We all have the same problem – going insane over beauty products that are just too expensive. The little make up hoarder inside all of us buys unnecessary make up that we don’t actually need. We have complied a list of a few cheaper products out there for all you beauty junkies; because we all understand that pinch when the disastrous price tag is unveiled. Though these dupes might not be exactly the same (in terms of application), they are one of the best alternatives for these high end products, especially when you still need the money to live and survive.
1. M.A.C Lipsticks
Everybody’s Holy Grail lipstick. M.A.C has a tempting array of lipsticks in endless shades and textures that have us in a delirious state whenver we visit a M.A.C counter. But before you can even say “Ruby Woo”, you remember that each lipstick costs at least $28 each. Sure, you might not feel the pinch for staple colours, but when you want to try something new, these lipsticks are definitely considered quite costly. You might want to go for cheaper alternatives when you’re easing into a new shade or just trying something new.
Obvious options include Revlon’s Super Lustrous lipsticks or Wet n Wild’s highly raved MegaLast lip colours.
M.A.C Cosmetics Lipsticks, from $28, available at M.A.C counters.
Wet n Wild MegaLast Lip Colour, $6.90, available at selected Watsons stores.
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipsticks, $18.90, available at Watsons, Guardian, and leading supermarkets and hypermarkets.
2. Smashbox Photofinish Primer
This cult favourite primer has an unbeatable following. The Photofinish collection includes a variety of choices that are specially intended for different skin types. Given the large collection ranging from a green primer (for redness) and a lavender one (for dull skin), it’s no wonder that this particular primer has been such a hit favourite amongst many. However, if you aren’t willing to spare good money for this, you can try NYX’s Studio Perfect Primer (that comes in 3 different shades!) or Maybelline’s adorably packaged Baby Skin Pore Eraser.
Smashbox Photofinish Primer, $64, available in Sephora stores.
NYX Studio Perfect Primer, $22, available in Sephora stores.
Maybelline Baby Skin Pore Erase, $21.90, available at Watsons and Guardian stores.
3. Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed
Let’s face it. We’ve all been tempted by this gorgeous highlighter after watching endless YouTube make up tutorials featuring its enticing glow. You can actually achieve a similar glow with Colourpop’s Lunch Money, another big beauty hit amongst YouTubers and basically the entire world. Don’t be fooled by its affordable pricing and small packaging, the soft light gold finish is unbelievable.
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Moonstone, $58, available at Sephora.
Colourpop Super Shock Cheek Lunch Money, US$8, available on colourpop.com
4. Urban Decay Naked
With 6 Naked palettes till date, we actually wonder when Urban Decay is ever going to stop their evil plans of emptying our banks. If you aren’t willing to spend close to a hundred bucks on yet another Naked palette, consider e.l.f’s eyeshadow palette that actually has similar shades at just a fraction of the price.
Urban Decay Naked Palette, $83, available at Sephora and Urban Decay stores.
e.l.f. Endless Eyes Pro Mini Eyeshadow Palette, US$7, available online at elfcosmetics.com.
5. Benefit Mascara
The go to mascara that’s clump free, volumising and lengthening at the same time. However, at such a steep price, Benefit’s really playing hard to get here. Another popular alternative for mascaras would definitely be Maybelline’s large range of mascaras that’s definitely a drugstore favourite amongst many.
Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara, $42, available at Sephora.
Maybelline Volume Express Falsies Mascara Black, $21.90, available at Watsons and Guardian stores.
6. Beautyblender
Hands down the most expensive sponge ever. But with its soft texture and promised smooth application, we are completely sold too. Admittedly, it’s a must-have for all of us beauty junkies out there. However, if you want to get a few of these sponges for different applications, it might not bet the most financially appropriate thing to do. Consider Real Technique’s sponge that does a pretty neat job too, given its price.
Beautyblender, $32, available at Sephora.
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, $16, available at Sephora and selected Watsons and Guardian stores.
