When it comes to bargain beauty, it's not always easy to tell which products are really going to work well. The expensive department store brands with their inflated price tags and gorgeous packaging are usually available to test out before you make a purchase. However, the more affordable items can be hit-or-miss, as you're left wondering how the color will look or how effective it will be based on the product description and advertising promises.
To take out some of the guess work and to keep your bank account happy, we've rounded up our top favorite budget beauty products which we can't live without!
1. New York Color's Expert Last Lip Color
This lipstick glides on smoothly and keeps your lips hydrated like your favorite balm. With it's velvety finish and just a touch of shimmer, it's the perfect finishing touch to your summer style! At only $1.99, it's easy to test out all of their beautiful shades from Snowcone, a beautiful light pink, to the firey red Traffic Jam.
2. Physicians Formula Eye Definer Felt-Tip Eye Marker
The tapered felt-tipped eyeliner makes it easier than ever to get the perfect fine lines or bold look-at-me wing. Physicians Formula makes applying eyeliner as easy as drawing with a marker. The only downside is that this product doesn't last nearly long enough, but at only $7.99, we wouldn't blame you for picking up two.
3. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes
Removing stubborn (even waterproof) makeup, dirt and oil, these are a beauty bag must. We love how they're allergy tested and alcohol-free and perfect for sensitive skin To use, gently wipe across your face and you're done! No need to rinse. These ultra soft wipes are perfect for bringing with you to the gym or on vacation or just using every night before going to bed. The best part is a pack of towelettes will only set you back $6.99.
4. Maybelline Great Lash Big Mascara
An update on Maybelline's classic fan favorite mascara, gives you longer fuller lashes than it's predecessor. There's a reason why makeup artists and people everywhere have fallen in love with this product, which has taken on a cult-like status. Not only does it condition while thickening your lashes, but it also provides excellent clump-free color for only $5.99.
5. Essence Mosaic Blush
When it comes to finding the perfect blush, it's important to find a product that will give you a natural looking flush, which can be tricky with just one color. Featuring not one, not two, but three different colors in a mosaic pattern, is really what makes this product standout.
Swirl your brush into the three shades which form the pretty triangular design for the perfect rosy hue! Check out All You Need is Pink, a combination of bright coral, bronze-gold and cool rose which mix together to give you the look of a beautiful radiant post-workout pink flush (no exercise required) with just a hint of shimmer! It works like a much more expensive product, but this blush will only cost you $4.95.
6. Revlon Color Stay Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain
The lightweight moisturizing gel formula goes on smooth adding a beautiful tint of color. The chubby crayon makes it easy to apply without the need to sharpen it or mess around and the gorgeous lip stain will stay on for hours. Not only is it easy to apply, but it also gives our lips the moisture they crave after a day laying out by the pool! Pick up your favorite new shade for only $9.49.
7. Models Own I-Definer Liquid Eyeliner
If you'd rather a traditional liquid eyeliner than a felt-tipped eyeliner marker, I-Definer is for you. This liquid liner defines and contours, while effortlessly gliding across your eyelids. The quality pigmented formula and thin brush will make it easy to master any look from a more modern graphic eye to a traditional cat eye. Pick up this smooth liquid liner for only $8.99, available online, exclusively at Ulta.com.