Beauty: Budget-Friendly Favorites

My husband asked me a couple weeks ago why I had to spend so much money on make-up.  To me the answer was obvious, and I confidently said that designer beauty items were simply better.  To which he responded, “how do you know? You haven’t tried anything from the drugstore since like high school!”.  He was right.  So…I said challenge accepted!

I ran to Target and spent a little time browsing through the beauty section.  I actually never go through those aisles unless it was to grab nail polish remover or cotton rounds.  There are so many brands and so many options, and I was actually quite impressed at the selection and innovation of some products that matched the fancy and higher-end counterpart.  With the challenge of finding a great inexpensive product in mind, I wanted to try everything.  It was at that moment that I realized the major bonus of budget products was that it afforded me the ability to experiment.  If I hate, no biggie.  It won’t set me back or ensue a lecture of money management from my husband.  

So I picked up a few things and gave it a shot!  And I found a few products that will likely be a permanent addition to my makeup bag, and none of them cost more than $20!

1. Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Perfector – I’m always on the lookout for a great light moisturizer that has a little bit of tint.  I can use it everyday when I’m not up for putting on any makeup.  And one that has SPF is a definite bonus.  Going even further, this Neutrogena product contains retinol.  I’m sure most y’all know the benefits of retinol – anti-aging, hyper-pigmentation corrector, pore refiner, etc.  Of course, this has a very light form of retinol since its not the main ingredient, but every little bit helps. I really like this product! It provides good sheer coverage and its super light which leaves skin moisturized and a little dewy.

2. L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation – This is a liquid foundation within a cushion compact.  The cushion technology is all the rage right now.  It is convenient for travel and on-the-go since its a compact form to include a sponge applicator.  I actually purchased the Lancomé version last summer and didn’t buy it again once it was done.  I felt like it didn’t last as long as my other foundations and couldn’t justify the cost.  Maybe I was putting on too much.  Not really sure.  BUT, the benefit of the L’Oréal cushion foundation is that its less than half the cost, so I can re-buy guilt free.  As for the actual foundation,  I honestly couldn’t tell the difference.  It went on smoothly, great coverage and the color I purchased matched my skin tone pretty well.  For around $15 dollars, I’d say it was worth the investment.

3.  Essence How to Make Your Face Glow Contour & Highlight Box – I’m all about a good makeup palette.  Its cuts down the getting ready time since I don’t have to rummage through drawers upon drawers looking for that specific shade of blush, eye shadow or whatever (I should probably organize, I know!).  This Essence box includes a highlighter, a pinky blush and shimmery bronzer.  While I wouldn’t use it for a perfect contour, its great for daily cheek color.  My favorite is the highlighter – I just put a little above my cheekbone,  and it gives me a light glow and brightens my face.  It also comes with step-by-step instruction card hidden behind the mirror to guide contour beginners like myself.  🙂  I actually keep this kit in my purse.  Its great to touch-ups and on the go!

Moral of the story – you don’t always need to splurge on this season’s beauty trends.  Sometimes your local Target or CVS will have exactly what you’re looking for!

I plan to try out more budget beauty products so let me know if you have any favorites I should try!

Shop the items here:

xo, Lydia