Whether you need an inexpensive eyeshadow, a budget lipstick that truly lasts or mascara that lengthens and adds volume, these budget beauty picks are all $20 or less – and they actually work!
Eyes
While I normally stick with cheapie drugstore eyeliner, I was very intrigued by Buxom Waterproof Smoky Eye Stickl
($18). You can shade, line and define with this little stick, so essentially you’re paying for 3 products instead of one. What’s more, when they say waterproof… they mean waterproof! This baby won’t budge an inch!
To enhance a smoky eye or for daily use, nothing can beat CoverGirl LashBlast Mascara
both in price ($7.79) and the fact that it seriously works to volumize even the skimpiest lashes. The unique brush also helps grab every lash for even coverage and no clumping.
For eyeshadow that doesn’t quit,
e.l.f. Mineral Eyeshadow
($3, pictured) offers a huge range of shades and lasting staying power. While some e.l.f. products may be hit or miss, I own several of their mineral shadows and couldn’t be happier with the quality and the results.
Lips
If you’re dying for a long lasting lipstick that’s both highly pigmented and won’t dry out your lips, Clinique Long Last Lipstick
($14.50) will fit the bill nicely. The creamy formula glides on effortlessly, and they have several shades to choose from to find the perfect fit.
For women who prefer gloss over lipstick,
L’Oreal Colour Juice Lip Gloss
($8) this delectable gloss leaves a sheer hint of color and smells AMAZING! I haven’t been able to find this in my local stores anywhere, so I’m glad Ulta carries it!
When I saw this adorable tokidoki Gelato Lip Balm Stain
($9, pictured) I knew I had to try it – and I was very pleased with the results! This two-in-one lip balm and stain moisturizes lips with a sheer wash of color (I chose the Donutella hue, which is a sheer pinky-coral shade) and lightly stains your lips. It’s pretty long lasting considering the budget price, and it actually tastes good! I can’t wait to try the other colors.
Face
Love, love, LOVE Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer
($16) as the first step in my makeup routine. It not only allows the rest of my face makeup to glide on effortlessly, but this particular face primer also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, pores and makes your overall complexion look a heck of a lot better. It’s seriously a true life saver!
Honestly, you will find no better foundation than Max Factor Pan-Stik Ultra Creamy Makeup
($8.99, pictured.) There’s a reason women have been using this for more than 40 years, and it’s getting increasingly difficult to find in stores (clink the link above to purchase via Drugstore.com). This amazing foundation will literally make your complexion look flawless, and covers everything from redness to freckles or anything else you don’t want to be seen.
Another e.l.f. product that really seems to do the trick is their
mineral blush
($5.) Several colors are available to choose from, so you are sure to find a shade that flatters your skin tone. Plus, these blushes glide on very smoothly for just a hint of color that makes your skin glow.
There you have it, ladies – all of my budget beauty picks for $20 or less. At these prices, you can afford to buy one of each and completely overhaul your makeup collection!
If this guide helps you decide to try a product mentioned here, please let me know what you think in the comments!
Dear Denise,
Great post! A question ? The Smashbox primer/foundation,is that a stand alone in that is it redundant to use that plus the Max Factor pan stick ? As I’m ageing I have used a minimal of makeup and seem to have gotten “out of the loop” somehow. Also, would you have a suggestion for discolorations under eye pouches and brown spots ? Perhaps you’ve written in regard to this already ? If you would suggest where it can be found on your blog it would be very appreciated. I would like help in updating my look with out making myself look even older or matronly.
Thanks for the help,and all the interesting pieces you’ve written already.
I need my “groove” back ;)
Best,
Elise
Elise,
Thank you for your comment! The Smashbox Foundation Primer is used BEFORE foundation; it’s designed to help your regular face makeup go on smoothly and creates a more flawless complexion. Of course, on days when I don’t feel like bothering with the whole routine I just use the primer to help even out my skin tone.
For discoloration under the eyes and concealing brown spots, I’d recommend purchasing a concealer that’s about 1 or 2 shades lighter than your natural skin tone. If you go too dark, that will just draw more attention to the problem. Also make sure to blend, blend, blend!!! You can also use a bit of translucent face powder once you’re done to set the concealer.
Hope these tips help :)