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I’m going to let you in on a little secret: Expensive makeup products aren’t the all-time best. Yep, there are actually tons of affordable lipsticks, mascaras and concealers that perform better than their designer counterparts. Just ask the Us team. We have plenty of holy grail beauty items that are under $20. The best part, though? They’re all available on Amazon. Keep reading to discover our all-time favorite drugstore makeup.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
“I must admit I’m a bit bougie when it comes to my makeup choices. Most of my vanity contains brands you’ll only find at Sephora or Nordstrom, but this drugstore mascara is one I will never replace. In fact, after years of using expensive mascara formulas, this converted me back to the affordable life. (My wallet has been thanking me ever since.) This life-changing mascara takes lashes to new lengths courtesy of bamboo extract that builds upon each individual lash. Two swipes is enough to fool people into believing I’m wearing falsies. Yep, the results are that dramatic.” — Mary Honkus, Part-Time Commerce Writer
Mineral Fusion 3-in-1 Color Stick
“I’m a maximalist in every area of my life, especially my makeup routine. However, I’m also chronically running late (sorry, friends!). On the days when I barely have two seconds to spare, I quickly swipe this chubby stick along my eyes, across my cheekbones and on my lips for an instant pop of color that brings my features to life. Plus, aside from imparting natural color, the formula also lightly moisturizes. Gotta love a good multitasker!” — Mary Honkus, Part-Time Commerce Writer
e.l.f. 16HR Camo Concealer
“I’ve always been prone to breakouts, so I’ve tried a ton of concealers. Like, a ton. Some are too creamy for pimples and better left for the under-eye area, while others crack and crease on my dry skin. I took a chance on this $7 pick after seeing rave reviews on TikTok, and now I can happily report that a red blemish doesn’t send me into an immediate spiral the way it used to. I apply the tiniest dot of this matte concealer, blot it with a brush and add a tiny bit of powder on top. Boom. Covered. The tube also never leaks, unlike more expensive counterparts I’ve previously tried!” — Suzy Forman, Commerce Editor
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer
“As a beauty writer with super-oily skin, it’s important to have a primer that preserves my glam no matter how sweaty my face gets. This one gets the job done without breaking the bank.” — Jasmine Washington, Commerce Writer
essie Nail Care Apricot Cuticle Oil and Nail Treatment
“I’m the resident dish washer in my house, so hand and nail care is an absolute must. This cuticle oil keeps my nail beds nice and shiny without painful hangnails.” — Jasmine Washington, Commerce Writer
L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion
“If you ask me, bronzed glowy skin is in year round. I use this illuminating lotion to rock a sun-kissed glow no matter the season.” — Jasmine Washington, Commerce Writer
Revlon ColorStay Limitless Matte Liquid Lipstick
“If you want a lipstick that literally won’t budge no matter what you eat or drink, you need this. I’ve tried it several times and it barely wants to come off, even when using a cleanser and wash cloth — it really sticks! It’s my go-to for long days like weddings and concerts when I don’t want to take the time to constantly have to reapply a lipstick. Plus, it’s just $9 and comes in several chic shades from nude to a classic red.” — Olivia Hanson, Commerce Writer
Maybelline Lash Sensational Washable Mascara
“I never have clumpy lashes with this mascara. It always gives my fringe that extra oomph I’m after, and I receive endless compliments when I use it. Supermodels — including Anok Yai — have even stopped to tell me how luscious and full my lashes look!” — Larry Stansbury, Part-Time Commerce Writer
Essie Gel Couture Long-Lasting Nail Polish
“I’m really into clear-coat nail polish. Don’t get me wrong, I love a French manicure, but I always rely on a clear nail coat to give my nails the ultimate shine. This nail polish has been my go-to for years.” — Larry Stansbury, Part-Time Commerce Writer
