So you wanna dive into makeup but your wallet’s looking at you like, “Girl, chill”? Trust me, I’ve been there. Luckily, the world of affordable drugstore makeup is actually kind of amazing these days. I mean, why drop $50 on a foundation when a drugstore gem can have you looking just as snatched? Let’s get into it—no gatekeeping.
Table of Contents (because, you know, I’m trying to be organized here):
- Why Even Bother with Drugstore Makeup?
- Foundation: Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless
- Concealer: e.l.f. 16HR Camo Concealer
- Blush: Milani Baked Blush
- Mascara: NYX Worth the Hype
- How to Not Totally Suck at Makeup (Beginner Tips)
- Wrapping It Up
Why Even Bother with Drugstore Makeup?
Listen, unless you’re rolling in cash or have a sugar daddy on speed dial, drugstore makeup just makes sense. It’s cheap, you can find it literally everywhere (Target, CVS, even Amazon if you’re too lazy to leave your couch), and honestly? Most of it slaps. Brands like e.l.f., Maybelline, and NYX are out here making high-end brands sweat. Plus, they’re getting way better about being cruelty-free and shade-inclusive, so you don’t have to sell your soul for a good product.
Wanna geek out more about budget beauty? Peep xAI’s makeup guide or Allure’s drugstore faves.
Foundation: Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless
Alright, this one’s kinda iconic. Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless is like the little black dress of foundation—basic, but in a hot way. It comes in, what, 40 shades? So, pretty much everyone’s covered. It smooths out your skin, kills the shine, and actually sticks around all day. And for eight bucks? Shut up and take my money. Walmart, Target, Amazon—pick your poison.
Why I’m Obsessed: It’s lightweight, blends like a dream, and doesn’t make you look like a cake pop. If your skin’s oily or combo, you’ll love it.
Pro tip: Slap it on with a damp sponge for that “I woke up like this” finish. Wanna see swatches? Hit Maybelline’s official site.
Concealer: e.l.f. 16HR Camo Concealer
e.l.f. really said, “Let’s give the people what they want.” Full coverage, doesn’t crease if you set it, and it lasts all day. Plus, there’s a shade for legit everyone. Seven bucks. That’s less than a Starbucks order.
Why It Rocks: It’s creamy, blendable, and covers up all your secrets (dark circles, zits, questionable life choices). And it’s vegan. Love that for us.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to set it with powder, or it might wander off your face by lunch. Want more tea? Check out xAI’s concealer tips.
Blush: Milani Baked Blush
Milani’s Baked Blush in “Luminoso” has its own cult following, and honestly, I get it. It gives you that healthy, glowy flush without looking like a clown. Texture’s super silky, and it blends out even if you’re heavy-handed (we’ve all been there).
Why I Stan: Forgiving for newbies, gives you a glow, and is cruelty-free. You’re welcome, bunnies.
Pro tip: Use a fluffy brush and go easy. If you wanna go full glam, layer it up. Wanna drool over the shades? Scope out Milani’s site.
Mascara: NYX Worth the Hype
I know, dramatic name, but this mascara actually delivers. It lengthens, adds volume, and doesn’t clump, which is honestly all I ask. It’s got waterproof options too, so you can ugly-cry at the club and still look cute.
Why I Dig It: The wand is easy to use, even if you’re shaking like you just chugged an energy drink. Also vegan and cheap.
Pro tip: Curl your lashes first or you’re just wasting your time. Need more deets? xAI’s mascara guide has you.
How to Not Totally Suck at Makeup (Beginner Tips)
- Keep it simple: Start with just the basics—foundation, concealer, blush, mascara. Don’t go full Euphoria on day one.
- Shade match, please: Try foundation on your jaw, not your wrist. Trust me.
- Tools help: Invest in a decent brush or a beauty sponge. Your fingers are NOT always the answer.
- Cruelty-free FTW: Brands like e.l.f. and Milani won’t make you feel guilty.
- Practice, practice, practice: YouTube is your bestie. Check out The Kitchn’s tutorials.
Wrapping It Up
Getting into makeup shouldn’t leave you broke or stressed. These affordable drugstore makeup staples—Maybelline, e.l.f., Milani, NYX—are beginner-proof and won’t let you down. So play around, mess up, and post your lewks on x.com or Pinterest. Who knows, you might just go viral.