We all know that college isn't easy on anyone's wallet. Whether you're fully funded by your parents or you've earned your education through scholarships and grants, budgeting yourself for miscellaneous purchases can sometimes be tricky. In the midst of it all, you've often found yourself browsing through the racks of your favorite store, but then realized that the price of that cute top that you so desperately "need" is equivalent to three trips to Chipotle or cover for several nights out at your favorite bar.
Hmm…decisions, decisions.…
This dilemma applies to not only clothes, food or social outings, but one of my favorite things: makeup.
To everyone who shares the same love for makeup that I do, I'm certain that the warm feeling that walking into Sephora gives you is almost as good as receiving that "Class is cancelled" e-mail. It's our own personalized version of Disney World.
When in college, though, that warm feeling quickly turns into nausea most of the time, as panic strikes when you realize you can't afford to re-stock on your favorite $40 highlighter. (Cue the tears.)
Now, if you're one that's been cursed with super sensitive or oily skin, then you understand the importance of using quality products. However, after plenty of trials and breakouts, I have found the (almost) replicas of my everyday go-to products from the lovely but costly brands spotted at the mall, right around the corner in your nearest drug-store (and some online)!
1. Primer: From $36 to $14
Sensitive or oily skin requires a lot of attention, especially for primers. Neutrogena offers all-day coverage and keeps my makeup from running, even when it's hot and sticky out!
2. Foundation: From $24 to $13
I like my foundation to be matte, since I feel that I don't need any extra shine on my face. Clinique was my go-to, but Loreal's new Infallable Pro-Matte foundation is more pigmented and gives me great coverage, and still looks natural!
3. Concealer: From $23 to $9
Whether it's to cover that one zit or to hide those eye-bags from all the partying, I'm sure we can all agree on the fact that a good concealer is a must. I was most skeptical (and semi heart-broken) when retiring my Smashbox HD Concealer, but Maybelline's Master Conceal knocked my boots off. It's also oil-free, and did the job just as well as my old concealer!
4. Translucent Powder: From $25 to $5
For everyday wear, I don't like to wear compressed powder, for it makes your face look cake-y and is a major pore-clogger. After applying concealer here and there, I finish off my natural look with translucent powder which helps remove shine from your face. To my surprise, Maybelline's $5 oil control loose powder comes to a close second to Clinique's.
5. Lip Moisturizer: From $6 to $2
For those Matte-lipstick lovers like myself, we all know how necessary it is to moisturize your lips adequately. Lip balms are my go-to, and Carmex is not only great after a long-wear of lipstick, but it's minty and leaves your lips looking glossy.
6. Lip Stick: From $17 to $6
My ultimate favorite swap is Mac's lipsticks with NYX's. Best $6 dollars you'll ever spend! They're usually found at CVS, or you can order from their online page!
7. Matte Lip Stain: From $29 to $6
Kylie's Lipkits have been a pop-culture sensation. Turns out, though, that the makers of it are also affiliated with the underrated Colourpop Cosmetics' matte lip stains! Full story on Teen Vouge!
8. Blush: From $26 to $6
Urban Decay will forever hold my heart, but in the meantime, I gotta give it to NYX's blush for giving me the long lost sister of my favorite UD blush.
9. Highlighter: From $38 to $8
My older sister is the one to blame for my obsession with a $40 dollar shiny powder. Becca's Champagne Pop highlighter is life, but it's not easy on my bank account. Colourpop luckily has a great highlighter that's just as shimmery and smooth on the skin.
10. Mascara: From $24 to $8
I feel as if every girl has heard of Benefit's They're Real! mascara. It's just as good as all the hype it carries, but it's crushing to have to pay for it when other things are a necessity. I found that Loreal's Telescopic mascara has a great thin brush that's sturdy and perfect for getting those clumps out, and it leaves your lashes looking longer than ever.
11. Compact Powder: From $50 to $13
I have a soft spot for Clinique, for it helps my acne prone skin look fantastic and oil-free…but do you know what one can do with 50 bucks? That's why I went with the drugstore twin of my beloved (and overpriced) compact powder: Loreal's Infallible Pro-Matte powder.
12. Eyeliner: From $17 to $9
The battle between eyeliners and myself was never-ending, for they all practically sucked and ended up giving me raccoon eyes (if they weren't from a brand found in Sephora or Macy's, of course.) I luckily came across Loreal's gel eyeliner. It gives me the flexibility to apply it both in and outside the eyelid, and it doesn't smudge, whatsoever.
13. Eyeshadows: From $16 to $5
Once again, Colourpop ties with Mac and all other major makeup brands on eyeshadow quality. Their colors vary all through the spectrum, and their price allows you to stock up on all the "naked" basics, and also get those electric colors for special occasions.
Total of Sephora/high end cosmetics = $331
Total of Drug Store/Colourpop cosmetics = $104
Total savings: $227
Now, as the inspiring and soon to be one-hit-wonder Lil Dicky once said, #SaveDatMoney and look flawless while doing so!
