💄 How To Use: 2 Signature Looks
Don't be overwhelmed by 54 colors. Here are two
ways to wear this palette.
Look 1: The "Neon Sunset"
Step
1: Prime
Apply a white or very light concealer base (P.Louise Base 0 or NYX Milk). Do not set it with powder; let it
stay tacky.
Step
2: Pack the Yellow
Take a flat brush and pack the bright matte yellow on the inner third of your eyelid.
Step
3: Orange & Red
Place the orange in the center and the red on the outer corner. Use a clean fluffy brush to buff where the
colors meet.
Step
4: The Lower Lashline
Run the UV Pink shade under your eye for a pop that will glow in blacklight!
Look 2: The "Festival Mermaid"
Step
1: The Depth
Blend the deep teal matte into your crease and outer V.
Step
2: The Glitter
Using your ring finger (warmth helps!), press the chunky turquoise glitter onto the center of the lid.
Step
3: Inner Corner
Pop the lime green shimmer on the inner tearduct for an "alien-chic" highlight.
🆚 The Competition
|
Feature |
DE'LANCi La Catrina |
Morphe x James Charles (Dupe) |
Beauty Bay Brights |
| Price |
~$22 |
~$39 (Discontinued) |
~$25 |
| Glitters? |
✅ Yes (Pressed) |
❌ No |
❌ No |
| Mirror |
✅ Huge Full Size |
❌ No Mirror |
✅ Yes |
| Pigmentation
|
9/10 |
8/10 |
9.5/10 |
✅ The Pros
- Unbeatable Price-Per-Gram: You are paying cents
per eyeshadow.
- True Red Pigment: Most vegan palettes struggle
with red; this one is vibrant fire-engine red.
- All-in-One: Removes the need to carry a separate
glitter palette.
- Sturdy Packaging: The cardboard is thick and
magnetic; feels more expensive than it is.
❌ The Cons
- Staining: The red and pink pigments will stain
eyelids slightly (lasts about 24h). Use an oil cleanser!
- Size: It is massive. Not suitable for small travel
bags.
- Fallout: The pressed glitters should be used
before foundation to avoid mess.
The Final Verdict: 4.8 / 5 Stars
The DE'LANCi La Catrina palette is not just a cheap alternative; it is a serious contender in the
professional space. Its ability to layer textures (matte, neon, glitter) makes it arguably more
useful than many luxury rainbow palettes.
If you want to experiment with color without breaking the bank, this is the safest and most exciting
investment you can make in 2025.
Get It Now on Amazon
Secure your huge discount today
before the next viral wave hits.
🙋♀️
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DE'LANCi cruelty-free?
Yes, DE'LANCi is a certified cruelty-free
brand. They do not test on animals at any stage of production.
Does the glitter need glue?
Technically no, as they are "pressed
glitters" with a binder. However, for 8+ hours of wear without fallout, we highly recommend a thin layer
of NYX Glitter Primer.
How do I remove the red staining?
Red pigments are notorious for staining. Do
not scrub! Use an oil-based cleansing balm (like Banila Co or Elf Cleansing Balm), massage gently for 60
seconds, and it will lift the pigment.
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