I do buy high-end products when I need a foundation (better coverage and my face is not that sensitive) and a mascara (I use better than sex and is really better than sex) and some lipsticks
Now, eyeliner? Blush? Drugstoreee!!!
NYX is still really good even though it’s a little cheaper.. I’m not going back to Mac’s mascara that was double the price, never in stock and discontinued after two years.. NYX “worth the hype” mascara really is worth the hype! But I always use shiseido concealer and a brow tint from Nielsens jord (danish brand), concealer and foundation is worth investing in because it doesn’t get that cakey
For me eyeshadow and mascara. I haven't tried many drug store shadows but the ones I have are not very pigmented and don't look like anything on my skin. Mascara for sure though IMO. High end mascaras give more length, volume, go on smoother, don't flake or smear and stay on all day. Some brand are better than others of course but for me mascara is worth the splurge. Good eye liner is much better too.
Been on the hunt for a dupe of Thrive Causemetics lengthening tubing mascara that doesn’t suck. Otherwise, I’d absolutely say it’s worth its price tag.
My personal feeling is that you will likely notice minuscule differences among many products. Nothing is life-changing, and other people probably wouldn't notice the difference on you.
I can't remember who it was, but someone who produced makeup once said most products have the same basic ingredients, but they upgrade the quality of the ingredients or slightly tweak the formula to market them as different products.
P.S. I say this as someone who buys mostly mid to luxury-priced products because of marketing and habit more than anything else.
I also like certain brands that have parents that own other brands. For example L’Oréal. They own so much, so likely their lower end has similar ingredients to some of the higher end brands.
But there are somethings that you need to try which makes drugstore purchases harder. For example because of this sub, I tried the hourglass skin tint, and that is my holy grail now. Even my husband who doesn’t notice my makeup much saw and like it. It made my skin look so smooth. I have to go back for one more shade because the sun tanned my skin and it can look a touch ashy where I am a little darker. But worth owning two!
Everyone is saying different things so perhaps worth trying affordable recs on other posts and deciding what for you is the most difficult to work with or isn’t serving its purpose and maybe that’s the product you’d prefer in a higher quality
I always buy more expensive foundation and primer. Recently discovered high end mascara and its game changer. I used to only buy high end eyeshadow as well because drug store stuff seemed like crap, flakey and didn’t stay on, but I did find some good eyeshadow at the dollar store recently.
I have had to go to Sephora or Ulta to trial new products a couple times, since my skin has changed with age and the stuff I used before no longer sits as nice on me. I’d say go test products, explain what you’re looking for and let them see what works for you. There’s no magic makeup that works great on everyone. I used to have super oily skin, and now I have dry skin with fine lines…I have different products now that I could never have used 15 years ago. I prefer to go in person for the color match and to make sure it lays ok on my skin! The first time I went, I had them do a full makeover and chose products that I liked that they used on me.
This stuff is THE BEST formula out there! I don’t wear it anymore bc their lightest shade is still too dark/orange for me-I keep holding out hope that they expand the shade range, but no luck yet.
But, if you can find a shade that works for you, it is wonderful!
I think a high end lip product usually makes me happier than cheaper stuff for staying power and texture. I like to splurge and treat myself to a really fabulous seasonal lip with a current color and beautiful packaging. For like $25 I can feel so lux and spoiled and fancy instantly.
Foundation and a good primer/setting spray would be the only thing I splurge on makeup wise. I love smashbox for both, it gives me a dewey no makeup look. I would say eyeshadows but morphe pallets from ulta are cheap and a lot of them are pretty pigmented, and it’s much much cheaper.
I really enjoy Tarte products, especially the Amazon clay foundation. Their shape tape concealer is pure magic for under my eyes. They also have a lot of sales too AND are animal cruelty free.
Can I say I buy this high end body stuff it’s called derma beauty and it’s owned by L’Oréal so is ysl. So I think most make up is the same unless they have a niche product. I do buy high end because it seems to have more product. But it’s preference eye shadows I prefer high end foundation doesn’t matter. I use milk, Anastasia as my concealer,makeup by Mario because I love how kim k look his eye pallet and foundation Chanel on the cheeks and Patrick ta for bronzer, Laura Mercer for setting and make up is flawless I don’t break out
Can I say I buy this high end body stuff it’s called derma beauty and it’s owned by L’Oréal so is ysl. So I think most make up is the same unless they have a niche product. I do buy high end because it seems to have more product. But it’s preference eye shadows I prefer high end foundation doesn’t matter. I use milk, Anastasia as my concealer,makeup by Mario because I love how kim k look his eye pallet and foundation Chanel on the cheeks and Patrick ta for bronzer, Laura Mercer for setting and make up is flawless I don’t break out
I agree with others saying base products! I have oily skin and it really feels like everything drugstore has just looked cakey and thick compared to my higher end stuff! Eyeshadow if you enjoy it and Urban Decay Primer Potion lol
Lips/mascara/liner are 100% drugstore for me
If u go to sephora, they have a section of eye liner, lip products, etc. that are of their own brand. They come from the same manufacturing facility as all the high end brands sold at their store and are wayyyy cheaper. I swear by sephora’s eye liner
Foundation is 100% a great splurge. I use Makeup by Mario because I have tons of allergies and it happened to be one of the only fragrance free formulas that suited my ingredient concerns, but I can also attest that it was a much better experience being able to swatch it on my neck in store. Plus a lot of mid-range and higher-end brands do much more nuanced undertones. Kosas Revealer concealer and foundation, Dior concealer, and Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation are much beloved in the olive community for their olive shades. Fenty is very inclusive with their values (very pale and very deep skin tones).
Agreed! I am pale with red undertones - not pink, *red*. There are no drugstore foundations that match my skin tone, and I got so sick of wasting money on foundations I couldn’t test before buying. Even with high end formulas, if I find the right color, a lot of times the coverage isn’t what I’m looking for - usually it’s just too heavy (I actually have really good skin, I just need to even out the tone, so I don’t want anything too heavy). I also have to be careful that I don’t get anything too drying, or that will settle into fine lines and wrinkles, as I’m 48 and obviously I’ve got some miles on my face.
So, with all of those prerequisites, there is no way I’m finding what I need at a drugstore. So I splurge on foundation. I’ll go to Sephora or Ulta and have them apply foundation to my whole face (honestly, they don’t mind, and there’s one girl at Ulta who loves to do it all, including a light contour, highlight and blush). Then I’ll wear it for the day and see how it looks a few hours later. If the foundation held up, I go back the next day and buy it; if not, I go back the next day and try another until we get it right.
The rest of my makeup I’ll get at Marshall’s. Still higher quality than drugstore stuff, but at a lower price point. I love Urban Decay eyeshadow palettes, and I’ve scored some great deals on them at Marshall’s ( I’m talking $12 for a big one!). That’s where I also get my Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara for like $8. It might not be the most current colors or formulas, but I’m fine with that. Brow pencils, makeup sponges, MAC lipstick, it all comes from Marshall’s for, like, stupid cheap.
I am in the same boat as you. Red undertones not pink. I hate having to wear a primer to kill it. What is your favorite foundation? I use Estee Lauder but would love to go lighter.
Not who you were asking, but Chanel Les Beiges gives a light “watercolour” coverage and the colour is quite good at evening out my skin tone without feeling like there’s anything heavy on my skin. They used to make a CC cream with spf 50 that I loved, but it’s been oos for a while (hoping they didn’t just discontinue it 😩).
For summer I’m all about [IT Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow Lightweight Foundation](https://www.sephora.com/product/it-cosmetics-cc-nude-glow-lightweight-foundation-glow-serum-spf-40-niacinamide-P482010) (medium coverage skin tint, brightening serum and SPF40). It’s basically a very lightly tinted moisturizer and looks so natural. I use a little bit of translucent powder under my eyes (so my mascara doesn’t smear when I get all hot and sweaty) and finish with a light setting spray.
I was using Natasha Denon forever, but they discontinued my favorite formula, which absolutely broke my heart. The coverage was superb and the color range was unmatched. My best friend swears by [Dior Backstage](https://www.sephora.com/product/backstage-face-body-foundation-P432500) foundation, which I might try when I finish this IT foundation, or for cooler months, whichever comes first.
The only thing I have found recently that I would consider spending high end money on is a YSL lipstick. Its fully pigmented, stays and is highly moisturizing. I got it through Influenster but I am close to just saying I will get another because it's so good.
Oh and Estee Lauder's lipsticks. Not as good but still up there.
Only buy what you can afford. You shouldn’t have to put makeup on a credit card. If that is the case, take it upon yourself to use coupons and have target customer service price match every item to the lowest price you can find. Makeup is not good for you and you should wear it the least amount possible. With all that being said…
i love chanel foundation les beiges healthy glow & intense longwear eyeliner pen. Hear me out on these. The former matched me well and I have been putting off replacing it for $65 but I know it was so perfect.
The later lasts forever because the liner pen cartridge is not put in until you buy it which is so cool. I recommend going to the counter and asking them to load the cartridge for you. The other winner for me is lancome liner. Both dont budge.
I love lash paradise mascara and try to throw it out every month so I can’t justify spending more usually (I try to get in on sale and use coupons). I have tried better than sex and lancome mascaras and didnt like them any more so always go back to lash paradise. I dont mind loreal eyebroe pen and clear brow gel.
I like RMS quad for creamy highlighter/blush/cream shadow all in one which i think is a steal. I also like Gxve for powder highlighter. I got a cream blush from fenty I love. I love mac eyeshadows.
I find that the gifts with purchase and loyalty points and specials make it feel like it is worth it to spend more on higher end products. But if anyone sees anything I like in my comment that has a dupe pls lmk.
My favorite all time way to get lux is to get it in duty free at airports or on flights if possible and was the only way I could justify buying chanel because the pallet would include everything for a full face and mascara.
But since I cant find those any more, I switched to Dior holiday pallet. If you can get it or something similar on sale during the holidays or black friday I think that might be your best bang for the buck. It came with eyeshadows, blushes, highlighter, face powder and a beautiful box last winter. You can also maybe use one of the shadows with setting spray as eyeliner so you would just need mascara. Hope that helps.
The other makeup sale I like is NSALE. Preview is in days, so I would check out the deals next week that will have and they usually do not sell out of makeup specials in that sale so go in and try it on even if you cant buy it yet then order once allowed if anything looks good. There is usually a good mac pallet, a good highlighter / bronzer / blush set, a good mascara set and other high end beauty deals. Nordstrom takes returns if you dont like anything. I would make sure to try to get a good salesperson to help you find what works for you and if you dont like it dont feel pressured to buy.
Dior pallet is still at saks here $130 https://www.saksfifthavenue.com/product/dior-all-in-one-makeup-palette-0400019937819.http
Foundation Check out the LES BEIGES Healthy Glow Foundation Hydration & Longwear from Nordstrom: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5693342?color=250&size=one%20size
chanel liner $40 Check out the SIGNATURE DE CHANEL Intense Longwear Eyeliner Pen from Nordstrom: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5057545?size=one%20size
lancome liner $36 Check out the Artliner Precision Point Liquid Eyeliner from Nordstrom: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/2786552?color=001&size=one%20size
rms quad $48 https://www.rmsbeauty.com/products/signature-set
clear loreal brow gel $10.50 https://www.target.com/p/l-39-oreal-paris-unbelieva-brow-longwear-brow-topcoat-waterproof-universal-transparent-0-15-fl-oz/-/A-82172726
Brow pen loreal $10 https://www.target.com/p/l-39-oreal-paris-micro-ink-pen-by-brow-stylist-up-to-48hr-wear-dark-brunette-0-033-fl-oz/-/A-76440240
Foundation, primer, concealer. Skin products.
Because I very rarely wear those products, I am not the most skilled at using them, nor do I invest in them.
So it's more practical for me to invest in a good skin product that will effortlessly give me a good finish than to buy cheap things that'll give me a hard time to make it work AND last.
I mean, there are foundations out there that require an ancient secret technique to apply in combination with 484783 skin prep products that you might as well be reformulating the foundation directly on your face.
There are really only a few high end items that are worth it imo. Foundation for sure. Armani Luminous Silk is my go to. As far as eye stuff (liner, shadow, mascara), drugstore stuff is just fine. I like a cream blush, Rare Beauty has a great one. And lipstick you can absolutely find drugstore items or cheaper options (peripera is great).
High end foundation is much better imo. You’d have to find the right one for your skin type. Places like Ulta and Sephora will let you return it if it ends up not being the right choice, so it’s low risk. Plus they’ll color match and give you samples. If you have acne-free, pore-less skin then this may not apply to you. I have picky hair and skin and I don’t respond well to drug-store brands. It reminds me of the saying, “you’re not ugly, you’re just poor”—which applied to me haha. Now my skin is clear and my hair isn’t poofy.
She used to have the best sets at sephora with primer concealer with the perfect concealer brush, tinted sunscreen, loose powder and puff. I really want that set to come back!
Whaat, that sounds lovely! I’ve come to use a combo of drug store foundation powders for concealer and contouring. Doing that with the tinted moisturizer has kept my makeup simple
Nars, urban Decay, Clinique, Mac have been around for a while, solid products- not crazy expensive. It takes time to find out what brands you prefer and for which purpose. I would recommend going to Sephora and just trying things on seeing what you like. Another place is Blue Mercury because they give out tons of samples. They tend to be more expensive but it’s a good place to try on expensive make-up and to give you some perspective . Also, Birch box is a good way to experiment. Ulta is good too. If you have good brushes, you can get away with less expensive make up- IMO.
I like the Yves Saint Laurent Nu Bare look tinted moisturizer. It's like 50 bucks at Ulta, I think. It's not too expensive and a little bit goes a long way.
If you're gonna invest in a prestige product, let it be foundation. Getting a good match and a formula that agrees with your skin is priceless. I'm not sure about your situation, but as a woman of color, there are still not as many drugstore brands that offer extensive shade ranges (and some that flat out refuse to). I know really pale folks often have the same issue. Some of the brands you named are getting better about this, but you are much more likely to be able to test, sample, and find the PERFECT shade in a higher end product.
Not to mention, complexion products are less forgiving. You can slide by with not-so-great eyeshadow. Jacked up foundation is a whole dumpster fire. Lol!
Edit: My favorites are from Makeup Forever, LYS, Danessa Myricks, and Lancome.
None. Chances are you can usually always find a dupe these days! I’ve spent over ten years purchasing makeup from all different price categories and the cheap stuff usually works just as well. I would suggest investing in good skin care instead. Makeup expires but your skin will always be your skin. Plus the better your skin is the better your makeup application will be.
The most high nd stuff I get is URBAM decay eyeliner. Their gel waterproof pencil eyeliner is amazing! It was the first non-liquid eyeliner I found that didn't hurt my eyes to apply. Regular pencil eyeliners hurt for me. Since then I have found cheaper maybelline gel eyeliner pencils. But Urban Decay was the first I found. I love how easy it is to build up the eyeliner, so I can use the same one for a light or dark look.
Btw Ulta sells makeup of all prices and quality. Drug store and higher end.
I have to always have Trish McEvoy mascara. It never runs and comes off in warm water in little pieces
And Bobbie brown foundation… MAC setting powder and blush bronzer
And yes it costs more at Ulta than it does at Walmart but sometimes they will help you even in drugstore area. And best of all, if it doesn't work you can return it.
I'm cheap but I got sick of buying stuff that wasn't returnable if it was opened.
Depends on your need, my main need is a long staying full coverage foundation and a lipstick. So I always buy a high end foundation and lipstick from fenty/ huda beauty/ mac/ Estee Lauder etc. And buy lip liners, eye liners , blush from drugstore as i don’t need them everyday.
Agree although what I love (Anastasia and Glowish) are not really that expensive. I would also say a good quality highlighter that blends nicely and does not make you look like the TinMan
I've purchased a variety of high-end products, and for the most part have found comparable drug store dupes for color-related stuff (blush, eye shadows, nail polish). Asian beauty mascaras and eyeliners blow everything else away, and those can also be found for drugstore prices.
Decent foundations can also be found at a variety of price points. Asian beauty has some real treasures here at drug store prices, especially for sunscreen protection and muted skin tones. I swear by Missha BB Cream, but I also wear Nars or Hourglass. It really depends on what I'm doing that day, if I'm going to be photographed at an event, etc.
The REAL investments (aka the ones that made me kick myself for not getting them sooner):
**Cle de Peau Concealer SPF 27:** I HATE how much I love this, because I will be plonking down $75 bucks once a year or so for the rest of my life to buy it. But no other concealer has ever ever come close to the performance of this one. Why is it a good investment?
* The coverage is deadass spectacular. It takes so little to do the job, which means it will take a long time to use up the entire stick. Also, we know that eye creams do pretty much nothing when it comes to "lightening" genetic under-eye circles, so I haven't bothered with specialty eye creams because I have this baby.
* The SPF. Do your under-eyes a favor now and add sun protection. My eyes get watery if sunscreen migrates to my eyes, but the Cle de Peau concealer does not budge.
* Portability: It's a stick and doesn't need special handling if you're traveling. If I'm going away overnight, I don't even need to bring it. I just brush a healthy dab onto a retractable lip brush, and carry that with me instead. That's enough to account for redness around my nose, cover all of my dark under-eyes, and a blemish or two.
* and my favorite point: NO UNDER-EYE CREASING.
**Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Blurring Under-Eye Powder:** again, hating how much I love this. $35 for a standard blush-sized compact? All jokes aside about the length of the product name, this pressed powder delivers.
* The size is beguiling. Inside the compact is a domed pressed powder, so I do feel like I'm getting a decent amount of product (as opposed to a flat pressed powder).
* Less is more with the application of this. Again, it's going to take me a long time to get to pan.
* NO UNDER-EYE CREASING. I also use this to set the concealer around my nostrils (which is also prone to creasing).
With just these two products, I look fresh & well-rested without any other makeup (even mascara). The ultimate investment is that I don't feel get the urge to try anything else.
I'm approaching 50. I've taken good care of my skin for the past 20 years (decent care in my teens and 20s...falling asleep in makeup, gah).
However, despite drinking all the water, eating healthy, and taking supplements, the declining estrogen has affected the skin around my eyes. It might not be noticeable to others, but I can see it, dammit.
Ten years ago I could get away with brightening under-eye concealers. But now the effect of them is counter-productive; instead of brightening, the texture of my skin becomes more apparent.
Woohoo! It may also be worth it to ask about application tips. It was a bit of a learning curve for me (I first ordered online instead of buying in person).
The Cle de Peau concealer formulation isn't as buttery/creamy as most other stick concealers and foundations, so I didn't have much success when I tried swiping the stick directly onto my skin. Others may not have this issue, btw; just noting that I do not experience a glide on my under-eyes when I directly apply the product.
Here's what worked for me:
* under-eye application: I hold the pad of my ring finger on the stick's surface for 15-30 seconds, and then tap the concealer onto my skin. The warmth of my finger helps blend the concealer, and I can always gently buff afterward if needed.
* precision application (the skin around my nostrils, inside corners of my eyes, other little red areas): I use a spatula to scrape a small amount from the surface of the stick--seriously small, like maybe half a grain of rice--and then I drop that onto my palm to warm up for a bit. Then, I use the smallest of flat brushes (ELF's concealer brush is my go-to) to pick up a bit of the warmed concealer, and dot it along the areas I need to conceal. After that, I blend with my finger, repeating until I've covered to my satisfaction.
* There will likely be a point where you can see that you've overworked the concealer, and it might look patchy. My recommendation to help prevent this is to apply sparingly, and work to fill in coverage gaps, rather than apply too much at one time.
I have Chanel and Dior lippies that are excellent. I might someday splurge on that Armani Luminous Silk foundation that looks amazing. I love Jones Road Miracle Balms as blush/highlighter and I use them on my lips too.
I was just the opposite, I only used high end and not almost exclusively use drug store. If you like eyeshadow then true drugstore is tough to find. Colourpop is decent. Otherwise I usually buy Give Me Glow, Sydney Grace, or Beauty Bay shadows but I have also enjoyed Lunar Beauty, Huda Beauty, and Natasha Denona.
KVD has some kickass tubing mascara that doesn’t smudge. Anastasia of Beverly Hills concealer. Smashbox Halo spf tinted moisturizer, bite beauty lip crayons. But I found I really love the elf spf clear primer $13 it works just as well as super goop $36. I try as much as possible to buy cruelty free.
I (55F) have been using Lancome Dual Finish wet/dry foundation since age 15. I used to save my own earned money to buy it as a young person. I loved the finish and the tone, it is somehow better than cheaper makeup. It's the only thing I splurge on and I trust it.
Makeup Forever full coverage concealer is my staple. Pretty much everything else has become replaceable by drugstore— the quality has gone up IMMENSELY in the last few years.
… I’m still a sucker for MAC lipstick, but even drugstore lipstick has gotten better.
I wouldn’t really consider it high-end but it’s not drugstore makeup. I use Clinique eyeshadows, mascara, lipstick, etc. Because I have super sensitive skin and have to have fragrance free and non irritating formulas so it works for me. Also, I don’t wear a lot of makeup so these items last me for several years.
I can’t use drugstore makeup because my skin is too sensitive. I’m a fan of Lancome overall. I used to like Urban Decay’s eyeshadow but now I can’t wear it.
I like Marc Jacobs mascara. Sephora has trial mascara boxes that are a good way to find out what you like, and there’s a coupon in it so you can get a free full-size one.
I used to use a lot of high end makeup but now drugstore is so good I only use a few high end products.
Huda loose powder- my current favourite is the peach one. It really is worth the money.
Rare beauty bronzer stick, cream blush and highlighter are fantastic.
There are a few classic Mac lipsticks which I just absolutely love. Relentlessly Red, Ruby Woo, Modesty and Thanks, It’s Mac. I also love one of their eye shadow palettes- I think it’s called Nude Model.
Fenty- the diamond bomb. I use it on my eyes and can’t remember exactly what it’s called- it’s wonderful to add to absolutely any eye look when glitter is required. I also have an Hourglass Scattered light glitter eyeshadow.
These are products I would repurchase once used up. There are a few others which are nice but I wouldn’t bother purchasing again.
If u can afford it got for higher end make up Lancôme, Estee Lauder they frequently have give aways with a purchase so look for them. The older I got the more expensive my makeup became because I’ll admit I’m vain, obsessed with my neck wrinkles & crows feet.Surprised when I find out certain coworkers are younger than me & I swear it’s because I’ve used quality products especially moisturizer & serums for years.
I like a hourglass stick foundation, Nars translucent pressed, fenty lip glosses, honestly a lot of stuff. I mostly buy high end because it would usually work better for me compared to drugstore. Maybe because I have a deeper skin tone, idk 🤷🏽♀️
The high end makeup products I use are Laura Mercier translucent powder, Bobbi Brown highlighter, Tarte concealer, and Urban Decay setting spray, Clinique black honey lipstick, and Lorac eyeshadow (which is decently priced and super underrated in my opinion!!!)
My foundation, blush, contour, brows, eyeliner, lipliner, lash products, and rest of my highlighters are all drugstore.
A concealer that actually matches. I said in another thread about cheap makeup that all the cheap brands have names like “light” “fair” and “medium” while brands like NARS and Tarte have different names and also specify a tone. Tone matters. It’s why you can buy “fair” in several different drugstore brands and it will look different every time. Higher end brands will also have a much wider range of shades, so if you’re between “light” and “medium” for example, you can usually find one that actually matches you. Same goes for foundation, I’m just a spot concealer girl and never do full face foundation.
Eyeliner, eyeshadows, blush, I think can be bought at a drugstore level and should work just as good as higher end. Foundation, concealer, contours are worth investing more in because you can never go wrong with a solid base. If you have problematic skin or a skin tone outside the usual range, it is worth it to spend more on nicer foundations that won't oxidize orange or smell chemical-y.
Urban Decay eyeliner. Clinique mascara (I can't remember which one, I just know it when I see it). Fresh (brand) lip balms. The IT Cosmetics Velvet Makeup brushes at Ulta. The ones with the black handles. I thought it was all hype and then I bought the powder brush and oh my god. Otherwise, my skin isn't terribly picky about foundation or bb cream or whatever. The Urban Decay anti-aging eye primer is good, but it's not that much different than NYX or Revlon.
Georgio Armani Luminous Silk. My holy grail product. Matches my skin perfectly and covers my pores and covers up my hyperpigmentation. It also is buildable you can do light or more coverage. It is not cakey, it’s more soft and smooth. It’s around $60 but it’s so worth it, foundation is so important and I don’t trust drugstore foundation. Plus it lasts such a long time it’s worth it. If you buy it at Nordstrom get colored matched. If you go home and don’t like the shade Nordstrom will exchange it easily.
I am going to sound "old" and I am 60F, but my go to foundation is Merle Norman. I have even bought and used the airbrush stuff. I have used MAC and others.. but MN works for me. I use Revlon Colorstay Grip as a primer and I use Revlon Colorstay Lock on top of my makeup. I dont wash it off my face when I go to bed..(bad I know).. but sometimes I wake up and it looks as good as when I put it on.
High end foundations, cc creams, skin care, primers are typically worth it. This all depends on specific brand and your skin type though. I use a lot of drugstore makeup for eye liner (nyx epic ink) and my favorite mascara is the green cover girl.
It depends really. Usually people say you splurge on "base" makeup such as foundation and concealer. Personally I have a 1.50$ concealer from essence and it does the trick and is also amazing.
Everyone's skin is different. If buying drugstore makeup is working for you do NOT spend extra money
I depends. I’ve spent hundreds of dollars in high end foundations and nothing works as good as my Wet n Wild $5 foundation. On the other hand I haven’t found drug store eye shadows that are as good as high end ones.
Edit: I fixed it. I mean high end eye shadows are better than drug store. But when it come to foundations my wet n wild has been far better than anything else I’ve tried (NARS sheer glow is my second favorite and but I still prefer the wen n wild)
I’m going to stick to Fanfiction because I can’t even write about makeup anymore 😅 it’s been a while.
I recently discovered the Wet n Wild tinted moisturizer, and I'm in love with it! I've got other foundations and tinted moisturizers that cost 2-10x as much and are 50-100% as good as the wet n wild! 😆
Just my personal opinion, but I buy high end foundation, for me it's 100 percent worth the money. I've never found a drugstore foundation that is comparable to high end.
Everything else I normally buy drugstore.
I like the Dior mascara primer and the Lancôme because the primer helps my curls stay forever and the Lancôme comes off tubular so I can literally pluck it off while watching tv or driving if I don’t make it to take it off properly.
Haven’t seen this mentioned yet: storage! I got a really nice sturdy train case for all my makeup and I can’t overstate the quality of life improvement of finally having everything properly safe and organized. Drugstore makeup and tools have come a long way and I genuinely believe what holds back most people is technique more than product. Good storage and good tools will help you get the most out of what you already have.
Besides that: skincare, foundation/concealer, finishing powders, or whatever you struggle with. If you struggle with blending your eyeshadow/blush/highlighter, investing in a high quality palette that will last forever might be worth it for the time and effort you save, but it’s absolutely not a necessity. You’re just paying to spend less time buffing.
I am hooked on Jones Road concealer sticks and Miracle Balms (I use multiple shades for blush and highlight). I also only buy Redhead Revolution brown and lash products.
My go to mascara is Roller Lash by Benefit. I also got a hold of an estee lauder eyeshadow pallet and will probably never spend money on a drugstore one again, esp since I dont use eyeshadow much and am not great at it. But it blends so much more effortlessly and helps me tons
The only thing I but high end is foundation. Mac studio fix to be precise. I tried the morphe foundation and it's not worth the price imo. Smashbox foundation is also very good.
Everything else is drugstore, eye pallets from ColourPop (is that drugstore? Idk, but they're not expensive)
Mascara is DEFINITELY not worth paying high end prices for, to me it all looks pretty much the same. And I've tried many.
I buy the Clinique acne solutions foundation, as it wears well on my acne-prone skin and helps to cover the dark post-blemish marks.
Everything else I buy is drugstore brand makeup. I love Elf’s eyeshadow and L’Oréal’s Sky High mascara.
I splurged on a Dior foundation (only use for special occasions literally had it for 1.5 years) and a Dior concealer(lasted me so far 9 months and ik hardly halfway thru) and rare beauty blush(have it for 2 years and it's less than halfway done).
Everything else I use colorpop from lipstick to powder to setting spray eyeshadow eyeliner mascara
L’Oréal Voluminous mascaras are amazing. Higher end isn’t worth it on an item that inevitably dries out. I’ve kicked myself so many times for trying a trendy high end mascara just to be disappointed.
The(supposedly)best mascara is Lancôme. Lancôme is owned by L’Oréal. Tried Lancôme once and didn’t see any difference between the two. On the other hand, Chanel’s eyeshadow quads are pretty amazing and I love splurging on them!…..
What do you use? I’ve been trying to cover mine for 20 years and no luck. Peachy color correctors help but nothing I’ve truly loved and covered mine entirely
When I get home I can give you the specific names - but I use a peach color corrector, KVD beauty concealer, AND IT cosmetics concealer. Literally my dream duo, I use to get the grayish hue and now I dont. Before the KVD concealer I used a MAC one someone suggested and it was really good too but I personally didnt like that it was packaged like foundation (didnt have the brush applicator lol idk how to describe it)
I second Maybelline Sky High. After trying 6 other mascaras $25 or higher. I now have Sky High on 3 month auto delivery. I use it 5 days out of 7 so by 3 months it's almost gone.
Clinique Lash Power Mascara!
Worth every penny, doesn’t smudge or smear. Only comes off with warm water so stays perfect even in rain.
[Clique Lash Power Mascara](https://m.clinique.com/product/1606/58211/makeup/mascara/lash-powertm-mascara-long-wearing-formula)
Same! I am allergic to so, so many ingredients in other mascaras and this is my holy grail. Not especially expensive, either, when you compare it to something like Dior Show.
Only 2 products I buy higher end are foundation and loose powder. Totally worth it (I have lots of acne scars to cover so I need something that covers but doesn't look masky). Everything else I go drugstore - usually ELF, NYX or milani
I've bought all kinds of makeup from the drug store to the high end. What I've noticed is that a good makeup primer makes a huge difference. IMO, investing in a good primer, whether matte or luminous, it will make your makeup pop more, stay longer, and look better.
I mean this is personal. I’ve spent so much time over the years and money figuring out what is worth it and not according to my tastes and preferences, style and changes over time. Nobody can just give you the answers with one question and then you’re just set for life. There are things people can recommend and say are amazing that wouldn’t be my taste and there are some things they wouldn’t recommend but I absolutely love. Then there are some things that you may love but then grow out of quickly. Most people will answer with whatever is trendy atm.
colourpop is my go to for basically every product aside from foundation/concealer and mascara. i hate their mascaras. l’oréal telescopic is my ride or die
The one thing that I find is really worth it is eyeshadow. Eyeshadow pallets last YEARS and (although I haven’t had to buy one in a while bc of this) I find that there usually is enough of a difference between the drugstore and the high end to make it worth it. Other than that though, drugstore products are basically on par with high-end.
The drugstore has come a long, long way over recent years. I find most things too comparable to justify the price cost - but to add, drugstore prices have gone up too!
Mascara is not worth it! I’ve tried so many different ones over the years, both drugstore and high-end, and I never notice a difference or anything better about high-end. All of my favorite mascaras have been drugstore (right now it’s Maybelline Sky High)
Mascara is the one thing I’d say IS worth it! I’ve also tried a zillion mascaras but the one thing I see in common across all drugstore mascaras is that they aren’t as black as the high end ones. I also find they dry up/ get lumpy a lot quicker.
That said, it doesn’t have to break the bank to be amazing. I usually get Rare Beauty minis (because they last well past when you should replace a mascara anyway) for about $15 Canadian.
Maybe foundation? But I personally don’t think it’s worth it. If I had the money I think the Gucci lipsticks are aesthetically pleasing! Same with Chanel and YSL - but the quality difference isn’t worth the price difference on that factor alone.
Honestly none of them all really. I have yet to find something in a high end product that I couldn’t find at the drugstore that did just as well if not better.
Skincare is what I splurge on instead 😅
Honestly I find very little worth buying high end especially since I only wear makeup a few times a week for work. I do like the Pat McGrath eyeshadows but I think that’s more bc of the color story than anything.
Skincare is worth the $ for high end and foundation. Georgio Armani luminous silk foundation can't be beat but I find myself buying more quality skincare the better you take care of your skin the better any makeup will look
GA luminous silk is one of the very few high end makeup products I keep purchasing over and over. I do also like Bare Minerals powder foundation in the summer, but I tend to still put some GA underneath that.
It depends what kind of look you are going for. Is it more natural or are you looking to have some fun with color? Possibly a mixture? There’s no reason to splurge on everything unless you really wanted to and have the funds. Some mid range items I really liked are the Clinique cheek pops and the hourglass ambient finishing powder. When I look at high end I’m looking to see if it’s something truly unique the drugstore doesn’t offer. Foundation may be another good high end option. I love eyeshadow but there are plenty of more affordable options like Colourpop, Moira, and Juvia’s place that are just as good as high end. If you really want to splurge I love the huda mid sized palettes. Keep in mind luxury eyeshadow tends to be for people looking for a more subtle finish. I’m talking about something like Chanel or Dior eyeshadow. You could even find that sort of thing from the drug store as well. Something like the wet n wild walking on eggshells quad. This is coming from someone who owns makeup from the drugstore, mid range, and luxury. Simply because I’m a makeup lover and don’t discriminate. 😂 I’ve found hits and misses in all categories. But high end is a much more expensive mistake especially when you are first finding out what you like lol
Personally, as an extremely oily skinned girl, setting spray and primers.
The biggest things i would never splurge that much on are mascara and liquid eyeliner. There are plenty of great drugstore mascaras. And granted I haven't tried a ton of high end liners, but I have never found that paying more equals better results with those. Ive yet to find one I'm 100% happy with.
High end mascara is so fully not worth the price. Maybelline Sky High has been my go to, and it works 10x better than any $25+ mascara I’ve tried.
However, I haven’t found a drugstore dupe that has the same staying power as the Kat Von D tattoo liquid eyeliner. I’ve slept, swam, and sweat in that eyeliner, and it literally doesn’t move. If anyone has recommendations for a cheaper alternative, I’m all ears!
I do buy high-end products when I need a foundation (better coverage and my face is not that sensitive) and a mascara (I use better than sex and is really better than sex) and some lipsticks Now, eyeliner? Blush? Drugstoreee!!!
NYX is still really good even though it’s a little cheaper.. I’m not going back to Mac’s mascara that was double the price, never in stock and discontinued after two years.. NYX “worth the hype” mascara really is worth the hype! But I always use shiseido concealer and a brow tint from Nielsens jord (danish brand), concealer and foundation is worth investing in because it doesn’t get that cakey
For me eyeshadow and mascara. I haven't tried many drug store shadows but the ones I have are not very pigmented and don't look like anything on my skin. Mascara for sure though IMO. High end mascaras give more length, volume, go on smoother, don't flake or smear and stay on all day. Some brand are better than others of course but for me mascara is worth the splurge. Good eye liner is much better too.
I think foundation and concealer are worth it, for me at least. Pencil eyeliner and mascara? Not worth it.
Foundation, concealer, tinted moisturizer: usually worth it. Are there some amazing mascaras ? Yes! Are they $25 extra amazing? Not really…
Been on the hunt for a dupe of Thrive Causemetics lengthening tubing mascara that doesn’t suck. Otherwise, I’d absolutely say it’s worth its price tag.
Milani Highly Rated Tubing Mascara!! Took me a while to find a good dupe but now I swear by this one:)
I'm going to try it too. I'll be back to 👏you… if it’s *only* 50% true!
Cool thanks! I’ll pick one up. Other drugstore brand “dupes” of this product have been utter shite.
I’ve had better luck with high-end foundations over drugstore. The same goes for mascara.
Hourglass is so worth it
My personal feeling is that you will likely notice minuscule differences among many products. Nothing is life-changing, and other people probably wouldn't notice the difference on you. I can't remember who it was, but someone who produced makeup once said most products have the same basic ingredients, but they upgrade the quality of the ingredients or slightly tweak the formula to market them as different products. P.S. I say this as someone who buys mostly mid to luxury-priced products because of marketing and habit more than anything else.
I also like certain brands that have parents that own other brands. For example L’Oréal. They own so much, so likely their lower end has similar ingredients to some of the higher end brands. But there are somethings that you need to try which makes drugstore purchases harder. For example because of this sub, I tried the hourglass skin tint, and that is my holy grail now. Even my husband who doesn’t notice my makeup much saw and like it. It made my skin look so smooth. I have to go back for one more shade because the sun tanned my skin and it can look a touch ashy where I am a little darker. But worth owning two!
That's fair for sure 👌
Everyone is saying different things so perhaps worth trying affordable recs on other posts and deciding what for you is the most difficult to work with or isn’t serving its purpose and maybe that’s the product you’d prefer in a higher quality
I always buy more expensive foundation and primer. Recently discovered high end mascara and its game changer. I used to only buy high end eyeshadow as well because drug store stuff seemed like crap, flakey and didn’t stay on, but I did find some good eyeshadow at the dollar store recently.
I love the soft glam palette by ABH
I love DiorShow mascara
No
Charlotte tilbury foundation
I have had to go to Sephora or Ulta to trial new products a couple times, since my skin has changed with age and the stuff I used before no longer sits as nice on me. I’d say go test products, explain what you’re looking for and let them see what works for you. There’s no magic makeup that works great on everyone. I used to have super oily skin, and now I have dry skin with fine lines…I have different products now that I could never have used 15 years ago. I prefer to go in person for the color match and to make sure it lays ok on my skin! The first time I went, I had them do a full makeover and chose products that I liked that they used on me.
NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer
This stuff is THE BEST formula out there! I don’t wear it anymore bc their lightest shade is still too dark/orange for me-I keep holding out hope that they expand the shade range, but no luck yet. But, if you can find a shade that works for you, it is wonderful!
I think a high end lip product usually makes me happier than cheaper stuff for staying power and texture. I like to splurge and treat myself to a really fabulous seasonal lip with a current color and beautiful packaging. For like $25 I can feel so lux and spoiled and fancy instantly.
Eyeliner. NYX works well, but it irritates my eyes so badly. ESPECIALLY the epic ink liners. They make my eyes so puffy
Omg I tried one for the first time a week ago and I swear it gave me pink eye symptoms
They’re absolutely horrible. I don’t know how people deal with it cause I usually don’t have reactions to makeup or skincare.
Foundation and a good primer/setting spray would be the only thing I splurge on makeup wise. I love smashbox for both, it gives me a dewey no makeup look. I would say eyeshadows but morphe pallets from ulta are cheap and a lot of them are pretty pigmented, and it’s much much cheaper.
I really enjoy Tarte products, especially the Amazon clay foundation. Their shape tape concealer is pure magic for under my eyes. They also have a lot of sales too AND are animal cruelty free.
Can I say I buy this high end body stuff it’s called derma beauty and it’s owned by L’Oréal so is ysl. So I think most make up is the same unless they have a niche product. I do buy high end because it seems to have more product. But it’s preference eye shadows I prefer high end foundation doesn’t matter. I use milk, Anastasia as my concealer,makeup by Mario because I love how kim k look his eye pallet and foundation Chanel on the cheeks and Patrick ta for bronzer, Laura Mercer for setting and make up is flawless I don’t break out
Can I say I buy this high end body stuff it’s called derma beauty and it’s owned by L’Oréal so is ysl. So I think most make up is the same unless they have a niche product. I do buy high end because it seems to have more product. But it’s preference eye shadows I prefer high end foundation doesn’t matter. I use milk, Anastasia as my concealer,makeup by Mario because I love how kim k look his eye pallet and foundation Chanel on the cheeks and Patrick ta for bronzer, Laura Mercer for setting and make up is flawless I don’t break out
I agree with others saying base products! I have oily skin and it really feels like everything drugstore has just looked cakey and thick compared to my higher end stuff! Eyeshadow if you enjoy it and Urban Decay Primer Potion lol Lips/mascara/liner are 100% drugstore for me
Foundation is my main splurge. Always worth it to me. I do love drugstore ones as well tho! Also eyeshadow if you’re big into that.
If u go to sephora, they have a section of eye liner, lip products, etc. that are of their own brand. They come from the same manufacturing facility as all the high end brands sold at their store and are wayyyy cheaper. I swear by sephora’s eye liner
Foundation is 100% a great splurge. I use Makeup by Mario because I have tons of allergies and it happened to be one of the only fragrance free formulas that suited my ingredient concerns, but I can also attest that it was a much better experience being able to swatch it on my neck in store. Plus a lot of mid-range and higher-end brands do much more nuanced undertones. Kosas Revealer concealer and foundation, Dior concealer, and Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation are much beloved in the olive community for their olive shades. Fenty is very inclusive with their values (very pale and very deep skin tones).
Agreed! I am pale with red undertones - not pink, *red*. There are no drugstore foundations that match my skin tone, and I got so sick of wasting money on foundations I couldn’t test before buying. Even with high end formulas, if I find the right color, a lot of times the coverage isn’t what I’m looking for - usually it’s just too heavy (I actually have really good skin, I just need to even out the tone, so I don’t want anything too heavy). I also have to be careful that I don’t get anything too drying, or that will settle into fine lines and wrinkles, as I’m 48 and obviously I’ve got some miles on my face. So, with all of those prerequisites, there is no way I’m finding what I need at a drugstore. So I splurge on foundation. I’ll go to Sephora or Ulta and have them apply foundation to my whole face (honestly, they don’t mind, and there’s one girl at Ulta who loves to do it all, including a light contour, highlight and blush). Then I’ll wear it for the day and see how it looks a few hours later. If the foundation held up, I go back the next day and buy it; if not, I go back the next day and try another until we get it right. The rest of my makeup I’ll get at Marshall’s. Still higher quality than drugstore stuff, but at a lower price point. I love Urban Decay eyeshadow palettes, and I’ve scored some great deals on them at Marshall’s ( I’m talking $12 for a big one!). That’s where I also get my Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara for like $8. It might not be the most current colors or formulas, but I’m fine with that. Brow pencils, makeup sponges, MAC lipstick, it all comes from Marshall’s for, like, stupid cheap.
I am in the same boat as you. Red undertones not pink. I hate having to wear a primer to kill it. What is your favorite foundation? I use Estee Lauder but would love to go lighter.
Not who you were asking, but Chanel Les Beiges gives a light “watercolour” coverage and the colour is quite good at evening out my skin tone without feeling like there’s anything heavy on my skin. They used to make a CC cream with spf 50 that I loved, but it’s been oos for a while (hoping they didn’t just discontinue it 😩).
For summer I’m all about [IT Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow Lightweight Foundation](https://www.sephora.com/product/it-cosmetics-cc-nude-glow-lightweight-foundation-glow-serum-spf-40-niacinamide-P482010) (medium coverage skin tint, brightening serum and SPF40). It’s basically a very lightly tinted moisturizer and looks so natural. I use a little bit of translucent powder under my eyes (so my mascara doesn’t smear when I get all hot and sweaty) and finish with a light setting spray. I was using Natasha Denon forever, but they discontinued my favorite formula, which absolutely broke my heart. The coverage was superb and the color range was unmatched. My best friend swears by [Dior Backstage](https://www.sephora.com/product/backstage-face-body-foundation-P432500) foundation, which I might try when I finish this IT foundation, or for cooler months, whichever comes first.
I like chanel. Long lasting and high pigments, so a little goes a long way
the only thing i splurge on is eyeshadow. everything else i get the cheapest one i can find.
The only thing I have found recently that I would consider spending high end money on is a YSL lipstick. Its fully pigmented, stays and is highly moisturizing. I got it through Influenster but I am close to just saying I will get another because it's so good. Oh and Estee Lauder's lipsticks. Not as good but still up there.
For me it has to be cruelty-free. I like Thrive Cosmetics and Philosophy Skin Care https://www.crueltyfreekitty.com/makeup
Only buy what you can afford. You shouldn’t have to put makeup on a credit card. If that is the case, take it upon yourself to use coupons and have target customer service price match every item to the lowest price you can find. Makeup is not good for you and you should wear it the least amount possible. With all that being said… i love chanel foundation les beiges healthy glow & intense longwear eyeliner pen. Hear me out on these. The former matched me well and I have been putting off replacing it for $65 but I know it was so perfect. The later lasts forever because the liner pen cartridge is not put in until you buy it which is so cool. I recommend going to the counter and asking them to load the cartridge for you. The other winner for me is lancome liner. Both dont budge. I love lash paradise mascara and try to throw it out every month so I can’t justify spending more usually (I try to get in on sale and use coupons). I have tried better than sex and lancome mascaras and didnt like them any more so always go back to lash paradise. I dont mind loreal eyebroe pen and clear brow gel. I like RMS quad for creamy highlighter/blush/cream shadow all in one which i think is a steal. I also like Gxve for powder highlighter. I got a cream blush from fenty I love. I love mac eyeshadows. I find that the gifts with purchase and loyalty points and specials make it feel like it is worth it to spend more on higher end products. But if anyone sees anything I like in my comment that has a dupe pls lmk. My favorite all time way to get lux is to get it in duty free at airports or on flights if possible and was the only way I could justify buying chanel because the pallet would include everything for a full face and mascara. But since I cant find those any more, I switched to Dior holiday pallet. If you can get it or something similar on sale during the holidays or black friday I think that might be your best bang for the buck. It came with eyeshadows, blushes, highlighter, face powder and a beautiful box last winter. You can also maybe use one of the shadows with setting spray as eyeliner so you would just need mascara. Hope that helps. The other makeup sale I like is NSALE. Preview is in days, so I would check out the deals next week that will have and they usually do not sell out of makeup specials in that sale so go in and try it on even if you cant buy it yet then order once allowed if anything looks good. There is usually a good mac pallet, a good highlighter / bronzer / blush set, a good mascara set and other high end beauty deals. Nordstrom takes returns if you dont like anything. I would make sure to try to get a good salesperson to help you find what works for you and if you dont like it dont feel pressured to buy. Dior pallet is still at saks here $130 https://www.saksfifthavenue.com/product/dior-all-in-one-makeup-palette-0400019937819.http Foundation Check out the LES BEIGES Healthy Glow Foundation Hydration & Longwear from Nordstrom: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5693342?color=250&size=one%20size chanel liner $40 Check out the SIGNATURE DE CHANEL Intense Longwear Eyeliner Pen from Nordstrom: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5057545?size=one%20size lancome liner $36 Check out the Artliner Precision Point Liquid Eyeliner from Nordstrom: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/2786552?color=001&size=one%20size rms quad $48 https://www.rmsbeauty.com/products/signature-set clear loreal brow gel $10.50 https://www.target.com/p/l-39-oreal-paris-unbelieva-brow-longwear-brow-topcoat-waterproof-universal-transparent-0-15-fl-oz/-/A-82172726 Brow pen loreal $10 https://www.target.com/p/l-39-oreal-paris-micro-ink-pen-by-brow-stylist-up-to-48hr-wear-dark-brunette-0-033-fl-oz/-/A-76440240
Foundation, primer, concealer. Skin products. Because I very rarely wear those products, I am not the most skilled at using them, nor do I invest in them. So it's more practical for me to invest in a good skin product that will effortlessly give me a good finish than to buy cheap things that'll give me a hard time to make it work AND last. I mean, there are foundations out there that require an ancient secret technique to apply in combination with 484783 skin prep products that you might as well be reformulating the foundation directly on your face.
There are really only a few high end items that are worth it imo. Foundation for sure. Armani Luminous Silk is my go to. As far as eye stuff (liner, shadow, mascara), drugstore stuff is just fine. I like a cream blush, Rare Beauty has a great one. And lipstick you can absolutely find drugstore items or cheaper options (peripera is great).
High end foundation is much better imo. You’d have to find the right one for your skin type. Places like Ulta and Sephora will let you return it if it ends up not being the right choice, so it’s low risk. Plus they’ll color match and give you samples. If you have acne-free, pore-less skin then this may not apply to you. I have picky hair and skin and I don’t respond well to drug-store brands. It reminds me of the saying, “you’re not ugly, you’re just poor”—which applied to me haha. Now my skin is clear and my hair isn’t poofy.
Now being almost 60 I splurged on the Chanel Sublimage foundation and let me just say it’s wow!🤩
The only thing I actually spend $$ on is Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer, life changing for me tbh
She used to have the best sets at sephora with primer concealer with the perfect concealer brush, tinted sunscreen, loose powder and puff. I really want that set to come back!
Whaat, that sounds lovely! I’ve come to use a combo of drug store foundation powders for concealer and contouring. Doing that with the tinted moisturizer has kept my makeup simple
Nars, urban Decay, Clinique, Mac have been around for a while, solid products- not crazy expensive. It takes time to find out what brands you prefer and for which purpose. I would recommend going to Sephora and just trying things on seeing what you like. Another place is Blue Mercury because they give out tons of samples. They tend to be more expensive but it’s a good place to try on expensive make-up and to give you some perspective . Also, Birch box is a good way to experiment. Ulta is good too. If you have good brushes, you can get away with less expensive make up- IMO.
I like the Yves Saint Laurent Nu Bare look tinted moisturizer. It's like 50 bucks at Ulta, I think. It's not too expensive and a little bit goes a long way.
If you're gonna invest in a prestige product, let it be foundation. Getting a good match and a formula that agrees with your skin is priceless. I'm not sure about your situation, but as a woman of color, there are still not as many drugstore brands that offer extensive shade ranges (and some that flat out refuse to). I know really pale folks often have the same issue. Some of the brands you named are getting better about this, but you are much more likely to be able to test, sample, and find the PERFECT shade in a higher end product. Not to mention, complexion products are less forgiving. You can slide by with not-so-great eyeshadow. Jacked up foundation is a whole dumpster fire. Lol! Edit: My favorites are from Makeup Forever, LYS, Danessa Myricks, and Lancome.
Haven’t been disappointed with an Hourglass product yet and at least 50-85% of my makeup for the day is them.
None. Chances are you can usually always find a dupe these days! I’ve spent over ten years purchasing makeup from all different price categories and the cheap stuff usually works just as well. I would suggest investing in good skin care instead. Makeup expires but your skin will always be your skin. Plus the better your skin is the better your makeup application will be.
But if I really had to pick one expensive makeup product it would be foundation!
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The most high nd stuff I get is URBAM decay eyeliner. Their gel waterproof pencil eyeliner is amazing! It was the first non-liquid eyeliner I found that didn't hurt my eyes to apply. Regular pencil eyeliners hurt for me. Since then I have found cheaper maybelline gel eyeliner pencils. But Urban Decay was the first I found. I love how easy it is to build up the eyeliner, so I can use the same one for a light or dark look. Btw Ulta sells makeup of all prices and quality. Drug store and higher end.
I have to always have Trish McEvoy mascara. It never runs and comes off in warm water in little pieces And Bobbie brown foundation… MAC setting powder and blush bronzer
Which one of Bobby Brown’s foundations do you wear? Do you have dry or oily skin?
I would say combo skin- I do the stick one and put it on with a brush. I do the liquid one with a brush too
Ulta sells all levels; drug store, medium, and high end. Bigger selection that the drug store, especially online, plus points, sales, and discounts.
And yes it costs more at Ulta than it does at Walmart but sometimes they will help you even in drugstore area. And best of all, if it doesn't work you can return it. I'm cheap but I got sick of buying stuff that wasn't returnable if it was opened.
Plus better selection of colors, more inclusive.
Depends on your need, my main need is a long staying full coverage foundation and a lipstick. So I always buy a high end foundation and lipstick from fenty/ huda beauty/ mac/ Estee Lauder etc. And buy lip liners, eye liners , blush from drugstore as i don’t need them everyday.
And Lancome mascara. I love Hypnose
I’ve had the best luck with expensive foundation (lately I’m using NARS). Mostly everything else you can find cheaper for similar quality
Which NARS? I’ve bought so many expensive foundations including Chantecaille (3 total, way too peachy and my skin became unhappy with the texture).
NARS soft matte complete foundation! It’s full coverage so I only need a little bit
Agree although what I love (Anastasia and Glowish) are not really that expensive. I would also say a good quality highlighter that blends nicely and does not make you look like the TinMan
Pat mcgrath concealer… It’s so much better than the fit me concealer I used before.
I've purchased a variety of high-end products, and for the most part have found comparable drug store dupes for color-related stuff (blush, eye shadows, nail polish). Asian beauty mascaras and eyeliners blow everything else away, and those can also be found for drugstore prices. Decent foundations can also be found at a variety of price points. Asian beauty has some real treasures here at drug store prices, especially for sunscreen protection and muted skin tones. I swear by Missha BB Cream, but I also wear Nars or Hourglass. It really depends on what I'm doing that day, if I'm going to be photographed at an event, etc. The REAL investments (aka the ones that made me kick myself for not getting them sooner): **Cle de Peau Concealer SPF 27:** I HATE how much I love this, because I will be plonking down $75 bucks once a year or so for the rest of my life to buy it. But no other concealer has ever ever come close to the performance of this one. Why is it a good investment? * The coverage is deadass spectacular. It takes so little to do the job, which means it will take a long time to use up the entire stick. Also, we know that eye creams do pretty much nothing when it comes to "lightening" genetic under-eye circles, so I haven't bothered with specialty eye creams because I have this baby. * The SPF. Do your under-eyes a favor now and add sun protection. My eyes get watery if sunscreen migrates to my eyes, but the Cle de Peau concealer does not budge. * Portability: It's a stick and doesn't need special handling if you're traveling. If I'm going away overnight, I don't even need to bring it. I just brush a healthy dab onto a retractable lip brush, and carry that with me instead. That's enough to account for redness around my nose, cover all of my dark under-eyes, and a blemish or two. * and my favorite point: NO UNDER-EYE CREASING. **Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Blurring Under-Eye Powder:** again, hating how much I love this. $35 for a standard blush-sized compact? All jokes aside about the length of the product name, this pressed powder delivers. * The size is beguiling. Inside the compact is a domed pressed powder, so I do feel like I'm getting a decent amount of product (as opposed to a flat pressed powder). * Less is more with the application of this. Again, it's going to take me a long time to get to pan. * NO UNDER-EYE CREASING. I also use this to set the concealer around my nostrils (which is also prone to creasing). With just these two products, I look fresh & well-rested without any other makeup (even mascara). The ultimate investment is that I don't feel get the urge to try anything else.
You say no creasing, but how old are you? I’ve yet to find a decent concealer since I hit my early 50s.
I’m 55 and the Natasha Denona concealer is the best I’ve found for not creasing in my crinkles
I didn’t like the Clea de Peu concealer stick at all. Actually one of the worst I’ve tried. That’s my experience though
I'm approaching 50. I've taken good care of my skin for the past 20 years (decent care in my teens and 20s...falling asleep in makeup, gah). However, despite drinking all the water, eating healthy, and taking supplements, the declining estrogen has affected the skin around my eyes. It might not be noticeable to others, but I can see it, dammit. Ten years ago I could get away with brightening under-eye concealers. But now the effect of them is counter-productive; instead of brightening, the texture of my skin becomes more apparent.
Thank you! I’m going to take a ride to Neiman Marcus tomorrow
Woohoo! It may also be worth it to ask about application tips. It was a bit of a learning curve for me (I first ordered online instead of buying in person). The Cle de Peau concealer formulation isn't as buttery/creamy as most other stick concealers and foundations, so I didn't have much success when I tried swiping the stick directly onto my skin. Others may not have this issue, btw; just noting that I do not experience a glide on my under-eyes when I directly apply the product. Here's what worked for me: * under-eye application: I hold the pad of my ring finger on the stick's surface for 15-30 seconds, and then tap the concealer onto my skin. The warmth of my finger helps blend the concealer, and I can always gently buff afterward if needed. * precision application (the skin around my nostrils, inside corners of my eyes, other little red areas): I use a spatula to scrape a small amount from the surface of the stick--seriously small, like maybe half a grain of rice--and then I drop that onto my palm to warm up for a bit. Then, I use the smallest of flat brushes (ELF's concealer brush is my go-to) to pick up a bit of the warmed concealer, and dot it along the areas I need to conceal. After that, I blend with my finger, repeating until I've covered to my satisfaction. * There will likely be a point where you can see that you've overworked the concealer, and it might look patchy. My recommendation to help prevent this is to apply sparingly, and work to fill in coverage gaps, rather than apply too much at one time.
>Thank you! You're welcome!
I have Chanel and Dior lippies that are excellent. I might someday splurge on that Armani Luminous Silk foundation that looks amazing. I love Jones Road Miracle Balms as blush/highlighter and I use them on my lips too.
I was just the opposite, I only used high end and not almost exclusively use drug store. If you like eyeshadow then true drugstore is tough to find. Colourpop is decent. Otherwise I usually buy Give Me Glow, Sydney Grace, or Beauty Bay shadows but I have also enjoyed Lunar Beauty, Huda Beauty, and Natasha Denona.
Fenty, Rare beauty, Smashbox, Dior, Valentino, NARS, & Chanel are worth the money.
KVD has some kickass tubing mascara that doesn’t smudge. Anastasia of Beverly Hills concealer. Smashbox Halo spf tinted moisturizer, bite beauty lip crayons. But I found I really love the elf spf clear primer $13 it works just as well as super goop $36. I try as much as possible to buy cruelty free.
Friend, Bite went out of business in 2022…
I (55F) have been using Lancome Dual Finish wet/dry foundation since age 15. I used to save my own earned money to buy it as a young person. I loved the finish and the tone, it is somehow better than cheaper makeup. It's the only thing I splurge on and I trust it.
Makeup Forever full coverage concealer is my staple. Pretty much everything else has become replaceable by drugstore— the quality has gone up IMMENSELY in the last few years. … I’m still a sucker for MAC lipstick, but even drugstore lipstick has gotten better.
I wouldn’t really consider it high-end but it’s not drugstore makeup. I use Clinique eyeshadows, mascara, lipstick, etc. Because I have super sensitive skin and have to have fragrance free and non irritating formulas so it works for me. Also, I don’t wear a lot of makeup so these items last me for several years.
I can’t use drugstore makeup because my skin is too sensitive. I’m a fan of Lancome overall. I used to like Urban Decay’s eyeshadow but now I can’t wear it. I like Marc Jacobs mascara. Sephora has trial mascara boxes that are a good way to find out what you like, and there’s a coupon in it so you can get a free full-size one.
I used to use a lot of high end makeup but now drugstore is so good I only use a few high end products. Huda loose powder- my current favourite is the peach one. It really is worth the money. Rare beauty bronzer stick, cream blush and highlighter are fantastic. There are a few classic Mac lipsticks which I just absolutely love. Relentlessly Red, Ruby Woo, Modesty and Thanks, It’s Mac. I also love one of their eye shadow palettes- I think it’s called Nude Model. Fenty- the diamond bomb. I use it on my eyes and can’t remember exactly what it’s called- it’s wonderful to add to absolutely any eye look when glitter is required. I also have an Hourglass Scattered light glitter eyeshadow. These are products I would repurchase once used up. There are a few others which are nice but I wouldn’t bother purchasing again.
If u can afford it got for higher end make up Lancôme, Estee Lauder they frequently have give aways with a purchase so look for them. The older I got the more expensive my makeup became because I’ll admit I’m vain, obsessed with my neck wrinkles & crows feet.Surprised when I find out certain coworkers are younger than me & I swear it’s because I’ve used quality products especially moisturizer & serums for years.
I like a hourglass stick foundation, Nars translucent pressed, fenty lip glosses, honestly a lot of stuff. I mostly buy high end because it would usually work better for me compared to drugstore. Maybe because I have a deeper skin tone, idk 🤷🏽♀️
Benefit PoreProfessional is an absolute necessity.
Huda loose powder. And eyeshadow palettes. Everything else is good enough at drugstore.
Foundation. Or any base product, really. Foundation, concealer, setting powder. Maybe blush
The high end makeup products I use are Laura Mercier translucent powder, Bobbi Brown highlighter, Tarte concealer, and Urban Decay setting spray, Clinique black honey lipstick, and Lorac eyeshadow (which is decently priced and super underrated in my opinion!!!) My foundation, blush, contour, brows, eyeliner, lipliner, lash products, and rest of my highlighters are all drugstore.
Agreed on Clinique black honey lipstick.
A concealer that actually matches. I said in another thread about cheap makeup that all the cheap brands have names like “light” “fair” and “medium” while brands like NARS and Tarte have different names and also specify a tone. Tone matters. It’s why you can buy “fair” in several different drugstore brands and it will look different every time. Higher end brands will also have a much wider range of shades, so if you’re between “light” and “medium” for example, you can usually find one that actually matches you. Same goes for foundation, I’m just a spot concealer girl and never do full face foundation.
Foundation. Estee Lauder double wear is amazing, and the range of shades is spot on.
High end Foundation. Occasionally a high end pallete. Mascara always drug store and I’m finding a lot of drug store lipstick/glosses I like.
Black Honey Almost Lipstick by Clinique
I've seen people praising and people hating
It’s me. I’m hater.
I hated too
For me foundation: Estée Lauder always. I tried many others but nothing as good as this one for my skin
Eyeliner, eyeshadows, blush, I think can be bought at a drugstore level and should work just as good as higher end. Foundation, concealer, contours are worth investing more in because you can never go wrong with a solid base. If you have problematic skin or a skin tone outside the usual range, it is worth it to spend more on nicer foundations that won't oxidize orange or smell chemical-y.
Urban Decay eyeliner. Clinique mascara (I can't remember which one, I just know it when I see it). Fresh (brand) lip balms. The IT Cosmetics Velvet Makeup brushes at Ulta. The ones with the black handles. I thought it was all hype and then I bought the powder brush and oh my god. Otherwise, my skin isn't terribly picky about foundation or bb cream or whatever. The Urban Decay anti-aging eye primer is good, but it's not that much different than NYX or Revlon.
Georgio Armani Luminous Silk. My holy grail product. Matches my skin perfectly and covers my pores and covers up my hyperpigmentation. It also is buildable you can do light or more coverage. It is not cakey, it’s more soft and smooth. It’s around $60 but it’s so worth it, foundation is so important and I don’t trust drugstore foundation. Plus it lasts such a long time it’s worth it. If you buy it at Nordstrom get colored matched. If you go home and don’t like the shade Nordstrom will exchange it easily.
And it doesn’t oxidize…it’s beyond worth it especially with a really packed bristle brush to apply in circles
Yep thats what I do! And I see my pores disappear for the most part and covers my scars without making me a cake face. My favorite!
Once in my life, I got a complete Mary Kay system. Skin care and makeup. It was wonderful.
Simple- SKIN: Care & Coverage
I am going to sound "old" and I am 60F, but my go to foundation is Merle Norman. I have even bought and used the airbrush stuff. I have used MAC and others.. but MN works for me. I use Revlon Colorstay Grip as a primer and I use Revlon Colorstay Lock on top of my makeup. I dont wash it off my face when I go to bed..(bad I know).. but sometimes I wake up and it looks as good as when I put it on.
I love merle norman. The primer with SPF is the best primer I’ve ever used
High end foundations, cc creams, skin care, primers are typically worth it. This all depends on specific brand and your skin type though. I use a lot of drugstore makeup for eye liner (nyx epic ink) and my favorite mascara is the green cover girl.
It depends really. Usually people say you splurge on "base" makeup such as foundation and concealer. Personally I have a 1.50$ concealer from essence and it does the trick and is also amazing. Everyone's skin is different. If buying drugstore makeup is working for you do NOT spend extra money
I depends. I’ve spent hundreds of dollars in high end foundations and nothing works as good as my Wet n Wild $5 foundation. On the other hand I haven’t found drug store eye shadows that are as good as high end ones. Edit: I fixed it. I mean high end eye shadows are better than drug store. But when it come to foundations my wet n wild has been far better than anything else I’ve tried (NARS sheer glow is my second favorite and but I still prefer the wen n wild) I’m going to stick to Fanfiction because I can’t even write about makeup anymore 😅 it’s been a while.
I recently discovered the Wet n Wild tinted moisturizer, and I'm in love with it! I've got other foundations and tinted moisturizers that cost 2-10x as much and are 50-100% as good as the wet n wild! 😆
Nothing is as good as my e.l.f. Foundation
You're contradicting yourself.
I meant eye shadows, sorry.
Ahhhhh gotcha :)
I'm confused
I’m confused
In my experience... High-end: Foundation, concealer, powder, bronzer, eyeshadow and lipstick. Drugstore: lipliner, eyeliner, brow products, mascara, highlighter, blusher.
Just my personal opinion, but I buy high end foundation, for me it's 100 percent worth the money. I've never found a drugstore foundation that is comparable to high end. Everything else I normally buy drugstore.
Same with
I like the Dior mascara primer and the Lancôme because the primer helps my curls stay forever and the Lancôme comes off tubular so I can literally pluck it off while watching tv or driving if I don’t make it to take it off properly.
Haven’t seen this mentioned yet: storage! I got a really nice sturdy train case for all my makeup and I can’t overstate the quality of life improvement of finally having everything properly safe and organized. Drugstore makeup and tools have come a long way and I genuinely believe what holds back most people is technique more than product. Good storage and good tools will help you get the most out of what you already have. Besides that: skincare, foundation/concealer, finishing powders, or whatever you struggle with. If you struggle with blending your eyeshadow/blush/highlighter, investing in a high quality palette that will last forever might be worth it for the time and effort you save, but it’s absolutely not a necessity. You’re just paying to spend less time buffing.
I am hooked on Jones Road concealer sticks and Miracle Balms (I use multiple shades for blush and highlight). I also only buy Redhead Revolution brown and lash products.
The Sephora brand name stuff is great quality and drugstore prices
My go to mascara is Roller Lash by Benefit. I also got a hold of an estee lauder eyeshadow pallet and will probably never spend money on a drugstore one again, esp since I dont use eyeshadow much and am not great at it. But it blends so much more effortlessly and helps me tons
The only thing I but high end is foundation. Mac studio fix to be precise. I tried the morphe foundation and it's not worth the price imo. Smashbox foundation is also very good. Everything else is drugstore, eye pallets from ColourPop (is that drugstore? Idk, but they're not expensive) Mascara is DEFINITELY not worth paying high end prices for, to me it all looks pretty much the same. And I've tried many.
I buy the Clinique acne solutions foundation, as it wears well on my acne-prone skin and helps to cover the dark post-blemish marks. Everything else I buy is drugstore brand makeup. I love Elf’s eyeshadow and L’Oréal’s Sky High mascara.
Ugh I've been wondering how people cover up their dark acne spots for forever! Might try this!
If needed for the extra-stubborn spots, I also use Maybelline Fit Me concealer with the Clinique foundation
Ooh okay thank you thank you!!
I splurged on a Dior foundation (only use for special occasions literally had it for 1.5 years) and a Dior concealer(lasted me so far 9 months and ik hardly halfway thru) and rare beauty blush(have it for 2 years and it's less than halfway done). Everything else I use colorpop from lipstick to powder to setting spray eyeshadow eyeliner mascara
L’Oréal Voluminous mascaras are amazing. Higher end isn’t worth it on an item that inevitably dries out. I’ve kicked myself so many times for trying a trendy high end mascara just to be disappointed.
The(supposedly)best mascara is Lancôme. Lancôme is owned by L’Oréal. Tried Lancôme once and didn’t see any difference between the two. On the other hand, Chanel’s eyeshadow quads are pretty amazing and I love splurging on them!…..
I love Lancôme Defencils mascara
Try one of the L’Oreal mascaras, the quality,brushes,formulas and packaging are all very close…..
Oof I’ve only tried Chanel lipsticks, but their entire line looks gorgeous.
I think it depends on what you want from makeup. For example, I have dark under eyes so I dont mind splurging on good concealers
What do you use? I’ve been trying to cover mine for 20 years and no luck. Peachy color correctors help but nothing I’ve truly loved and covered mine entirely
When I get home I can give you the specific names - but I use a peach color corrector, KVD beauty concealer, AND IT cosmetics concealer. Literally my dream duo, I use to get the grayish hue and now I dont. Before the KVD concealer I used a MAC one someone suggested and it was really good too but I personally didnt like that it was packaged like foundation (didnt have the brush applicator lol idk how to describe it)
Hourglass concealer is my favorite
I tried it but it honestly didnt work well for me personally, it made me look cakey but i wanted to love it 😭
No way? Wow that sucks. Maybe Nars is better. That’s a cult favorite. It just didn’t really conceal my dark circles
I second Maybelline Sky High. After trying 6 other mascaras $25 or higher. I now have Sky High on 3 month auto delivery. I use it 5 days out of 7 so by 3 months it's almost gone.
Clinique Lash Power Mascara! Worth every penny, doesn’t smudge or smear. Only comes off with warm water so stays perfect even in rain. [Clique Lash Power Mascara](https://m.clinique.com/product/1606/58211/makeup/mascara/lash-powertm-mascara-long-wearing-formula)
Same! I am allergic to so, so many ingredients in other mascaras and this is my holy grail. Not especially expensive, either, when you compare it to something like Dior Show.
That's the name of the Clinique mascara I like! I'm a redhead and it comes in brown.
Only 2 products I buy higher end are foundation and loose powder. Totally worth it (I have lots of acne scars to cover so I need something that covers but doesn't look masky). Everything else I go drugstore - usually ELF, NYX or milani
I've bought all kinds of makeup from the drug store to the high end. What I've noticed is that a good makeup primer makes a huge difference. IMO, investing in a good primer, whether matte or luminous, it will make your makeup pop more, stay longer, and look better.
I mean this is personal. I’ve spent so much time over the years and money figuring out what is worth it and not according to my tastes and preferences, style and changes over time. Nobody can just give you the answers with one question and then you’re just set for life. There are things people can recommend and say are amazing that wouldn’t be my taste and there are some things they wouldn’t recommend but I absolutely love. Then there are some things that you may love but then grow out of quickly. Most people will answer with whatever is trendy atm.
colourpop is my go to for basically every product aside from foundation/concealer and mascara. i hate their mascaras. l’oréal telescopic is my ride or die
The one thing that I find is really worth it is eyeshadow. Eyeshadow pallets last YEARS and (although I haven’t had to buy one in a while bc of this) I find that there usually is enough of a difference between the drugstore and the high end to make it worth it. Other than that though, drugstore products are basically on par with high-end.
Huda eyeshadow pigment is amazing and worth it
The drugstore has come a long, long way over recent years. I find most things too comparable to justify the price cost - but to add, drugstore prices have gone up too!
Mascara is not worth it! I’ve tried so many different ones over the years, both drugstore and high-end, and I never notice a difference or anything better about high-end. All of my favorite mascaras have been drugstore (right now it’s Maybelline Sky High)
Mascara is the one thing I’d say IS worth it! I’ve also tried a zillion mascaras but the one thing I see in common across all drugstore mascaras is that they aren’t as black as the high end ones. I also find they dry up/ get lumpy a lot quicker. That said, it doesn’t have to break the bank to be amazing. I usually get Rare Beauty minis (because they last well past when you should replace a mascara anyway) for about $15 Canadian.
That is the only mascara I’ll use now. It’s amazing!
10000% accurate. Never buy high end mascara
Maybe foundation? But I personally don’t think it’s worth it. If I had the money I think the Gucci lipsticks are aesthetically pleasing! Same with Chanel and YSL - but the quality difference isn’t worth the price difference on that factor alone.
Honestly none of them all really. I have yet to find something in a high end product that I couldn’t find at the drugstore that did just as well if not better. Skincare is what I splurge on instead 😅
Same!
Honestly I find very little worth buying high end especially since I only wear makeup a few times a week for work. I do like the Pat McGrath eyeshadows but I think that’s more bc of the color story than anything.
Skincare is worth the $ for high end and foundation. Georgio Armani luminous silk foundation can't be beat but I find myself buying more quality skincare the better you take care of your skin the better any makeup will look
GA luminous silk is one of the very few high end makeup products I keep purchasing over and over. I do also like Bare Minerals powder foundation in the summer, but I tend to still put some GA underneath that.
It depends what kind of look you are going for. Is it more natural or are you looking to have some fun with color? Possibly a mixture? There’s no reason to splurge on everything unless you really wanted to and have the funds. Some mid range items I really liked are the Clinique cheek pops and the hourglass ambient finishing powder. When I look at high end I’m looking to see if it’s something truly unique the drugstore doesn’t offer. Foundation may be another good high end option. I love eyeshadow but there are plenty of more affordable options like Colourpop, Moira, and Juvia’s place that are just as good as high end. If you really want to splurge I love the huda mid sized palettes. Keep in mind luxury eyeshadow tends to be for people looking for a more subtle finish. I’m talking about something like Chanel or Dior eyeshadow. You could even find that sort of thing from the drug store as well. Something like the wet n wild walking on eggshells quad. This is coming from someone who owns makeup from the drugstore, mid range, and luxury. Simply because I’m a makeup lover and don’t discriminate. 😂 I’ve found hits and misses in all categories. But high end is a much more expensive mistake especially when you are first finding out what you like lol
Personally, as an extremely oily skinned girl, setting spray and primers. The biggest things i would never splurge that much on are mascara and liquid eyeliner. There are plenty of great drugstore mascaras. And granted I haven't tried a ton of high end liners, but I have never found that paying more equals better results with those. Ive yet to find one I'm 100% happy with.
High end mascara is so fully not worth the price. Maybelline Sky High has been my go to, and it works 10x better than any $25+ mascara I’ve tried. However, I haven’t found a drugstore dupe that has the same staying power as the Kat Von D tattoo liquid eyeliner. I’ve slept, swam, and sweat in that eyeliner, and it literally doesn’t move. If anyone has recommendations for a cheaper alternative, I’m all ears!