Let’s be real for a sec: makeup can get expensiveee. We all love glamming up, but sometimes our wallets are like, “Girl, can you chill?”. But hey, I got your back! Today, I’m gonna walk you through how to get your everyday makeup look for under $20 like a total boss babe. Like, full face slay, without the splurge. I’m talking bomb mascara, flawless foundation, and everything in between. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Okay, so here’s the deal: you don’t need to spend $$$ on makeup to look on point. There are tons of quality drugstore products that have your back without draining your bank account. And trust me, some of these products are so good, they give more expensive brands a run for their money.
Below I’ve listed everything you need to get your everyday glam for under $20 in total. I know, right? Mind-blown already.
1. Flawless Base Without the $$$
Ladies (and all makeup lovers!), first things first: foundations and BB creams. You already know these are super important for creating that flawless canvas. But trust me, you don’t need to splash out on high-end brands to get a smooth, even complexion.
Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation – $5.99
Why is this foundation a game-changer? Let me break it down for you. It’s lightweight but gives you that flawless “your-skin-but-better” vibe that doesn’t look cakey. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and saves your face from that dreaded flashback. Plus, we love Wet n Wild for being both affordable AND fab!
Pro tip: When it comes to drugstore foundations, apply with a damp makeup sponge for a softer finish. I recommend the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge ($6)! Super bouncy and blends like a dream.
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation | $5.99 |
| Real Techniques Sponge | $6 |
2. All About that Brow Game
Eyebrows: they seriously frame your face. Never leave the house without them looking sharp.
Your brows DO NOT have to be twins. Sisters are cool enough!
e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil – $3.00
YES babes, that’s THREE BUCKS! e.l.f. is comin’ through with their Brow Pencil. It’s smooth, creamy, and super easy to use. Just a few strokes, and BOOM: perfect brows. Plus, it has a spoolie built in, so you can brush those hairs up and make them look natural AF.
3. Conceal Don’t Feel (Frozen Lovers, I see you!)
Because some days your dark circles just won’t quit, right? Concealer is a must! It makes your under-eye bags vanish faster than your paycheck after a Sephora sale. But we’re keeping it real today and staying under-budget.
LA Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer – $4.99
This bad boy has been a drugstore hero for years (and for a good reason). It’s creamy, pigmented, and doesn’t crack or crease on you. Say goodbye to dark circles and blemishes! Plus, the consistency isn’t too thick, so it blends beautifully on the skin.
4. Let’s Get Cheeky – Blush & Highlight Combo!✨
Honestly, blush and highlight are the secret weapons to a glowing, fresh look. If you wanna give your face some LIFE, don’t skip these steps.
Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder – $5.29
Ugh, this highlighter is EVERYTHING. It’s glowy. It’s blinding. It’s affordable. What more could you want? Swipe it on the high points of your cheeks, and boom: Insta-model glow without the Insta-model price.
e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick – $4
Y’all, multi-tasking products are a game-changer on a budget. Use this e.l.f. stick as a blush, lip tint, and even eyeshadow! It’s creamy, bendable, and gives you that dewy, rosy glow we all crave.
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlight | $5.29 |
| e.l.f. Monochromatic Stick | $4 |
5. Give Those Peepers Some Pop
Now, eyes are where we really have some fun. You can slap on a bit of mascara and call it a day, or add some shimmer for extra spice.
ColourPop Super Shock Shadow – $6.00
The OG Super Shock Shadows are STILL winning out here in 2023, and they’re seriously affordable. A single pot will last you months. Months, fam. These bad boys are packed with pigment, buttery AF, and blend like a dream. Go for something neutral for your everyday—or add a pop of shimmer if you’re feeling extra.
And for the lashes…
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara – $4.99
Essence mascaras are truly underrated. This one adds volume, length, and definition—and it’s under FIVE DOLLARS. Like, what?! Whether you’re struggling with short or fine lashes, this wand grabs them by the roots and lifts ‘em to the heavens.
6. Lips For Days 💋
Okay, let’s talk lippies! For an everyday look, you want something that’s versatile and works on-the-go. And don’t stress. There are affordable lip products that will keep you looking fab without you spending all your coffee money.
NYX Butter Gloss – $5.00
This gloss is an iconic babe that NEEDS to be in everyone’s collection. Period. It’s non-sticky, has bomb shades, and gives you that juicy-but-not-too-glossy look. And hello? It smells soooo good. For an everyday vibe, I recommend grabbing a soft nude or pink shade like “Praline” or “Tiramisu.”
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| NYX Butter Gloss | $5.00 |
| Essence Lash Princess Mascara | $4.99 |
7. Set It & Forget It
Y’all, if there’s ONE product you can’t skip in your routine, it’s setting spray. I don’t know how people out here stay without one. You worked too hard on that face beat to let it melt by 2pm!
Wet n Wild Photo Focus Matte Finish Setting Spray – $4.99
This gem is a lifesaver when you’re rushing between classes or work and don’t have time for touch-ups. It locks in your makeup without making your skin feel tight or dry. And with a matte finish, you’ll stay shine-free all day. YES, Queen!
Final Breakdown
Now let’s tally this up:
Essentials Breakdown for Everyday Makeup Under $20Essentials Breakdown for Everyday Makeup Under $20
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation | $5.99 |
| LA Girl Pro Conceal Concealer | $4.99 |
| e.l.f. Brow Pencil | $3.00 |
| Wet n Wild Highlight Powder | $5.29 |
| ColourPop Super Shock Shadow | $6.00 |
| Essence Lash Princess Mascara | $4.99 |
| NYX Butter Gloss | $5.00 |
Total: $20.00 🎉🎉🎉
So, see? You CAN get a bomb everyday makeup look without breaking the bank. I feel like people don’t realize that there are SO many options out there that are affordable but still perform like high-end.
Expensive makeup ≠ better makeup! Brands like Wet n Wild, e.l.f., and ColourPop are living proof of that!
Hopefully, this blog helped you find some hidden gems, and you’re ready to SLAY without splurging. Keep shining, keep glowing, and as always—rock your look with confidence, boo!
