If you’re anything like me, scrolling through your Instagram feed is probably like viewing the who’s who of the makeup artist world. MUAs like Amrezy, Huda Beauty, and Ebony McCrarry have taken social media by storm and secured endorsement deals, makeup lines, and appearances throughout the world. Watching their tutorials is like getting a free makeup artist education, but while lusting after some of the products they use, you might notice one thing: they’re expensive!
You can’t put a price tag on slay, but if I could, it would be a lot less than what these artists spend at Sephora so I’ve compiled a list of 10 awesome beauty products that you can find at the drug store or at less expensive makeup specialty stores!
1) Kiko Highligher Stick
Highlighter has become a staple of makeup artists everywhere and there are dozens of different brands and types all over the internet. Many of those are really expensive but fear not! You can have an Anastasia Beverly Hills type of glow on a college student’s budget. This stick is fantastic and rolls right on wherever you want it (no need to worry about residue from powder highlighters) and has a blender on one side to ensure a smooth shine. A little pricier than most of the things on this list at about $14 but Kiko is known for having great deals and frequent sales!
2) Maybelline Colossal Volume Mascara
I was a bit apprehensive to pick this up but it quickly became a staple in my beauty routine. I’ve used more expensive brands before such as Benefit and nothing compares to this! I use this when I want my eyes to really stand out by applying a few coats but applying less makes it perfect for a more subtle look as well. It usually costs between $5-7 at drugstores such as CVS and Rite Aid.
3) NYX Liquid Eyeliner
These eyeliners are very pigmented and long lasting so you don’t have to worry about reapplying throughout the night. It glides on easily and dries quickly and evenly. $7 on NYX.com
4) L’Oreal Thickening Shampoo
When it comes to my hair I am generally clueless. I tend to pick up whatever shampoo is on sale and smells good but this has quickly become a product I go out of my way to purchase. It has completely revitalized my hair and made it thicker and stronger. The results are worth the $8-9 per bottle. The brand also has a conditioner which works very well!
5) Sinful Colors Nail Polish
Why spend $8-10 on a bottle of nail polish when you can get Sinful Colors for just $1 or 2 and treat yourself to a manicure with the money left over! Sinful colors is great quality and comes in a variety of fun colors.
6) Jergens Original Scent Moisturizer
I have been using this for years and no matter what Bath and Body works or the salespeople at the mall kiosks try to sell me I always go back to it. It smells great, is light weight and keeps my skin feeling soft and clear. Usually between $5-8 and it will last you a long time!
7) Avon MagiX Face Perfector
Support your local Avon representative (or order directly from the website) and invest in this primer! Not only does it virtiually erase all of your pores and make you look Facetuned in real life, it also has SPF to protect your skin! Approimately $7.
8) Jordana Baked Eyeshadow
I love Urban Decay and Two Faced as much as the next person but these shadows are a great alternative! For such a low price they are super pigmented and long lasting. They come in a variety of colors and can be found in most dollar stores!
9) ELF Brushes
Brushes can sometimes cost more than make up itself but thankfully ELF exists to remind us we shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality for low prices. Pretty much everything that ELF makes is under $10 and their brushes are excellent. The bristles are soft enough and don’t fall out when applying makeup; I highly reccommend all of their face brushes. $2-12 each.
10) NYX Lip Lingerie
Next time you’re tempted to blow $30 on the newest Kylie Lip kit in the 2.5 seconds before it sells out, consider NYX’s Lip Lingerie liquid lipsticks instead! Essentially duplicates of the trendy (and expensive) liquid lipsticks that you’ll see your favorite MUAs using, they glide on nicely and come in gorgeous shades and the best part…they’re only $7!
Armed with these tips I’m confident that you’ll go forth and slay (frugally)!