30 Classic Drugstore Beauty Products That Never Disappoint

Shopping for makeup can be so much fun, especially for us beauty junkies

Photo: Unsplash/@contentpixie

Photo: Unsplash/@contentpixie

Shopping for makeup can be so much fun, especially for us beauty junkies. We remember the days, back in our teens, we makeup shopping met visiting the aisles at our local drugstores. The best finds worked just as good as our luxury makeup purchases, but for such a steal. To this day, nothing matches the excitement of a beauty product that works wonders without costing us much at all.

There are probably several winning beauty items that you tried way back when and trust to give you a great look, consistently. Once you find these gems, you don’t let go! You’ve probably bought these products more times than you can count, and they are tried-and-true mainstays in your makeup bag and vanity. We wanted to share some of the best-known, best-loved beauty products that you can still grab at a drugstore near you, or online. They live on best-of cosmetics lists, get all the reviews stars, and have people raving all over the world.

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Maybelline New York Great Lash Washable Mascara

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwF8-5oAbX1/

Let’s start with one of the most iconic drugstore product of all time–Maybelline New York Great Lash Washable Mascara. After 40 years, the product is still known and loved for its lash-doubling formula that really defines your lashes for a natural-yet-better look.

(Maybelline review)

“There is no substitute. This is the best mascara on the market and has been a constant in my make up bag thank you maybelline:)”

Maybelline New York Great Lash Washable Mascara, $7, maybelline.com

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Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick, in Fire And Ice

Revlon Super Lustruous Lipstick is a classic product, no matter what shade you choose, but there are specific colors that have really stood the test of time, to become tried-and-true classics. Fire & Ice is an orange-red lippie which was introduced in 1952; it has appeared on best-lipstick lists ever since.

(Amazon review)

“I got this because I’ve heard it Revlon Fire and Ice is the best red lipstick for any woman. I’ve got Chanel and other brands and they’re nice, but I get the most compliments when I wear this lipstick. I wear it with jeans and people say “WOW! You look great!”. I wear it with work clothes or fancier things and people compliment it too. People I don’t even know say “I love your lipstick! You look fantastic!”… and it’s Revlon. Seriously… REVLON!

GET YOURSELF SOME OF THIS LIPSTICK! Seriously, do it. Wear it, with everything. You’ll be glad you did!”

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick, in Fire And Ice, $8, amazon.com

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Milani Baked Blush

Not all top blushes have to be on the pricey side. Just take Milani’s Baked Blush for example. It appears on many best blushes lists, and it retails for under $8! There are four colors to choose from, but a favorite is the warm Luminoso.

(Ulta reviews)

“I decided to try this because I had heard wonderful things about it and that Luminoso is a dupe for NARS Orgasm. It is beautifully pigmented and would be pretty on any skin tone. I own the NARS, and I would say that Luminoso is a bit more peachy. I actually like it more! (And if you’ve looked at the price tag on the NARS, it is definitely worth a try!) It doesn’t take much to get the look you’re going for, but at the same time, it’s not a blush that is so heavily pigmented that it’s easy to go heavy handed. Very nice, and the price is unbeatable.”

“I got shade Luminoso and it is sooo pretty on the skin. It doesn’t go on blotchy like some of the other drugstore blushes. It goes on really smooth and blends really nice. Has a slight shimmer but not too overpowering. Gives a really nice glow. Similar to the Milani baked bronzer. I definitely recommend this to anyone!!!!!!”

Milani Cosmetics Baked Blush, in Luminoso, $8, ulta.com

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NYX Bright Idea Illuminating Stick

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bh3bB7dA7pt/

Highlighters instantly give the face a healthy, youthful, and ethereal glow. They will make specific points of your face pop, and draw everyone’s eyes there. So, you want a highlighter that will work the best. NYX’s Bright Idea Illuminating Stick comes in 12 shades (four highlighters, four blushes, and four bronzers), and gives a long-lasting, pretty glow.

(NYX review)

“I started using the topaz tan about a month ago as a contouring stick on medium-dark skin. I rub the stick right under the cheekbone to create a soft golden brown contour line that I blend it out with a brush or beauty blender and it looks amazing. I then use one of the lighter illuminating sticks as a highlighter on the cheekbone. These sticks are perfect and you can’t beat the price.”

NYX Professional Makeup Bright Idea Illuminating Stick $6, nyxcosmetics.com

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Essie Nail Polish

Available at the drugstore, but also appearing in posh salons everywhere, Essie nail polish is a constant favorite brand of beauty lovers. There are so many incredible staple colors in Essie’s collection (hello, Ballet Slippers!), and something absolutely amazing for everybody.

(Target review)

“I love this color. It’s a very very pale pink. Perfect natural looking color that matches with everything. Also goes great if you want a pink toned French manicure. My go-to shade for summer!”

Essie nail polish in Ballet Slippers, $8, target.com

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L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray

L’Oreal’s Elnett Satin Hairspray is a classic used on celebrities, models, and everyday women for ages. It is known for providing great hold, but not in a helmet-y way. Elnett also makes it easy to brush the hair, which is nearly impossible with a lot of hairsprays.

(Ulta review)

“I have very fine, thin hair – this product does not make it greasy or lay flat. It is not stiff or sticky, and I also find that I can brush it out, but if I want to, later on, I run a damp (not dripping wet) comb through my hair and can style it with ease.”

L’Oreal Elnett Satin Extra Hold Hair Spray, $14, ulta.com

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L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lipcolour in Fairest Nude

Not all classics are of the pricier department store variety. Drugstore classics are timeless and affordable —win-win! Just like L’Oreal’s Fairest Nude. This color pops up on many best lipsticks ever lists, and plays a pretty balance between beige and pink — and all for under $10!

(Amazon review)

L’Oreal Paris Lipstick is one of the only two brands I can use that doesn’t “bleed” on my lip line. I LOVE this color— very neutral & the lipstick itself is moisturizing & stays on pretty well. I’m fairly tough on lipstick & I consider this a good one. I’ve been buying this brand for over a decade now!

L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lipcolour in Fairest Nude,$9, lorealparisusa.com

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Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer

Another drugstore product that has caught the attention of beauty writers is Physicians Formula’s Murumuru Butter Bronzer. It provides the best of both worlds when it comes to cream and powder blushes, bronzes the skin, and has been reviewed over 1,300 times on Amazon, where it’s a #1 Best Seller).

(Amazon review)

“I’ve purchased so many bronzers in every price range and didn’t have high hopes for this one…but based on the reviews and price I thought I’d give it a try. This is the first bronzer that doesn’t make me look like I applied bronzers. It’s just a subtle bronze glow and I love it! I like it so much that I’m thinking of stocking up in case the mfr decides to discontinue it one day. :)”

Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer, $9, amazon.com

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Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Face Wipes

Makeup is amazing, but you also want an equally amazing beauty product to take all of it off. A classic that a lot of people agree is one of the best beauty items you can buy at a drugstore is Neutrogena’s Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes.

(Amazon review)

“Love these. Gentle and soft. They get rid of it all…..eye makeup and even sunscreen or bare minerals, which is so good but sometimes hard to get washed off. No strong smell….much better than Burts Bees…..which sting a little and have too much scent. We live on a big boat full time so these are really nice for cleaning my face……when we are in the Bahamas, we have to be very careful about water use and these fit the bill perfectly. I use them sometimes even when I have no makeup on just to freshen up my face. Very refreshing and they leave a nice NOT greasy feel to my face. I keep a packet in our stateroom and the salon so I can grab one whenever I need one. This is much better than using a washcloth, lots of water and yet another product to get the grime and makeup off of my face.”

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes Twin Pack, $9, amazon.com

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Maybelline New York Expert Wear Twin Brow & Eye Pencils

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwKvAoVDvFW/

This product holds a special place in the hearts of more than one generation of Latinxs. It appears in memes, where it is pointed out that the best way to use it is by first melting the top of the pencil with a lighter to get the right consistency and amount of color (but test it on your hand first to avoid burning yourself, m’ija!). It’s a classic, and so affordable — and you get two pencils per pack!

(Amazon review)

“This is my favorite eyeliner and I have been using it since the ’80s. It can be used for both eyes and brows. I like it because you can use it for lightly lining your eyes and for doing really dark lines. The trick to doing really dark black lines is to melt it for a couple of seconds over a lighter, let it cool for another few seconds, blow on it, then carefully line your eyes. If you make a mistake, you can easily correct it with eye makeup remover on a Q-tip. It stays on pretty much all day (and night – lol) as well if you use the melting method. I recommend you give the melting method a try if you are looking for a dark black liner that really stays put better than any other. It doesn’t flake off or really smear. You might only have to touch up at the corner of your eyes, but that’s about it.”

Maybelline New York Expert Wear Twin Brow & Eye Pencils, $3, amazon.com

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Black Opal True Color Perfecting Stick Foundation

It’s hard enough finding a great stick foundation but add to that the frustration of not finding one that works for brown skin tones. Thankfully, Black Opal’s best-selling True Color Matching Stick Foundation comes in 16 beautiful colors, from Kalahari Sand to Ebony Brown.

(Black Opal review)

“I love this product along with your concealer. These products help mimic a flawless complexion without the “cakey” look and it doesn’t clog my pores. I get compliments all the time now that switched from MAC cosmetics to Black Opal cosmetics. Thank you so much for creating this product and keep up the good work!!!??”

Black Opal True Color Matching Stick Foundation, $1o, blackopalbeauty.com

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Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner

Revlon is one of the leaders when it comes to classic, tried-and-true, universally-loved cosmetics. Another Revlon product that is a drugstore fave is their Colorstay pencil eyeliner. Said to last a whopping 16 hours, the brand calls it “America’s #1 Longwear Eyeliner.” And we are all here for an eyeliner (in eight different shades) that doesn’t budge and smudge after only an hour or so.

(Amazon review)

“I have purchased expensive eyeliners that are not as good as this. In the last few years, I only buy this particular eyeliner. It might sound strange, but I use it for my eyebrows as well because it doesn’t smudge easily and the color is perfect. I highly recommend this product to try out.”

Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner Pencil, $4, amazon.com

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Tweezerman Tweezers

There are brands we trust forever because they work amazingly well, on a consistent basis. Like Tweezerman tweezers. They get each and every hair, are affordable, made of grade stainless steel, hand sharpened, and come in all sorts of iterations.

(Amazon review)

“When i got my hands on a pair of Tweezerman tweezers I never went back. They are a bit on the spendy side but I personally think they are worth it. These tweezers get hairs that you can’t see without a magnified mirror. Hairs that you can’t get with the regular tweezers you find at the drug store. They are sharp and they stay sharp for a long time. I notice they get dull after a year or so but I use my tweezers for a lot of things. They are great and I’m glad I searched them here because they are the cheapest here that I’ve found.”

Tweezerman Tweezers, prices vary, amazon.com

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Maybelline New York Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Color

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxpeldKhEJP/

Maybelline is another classic, go-to cosmetics brand that just happens to be pretty affordable. Chances are, you probably have a ton of their products in your makeup stash. Well, we have another must-have for you: Maybelline’s Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Color. The colors are great, and the formula lasts 16 hours, and it’s under $10!

(Target review)

“I have this in a few different colors and it’s amazing. I’ve received tons of compliments. I can eat a super messy cheeseburger and it will still stay on perfectly. It’s also not as drying as other matte lipsticks!”

Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Color, $7, target.com

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Soap & Glory Archery Brow Gel

Crafting the perfect brows is a daunting task. You want to spend the right amount of time and effort on them, but want the eyebrow product(s) you use to work their best. Soap & Glory’s Archery Volu-Boost Fibre Gel fills, conditions, thickens, volumizes, and makes the brows look amazing for 12 hours.

(Amazon review)

“This stuff is amazing! Total dupe for Benefit’s Gimme Brow. I actually like this one much more than the Benefit! I got mine in the shade “talk of the brown”, and it’s perfect. I’m fairly light complected and this is a nice brown shade that looks incredibly natural. It’s not super dark, but not too light either. Just a perfect medium brown. I have some very sparse patches in my brows that I usually have to spend a lot of time on with a tiny micro brow pencil, powder and pomade to get it to look natural. This did the job of all three! Has little fibers in it that built on the hairs I already had made them look fuller and it filled in those patches perfectly. I work in the heat and sweat a lot, but this stuff was still in place long after my foundation had melted off”

Soap & Glory Archery Volu-Boost Fibre Gel, $12, soapandglory.com

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Ardell False Eyelashes

There are products that prove that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a stellar beauty item. Many sources, including beauty industry professionals, claim that Ardell false lashes are just as good as the pricey ones. Some say the best on the market. —period. There are so many different styles to choose from, and the prices are just as great.

(Amazon review)

“I love Ardell 110 lashes. They are on the longer side but look natural enough even in daylight. I wear them without mascara and have gotten compliments from peeps who didn’t realize they were fake until I ‘fessed up. Toss on some mascara for evenings and you’ve got instant glam. I am ecstatic to find these sold in a pack of 4 pairs. The lashes will last weeks if you do this simple trick. Dip a cotton swab into an oil-based makeup remover, heck even household coconut or olive oil will work. Don’t use too much or too little. Run the swab across the base of the eyelashes. Wait at least a minute. Lashes should peel away easily and not damage your real ones. Peel soft glue off the eyelash base, wipe lashes softly with a tissue. You can use them over and over.”

Ardell Lashes, prices vary, amazon.com

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Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxDibIagf3U/

Don’t be surprised that there are multiple Maybelline products on this roundup of drugstore must-haves. They’ve been making products that women want to wear for over a century! Today, right here, we will be focusing on their amazing Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer. With almost 5,000 Amazon reviews, it’s safe to say that the product works at lessening dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines.

(Amazon review)

“I am a makeup snob. I have stupidly high standards for cosmetic performance, and drugstore brands have let me down every single time I’ve given them a shot. So when I graduated from Covergirl to Sephora after college, I never looked back. My kit is full of Dior and YSL foundation, Armani concealer, Benefit brighteners, etc.

I say this in order to grab the attention of my fellow makeup snobs: If you would never even consider Maybelline, this review is for you…”

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer, $7, amazon.com

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L’Oréal Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara

When a product works, it works. You’ll end up going back to it, time and time again, knowing you’ll have a great result. L’Oreal’s Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara is such a product. So much so, that it is said to be a go-to for many professional makeup artists.

(Amazon review)

“I was looking for something long-lasting, actually BLACK, and something that would make my lashes longer because they are short and hard to grow out, and I got all of that in this mascara. I was very very satisfied with this product and I mean that in the most genuine way. The color (Carbon Black) is very nice, just what I wanted– a nice dark black to define my lashes against my semi-dark eyeshadow. The definition and the length it gives me is amazing; I read the reviews before purchasing of course and I was like “It can’t be THAT great…”. Well, it was. I can’t say that I’ve ever had a mascara that I like this much. It stays on well throughout the whole day too, no smudges, doesn’t feel wet either. No crumbles as well (an amazing feat. to pull off). I’m in love. I’ve gotten so many compliments too. I fully recommend to anyone on the fence of buying.”

L’Oréal Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara, $8, lorealparisusa.com

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NYX Professional Makeup Setting Spray

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxgQuo1JuZo/

What’s the point of creating a perfectly made-up face if it’s not going to stay that way for as long as you want it to?! Having to reapply and touch up here and there is such a pain. Save yourself that drama with the popular NYX Setting Spray. Spritz your look (with either their dewy or matte-finish spray), and then enjoy your day/night.

(Ulta review)

“I was surprised by how well this product works. Living in Florida my skin is very oily and makes my makeup melts. This product keeps my face matte all day and I still have my makeup in place after 8 hours. Love this product.”

NYX Setting Spray, prices vary, ulta.com

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L’Oréal True Match Liquid Foundation

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxSs8ngDMMN/

L’Oréal True Match Super-Blendable Foundation Makeup is another drugstore-priced product that works like a big-league item. There are a whopping 45 shades to choose from, and the blendable, moisturizing formula has made a fan of thousands of reviewers.

(Ulta review)

“I use the product on average every day. I wear it to work, on dates, and for photo shoots. I love true match for many many reasons but here are just a few: Whether I’m tanned due to our hot summers or lighter during the winter. I have a shade that fits my skin tone perfectly(soft Sable winter, nut brown summer). Another reason why I love this product is its blend-ability. I apply it with a blush brush (I love the area of the brush), and when I blend it in its so smooth and leaves a barely-there appearance for a more natural look. This is the ONLY foundation I use! !!!”

L’Oréal True Match Super-Blendable Foundation Makeup, $11, ulta.com

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Rimmel London Lasting Lipstick by Kate in 01

When supermodel Kate Moss collaborated with cosmetics brand Rimmel London, a lot of great lipsticks were created. One of these is 001, a boldly-colored lipstick, with a creamy finish which makes it a very wearable red.

(Amazon review)

“Love this lipstick such a bold color and makes me look like I’m from the 40s! Took about 3 weeks to get here but it’s worth the wait!”

Rimmel London Lasting Lipstick by Kate in 001,$5, amazon.com

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Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwS26dcFyLt/

Great skincare starts with a solid face cleanser. Cetaphil has been recommended by dermatologists for years for its a gentle-yet-effective formula and shows up on several lists boasting the best products to get at your local drugstore. Basically, it’s a classic that works.

(Amazon review)

“This has been the only facial cleanser I have been able to use for some time now. I saw it recommended by a makeup artist on youtube. For some reason when I started nearing my 30th yr, I started to break out along the top of my back and shoulders, as well as my face. Hormones change over time, so I guess it just happens! Anywho, this face wash has been a life saver for me! I use it on my face and back, and after using it for a few weeks I cleared up nicely, and now I rarely get any pimples. I am able to wear tank tops again without being embarrassed. I might sound like a cheesy infomercial talking about this, but I really can’t say enough about how much it helped me. I had tried Proactive, Clearasil, and so on and so on, but I found out that they were just really irritating my skin and making the situation a little worse. I really can’t recommend this enough, I wish someone would have told me about it in my teenage years!”

Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, $10, amazon.com

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L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara

https://www.instagram.com/p/Btwm26bh2Pp/

L’Oreal’s Voluminous Lash Paradise mascara is so popular, they claim one tube is sold every five seconds. With even more black pigments, more than 200 bristles, and a formula that provides length and volume, while still feeling soft, it has several key features of a winning mascara.

(Amazon review)

“This is the mascara of my dreams. I use to use the better than sex mascara but it irritated my eyes, flaked, was hard to remove, and was $24! I’ve been on the hunt for a mascara that could replace that one and after almost two years, and dozens of failed mascaras I have found it. this one is the best mascara I have ever used. Yeah, I said it. It lengthens, separates, adds volume, doesn’t clump, and holds the curl of my natural lashes! The pictures I’m posting are literally ONE COAT! One! I’m in lash paradise! :D”

L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara, $10, ulta.com

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Maybelline Fit Me! Matte + Poreless Foundation

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxiKE0pBkUD/

With over 3,000 Amazon reviews, and several beauty writers calling this a must have, Maybelline’s Fit Me! Matte + Poreless Foundation is a product you might just want to invest in. The oil-free formulation offers medium coverage while refining the pores, and is available in over 40 fabulous shades.

(Amazon review)

“This is one of the most natural looking foundations I’ve owned. I usually have trouble finding a good match because I have olive tones but this one is darn close to my natural color. I love to wear it with a setting powder and brows for a natural, minimalist look. It gives me light coverage on my undereye circles and generally evens out my skin. It’s also easy to layer other products over it and it blends out beautifully with fingers or a sponge. I would say it’s light to medium coverage. I bought the color 228 Soft Tan.”

Maybelline Fit Me! Matte + Poreless Foundation, $6, amazon.com

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Revlon Lipstick in Cherries in the Snow

A lot of the most fabulous red lipsticks are classic hits that have been making women glam for decades. Such is Revlon’s Cherries in the Snow, which debuted in 1953. The red shade is fun and different, as it has more of a pink/berry/fuschia/magenta color to it.

(Amazon review)

Love this shade — somewhere between pink and red and quite wearable with my fair skin. Will definitely buy it again.”

Revlon Lipstick in Cherries in the Snow, $5, amazon.com

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Bioré Deep Cleansing Pore Strips

How many products have you been using pretty consistently since 1997? Chances are, Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips is on that list. Do you remember the first time you saw the forest of blackheads on that sticky face strip?! It was amazing to witness, and by just looking at the strip, and your face afterward, you knew this was a special beauty product. It remains a beauty fave, over 20 years later.

(Amazon review)

“I love using these! I always use a pre-cleanse “dermalogica” and then cleanse my face before using. I’ve always had very large pores on my nose. After keeping up with using my pre-cleanse which helps pull oils out common for people who use makeup “which I don’t” but it’s helped with my pores a lot. With that being said I needed an extra hand so with what little blackheads I’ve had left I been using these strips and it took maybe a month if that and I barely have any blackheads left. When using make sure that your cleansing your face also exfoliating twice a week keep this routine going while using these strips every other day you will see a big difference!”

Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips, $6, amazon.com

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Rimmel London Exaggerate Eye Definer

When you want a dramatic cat eye, you want an eyeliner that can give you that exaggerated look. With a name like Rimmel London’s Exaggerate Eye Definer and a bold reputation to match, you know this eye pencil will deliver a noticeable wing. A retractable tip, built-in smudger, built-in sharpener, and waterproof formula just makes the entire process more flawless.

(Amazon review)

“I’ve used a lot of eyeliner and a lot of cheap eyeliner and this is by far the best I’ve used, glides on very nice and has a dramatic effect. Stays in place amazingly and I used it on my waterline and it made it thru a day of hiking, swimming and showering before I wiped it off… It only sunk down a little but I would just wipe that away and it would still look like I was wearing eyeliner. Wonderful product — will be purchasing again and you should too!”

Rimmel London Exaggerate Eye Definer, $5, amazon.com

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COVERGIRL LashBlast Volume Mascara

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwc6Sf7lG40/

It’s safe to say that a lot of top-notch mascaras don’t live behind fancy department store counters or glitzy makeup stores, but rather in the aisles of your favorite drugstore. They’re not only fabulous, but they’re also inexpensive — win win! COVERGIRL LashBlast Volume Mascara gives your lashes 10 times the volume they naturally have, with a hypoallergenic formula that won’t upset your eyes, just make them look amazing.

(Amazon review)

“I’ve been using this product for years now and it is hands down the best mascara that exists. It stays on all day and never needs to be re-applied. The brush is silicone/plastic/rubber (or something) which I think is what truly sets this apart. The mascara NEVER and I mean NEVER get clumpy. The brush separates my lashes and evenly coats each one to make them look FULL and long. I also use the waterproof one when needed and it never comes off when swimming and works just as well to coat each lash. Not sure I will ever switch to another brand!”

COVERGIRL LashBlast Volume Mascara, $6, amazon.com

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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Dewy, luminous, moisturized skin is a necessity, and Neutrogena has built its long reputation on knowing how to deliver amazing piel. Another must-have drugstore product for many people is Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Gel. The Amazon’s Choice contains hyaluronic acid and a gel moisturizer formula (which is oil-free, fragrance-free, and dye-free), that will keep your skin looking hydrated.

(Amazon review)

“I have combination dry/oily skin and I got this after seeing the TV commercial and decided to try it out.

I’ve been using this daily for a few weeks now and I really love it! It doesn’t take much to apply to my whole face, dries quickly and makes my skin feel super soft. It also seems to be balancing out my skin- not super oily/dry anymore. I’d recommend this if you have a similar skin type.”

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, $17, amazon.com

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Pixi by Petra Glow Tonic

If you want your face to glow, you should probably try the drugstore fave Pixi Glow Tonic. The exfoliating, oxygenating, and firming toner contains 5% glycolic acid, and soothing aloe vera and ginseng. Glow Tonic will help your skin look its best, even before you start putting any makeup on it.

(Amazon review)

“I’ll admit I wasn’t the most diligent about my skincare routine for MANY years. That changed in my late 20s when a friend of mine (who freelances as a beauty writer) told me about this. I don’t want to oversell this tonic but OMG. It’s like some miracle face potion that has completely revamped my skincare game. After the first use, I noticed a striking difference in my skin. My pores appeared smaller, my skin was smoother/brighter, and the tone of my face was a nice balanced glow from chin to forehead. I remember staring in the mirror, stunned at the fresh, glowing face looking back at me. Every inch of my skin was singing and every contour was reflecting light. As a dude, I was never taught the importance of a good skincare routine and I didn’t start caring until I noticed signs of aging. Thank goodness I found this. I now look forward to washing my face (I’m serious) and I’m noticing a steady improvement with prolonged usage. I didn’t believe in cure-alls until I found this tonic. Bless the Pixies who make this.”

Pixi Glow Tonic, $32, amazon.com

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NYX Butter Gloss

Imagine a product that advertises a buttery lip, and delivers just that! NYX’s Butter Gloss is such a product. Available in 24 gorgeous colors, it leaves the lips glossy and moisturized, with a formula that is both cruelty-free and PETA certified. It delivers the best lip looks for only $5!

(Ulta review)

“I must have at least a dozen of these colors. The color is creamy and shiny.”

NYX Butter Gloss, $5, ulta.com

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