We definitely don’t have to be the ones to remind you of a little thing called the cost of living crisis. And while hunting for a bargain is no new concept, we reckon now more than ever is the perfect time to squeeze our dollar so it gets a little further.
So while we can’t quite control the cost of petrol, we’re turning our attention to our bathroom cabinets to find the best cheap beauty buys that don’t cost the world. Think skincare, lip products, mascara, brow gels, concealers and plenty more.
How to achieve the perfect pout with a lip stain
Best cheap beauty buys under $25
Part lip balm, part hydrating cream, part everything else, this multi-use ointment is the Swiss army knife of the beauty world. It’s super thick to nourish your entire body without that sticky or greasy feeling.
While the internet might claim this is a dupe for the coveted Nars concealer, this Maybelline product stands tall on its own. It’s creamy and hydrating for under eye brightening and rogue red spots.
Not in the budget to go full size? Choose mini instead! The mini-me size is great for makeup bags and touch-ups on the go, and a great way to test out products before you’re ready to commit. This Clear Brow Gel from the queen of brows is no different.
At under $20, this Rimmel mascara gives you big, bold lashes without clumping or weird flaking. It’s buildable too if you’re partial to a midday touch-up.
Gliding like butter on the skin (get it?), highlight and brighten with this cool-tone shimmer powder for an instant pick-me-up.
This pocket-sized travel-friendly blush gives a beautiful wash of colour over the cheeks. The powder formula isn’t at all drying and can be used as an eyeshadow.
Make things foamy and delicious in the shower with this lightweight scented foam. There’s a range of ‘flavours’ on offer but we can’t go past their bestseller, Passionfruit Pop. Added fun bits? Kakdu plum and finger lime also feature in the ingredients list.
Best cheap beauty buys under $15
A makeup bag staple. Use it to cleanse the complexion and remove makeup without drying or stripping the skin of its natural oils. The sensitive formulation is the perfect option for those with irritated skin.
Available in an array of colours, this lipstick has great pigmentation while nourishing the pout. The best part is when you’re finished with your lipstick, purchase a refill so you can use the packaging again and again.
You’re not going to find a cheaper serum on the market. At a little over $10, The Ordinary’s solution gently exfoliates and clears the pores to leave you with a smooth complexion.
Boasting 8 hours of hydration, Sephora’s own brand of lip balm is moisturising and nourishing while offering a natural wash over the lips.
Made in collaboration with Hello Kitty, this pink-hued lippie adds a sheer glossy finish for a smooth application and hydrating results.
Another mini we’ll stand by. The creamy formulation doesn’t crease or cling to dry patches, while the miniature size is perfect to toss in your handbag.
For long lasting eyeshadow, turn to this. Prep the skin by applying over the eyelids to ensure a vibrant hue of eyeshadow, a crease-less application and colour that doesn’t budge.
Best cheap beauty buys under $10
There’s not much you can get these days for a fiver. At MCoBeauty, you can grab this gold shimmery lip oil. It will give your pucker that your-lips-but-better finish while nourishing and conditioning at the same time.
Available from Kmart, this two-in-one cheek and lip tint in this handy little stick design gives a fun glow over the complexion for a radiant, sunkissed flush.
Draw on that cat eye without the fear of smudging with this easy-to-use applicator. It drys quickly, is waterproof and has a precision tip for even those most intricate of designs.
Take your makeup to the next level with a pair of false eye lashes. Choose from 5 different designs (everything from natural to multi-dimensional) to suit the occasion.
This tint is nourished with Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid for hydrated complexion. Apply directly to the cheeks and lips for a buildable look that will leave you radiant.
Smooth like silk, it’s hard to come by a pencil that works so hard for under $10. The rich pigmented colour glides over the delicate eye area thanks to cocoa and shea butter for a long lasting finish.
Is expensive makeup really better?
No, a high price doesn’t always have to mean better. Nor does a cheaper product mean it’s of bad quality.
Your idea of what is “better” really determines on what you value in a product, how it reacts with your skin and how often you’ll actually use it.
How do you know if makeup is good quality?
High quality makeup can be characterised be a few things:
- Rich pigmentation
- Smooth application
- Good quality ingredients
- Great reviews from real users
Don’t always look for fun packaging or rely on brands for their opinion. It’s always best if you can try products before you buy or seek reviews from people who have used the item before.
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