The makeup world is divided into two groups: high-end products and drugstore products.

High-end products tend to be high-quality makeup with a name brand like Chanel or Dior. Basically, these are products a college student on an unpaid intern’s salary can’t afford. I’ll take my $0 elsewhere, thanks.

Then there are drugstore products, which you’d find (hence the name) at any local drugstore. These include brands like Revlon, Maybelline, and Covergirl. 

Although drugstore makeup tends to be cheaper, it isn’t necessarily poorer quality than the high-end products. In fact, some drugstore products are better than their equivalent high-end products for a much cheaper price. Never be fooled by a price tag.

While I do love to look at all that glamorous, expensive makeup, I tend to gravitate towards the makeup section at the grocery store longer than I spend shopping for food. I love trying out new makeup, and since the drugstore is cheap, that’s pretty easy to do.

However, it can also be pretty overwhelming. The numerous colors and formulas of foundation, eye shadow palettes, and mascaras that all claim to make your lashes look 4D and grow 5 inches can all begin to look like one big blur of confusion.

Having been flustered by the selection myself for some time, I’ve decided to compile a list of my favorite drugstore beauty products that are “must haves” for anyone new to the makeup world or just anyone wanting to try out some new drugstore products!

Covergirl Fresh Effects Concealer

I’ve been using this concealer for a couple months now, and it’s a great every day concealer that has light, layering coverage. It has a dough foot applicator, which is great for applying it in spots needed.

Maybelline Eyebrow Pencil

I decided to take a chance and try out this eyebrow pencil in a darker shade than the one I was using because my hair is starting to lose the lightness it had during the summer months. I LOVE the brush on the end of it, so it’s like two products in one!

Telescopic Shocking Extensions Mascara

This is a newer formula based on the old Telescopic line, and is definitely one of my favorite drugstore mascaras on the market. It’s super lengthening and perfect for a casual makeup look as it’s not too volumizing or full.

Revlon Lip Butters

A kind of cult beauty product, these things really are awesome. More longlasting than a lip balm and not as bold as a lipstick, these are perfect for when you’re on the go and don’t have time to fuss with touching up your lipstick all the time. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors, making them suitable for many different skin tones. I have the shades tutti frutti and red velvet.

Rimmel Stay Matte Transparent Powder

I mentioned this product in my last post, so you know I really love it. I use this everyday to “mattify” my skin to stop oil and shine. This is particularly helpful when the weather is warm and humid, but I like to use it all year round because it’s a fine, beautiful powder for a very cheap price.