Whether you’re a pro at having your beauty routine down in ten minutes or don’t even know what day of the week it is, here are some items that make your life so much easier. This list of wonderful beauty buys is practical to a typical college student’s time and budget. On your next trip to the grocery store, here are some amazing and affordable products you’ll definitely want to pick up.
1. Dove Dry Shampoo
If you haven’t already been introduced to the original bae that is dry shampoo, get this extremely effective and non-chalky spray by Dove. Not only can you can great volume in minutes, it also makes your hair smell fresh out of the shower. If your next-day hair is feeling flat or if you were out late the night before a major presentation, this is how you obtain #hairgoals.
2. Burt’s Bees Radiance Lotion
Turns out the people behind everyone’s favorite peppermint chapstick also make an absolutely lovely body lotion. In the middle of winter we’re all reaching for moisturizer, but this product has that with all natural ingredients, including mica for a subtle hint of shimmer. Transform your dull winter skin with this delicate-smelling and non-greasy new favorite.
3. ELF Lip stain
We all know theres a time and place for a cute bold lip, however it’s probably not in the middle of a chilly midwest winter. When your lips are chapped, matte lipstick tends to dry out and bring attention to the peeling. The best and cheapest way to keep your lips on point is with ELF’s $2 lip markers! They’ll remind you of the cute times of your childhood and cherry Popsicle stained lips. You can also wear them with chapstick applied on top!
4. Cetaphil Gentle skin Cleansing cloths
Skin nightmares and breakouts are always inconvenient and can happen after anything from an intense workout to a late party where you missed out on washing your face. Sometimes certain makeup removers can be so harsh that they cause more irritation than necessary, but cetaphil’s delicate cleansing wipes keep even the most sensitive skin in the clear.
5. Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore eraser
This magic pore-diminishing gel is extremely lightweight, serving as the best correction for concealing large pores without clogging them. A little pea-sized amount works on the problem areas of your face and can be worn with or without foundation.
6. NYX brow marker
This brand which is now becoming popular in beauty stores, supermarkets and pharmacy makeup aisles alike, has been noted for it’s exceptional quality. Coming from someone who has always needed extra precision and control when filling in and shaping eyebrows, this is my favorite product. The marker closely mimics the look of natural hair and comes in extremely natural shades. It’s always good to have around when you’re going for a bolder makeup look or even if you’ve over plucked one too many!
7. Physician’s Formula Highlighter
Illuminators are the easiest trick to a healthy looking subtle glow. The problem many have with liquid highlighters are the tendency for them to clog pores and cause irritation. Physician’s Formula is non-irritating and effortless to use while still being close to nature. With this awesome and easy-to-use powder, you can fake a well-rested appearance, even if you’ve pulled an all-nighter.
8. Maybelline Master Prime Blur and redness control primer
This genius primer is a win-win in how it tames redness and blurs imperfections without causing irritation or clogged pores. The real benefit of the product is how well it keeps your foundation lasting from your earliest discussion and latest lecture, it really does it all!
9. Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water
It’s impossible to see this product and not be intrigued! This simple two-in-one cleanser and makeup remover delicately removes foundation and even tough waterproof eye makeup without stripping the skins natural oils.
10. Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara
Who doesn’t love thick, clump-free and healthy looking lashes? Not only is the formula conditioning, it’s completely flake-free! Say goodbye to eye irritation and hello to long, smooth and defined lashes for under $8.
11. Maybelline The Blushed Nudes Eyeshadow Palette
This pretty combination of roses, light mauves and iridescent taupes are universally flattering and have great pigment and lasting power. These neutrals are similar to Urban Decay’s “Naked 3 palette,” but it won’t break the bank!
12. Garnier Miracle Skin Perfecter Daily anti-acne BB cream
A big problem you run into with foundations are the vicious circle of fighting acne with products that cause it. Garnier’s miraculously formulated matte, oil-free bb cream works to prevent acne while not irritating the skin.