For example, expensive mascara, foundation, etc…is it worth it to buy as a gift or will I be better off giving something else that may last a long time? I have no idea about make-up.
Context: I am a med-student so these things will be bought out of my personal savings which aren’t a lot.
Also, what are your thoughts on makeup products from MAC and Huda Beauty? I was eyeing a long lasting mascara to buy for my partner from either MAC or Huda Beauty but I can get something else like clothes for her in the same price…
This. Or offer to go shopping with her and let her pick out something she’d like (up to a certain amount if you’re on a budget). It might also be an opportunity for her to get something she might not normally. For example, I might not buy something like a fancy lipstick or eyeshadow for myself because it’s too expensive, but as a gift it seems a bit more special somehow, and you’ll think of the gifter when you use it.
OP, it’s really sweet that you want to get her something, but I personally think it’s too risky to just buy it unless you know the exact product she uses. Better to ask outright. If you still want it to be a surprise, you could always ask her for 2-3 options you can choose from. That way she gets something she’ll like/use but won’t know exactly what it is.