Here we are again. We're gathered here today to try and answer the popular question, "High-end or drugstore?". Now, there are plenty of drugstore brands that are coming out with high quality, affordable products that are beating some high-end dupes by a landslide. But when investing in products that you'll be slapping on your face almost everyday, you want to make sure you're getting the most for your money. Here are the products that are worth the investment, and those that you should save your money on.
Splurge
1. Eye-shadow
Before everyone gets their panties in a bunch let me clarify that I have, in fact, owned many drugstore eye-shadows from an array or brands. My point here, is that (generally) higher-end eye-shadow products have a creamier, more pigmented formula. I believe that investing in a high-end eye-shadow palette will pay off in the long run and will last you quite a long time.
2. Foundation
This is debatable, but my vote is to invest in a good foundation. Foundation is one of the most important products of your makeup look! It needs to match your undertones as well as provide benefits according to your skin type. My favorite foundation brand is either Clinique or Tarte, but there are so many to choose from. The key is to set up a consultation to get the perfect match, you'll thank me later.
3. Concealer
Now, not everyone needs concealer, you can actually avoid this extra step if your foundation is full-coverage. But for those of us who enjoy a little something more, then I say go high-end for a concealer. Pencils are my favorite because you can use every last bit of what you have, and it's easier to control the application.
Save
1. Powder
Please don't overspend on powder. I know how much you need to bake and if you bake everyday you're throwing so much money out the window. I spend no more than $10 on a loose setting powder. NYX, E.L.F., and other drugstore brands offer loose and pressed powders that will do the job just as well (if not better than) as a high-end powder.
2. Mascara
I've been there, but put the $30 mascara down. There are so many great drugstore mascaras for under $10. Some have synthetic fibers that stick to your lashes to give a fuller look (a.k.a. the thing you've been paying $30 for). Also you may run through a mascara faster than other makeup products, so it's not worth the splurge. I suggest looking into Maybelline, they have a great variety.
3. Lip products
Just like mascaras, lipsticks, lip balms, and glosses are something that you may run through quickly. But nonetheless there are great drugstore brands that offer pigmented, long-lasting formulas that will be your new favorite thing. Once again, Maybelline is my favorite here, they offer electric, nude, sheer, full coverage, and many other lines of lip products that will cost you around $8 each.
4. Makeup blenders
Do not buy the $20 makeup blender. There, I said it. Why on Earth would you buy the sponge that does the same thing as its $5 counterpart? I recently discovered Ulta's Super Blender and haven't put it down since.
