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

I love that this product is multi-purpose, and carries out every task beautifully. Use the top two rows as highlighter, the bottom as bronzer, and any of the shades as eyeshadow. The consistency is soft and silky, and each color is extremely pigmented.

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.