As any makeup lover knows, beauty products can get expensive. Replace just three pieces and before you know it, you can easily be spending $100 or even more! I will be the first to admit that high-end designer makeup is awesome. It has a better formula, usually lasts longer, and often comes in prettier packaging. But is expensive makeup really worth the investment when compared to cheaper drugstore makeup? The short answer is, sometimes!
Of course “investment” is a relative term. If you’re on a tight budget, spending $20 on any makeup or beauty product might be an investment to you! For others, a $60 or even $100 for makeup is within their means. But regardless of your budget, you probably don’t want to be spending a ton of money on every single beauty product, and sometimes it can be fun to find an incredible deal on drugstore makeup (case in point, read my post about my favorite lipsticks under $10 here!) However, there are some makeup products that I think are always worth it.
Worth the Investment
As a good rule of thumb, if you wear a product everyday and it lasts more than 6 months, I think it’s a good idea to invest! In my opinion, if you are going to spend money on makeup and beauty products, it should be on face makeup. For example, a more expensive foundation will often look and feel much better on your skin. That’s not to say that there aren’t some incredible drugstore makeup options out there, like the L’Oreal True Match Foundation, but as a general rule, I usually spend more on items like foundation, primer, and setting powder. I also try and spend more on eyeshadows, since there is such a huge difference in quality between a cheap and a nice eyeshadow! Obviously I’m biased, since I love my Identity Palette, but everything from pigmentation to how long the eyeshadow will last, I think it’s best to spend a little more!
Here are some investment products that I think are worth it:
Better to Save
For trendy makeup and products that I don’t wear all the time or replace often, more affordable makeup will do the trick! Drugstore lipstick usually looks just as good as more expensive lipstick, and since it’s so inexpensive, you can pick out lots of colors! I’ve also found some really great inexpensive mascaras and eyeliners that look amazing! Especially since mascara dries out and you should be replacing it every six months, drugstore mascara is a great option!
Here are some of my favorite inexpensive products that I recommend:
To break it down for you, here’s what I think what makeup products I think are good to invest in!
There are a few products on this chart that can go both ways. For example, I love the Milani Luminoso Blush, but I’ve never really loved any other drugstore blush. There are also lots of dupes for expensive products that work just as well for a fraction of the price! You can see my video testing some of these Pinterest dupes here! (P.S. If you have any amazing dupes, tell me about it in the comments!)
What makeup and beauty products do you think are worth the investment?
69 Comments
In the top picture, where are those bracelets from? Also I love the post!
I think I have more high-end lipsticks, than drug store lipsticks?
I totally agree with mascara, drugstore is better, most of them…
I have my doubts with the eyeliner because sometimes it’s too dry to apply… or maybe I should experiment more with other brands… eyeliner is too hard to find?
Thanks for the post! Love all the advise!
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Obviously spending a lot of money only on beauty products is not affordable for all but at the same time using drugstore items one can look fabulous within their budget. As Dupes are very trendy now-a-days.
Personally I believe two products really worth the investment i.e. Foundation and Eye shadow palette. ?
Foundations give an overall look to the face while eye-shade take it to the next level. Having a good palette give you highlight, eye make up at the same time.
I totally agree! :)
A very nice post. love the comparison! :)
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Great advice, Sona. I also choose to invest more in my foundation and skincare. When I first started wearing makeup regularly a few years ago, I was buying a lot of drugstore products but soon realized there are some thing worth spending more money on.
Thinking about drugstore i loved your post on top 3 mascara under $10, i always recommend that to my friends you should have mentioned in this post too.
I like to invest in my foundation and go highly drugstore for masacara,lipsticks, concealer etc
I recently purchased “‘Diorskin’ Nude Air Luminizer Powder 002 ” which is more on a very light pink glow. In your makeup do you usually prefer 002 or 001 as a highlighter ? Also, can we do a good contouring with a mat bronser or do you usually prefer contouring sticks? If you do prefer contouring stick, please let us know what is your favorite? I love them to be creamy cause it’s easy to blend. Thank you Sona for great blog as always
I hear the Loreal Luminous Glow foundation is amazing!! I actually mix my Rimmell with my ELDW to get a good balance that isn’t too heavy! Great blog post per usual Sona ❤
Definitely agree with you about spending more money on a product that you would use more frequently! Drugstore mascaras are SO GOOD!! I used to buy high end mascara and it would dry out so it would be a waste but now I get drugstore mascara and they’re just as amazing! Milani blushes are some of my favorite blushes especially the shade luminoso! I’m biased towards your identity palette too ??ever since I got it, I forgot about all the others! Thanks for another great post ?
Yep definitely foundation and bronzer, I used to use a drugstore bronzer and when I bought the Nars one the difference was unreal, drugstore ones tend to be really orange-y. I feel like for foundation some drugstore ones can look good right after you’ve put them on but by the end of the day I’m like where is it gone?! I’m yet to find a drugstore foundation that’s en par with a high end one especially because the shades are a hit or miss – its kind of disappointing .
Anyways I totally agree with this list!! And that palette ????
Drugstore foundation definitely can be tricky, especially since you can’t always test it out!
Thanks, Sona! I always find myself a little puzzled with this too. However, I’ve learned that it depends on personal preference. Like for masacaras, I have tried expensive ones and cheap ones and the one that I absolutely love is the L’Oreal Double Extend mascara. It’s the only mascara that doesn’t give me that dark shadow under the eye, I typically get it when I’ve worn the mascara after a few hours. But L’Oreal doesn’t do it.
Awesome post, really really helpful.
I think invest on a good foundation, primer or skincare is a must, I mean if you have a good base to start with nothing can go wrong but again if you can find a great quality drugstore product that would make it even better especially when your on a right budget
Great advice- I feel as I get older I do more high end, but also have my drug store favs in rotation. I just got the Dior luminizer and it is beyond beautiful- such a pretty glow! Luv your blog, videos and your palette. Keep it up!!!
Thanks, love! The Dior Luminizer is one of my favorites!! xoxo
It is definitely a struggle to know what makeup is worth saving on. For me at least, I don’t mind spending money on a great high end mascara. I’ve always loved Lancôme Hypnose mascara because it totally changes my look – that’s not to say that drugstore mascaras are bad, but for me personally, I think it’s worth the investment! I completely agree that a great high end foundation will look much better and last longer on the skin. Not only that, but when I do buy good quality foundation, I know my skin won’t have any reactions and it will look seamless! Thanks for the tips, loved the post – as always! <3 :)
Revlon Colorstay is very good foundation. Don’t use bronzer as im pale. Highlighter Manizer sister, it’s good and not expensive. Use cheap mascara daily and expensive on weekends. Since Australia is expensive i regularly buy stuff on EBay.
I’m in the need of new foundation and have been debating back and forth about whether to get a higher end foundation or not. Thanks for the new perspective perhaps I’ll “invest” ☺️?
Love it when you make these charts! :) really enjoyed this blog post so I shared it on my FB!
I also find makeup goes off faster than I can use it all. Not an investment, a money drain. Only buy stuff you need! If possible ??? . BEAUTYNMODA/IG
Super informative post ?? I loved how you did the comparison in detail with the reasoning for each category. Personally, I would love to invest in high end foundation and eye shadows, those are definitely worth the money. Rest of the items in my collection are from drugstore as of now but would definitely love to try DIOR highlighter but my bank account says shut up ? Any ways lots of love Sona. #snapchatfam
Loved all of the info! I have been on a tight budget for a while now but I finally can splurge a little more and invest in some good products. With so many options out there these days it gets pretty confusing so thank you for your input!!
This is such a great post! I definitely agree that it’s better to invest in face products. My skin is really problematic so if I find something that works I stick to it and I know it’s worth to spend a little more on it. I think drugstore products are getting better and better and you can find so many great products at low prices now (I found so many great cheap highlighters and eyeshadows), but they are not advertised as much as high end. Also, if you have good skills you can make everything look expensive :)
Hugs! #snapchatfam
❤❤❤
I really wanted to try the la mer setting powder.. it is really expensive though.. any cheaper option maybe around $40-50 price range? I love the flatlay picture!
Love the post!❤️❤️
Thank you!! The Laura Mercier Translucent Powder is also really good!
Thanks sweetie!??
I agree with you lipstick is 100% drugstore for me, obviously everyday color or one that Ireally enojoy I pay a little more. And since Ihave super sensetive skin everything I put on it is ofter high end..
Great advice, Sona and beautifully laid out post as always! I myself have a healthy (haha) mix of both drugstore and high-end makeup, and I do have to agree that buying a high-end makeup product can be quite thrilling and fun! There are some high-end products that I absolutely love and can’t see myself going back to drugstore for, such as Marc Jacobs matte eyeliner pencil! It glides on like butter and I absolutely love it! I definitely agree about lipglosses especially! I have the Too Faced Papa Don’t Peach lipgloss, and while it’s good quality and smells (and tastes) amazing like peaches, I would have to say that my Essence lipgloss (that’s like 2 dollars at Ulta) is just as good (not as yummy though hahaha)! I also LOVE the Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation. I used to use Loreal pro-matte and it is a fraction of the cost of the double wear, but the double wear just looks so flawless on my skin!
Anyways, sorry for such a long reply! I always read your posts, but sometimes don’t have a moment to comment so I guess I had a lot to say here! ;) Lots of love to you! #snapchatfam
greaaaaaaaat post ??
btw how about face primer? in which category should it, based on your opinion?
I spend so much money on skincare and foundation anything else is from drug stores for me this is my rule to save money ? and it doesn’t work ???? Love u❤️❤️❤️ #snapchatfam
This is a really informative and necessary post… I also think that eyeliners should be an investment as well. Eyeliners should be staying ptu all day long but most of the drugstore eyeliners last only couple of hours, whereas the high-end products actually stay put all day long ? ☺️ #snapchatfam
Essence makes a good felt tip thin eyeliner that lasts all day. It is a little hard to remove honestly (in the best way possible)!
Hi. Loved reading this blog post. I must say that I LOVE a good dupe, but will prefer high end on certain items especially those that have a cult following, for example the Laura Mercier setting powder. Working on a budget is key for me when buying makeup especially now that I’m a beginner and want to establish a good collection. I’ll embrace drugstore and give it a chance. I’m open and if it works for me then drugstore it is, if not then high end it is, but within reason, my budget for high end is $30-$40. Sona, thank you for your blog posts and youtube videos, you were one of the first youtubers and bloggers I began following and truly have learned alot. I have the identity palette and can’t wait for more launches. Enjoy ur day. Love Ana from MY.
Barev Sona,
I also do love the L’Oreal True Match Foundation and all lipsticks by L’Oreal.
Greetings from Germany,
Arevik
I also choose to invest more in my foundation and skincare.thanks for sharing!!
Omg we are the same! I refuse to buy high end mascara, eyeliners and some lipsticks! I think the older I’ve gotten and now that I can afford more I do buy expensive makeup. It’s like a treat for myself and I do enjoy it every time I use a Marc jacobs bronzer I feel so fancy :) lol
Nice.
Skincare products are worth the investment.
I’m flying to the states in a few weeks and I really needed some guideance on wich makeup to buy since buying makeup in Costa Rica is so so expensive:) this will really help. Thank you Sona!!
Yay!! I hope you have a great trip! :)
I am a big fan of investing in things I use everyday, I’ve also found that as I’ve gotten older my skin in a bit more sensitive so I try to splurge on things that go directly on my face. Like you mentioned foundation (Giorgi Armani is my favorite foundation) primer and for me any skin care such as cleaners and moisturizers since i use them in my daily routine and count on them to help keep my face clean and looking good. <3 #snapchatfam
ahhh i love this! youtube is always hooking you on what to buy and alot of things are great, but sometimes we just can afford it :( Thanks Sona! you are awesome blossom :)
My trick with expensive products is that most of them come in travel sizes :) Thats how i got my Laura Mercier setting powder instead of paying $40 for the full size I got the travel for only $20 again I dont use lots of it so for me it was a great investment and a big win win :) I also did the same with the Hoola bronzer only $15 and a little color goes long way. For me this is a great way to test the make up on my skin without feeling bad that i spent a lot of money on it and i don’t like it afterwards. All love, Sona
PS. I can’t wait for the nutrition blog post ever since you mentioned it in that snapchat. I hope it comes out soon <3
I agree about the foundation and setting powder. I love Tarte of the sea and It Cosmetics setting powder. While things like liptick, blush ect drug store has some really nice stuff. I will say that in regard to the foundation I got the Wet N Wild foundation and wow! I was really impressed with it. So if someone is on a tight budget I can’t recommend that one enough.
Totally agree with you on investing in face makeup. I love high end makeup and usually think it is of better quality than drugstore. I also like that I can go into Sephora and try it out or get a sample! You can’t do that with drugstore. I sometimes want to look for certain dupes but then I think if I buy it and don’t like it, that is wasted money that I could have put towards the higher end product. Ugh, the struggle is real! Lol. Thanks for the post Sona!
Giorgio Armani luminous silk is SO good! I also love Glossier skin tint and it’s way more affordable. Here’s a link for 20% off to try: http://www.glossier.com/reps/carissa
As always this is a wonderful article Sona, very informative but also extremely well written – you feel like you’re talking to a friend. I also really appreciate how much effort you put into the visual of the article.
I really want to invest in a few high-end products : the giorgio luminous silk foundation, the marc jacob coconut primer and the la mer setting powder because I have heard so many amazing reviews on those products. Thank you for the tips. I do have a question : brush wise do you think it is better to invest in high-end ones – I really am hesitating to buy the La Mer powder brush which seems amazing ? I am sharing this article on my social medias because it is awesome.
Also, I am from France and I was wondering when the Identity Palette would be available for international customers ?
It’s available for international shipping! Check her Persona website :)
Love this! Thank you so much
<3 #snapfam #instafam #24hourclub lol
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You have me convinced that I need that Dior highlighter! I agree with you on what is worth and not… but pretty packaging on expensive lipsticks get me!!! Hahaha…. I am loving my Charlotte tilbury wonder glow primer and the light wonder foundation. I’m always looking for a full coverage foundation and a good natural bronzer! (I do not love the too faced chocolate one….) suggestions?!
Love the side by side comparison, such a great way to refer back and get the rundown of the post. I actually come back to alot of your posts and videos for reminders on makeup/skincare to try out or tips and tricks.
Foundation and powder are worth the investment ???????
I loved this post Sona, I really agree with everything you said! The things that matter most are worth spending more on (foundation/skin) but my mascara is always drugstore…love Loreal Luminous Carbon Black. + I loved the cute chart you included <3
I completely agree with face products being an investment. Drugstore is not bad I normally use it for work since wearing high foundation on a daily basis can cost me an arm and a leg lol cause i go through it quick.. great post as always sona.
Totally agree with this ! However , the drugstore doesn’t really have liquid lipsticks that I like so I invest a lot of money in that too ?
Yea, I think you’re right! They need to come out with some liquid lipsticks that stay on like a colourpop so I won’t have to be spending more on shipping than an actual lippie.
The only thing I usually invest money on is foundation. Especially because you’re able to test them out before you buy them so it’s more of a 99 percent chance you’ll be happy with the results. Eye shadows I think it depends I don’t see morphe as a high end brand and I absolutely invest in those more than it and decay or too faced or any expensive sephora palette. It’s just more for your buck and they’re amazing.
I think I am with you on this one I do spend a little more on foundations and eyeshadows. I always use my ” cheaper” foundation when I know I won’t be out that long so by the time it breaks I am ready to take it off ?
I love this!!!
Growing up, my mom was a model total beauty guru so she bought us girls (I’m one of 4 girls) Ester Lauder, Lorcac, etc. because her Phillosphy was, if I put it on my skin, I’ll put it on my daughters! As I’ve grown up, I’ve really had to learn to budget my money so my go to goal has been: if it goes directly on your skin: spend more! I.e. Foundation, powder, eyeshadow. But I love this because it’s sort of the same thing: if you buy a new mascara every month, buy a $9 one versus $36 one!
Wow I feel smart that I had some same philosophies as you! LOL! ?
I love travel size or deluxe sample mascaras (prestige) because you get the awesome formula, and you don’t feel guilty tossing it out often! It is so important for eye health to switch mascara often, so I’m always trying to grab a small size or something from the drugstore on clearance. At least eyeliner pencils can be sanitized easily. My optometrist lectures me on these things…
OH MY GOD! i totally agree, the only thing that makes me pick higher end products is the fact that drugstore makeup tends to have parabens. so for the most part you are actually investing in your skin, but for products like lipgloss, and lipsticks that are not directly on your skin it’s probably a good idea to just grab some drugstore products. But for products like foundation, might as well invest in your skin and pick a healthier option! Lots of love, XO ??????
I’ve read a lot about Physicians Formula for a quality, healthy , cruelty free product. It’s great for your skin!!!
I love this! Super helpful on what’s good to splurge on and what’s good to save your bucks. I accidentally spurlge on too much and then run out of cash when I need to replace necessary items :(
Great list! Thank you! I splurge on my eyeshadow. They last forever, and you know the Persona Identity is my #1 go to since Christmas (apologies to my neglected Urban Decay, Lorac, and Tarte palettes)! Overall, I use more drugstore makeup. Right now, I’m loving my Essence brow pencil in Blonde 04 (I’m a brunette, but this shade looks most natural), ELF BB Cream, Maybelline Fit Me/ Matte & Poreless, and ELF setting spray. Essence makes a great felt tip eyeliner too that I cannot live without.
I believe that you should invest in high quality brushes too, because cheap drugstore brushes barely get any product to work the way you want
Nope! I splurge on nothing. 100% of my make-up is Wet N Wild. Used all the expensive stuff before and it did less than this cheaper stuff. The only difference is that the expensive stuff pays celebrities to advertise and that passes the cost to the consumer. I get so many compliments for my WnW make-up, never going back to dropping hundreds when I can drop a fifth of that price or less.
•1.) I think a good investment would start with Koh gen do moisturizing foundation as a base.
•2.) Dior skin nude air healthy glow invisible loose powder; 002 (light beige in my case due to being so pale)
•3) Dior nude air luminizer (003 for me)
•4) Benefit Hoola cream to powder
•5) Benefit precisely my brow pencil
•6) Morphe by Maddie Ziegler imagination collection wonder-tint cheek and lip mousse (the peach one)
•7) Nars radiant cream concealer
•8) Morphe imagination collection palette
•9) Pat McGrath labs Fetish eyes mascara
•10) Maybelline fat sculpting eye gel
•Pat McGrath labs perma-gel rose lip liner
• Morphe by Maddie Z imagination collection peach pucker lip gloss
•Tatcha luminous dewy skin mist
But I absolutely cannot afford any of these items except maybe the Maybelline eye gel:(