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!