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Building a good, effective beauty routine can get expensive fast; however, some of my favorite products come straight from the drugstore and work just as well! From skincare to curly-hair essentials to must-have makeup staples, these affordable finds show you absolutely do NOT need to spend $50+ on one product; you can get amazing results for less.
my top five must haves
1. maybelline lash sensational skytubes – estimates cost: $10
This mascara not only gives the appearance of fuller, longer lashes, but it’s also a tubing mascara, meaning removal is quick and easy! The formula goes on super easily. It makes my lashes look full and healthy, without weighing them down or feeling clumpy. What I love most about this product, aside from how it looks and feels on my lashes, is the price. It costs about half as much as the more high-end products, while giving me the same elegant look, if not better! This product has become a must-have in my beauty routine, and I never go a day without using it.
2.Not Your Mother’s Frizz Control Curl Talk Sculpting Gel (#3 flexible-firm hold) – Estimated Cost: $10-15 dollars (depending on size)
This curl gel, made for all curl types, is affordable and gives your curls defined movement without any flaking! It also works for all curl types and contains no silicones or alcohol. As someone with curly hair, I understand how hard it is to find an effective curly hair product without breaking the bank. With this product, my hair looks effortlessly defined, without the crunchy feel gels typically have. Plus, it smells amazing without being overwhelming. The first time I tried it, I loved the almost immediate volume it added, and since then it’s become a must-have in my curly hair routine!
3. Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum – Estimated Cost Range: $6-12 (depending on size)
This serum is lightweight but extremely hydrating, giving your skin the right amount of moisture. The serum is fragrance-free, so it will not irritate your skin and can be used morning and night. Other than the price, I love how moisturized my skin feels after applying this product. As someone with sensitive skin, finding skincare products that don’t make my skin red or tingly is sometimes difficult; however, this product has never irritated my skin and instead leaves it dewy and hydrated!
4. E.L.F Power Grip Primer (+4% Niacinamide) – Estimated Cost: $11 dollars
This gel-based primer is now packed with a skincare classic ingredient: niacinamide. This helps even out skin tone and brighten it while gripping your makeup to your face. This primer was designed to work on all skin tones, give a dewy finish, and help your makeup last. The first time I used this product, I instantly fell in love with the texture. While it is somewhat sticky, it is a perfect base for foundation, no matter what makeup day you are going for. It doesn’t make my skin feel stripped or irritated, and it has little fragrance, which is a plus! No matter what makeup day I am going for, I reach for this product over any high-end primer. I know that it will leave my skin refreshed and ready for makeup!
5. Sky Organics Castor Oil- Estimated cost: $10 dollars
Sky Organics castor oil is a multi-purpose product that has become one of my favorite staples in my nighttime skincare routine. You can use this oil on your hair, eyebrows, lashes, face, or even nails, which makes it feel like you are getting the most out of the product for the price. I love using it on my face before moisturizing to give my skin that extra boost! I also love applying it to my eyebrows, as it also keeps them looking and feeling hydrated. This product is very thick, but never greasy! I also find that a little bit goes a long way, and there is no need to overdo it. For around $10 a bottle, it has become a staple in my routine. It also lasts a while before I have to repurchase. If you are looking for a multi-functional, inexpensive product that gives your skin a boost, I highly recommend it.