Drugstore Makeup and Beauty Favorites

 

There’s something about strolling through the beauty aisles of a drugstore (or your favorite discount store). Tons of beauty products to choose from, inexpensive and worth a try. In many cases, formulas are equal to that of their more expensive department store counterparts. The difference is usually in the packaging–maybe not quite as luxe as what you expect in the department store beauty aisles. 

Since I try hundreds of beauty products throughout the year, I’ve found many of my favorites come from the drugstore. These are the drugstore beauty products that I re-buy frequently :

Makeup

No longer do you have to feel that you're trading off quality for value. The product that I buy most frequently in the drug/discount store is mascara. I'm always searching for the newest/greatest. My favorite drugstore mascaras include L'Oreal Paris Voluminous® Power Volume 24H Black Smoke mascara and CoverGirl Clump Crusher by Lashblast Mascara. 
Eyeshadow is another drugstore staple. If you like neutrals like I do, check out Maybelline The Nudes Palette. Twelve eyeshadow colors that you can mix and match to get your own versatile look. I also love the  Maybelline EYE STUDIO® COLOR TATTOO®  line and have found these to be great dupes for MAC. And for eyeliners, you can't beat Wet 'nWild or e.l.f.!

Sunscreen

Unless you are loyal to a prestige department store brand, the sunscreens in the drugstore are excellent. Two of my favorites include Aveeno® Protect + Hydrate™ Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 30 and NEUTROGENA Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen. Both of these brands consult regularly with top dermatologists, so there is no trade-off in quality compared to more expensive versions.  

Nail Polish and Nail Care Products

Nail polish is my favorite product to buy in the drugstore. There are so many brands to choose from—most are well under $10. Sinful Colors, L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche, Essie…I can always find a new color to pick up.  Chances are if you like a hot-off-the-runway department store nail polish shade, you can find a dupe at the drugstore! And while you’re there, don't forget nail care products. Pick up Cutex® SPA Formula Nail Polish Remover, Sally Hansen Cuticle Rehab and stock up on nail files.

Skin Care - Cleansers

Yes, you can find good skincare products in the drug/discount store. Cleansers are an excellent drugstore beauty buy. My favorite cleansers include Neutrogena Foaming Cleanser, which removes dirt, oil and makeup. If you like a creamier texture, try Olay Luminous Brightening Cream Cleanser, which gently exfoliates and brightens dull, uneven skin. And if you prefer an oil, Garnier Nourishing Cleansing Oil is a great choice for dry, winter skin. 

Hair Care

The best drugstore hairspray—and my favorite hairspray at any price, is L’Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray. A fine mist, no-stick, no-buildup, stands up to weather formula make this hairspray my must-have. In addition, beauty companies are coming out with extensive hair care ranges that rival those found in a salon. You can find everything you need, from shampoo and conditioner, to products that create the perfect blowout. You can even buy hair dryers!