I’ve been a makeup artist for 9 years. Here are 9 drugstore products that perform better than high-end items.

The L’Oreal True Match formula has a similar texture and finish to some of my most expensive foundations.

Its silky, satin finish sits beautifully on the skin and has medium buildable coverage. It’s also the type of base product that could work well for many different skin types across all ages.

This skin tint is about $15 at most drugstores near me.

The $13 No7 Perfect-Light setting powder is one the best ones you’ll find for under $20.

It’s a fine powder, so it sets the makeup without looking like an extra layer of product caking up the skin.

It’s great for all skin types, blurs pores, and ensures makeup lasts all day.

I believe the Physicians Formula Eye Booster is the best liquid liner pen on the market.

I’ve tried my fair share of expensive eyeliners, and nothing compares to this one. It’s ultra-pigmented, inky, and stays on all day.

The $12.50 eyeliner also doesn’t dry out as fast as most liquid eye pens I’ve tried.

The $10 setting spray from Maybelline will hold the makeup in place all day.

There have been plenty of times when my clients have told me they’ve accidentally fallen asleep in their makeup and woke up with it perfectly intact thanks to this product.

The $11 Maybelline Lifter glosses are extremely comparable to my $30 ones.

They leave the lips super juicy and glossy without being too sticky.

The available color selection is stunning. Each is opaque enough to wear on its own but also looks beautiful layered over lipstick.

This story was originally published on September 20, 2022, and most recently updated on September 18, 2024.