6 Must-Have Drugstore Makeup Products

posted on September 19, 2013 | by Amanda Holstein

After my roundup of must-have drugstore hair products, I thought I’d continue the series with my favorite drugstore makeup! There are definitely high quality makeup products out there that you don’t have to spend a ton on. In fact, I’d say I buy 50% of my makeup at my local drugstore, and the other 50% at Sephora. While I tend to opt for pricier brands when it comes to the products I put on my skin (foundation, bronzer, etc.), there are plenty of other products I purchase from my local drugstore to round out my makeup routine. Here are my 6 must-haves:

Mascara

I’ve tried tons and tons of mascaras, including pricier brands from Sephora, and this Covergirl LashBlast collection is still my ultimate favorite. If you want full lashes with length, no clumps, and still keep that natural look, this is your best bet. The combination of the unique brush and great formula make this product unbeatable. I’m a huge fan!

Blush & Bronzer Brushes

These Eco Tools Brushes are LITERALLY the softest brushes I’ve ever touched, and they’re super affordable! They are light, fluffy, and pick up product really well. Using them every morning is like rubbing a soft bunny on my face – it’s a great way to wake up. ‘Nuff said.

Nail Polish

While Essie will always be a favorite, I tend to hoard nail polishes. So finding a brand that’s more affordable is key. These new Covergirl Outlast Nail Polishes are super high quality and come in all the latest colors – many of which are extremely similar to some of my favorite Essie shades. I’ve tried many other drugstore nail polishes and this brand tends to last the longest. In fact, it’s the brand I used in my post on how to make your manicure last, and that manicure lasted 2 weeks!

Eyeliner

You don’t need to spend a ton on a quality eye pencil. I’m a huge fan of this Revlon Luxurious Color Eyeliner because it doesn’t smudge like many other products. Plus it comes with this perfect sponge-like brush that helps blend the product into your lash line for a more natural look.

Eyebrow Grooming Kit

When it comes to my eyebrows, I’ve tried products all over the board. Pencils, powders, brushes – you name it. After my consultation with a professional makeup artist, he recommended I stick to this Milani Brow Fix Brow Kit because it comes with the perfect angled brush and two shades that, when combined, create a really natural look. Plus it includes a mini tweezer, so it’s great for on-the-go.

Moisturizing Tinted Lip Balm

It’s important to have a go-to lip balm that not only moisturizes, but also acts as a tinted lipgloss all in one. Maybelline Baby Lips has been all the rage since it launched, and for good reason. The product does its job at keeping your lips soft and I love the hint of color and shine it leaves behind as well.

What are some of your must-have drugstore makeup products?