As a financially strained college student, I’ve learned that one of the last things I should spend frivolously on is makeup. However, there’s no way I was going to sacrifice having a great, non-cakey everyday look, so I’ve been determined to find quality products that don’t make my wince as I swipe my debit card at the checkout. Here are the top 5 that I live by:
- ColourPop No Filter Matte Concealer ($6.50)
-
This concealer is my absolute holy grail when it comes to face makeup. It flawlessly covers my blemishes and easily stays on for the entire day, all while being a fraction of the price of the other ~high end~ products I’ve tried in the past. Plus, their shade range is massive. We stan affordability and inclusivity.
- COVERGIRL Lash Blast Volume Mascara ($6.99)
-
I’ve unfortunately been cursed with short, stubby, blonde lashes, so mascara is a crucial step in my makeup routine. After literally years of dropping anywhere from $20-$30 on mascaras, I found this gem and haven’t turned back since. Just a quick use of an eye lash curler and a couple of coats of this magic and I’m set.
- Glossier Cloud Paint ($18)
-
Okay, I know that nearly $20 is not exactly a steal for some blush, but this stuff is 100% worth it. Because it’s the consistency of paint, a little goes a long way, so one tube will last you months. Plus, it sinks into your skin unlike powder blush, so it looks incredibly natural and glowy.
- ColourPop Give It To Me Straight Shadow Palette ($16)
-
This palette can pretty much give you any look you want: casual, night out, date night, etc. With 12 quality shades that are easily blendable and that beauitfully compliment one another, this is a great alternative compared to other palettes of (in my humble opinion) the same quality that retail in the 40’s and 50’s. I love you, ColourPop.
- ULTA Super Blender Sponge ($4.99)
-
DO NOT be scammed into buying a $20 beauty blender! This blending tool is literally 1/4 of the price and does the exact same thing. I’ve been using it for years now, and it blends my concealer just as well as the leading brand. Save those extra $15, baby!