While I believe that certain products are best used from higher quality brands, there is still no doubt that you can find a great dupe at a lower price. I mostly use drug store products for my daily makeup because I run out of products so quickly that the cost makes it a lot easier to stock back up on products.
1. Revlon Colorstay Foundation * About $10
Foundation really is my number one believed product to splurge on, however I have found the best drug store product that really works just as good on me. This product gives a medium coverage but it can be applied for a heavier coverage if needed. I love that it contains SPF because I can get away with skipping my sunscreen step if I am in a hurry to leave. I don’t use primer on myself daily yet the foundation seems to last the entire day.
2. L’oreal Voluminous Mascara * About $6
A great reason to not splurge on expensive mascaras is that you should be throwing them out about every 3 months. Mascara is a very personal product, but I have always used and loved Voluminous. I already have length but definitely need the volume and this always makes a great look on days I don’t wear falsies.
3. Wet N Wild Megalast Lipstick * About $3
I will admit I was skeptical before trying this product until I finally gave in. I was surprised at how opaque the color payoff was and loved certain colors’ matte finish. It didn’t dry my lips out or flake off which was definitely a plus. I was also able to find certain MAC dupes that I was excited about!
4. L’oreal HIP Gel Liner * About $8
I have tried so many different types of liners since my signature look is a winged look. I stumbled upon this product when the HIP line first came out and was impressed at how well the finish was. The only con to it is that you have to work quick because it dries fast! However, I love that when it does dry, it is a true black.
5. Revlon Just Bitten Lipstain * About $9
For more natural looks or daily wear, I tend to like a flush of color on my lips. I’ve tried Maybeline’s lip stains but they would always wear off so quickly. I decided to give lip stains another try with Revlon and can say that the color lasted me a few hours. They have such a wide variety from light pinks to dark reds that come in handy on night’s out to dinner or for quick applications.



This was great info for us on a tight budget! What drug store brand would you recommend for the smokey eye look?
Revlon has Colorstay quads that have the colors you need to create the look all in one!
I’m so glad you made this post. I’ve been meaning to purchase some gel liner cause I’m starting to get tired of “liquid liner”. It runs down my lashes, and somehow ends up under my eyes. Not cute! I’ve been wanting to try MAC’s Blacktrack Fluidline, but I’m strapped for cash and don’t wanna spend $15.00 & not end up loving it. There’s a Maybelline Studio Effects/Secrets gel liner that I’ve been keeping my eye on & the Sonia Kashuk angled eye liner brush. I’ll keep in mind to check out Loreal HIP’s liner.
Thanks Sara!!
I still love MAC’s blacktrack above all, but this stuff is affordable and works just as great. I’ve heard great things about Maybeline! I haven’t tried it myself yet though