e.l.f. Express Your e.l.f. 24-Day Advent Calendar vs essence Baked with Love Advent Calendar

The e.l.f. calendar is the better pick for anyone who wants usable full-size makeup and tools. It packs 18 full-size products, including a Perfect 10 palette, five lip items, two brushes and a sponge, plus two advent exclusives. The essence Baked with Love calendar spreads its 24 surprises across eyes, lips, face, nails and tools with a bakery theme, but it leans on minis and novelty. Reviewers rate the e.l.f. set well, though a few note the mix skews makeup-heavy over skincare.

• Choose the e.l.f. 24-Day Advent Calendar if you want mostly full-size makeup and tools you will actually use, including a palette, brushes and lip products.
• Choose the essence Baked with Love Advent Calendar if you want a vegan, bakery-themed mix that covers nails and tools as well as makeup.