6 Budget Make-up Buys That Really Work
Spent all your money during the holidays? Me too. While I wouldn’t want to part with my luxe make-up faves (hello Giorgio Armani foundation, Chanel mascara and Charlotte Tilbury anything), I am always up for throwing a few budget buys into the mix.
I’m guessing that when you see make-up priced cheaply, you probably steer away, thinking it’s not suited for 45-plus+ skin. The majority of these produces aren’t but, within almost every budget line, there are one or two key items that work really well. It’s just a matter of finding them.
The arrival of Drew Barrymore’s purse-friendly Flower collection in Australia a few years ago (sold through Chemist Warehouse) was particularly exciting as this range defies the norm and has more than a couple of products that fulfil our needs.
Here’s a shortcut to the basics I have on repeat purchase.
Tip: always search online, as you can pick up these beauties on sale regularly.
1. Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmers | $9.95
So many pretty colours to flatter your pout, but it’s the peppermint oil that makes your lips look instantly fuller. All natural so it doesn’t matter if you are a lip-licker.
2. Rimmel Lasting Finish | $18.95
On days when your skin needs a bit more of a “flawless finish”, this full coverage yet lightweight foundation delivers and lasts longer than most. Best of all, it does not feel drying. In 25 shades.
3. Revlon Colorstay Skin Awaken | $26.95
This is new so I’ve only been using it a short time, but I am impressed. Creamy with good coverage and enough hydration that it doesn’t sit heavy in fine lines. With added vitamin C, it works to brighten dark circles the more you use it.
4. Flower Forever Wear Liner | $7.99
A soft and creamy true-black eyeliner that’s good for tightlining eyes (to make it look like you have more eyelashes). It also sticks where it should, so doesn’t imprint on (droopy) lids.
5. LUMA On the Glow Highlighter | $26.95 each
You can use this multi-purpose chubby stick on cheeks, eyes and decolletage for an iridescent dewy glow, thanks to the natural crushed pearl powder it contains.
6. Flower Lash Warrior | $9.99
The secret to a good mascara is in the brush and this one scoops up every fine and tiny lash and amplifies it for excellent volume.