Picking out new makeup can be extremely daunting, not to mention it can take foreverrrr. Between new, enticing products and trusty, classics, it’s easy to get lost in all the pretty packaging. After experimenting for years, I’ve finally put together a list of my tried and true drugstore makeup products.
LIPS
Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Color in Pioneer. Here it is folks. The most perfect red lip that stays all day and … doesn’t dry out your lips. Yes, it does exist, and it’s amazing. This is my go-to whenever I want to spice up an outfit. I usually like to keep my eye makeup pretty simple when I add this to an outfit, either with a simple wing or even just mascara, to let the lip color speak for itself. They have a beautiful array of colors so make sure to try them out, you will NOT be disappointed.
Nyx Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in Sandstorm. This light brown shade is so different in my opinion and I think it’s particularly beautiful in the fall. It’s a moisturizing lip cream that stays on your lips all day and adds some edginess to any look. With so many shades of this cream lipstick, there is something for everyone.
Aquaphor Lip Balm with SPF. Talk. About. Healing! My goodness, this stuff is very moisturizing and lasts on the lips for quite some time. Bonus: SPF! We tend to forget to protect our lips in the sun, even though it’s very sensitive skin. It never hurts to add some SPF into any one of your makeup products.
EYES
Covergirl Exact Eyelights Waterproof Mascara. If your lashes have a hard time staying curled, meet your new bff. This formula is on the drier side so once you curl your lashes, the mascara holds them in place all day. What’s unique about this product is that it comes in different colors to accentuate every eye color using the color wheel. The one downside I’ve found is that the formula can be very tricky to get off, but again, it is waterproof.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara. Another waterproof mascara that delivers volume and thickness without weighing your lashes down. This product doesn’t flake or run, and it’s fairly easy to remove (especially for a waterproof formula). This has been my go-to for the past few years and I can’t imagine finding anything that comes close to it.
L’Oreal Carbon Black Lineur Intense Eyeliner. I love this eyeliner because it is easy to create the perfect wing. I’ve been using this forever and it continues to impress me. One problem that I have had with it though, is that the formula can become watery after sitting awhile, so before every application, make sure to give it a good shake.
Covergirl Eyeliner. Another black eyeliner that I just can’t get enough of. I love this eyeliner because it comes in matte or shiny, depending on your preference. I’m a matte black girl and the best part about this liner is that it’s always a solid black, never a watery, dark grey. It also stays all day and the applicator makes it easy to create the perfect wing for any level.
Revlon Colorstay Skinny Liquid Liner. The most beautiful brown shade I’ve ever found: Mahogany Flame. With a little bit of shimmer, this liner compliments blue/green eyes wonderfully. The brush applicator may take some getting used to for beginners as it requires a steady hand and more precision, but if you practice, you’ll get the hang of it in no time! I also love the blue shade Navy Shock when I’m feeling like a subtle pop of color.
FACE
L’Oreal True Match Foundation. A buildable foundation that comes in every shade you can ever imagine? Hey, nice to meet ya! This medium coverage foundation never looks cakey, but instead leaves you with a demi-matte look that leaves your skin picture perfect. Colorwise, there are warm and cool tone shades, so there really is a true match for every skin tone.
Maybelline Face Studio Master Concealer. This product works WONDERS for covering those dark circles, and it is a great dupe for MAC’s Pro Longwear Concealer (at less than half the price). This formula is buildable without looking cakey and it stays put all day.
Physician’s Formula Butter Bronzer. It’s not called “butter” for nothing! Meet the most blend-able and trustworthy drugstore bronzer ever. Not only does it blend like a dream, but the shades are truly perfect as they are more cool toned which is what you want! These will not leave you looking like a cheeto, I promise!
And there you have it, my tried and true go-to’s! I hope this posts helps you feel ready to tackle the chaos of the makeup aisles by storm. Let me know in the comments what your favorite drugstore makeup products are!
