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37 Best Affordable Makeup Brands for Beginners 🤩
Remember that awkward first attempt at winged eyeliner? Yeah, we’ve all been there! But mastering makeup doesn’t require a fortune. This comprehensive guide from the makeup experts at Makeup Brands™ unveils 37 of the best affordable makeup brands perfect for beginners. We’ll explore drugstore gems, hidden treasures, and application tips to help you create stunning looks without emptying your wallet. Get ready to ditch the makeup-counter intimidation and embrace your inner makeup artist! We’ll even reveal a few surprising brands that deliver professional-level results at drugstore prices. Ready to discover your new favorite affordable makeup?
Key Takeaways
- Drugstore brands offer incredible value: You don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve a flawless look. Brands like e.l.f., NYX, Maybelline, and ColourPop consistently deliver high-quality products at affordable prices.
- Mastering application techniques is key: Proper blending and the right tools are crucial, regardless of the price of your makeup.
- Start with the essentials: Focus on a few versatile products like a BB/CC cream, concealer, mascara, and a neutral eyeshadow palette before expanding your collection.
- 👉 Shop smart: Take advantage of sales, discounts, and coupons to maximize your budget.
👉 Shop these brands on:
- e.l.f. Cosmetics: Amazon | e.l.f. Official Website
- NYX Professional Makeup: Amazon | NYX Official Website
- Maybelline New York: Amazon | Maybelline Official Website
- ColourPop: Amazon | ColourPop Official Website
Table of Contents
A Beginner’s Guide to Budget-Friendly Makeup: History and Evolution
Affordable Makeup for Beginners: Drugstore Gems and Hidden Treasures
Primer: The Unsung Hero of Budget Makeup
BB/CC Creams: Your Multitasking Makeup Must-Have
Concealer Magic on a Dime: Affordable Options for Flawless Skin
Powder Power: Mastering Translucent Pressed and Loose Powders
Brows On a Budget: Affordable Eyebrow Products and Techniques
Eye-Opening Deals: Affordable Eyeliners for Beginners
Mascara Marvels: Affordable Options for Luscious Lashes
Eyeshadow Extravaganza: Budget-Friendly Palettes and Single Shades
Blush Bliss: Affordable Blushes to Brighten Your Complexion
Lipstick Lowdown: Affordable and Stylish Lip Products
Accessorizing Your Makeup Bag: Brushes, Sponges, and Tools on a Budget
Cleaning Your Makeup Tools: Hygiene and Care on a Budget
Building Your Ultimate Affordable Makeup Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mastering Makeup Application Techniques: Tips and Tricks for Beginners
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting with Affordable Makeup
Where to Find the Best Deals: Online and Offline Shopping Strategies
Quick Tips and Facts
Let’s get real: looking fabulous shouldn’t break the bank! 💸 We’ve all been there, staring longingly at high-end makeup, wishing we could afford it. But guess what? You don’t need a fortune to achieve a stunning look. This guide from the experts at Makeup Brands™ will show you how to build a killer makeup kit without emptying your wallet. We’ll explore the best affordable makeup brands for beginners, offering tips and tricks to help you master the art of makeup on a budget. Ready to unleash your inner makeup artist? ✨
- Start small: Don’t feel pressured to buy everything at once. Focus on essential items like foundation, concealer, mascara, and a neutral eyeshadow palette.
- Prioritize quality over quantity: Investing in a few high-quality, versatile products is better than having a drawer full of cheap, low-performing ones.
- 👉 Shop smart: Look for sales, discounts, and drugstore brands that offer amazing value. Check out our article on Which makeup brands is best and cheap? for more ideas.
- Learn basic techniques: Proper application is key to making your makeup look its best, regardless of the price. We’ll cover this in detail later!
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Makeup is all about self-expression! Have fun trying different looks and finding what works best for you.
A Beginner’s Guide to Budget-Friendly Makeup: History and Evolution
Believe it or not, the concept of “affordable makeup” has evolved significantly! Back in the day, drugstore makeup was often seen as inferior to high-end brands. But times have changed! The rise of social media and beauty influencers has democratized the beauty industry, highlighting the incredible quality and affordability of many drugstore options. Brands like e.l.f. Cosmetics, NYX Professional Makeup, and ColourPop have revolutionized the market, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve a professional-looking makeup look. This shift is partly due to increased competition and consumer demand for budget-friendly options, forcing brands to innovate and improve their formulas without compromising quality. This means that today, beginners have access to a wider range of high-quality, affordable products than ever before! 🎉
Affordable Makeup for Beginners: Drugstore Gems and Hidden Treasures
Drugstores are treasure troves of affordable makeup! But with so many options, it can be overwhelming for beginners. Here are some of our top picks from the Makeup Brands™ team:
- e.l.f. Cosmetics: This brand consistently delivers high-quality products at incredibly low prices. Their eyeshadow palettes, brushes, and foundations are consistently praised for their performance. Check out their official website for the latest collections.
- NYX Professional Makeup: NYX offers a wide range of products, from basic essentials to more creative options. Their setting sprays, concealers, and lipsticks are popular choices among makeup enthusiasts. Explore their products on Amazon.
- Maybelline New York: A classic drugstore brand, Maybelline offers reliable formulas and a wide range of shades to suit various skin tones. Their mascaras, foundations, and blushes are consistently top performers. Discover their latest on Amazon.
- Revlon: Revlon has been a staple in the beauty industry for decades, offering a blend of classic and trendy products. Their lipsticks, foundations, and nail polishes are always worth considering. See what’s new on Amazon.
- ColourPop: Known for its vibrant colors and innovative formulas, ColourPop offers a wide array of eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks, and highlighters at affordable prices. Explore their range on Amazon.
Primer: The Unsung Hero of Budget Makeup
Primer is often overlooked, but it’s a game-changer, especially for beginners! A good primer creates a smooth, even base for your makeup, helping it last longer and look more flawless. Here’s what we recommend:
| Brand | Product Name | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| e.l.f. Cosmetics | Poreless Putty Primer | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 |
| NYX Professional Makeup | Studio Perfect Primer | 7 | 6 | 8 | 6 |
| Maybelline New York | Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer | 6 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
| MILANI | Prime Perfection Face Primer | 9 | 8 | 10 | 8 |
e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer: This primer is a cult favorite for its ability to blur pores and create a smooth canvas. It’s incredibly affordable and works wonders for all skin types.
NYX Studio Perfect Primer: A classic choice, this primer provides a smooth base for makeup application and helps to extend the wear of your foundation.
Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer: This primer is great for minimizing the appearance of pores and creating a soft-focus effect.
MILANI Prime Perfection Face Primer: This primer is a true game changer for its ability to create a smooth, even base for makeup application and extend the wear of your foundation. It’s also great for all skin types.
BB/CC Creams: Your Multitasking Makeup Must-Have
BB and CC creams are fantastic multitasking products that combine skincare benefits with light coverage. They’re perfect for beginners who want a natural, no-makeup makeup look.
| Brand | Product Name | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garnier | Skin Renew BB Cream | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6 |
| Maybelline New York | Dream Fresh BB Cream Skin Perfector | 8 | 6 | 9 | 7 |
| e.l.f. Cosmetics | Holy Hydration! CC Cream | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 |
Garnier Skin Renew BB Cream: This BB cream offers light coverage, hydration, and SPF protection, making it a great everyday option.
Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream Skin Perfector: This BB cream provides a natural, radiant finish and is perfect for those with normal to dry skin.
e.l.f. Holy Hydration! CC Cream: This CC cream is a hydrating and lightweight option that provides sheer coverage and a natural finish.
Concealer Magic on a Dime: Affordable Options for Flawless Skin
Concealer is your secret weapon for covering blemishes, dark circles, and redness. Here are some affordable options that deliver amazing results:
| Brand | Product Name | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maybelline New York | Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 |
| L.A. Girl | Pro Conceal HD Concealer | 8 | 7 | 8 | 6 |
| NYX Professional Makeup | HD Photogenic Concealer Wand | 7 | 6 | 7 | 5 |
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer: This concealer is a cult favorite for its ability to brighten and cover dark circles. The applicator is also super easy to use.
L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer: This full-coverage concealer is incredibly pigmented and works wonders for covering blemishes and imperfections.
NYX HD Photogenic Concealer Wand: This concealer offers medium coverage and is perfect for everyday use. It blends easily and provides a natural finish.
Powder Power: Mastering Translucent Pressed and Loose Powders
Powder sets your makeup, controls shine, and adds a finishing touch. Both pressed and loose powders have their pros and cons:
Pressed Powder: Convenient for travel and touch-ups.
Loose Powder: Offers a more airbrushed finish.
| Brand | Product Name | Type | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NYX Professional Makeup | HD Finishing Powder | Pressed | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 |
| Coty Airspun | Loose Face Powder | Loose | 7 | 6 | 8 | 6 |
| Rimmel London | Stay Matte Pressed Powder | Pressed | 6 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
NYX HD Finishing Powder: This pressed powder sets makeup beautifully and controls shine without looking cakey.
Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder: This loose powder is a classic choice for its ability to create a smooth, airbrushed finish.
Rimmel London Stay Matte Pressed Powder: This pressed powder is great for oily skin and helps to control shine throughout the day.
Brows On a Budget: Affordable Eyebrow Products and Techniques
Well-groomed brows frame your face, and you don’t need expensive products to achieve them!
| Brand | Product Name | Type | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NYX Professional Makeup | Micro Brow Pencil | Pencil | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 |
| e.l.f. Cosmetics | Precisely, My Brow Pencil | Pencil | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
| Benefit Cosmetics | Gimme Brow+ Volumizing Eyebrow Gel | Gel | 7 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
NYX Micro Brow Pencil: This precise pencil allows for natural-looking brow definition.
e.l.f. Precisely, My Brow Pencil: Another great pencil option, this one is super affordable and easy to use.
Benefit Gimme Brow+ Volumizing Eyebrow Gel: While slightly higher-end, this gel is a worthwhile investment for its ability to add volume and shape to your brows.
Eye-Opening Deals: Affordable Eyeliners for Beginners
Eyeliner can be tricky, but with practice and the right product, you’ll master it!
| Brand | Product Name | Type | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NYX Professional Makeup | Epic Ink Liner | Liquid | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 |
| Maybelline New York | Hyper Easy Liquid Liner | Liquid | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
| e.l.f. Cosmetics | Intense Ink Eyeliner | Liquid | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
NYX Epic Ink Liner: This liquid liner has a super-fine tip for precise application.
Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Liner: This liner is designed for easy application, even for beginners.
e.l.f. Intense Ink Eyeliner: This liquid liner is a budget-friendly option that delivers a bold, black line.
Mascara Marvels: Affordable Options for Luscious Lashes
Mascara is a must-have for opening up your eyes and adding definition.
| Brand | Product Name | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maybelline New York | Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 |
| L’OrĂ©al Paris | Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara | 8 | 7 | 8 | 6 |
| CoverGirl | Lash Blast Volume Mascara | 7 | 6 | 7 | 5 |
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara: This mascara is known for its lengthening and volumizing abilities.
L’OrĂ©al Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara: This mascara provides dramatic volume and length.
CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara: This mascara is a classic choice for adding volume and definition.
Eyeshadow Extravaganza: Budget-Friendly Palettes and Single Shades
Eyeshadow palettes offer endless possibilities for creating different looks.
| Brand | Product Name | Type | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BH Cosmetics | Take Me Back To Brazil Eyeshadow Palette | Palette | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 |
| ColourPop | Super Shock Shadows | Single | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
| e.l.f. Cosmetics | Bite-Sized Eyeshadow Palettes | Palette | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
BH Cosmetics Take Me Back To Brazil Eyeshadow Palette: This palette offers a vibrant array of colors perfect for creating bold looks.
ColourPop Super Shock Shadows: These single eyeshadows are known for their unique, creamy texture and intense pigmentation.
e.l.f. Bite-Sized Eyeshadow Palettes: These mini palettes are perfect for travel and offer a curated selection of shades.
Blush Bliss: Affordable Blushes to Brighten Your Complexion
Blush adds a touch of color and life to your complexion.
| Brand | Product Name | Type | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milani Cosmetics | Baked Blush | Baked | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 |
| Physicians Formula | Murumuru Butter Blush | Cream | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
| e.l.f. Cosmetics | Beautifully Bare Blush | Powder | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
Milani Baked Blush: These blushes are known for their beautiful, luminous finish.
Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Blush: This cream blush is hydrating and provides a natural flush of color.
e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Blush: This powder blush is a budget-friendly option that offers a buildable, natural-looking color.
Lipstick Lowdown: Affordable and Stylish Lip Products
Lipstick completes your look, adding a pop of color or a touch of subtle shine.
| Brand | Product Name | Type | Rating (1-10) | Design | Functionality | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maybelline New York | Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick | Liquid | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 |
| Revlon | Super Lustrous Lipstick | Cream | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
| e.l.f. Cosmetics | Beautifully Bare Lipstick | Cream | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick: This long-lasting liquid lipstick offers intense color and a matte finish.
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick: This classic lipstick is known for its creamy texture and wide range of shades.
e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Lipstick: This lipstick is a budget-friendly option that provides a comfortable, natural-looking color.
Accessorizing Your Makeup Bag: Brushes, Sponges, and Tools on a Budget
Don’t forget the tools! High-quality brushes and sponges make a huge difference in your makeup application.
- Real Techniques: Offers excellent quality brushes at affordable prices.
- e.l.f. Cosmetics: Their brushes are surprisingly good for the price.
- EcoTools: A great eco-friendly option with decent quality.
Cleaning Your Makeup Tools: Hygiene and Care on a Budget
Keeping your brushes and sponges clean is crucial for hygiene and preventing breakouts. A simple mixture of mild soap and water works wonders! Replace sponges regularly.
Building Your Ultimate Affordable Makeup Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Start with skincare: Cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin before applying makeup.
- Primer: Apply a primer to create a smooth base.
- Foundation (optional): Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone.
- Concealer: Use concealer to cover blemishes and dark circles.
- Powder: Set your makeup with powder.
- Eyebrows: Shape and fill in your eyebrows.
- Eyeshadow: Apply eyeshadow to add depth and dimension to your eyes.
- Eyeliner: Use eyeliner to define your eyes.
- Mascara: Apply mascara to lengthen and volumize your lashes.
- Blush: Add blush to your cheeks for a touch of color.
- Lipstick: Finish with your favorite lipstick or lip gloss.
Mastering Makeup Application Techniques: Tips and Tricks for Beginners
- Blend, blend, blend: Seamless blending is key to a natural look.
- Less is more: Start with a small amount of product and build up gradually.
- Use natural light: This will help you see your makeup application more accurately.
- Practice makes perfect: Don’t get discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect. Keep practicing, and you’ll improve over time.
- Watch tutorials: YouTube is a treasure trove of makeup tutorials for beginners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting with Affordable Makeup
- Not prepping your skin: Cleanse, tone, and moisturize before applying makeup.
- Using too much product: Start with less and build up gradually.
- Ignoring blending: Blend everything seamlessly for a natural look.
- Not setting your makeup: Use powder to set your makeup and prevent creasing.
- Neglecting hygiene: Clean your brushes and sponges regularly.
Where to Find the Best Deals: Online and Offline Shopping Strategies
- Check drugstores: Drugstores like Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid often have sales and discounts.
- 👉 Shop online: Websites like Amazon, Ulta, and Target offer a wide selection of affordable makeup.
- Look for coupons and discounts: Many brands offer coupons and discounts on their websites and social media pages.
- Take advantage of sales: Keep an eye out for holiday sales, Black Friday deals, and other promotional events.
- Consider subscription boxes: Some subscription boxes offer curated selections of affordable makeup.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Building a fantastic makeup collection on a budget is entirely achievable. Remember, it’s not about the price tag, but about mastering techniques and finding products that work for you. We’ve shown you that drugstore brands offer incredible value and quality, allowing you to experiment and discover your unique style without breaking the bank. Don’t be afraid to try new things, embrace your creativity, and most importantly, have fun with it! 🎉 Now go forth and conquer the world of affordable makeup! We’re confident that with the tips and tricks we’ve shared, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning looks that reflect your personality and style. Let us know in the comments which affordable makeup products are your new favorites!
Recommended Links
👉 Shop these brands and products on:
- e.l.f. Cosmetics: Amazon | e.l.f. Official Website
- NYX Professional Makeup: Amazon | NYX Official Website
- Maybelline New York: Amazon | Maybelline Official Website
- Revlon: Amazon | Revlon Official Website
- ColourPop: Amazon | ColourPop Official Website
- MILANI: Amazon | MILANI Official Website
- Real Techniques: Amazon | Real Techniques Official Website
- Benefit Cosmetics: Amazon | Benefit Official Website
Recommended Books on Amazon:
FAQ
What are the best makeup products for beginners on a budget?
Focusing on Essentials
For beginners, it’s best to focus on a few essential items that provide versatility. A good BB or CC cream offers light coverage and skincare benefits. A concealer helps cover blemishes and dark circles. Mascara opens up the eyes. A neutral eyeshadow palette allows for various looks. Finally, a versatile blush and lip product complete the look.
Brand Recommendations
We recommend exploring brands like e.l.f., NYX, Maybelline, and ColourPop, which offer high-quality products at affordable prices.
How do I choose the right makeup brand for my skin type?
Understanding Your Skin
Before choosing a brand, understand your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive). Look for products formulated for your specific needs. For example, oily skin benefits from matte foundations and powders, while dry skin needs hydrating formulas. Sensitive skin requires hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products.
Reading Reviews
Read reviews to see how products perform on different skin types. Look for mentions of texture, finish, and longevity.
What are the essential makeup items that every beginner should have?
The Core Collection
Every beginner should have a BB/CC cream or tinted moisturizer, concealer, mascara, eyebrow gel or pencil, a neutral eyeshadow palette, blush, and a lip product (lipstick or gloss). These items provide a complete, versatile makeup look.
Are expensive makeup brands really better than affordable ones for beginners?
Not Necessarily
While high-end brands often use luxurious ingredients, affordable brands have made significant strides in quality and performance. Beginners can achieve stunning looks with drugstore products. The key is to learn proper application techniques and find products that suit your skin type and preferences. Expensive doesn’t always equate to better, especially for beginners still learning.
How can I maximize the longevity of my affordable makeup products?
Proper Storage and Application
Proper storage is key. Keep your makeup in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Clean your brushes and sponges regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Use makeup setting sprays to extend the wear of your makeup.
Where can I find the best deals on affordable makeup?
Strategic Shopping
Check drugstores for sales and discounts. Shop online at sites like Amazon, Ulta, and Target, and look for coupons and promotional codes. Keep an eye out for holiday sales and Black Friday deals.
Reference Links
- e.l.f. Cosmetics: https://www.elfcosmetics.com/
- NYX Professional Makeup: https://www.nyxcosmetics.com/
- Maybelline New York: https://www.maybelline.com/
- Revlon: https://www.revlon.com/
- ColourPop: https://colourpop.com/
- MILANI: https://milanicosmetics.com/
- Real Techniques: https://www.realtechniques.com/
- Benefit Cosmetics: https://www.benefitcosmetics.com/en-us
- Cheap Makeup For Us Broke College Kids — Trojans360: https://www.trojans360.com/trojans360posts/cheap-makeup-for-us-broke-college-kids
