Drugstore makeup has a bad reputation, but it’s never been easier to find high-quality items at low prices. So many brands are experimenting with new formulas and innovative products—and you can try them all without breaking the bank.
bare focus tinted hydrator tinted skin veil
wet n wild
This lightweight hydrator offers both coverage and skin benefits—for less than $10. Hyaluronic acid and vegan squalane nourish skin while fine lines and imperfections are blurred thanks to sheer-to-medium coverage. It’s the perfect base for makeup or can be worn on its own.
$6.49 from wetnwildbeauty.com
baked blush
milani
This line of blushes is actually baked on Italian terracotta tiles—not too shabby for a drugstore product! It’s available in 11 luminous satin and shimmer shades that offer buildable coverage so you can capture your perfect glow. Dolce Pink is a shimmery warm shade.
$10.99 from milanicosmetics.com
bite-size eyeshadow
e.l.f. cosmetics
These tiny compacts pack a big impact. These mini eyeshadow palettes offer four highly pigmented blendable shares, in both matte and shimmer finishes. A variety of colors are available. Carnival Candy offers a mix of neutrals with a fun pop of color thanks to a bold blue.
$4 from elfcosmetics.com
lash sensational sky high washable lengthening & volumizing mascara
maybelline
This lightweight mascara delivers on the drama. The formula includes bamboo extract to offer buildable length and volume without fallout or weighing your lashes down. The flexible wand is designed with a spiral brush to make sure every lash gets covered.
$13.99 from maybelline.com
jelly juice hydrating primer
revolution
Get a grip on your beauty routine with this primer. The gel formula gives you a hydrated, glowy base thanks to hyaluronic acid and watermelon. While it works with all skin types, it delivers great moisturizing benefits for dry skin.
$9 from evolutionbeauty.com
fat oil lip drip
nyx professional makeup
This budget friendly lip oil is a great alternative to similar products from luxury brands. Thanks to squalane and cloudberry and raspberry oils it offers hydration for up to 12 hours while also delivering a glossy, high-shine finish. The shade That’s Chic is a translucent plum that’s perfect for fall.
$10 from nyxcosmetics.com