I started wearing a full face of makeup in the seventh grade, years before a vast majority of the girls I knew. My early love for and fascination with makeup didn’t stem from self-esteem issues or thinking that I was only presentable when I had it on, but simply because I loved the way I looked and felt with it on. I associated makeup with dance recitals, when all of the girls in my ballet class were over the moon to be allowed to wear makeup just for our big performance. I remember going to the drugstore with my mother to pick out pastel pink and purple eyeshadow and frosty red lipstick that I was sure would look amazing on stage, and on my seven-year-old self, I’m sure it did.
As a twenty one-year-old woman, I feel the same excitement walking into a drugstore with new makeup displays, because I know how incredible the quality of some of these products can be. I am a true connoisseur of high and low end makeup, and through my years of beauty exploration I have come across inexpensive makeup so good, that some has replaced pricy cosmetics I used to think I couldn’t live without. For a beginner or someone who is simply on a budget, any of these products are well worth the purchase.
1. L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte 24 HR Foundation - $12.99
I have tried $60 foundations from Giorgio Armani and Chanel, and kind of hate to admit that I find myself reaching for this life-changing foundation over the expensive ones. It’s oil-free, lasts all day, and truly looks like real skin once applied.
2. Real Techniques Expert Face Brush - $8.99
This brush’s bristles are so soft and densely packed, making any foundation look flawless. It also never sheds, which is something I cannot say for more expensive brushes I’ve used.
3. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Treatment Concealer - $8.99
This concealer is magical and does exactly what it claims to do – erase dark circles. The sponge applicator makes it so easy to apply, and the product blends smoothly into the skin.
4. Physicians Formula Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting Beauty Balm BB Bronzer SPF 20 - $14.99
I consider bronzer a complete essential for me before leaving the house, and this one is the best I’ve ever tried. I apply this all over my face (I know you’re not supposed to, but what matters is that I like the way it looks!) and it appears completely natural, and not orange whatsoever.
5. e.l.f Blush in Pink Passion - $3.00
The hot pink color of this blush is intimidating at first, but looks so lovely on. At just $3.00, you really can’t go wrong.
6. L’Oreal Brow Stylist Definer - $8.99
This is the only drug store eyebrow product I’ve found that compares to my tried and true Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz. It’s also $12 cheaper, and does the job well.
7. NYX Cosmetics Hydra Touch Brightener - $8.99
I bought this on a whim, and now use it everyday to highlight the area around my brows once I’ve drawn them on. It feel like a cool splash of water wherever it is applied, and subtly brightens with a matte finish.
8. Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Custom All-in-1 Nude Palette for Face & Eyes - $13.99
9. e.l.f. Cream Eyeliner - $3.00
In all of my years of being a makeup aficionado, I have never been able to not mess up my eyeliner well as much as I practice. This inky black cream liner, however, is incredibly easy to apply. It’s also only $3.00. Amazing.
10. L’Oreal Telescopic Carbon Black Mascara - $9.99
This is the only mascara I’ve ever gotten compliments on, and I’ve tried pretty much everything. It lengthens, separates, and doesn’t smudge throughout the day.
