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My Favorite Affordable Makeup Must-Haves

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at App State chapter.

Although I did not start wearing makeup until last August, it has very quickly become one of my favorite things. Makeup has become a relaxing creative outlet and a fun mode of self-expression for me in the last several months, and I wanted to share some of my favorite low-priced, essential products. 

Elf Instant Lift Brow Pencil

If you’re aiming for a natural and defined look, this is for you. Starting out, I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to find a pencil that was the right shade for me as a pale-skinned blonde, but with 5 different shades, there’s a Lift Brow Pencil for everyone. With a dual-ended design, it’s super easy to use and helps you tame or fluff out your brows as well as fill them. Also, it’s $2! BRB, about to go and buy my third one … 

Wet n Wild MegaLast Liquid Catsuit Matte Lipstick

This lipstick is a makeup bag staple for me because I love a matte lip. The shape of this liquid lipstick’s applicator makes it very simple to use, and it’s a really good product for all-day wear. My favorite shades are Rebel Rose, Give Me Mocha, and Nudist Peach. 

Kara Beauty Poetry of Love Shadow Palette

This romantic pink-and-red nudes palette not only features lovely shades and simmers for your eyelids, but also a warm, gold highlighter and shimmery blush. The versatility of this palette is amazing, you can use it to create a subtle, everyday look or a stunning creation for a special occasion. Out of the several that I have, this is hands down my favorite palette. 

Milk Makeup Mini Lip + Cheek

This multi-use color functions as a blendable, buildable blush or a cute lipstick. As a blush addict, I love how natural and radiant the Mini Lip + Cheek makes me look. To top it all off, it smells amazingly fruity and fresh!

Maybelline New York Fit Me! Loose Finishing Powder

This powder gets the job done for a great price. Since I enjoy a more glowy, youthful look, I only use this powder on the areas of my face that need a little mattifying due to oil or anticipated sweat, such as my forehead. A little goes a long way, and it helps balance out the look and finish off my makeup. 

Rimmel London Stay Glossy Lip Gloss

Okay, listen … I have purchased 8 different shades of this lipgloss over the last few years (my favorite is Claridge’s Ruby), and they’re all great. With a pretty shimmer or just a subtle shine, one of the 29 available shades will accentuate your lips perfectly. Also, they are less than $4 each, so what are you waiting for?

Jessie Kradel

App State '21

An anxious Art History student with an affinity for bees and an addiction to iced white mocha lattes.