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OSU | Style > Beauty

Affordable Makeup Products for College Students

Zoe Velez Student Contributor, Ohio State University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at OSU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

There’s no doubt that affordable makeup is a must. College is expensive, but that doesn’t mean that routines have to be cheap— here is my list of affordable, quality products that are perfect for everyday use!

Loreal True Match Hyaluranic Tinted Serum

This had made rounds on TikTok as everyone’s favorite skin tint (and at only $20, its somehow the most expensive product on this list). With Hyaluranic acid, it’s a moisturizing, medium-coverage product that’s perfect for an everyday, natural glow.

NYX Cosmetics Bare With Me Concealer

Medium to high coverage, this concealer blends smoothly and can even act as a lightweight foundation.

NYX Cosmetics Micro Brow Pencil

For me, brows should be simple and easy. I love a natural look on a daily basis, so when I still want to fill them in, this brow pencil is perfect. With a medium pigment that’s buildable, you can go as natural or full-glam as needed.

e.l.f Cosmetics Camo Liquid Blush

When I say I want a pigmented blush, this is exactly what I mean. A little goes a long way, making this product last forever.

NYX Cosmetics Buttermelt Pressed Powder Blush

Powdered blush is a necessity for me— it locks in and sets liquid blush while adding extra pigment. On days where I’m in a rush, it’s also much quicker to apply than liquid or cream blush. This blush collection has so many shades that are perfect for any look.

NYX Cosmetics Wonderstick

My holy grail— words cannot describe my love for this product. This dual-ended stick has contour on one end and highlighter on the other. It’s easy to blend out, it’s pigmented, and it’s convenient— what more could I ask for?

Maybelline Tattoo Studio Smokey Gel Pencil Eyeliner

This cream eyeliner comes with a spongy blender on the end, making it perfect for a smokey eye look in addition to a classic waterline.

Glow Recipe Trial & Travel Kit

If you want to try out Glow Recipe for a lower price point, they have a $29 trial kit on their website! You can pick out one travel-sized product, deluxe samples, and mesh pouch.

Zoe Velez is in her senior year as an English major and media production minor at the Ohio State University with a love for storytelling and pop culture. She has been a student digital producer at WOSU Public Media, a production intern at DAF Media and has work appearing in numerous Columbus literary magazines. When she isn't writing, she loves going to every concert possible, baking, and watching movies-- especially a good romcom or horror film.