If you're deciding between La Mer or Pupa for make-up, here you'll find an objective comparison based on real data available on Papique. We analyze positioning, price ranges, best-selling products, and each brand's strengths.
Both brands offer interesting make-up solutions but cater to different needs and budgets. Here's how to figure out which might be the best choice for you.
The products we talk about
Brand Positioning and Philosophy
La Mer and Pupa represent two distinct visions of make-up. La Mer is positioned in the high-end market segment, with a selection of 33 make-up products including foundations, lip balms, and lip glosses. The focus is on refined formulas and luxury packaging.
- La Mer: premium make-up, focus on ingredients and sensory experience.
- Pupa: Italian brand with a wide range, affordable prices, and trend awareness.
Actual Price Ranges and Best-Selling Products
Price differences are significant. La Mer foundations range from €174.59 to €257.05 for 30 ml, such as "La Mer The Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation SPF 20 shade 120 Ivory" (€257.05) or "La Mer The Luminous Lifting Cushion Foundation SPF20 Warm Vanilla 23" (€240.12). Lip balms like "La Mer Lip Treatment Rose 3.4 g" start at €165.60.
Pupa offers liquid foundations like "Pupa Milano No Transfer Foundation SPF 15 100 Porcelain 30 ml" at €47.27, powders and blushes between €38.82 and €54.74, and eyeshadow palettes like "Pupa PupArt M 003 Bordeaux" at €52.07.
- La Mer: prices from €109.02 (concealer) up to €257.05 (foundation)
- Pupa: prices from €27.90 (eyeshadow palette) to €83.74 (larger eye palette)
Formats, Specialties and Availability
Both brands offer standard make-up formats (foundations 30 ml, lip balms 3.4 g, powders and blushes 9 g). La Mer focuses on SPF formulas and sensory textures, like "La Mer The Soft Powder Foundation SPF 30 shade 13 Beach 30 g". Pupa stands out for its variety of references and easy availability: many products are immediately available on Papique, such as "Pupa Invisible Powder Like A Doll 004 Rosy Beige 9 g" and "Pupa Prime Me 003 30 ml".
- La Mer: specialties in foundations and high-end lip treatments
- Pupa: wide selection of powders, foundations, blushes, and eye palettes
Who Are La Mer and Pupa Recommended For?
La Mer is ideal if you're looking for luxury make-up, want to invest in premium products, and prefer refined formulas, including lip care. Pupa is perfect if you want quality make-up at affordable prices, with a wide choice and trendy shades.
- La Mer: for those seeking an exclusive make-up experience without budget limits
- Pupa: for those looking for good value and variety
Summary comparison
| Aspect | La Mer | Pupa |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | 109–257 € | 28–84 € |
| Best-Selling Products | The Soft Fluid Foundation, Rose Lip Balm | No Transfer Foundation, Like A Doll Powder |
| Formats | Foundation 30 ml, Lips 3.4 g | Foundation 30 ml, Powder/Blush 9 g |
| Specialties | SPF foundations, luxury lip treatments | Wide face and eye range, palettes |
| Availability | Some products available, others sold out | Many products available |
| Who It's For | Those seeking luxury and refined formulas | Those wanting affordable quality and variety |
| Liquid Foundation Price | 174.59–257.05 € | 39.26–47.27 € |
Explore all La Mer and Pupa make-up collections on Papique · Makeup La Mer (33)
Explore all La Mer and Pupa make-up collections on Papique · Makeup Pupa (31)
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between La Mer and Pupa in make-up?
La Mer is a luxury brand with high prices focusing on foundations and lip treatments, while Pupa offers a wider range at affordable prices.
How much does a La Mer foundation cost compared to a Pupa one?
A La Mer foundation costs between €174.59 and €257.05, while a Pupa foundation ranges from €39.26 to €47.27.
What are the best-selling make-up products of La Mer and Pupa?
For La Mer: The Soft Fluid foundation and lip balms. For Pupa: No Transfer foundation and Like A Doll powder.
Who is La Mer make-up best suited for?
For those who want high-end products, luxury packaging, and refined formulas without budget limits.
Is Pupa a good choice for everyday make-up?
Yes, thanks to affordable prices and product variety, Pupa is suitable for daily make-up.
Shipping to over 60 countries from Italy: outside the EU duties and taxes are included in the price (DDP), no surprises at delivery. Returns within 14 days of delivery. Newsletter discount code: 4RARE. Prices and availability updated on 2026-10-30.