Beauty doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. For years, I was a student, scrambling to balance my beauty wishlist with a limited budget. Flashbacks to those days still make me smile—after all, the excitement of buying my first luxury lipstick (which I saved up for months to afford) was overshadowed by the fear of using it because of its price tag. Fast forward to today, and while I have a bit more leeway with my beauty purchases, there are still some trusty drugstore products that I can’t live without. These affordable gems have withstood the test of time, and even now, I rely on them just as much as my high-end favorites.
So if you’re looking to step up your beauty routine without breaking the bank, let me take you through some of my all-time drugstore favorites that I find myself returning to again and again. Most of these can be found at my go-to spots like Target and CVS, proving that you don’t have to spend a fortune to look fabulous.
The Cleansing Duo: Refresh & Detox
When it comes to skincare, starting with a good cleanser is key. For me, a dual cleanser routine has worked wonders. In the morning, I love the Biore Deep Charcoal Cleanser. This cleanser has a refreshing minty feel, leaving my skin feeling awake and clean, perfect for starting the day. Plus, charcoal is fantastic for purging impurities and clearing out pores, making it a solid choice for anyone looking for a deep clean without drying out their skin.
At night, I turn to the L’Oreal Pure Clay Cleanser. It’s gentle enough for my skin but effective, and it doubles as a light exfoliator. I don’t use it every day, but a few times a week, it leaves my skin feeling extra soft and revitalized, without the mess of a traditional clay mask. Clay has all the benefits of detoxing and brightening, but in a no-fuss, easy-to-use formula.
Hydration Hero: Pond’s Cold Cream
For moisture, I reach for Pond’s Cold Cream—a product that’s been around for decades and still delivers amazing results. I remember first hearing that Jennifer Aniston uses it, and if it’s good enough for Rachel Green, it’s good enough for me! This super affordable cream works wonders to hydrate and soothe the skin. It’s rich without being greasy and leaves your face feeling baby soft. Plus, for under $10, you really can’t go wrong. It’s like a timeless beauty secret that’s just waiting to be rediscovered.
Foundation & Concealer: Drugstore Magic
When I’m looking for full coverage without splurging, I head straight for Maybelline’s Dream Cushion Foundation. I was introduced to cushion foundations by a fellow beauty lover, and once I tried this one, I was hooked. The formula is buildable, easy to apply, and—bonus—it’s mess-free. No foundation spills here! Plus, the compact design makes it travel-friendly, so it’s perfect for touch-ups throughout the day.
For a more affordable concealer, I turn to Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind Eraser Concealer. This gem hides dark circles, blemishes, and everything in between. It’s creamy, pigmented, and doesn’t crease—what more could you ask for? On days when my skin is looking pretty good, I’ll just apply this concealer and call it a day. It’s one of those products that feels like a magic wand for your face.
Eyebrows: Sculpt & Define
When it comes to brows, I’ve tried many products, but the e.l.f. Eyebrow Kit will always be my ride-or-die. For just a few bucks, it delivers perfectly defined brows with a natural finish. I’ve been using this kit for years, and I’ve never found a more affordable, reliable brow product. Whether you like a bold shape or just need to fill in sparse areas, this kit gives you the flexibility to create the perfect brow. It’s such a steal, I couldn’t believe it when I first found it.
Lips: Color & Care
For lips, I’m a lifelong fan of Maybelline Baby Lips. These lip balms are a staple in my makeup bag, and I always have one on hand. The texture is smooth, and they’re moisturizing without being sticky. Over the years, they’ve become a nostalgic favorite for me, a product I can always count on for soft, hydrated lips.
On the days I want to add a little more color, NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream is my go-to. It’s super pigmented, lasts for hours, and has the perfect balance of creamy and matte. My favorite shade, Stockholm, is a pinky nude that’s perfect for everyday wear. It’s not too bold, but still gives a polished look without being overdone. And, for long-lasting color, I’ll sometimes reach for Maybelline’s SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick. This one stays put all day—through meals, drinks, and even a nap. It’s my secret weapon for events when I need my lips to last.
Highlighter & Toner: Radiance & Glow
For a glow that’s not too over-the-top, Maybelline’s Master Strobing Stick is perfect. The formula is creamy but not greasy, and it blends seamlessly into the skin for a natural-looking glow. Whether you’re a highlighter newbie or a seasoned pro, this product is easy to work with and adds a beautiful, dewy finish to your makeup.
As for skincare, Pixi Glow Tonic has a cult following for a reason. This exfoliating toner uses glycolic acid to brighten and smooth the skin, giving you a natural radiance. I’ve seen a visible difference in my skin since using it—my complexion looks brighter and more even, and it leaves my face feeling refreshed. Plus, it contains aloe vera, which helps calm the skin and keep it hydrated.
Removing It All: Easy & Efficient
At the end of the day, removing makeup is a must, and Simple Micellar Cleansing Water is my favorite product for the job. It’s gentle, non-irritating, and removes every trace of makeup without drying out my skin. I follow it up with Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes when I’m traveling or in a hurry. They’re incredibly convenient and perfect for taking off makeup when I’m on the go.
Why Drugstore Products Still Reign Supreme
While I love my luxury skincare and makeup products, there’s something incredibly special about these drugstore gems. They’re affordable, reliable, and give my skin and makeup the boost they need without costing a fortune. Whether it’s a soothing moisturizer, a long-lasting lipstick, or a must-have brow kit, these drugstore favorites will always have a place in my beauty routine. They remind me that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest (and most affordable).
