It depends on the focus of the set. Eye kits bring together eyeshadows, mascara and sometimes eyeliner or a pencil; lip sets combine several shades or a lip liner with its matching lipstick; face sets group blush, highlighter or powder. The most complete sets mix eye, lip and face products, and may add brushes, sponges or a bag. Travel formats include the same items in mini sizes, designed to take with you.
Yes, it's one of the safest beauty gifts. A set looks good, shows thoughtfulness and doesn't require knowing the other person's routine down to the last detail. The key to getting it right is adapting it to their style: neutral, simple shades for someone who wears little makeup, bolder options for someone who enjoys makeup. If you don't know their skin tone, avoid foundations and concealers and go for eyes, lips or blush instead, which are much more universal.
It depends on your starting point. A set wins when you're starting from scratch, want to refresh your makeup bag or are looking for a gift: the shades come coordinated, the formats complement each other and there's no need to get every choice right separately. Individual products make sense when you already know your essentials and just need to restock or upgrade a specific item, choosing exactly the formula and shade you want.
A simple, coherent one, with few but well-chosen products: neutral shades that are easy to combine, textures that blend effortlessly and, if possible, some basic tool included. A small kit that gets used in full is better than a huge case that feels overwhelming. With that base you'll learn the order of application and discover what suits you; there will be time later to expand with more complete palettes or bolder shades.
The reference is the PAO symbol on the packaging: a little open jar with a number and an M indicating the recommended months of use after opening. As a general guide, mascaras and liquid eyeliners are the most perishable, around three to six months, while eyeshadows and powders last much longer, around one to two years. Storing the set away from heat and humidity, with the containers well closed, helps keep it in good condition.