Favorite Makeup Products Under $20

Makeup doesn’t have to be expensive to be good. Yes, I love a luxury makeup product here and there (check out some of my splurge-worthy favorites here), but some of the best-performing products in my routine are super affordable and can easily be shopped online or at the drugstore. I’m talking under $25, with no compromises on quality and formulas that hold their own next to high-end picks.

In this post, I’m sharing some of the budget-friendly staples I reach for regularly. If you’re building your makeup bag on a budget or simply want to mix in a few affordable gems, these products prove you don’t have to spend a ton of money to look put together.

Favorite Makeup Products Under $25

TIRTIR Pink Cushion Foundation

TIRTIR has a range of fantastic foundations, and this one is a go-to for everyday wear. It’s a breeze to apply and offers buildable coverage, ranging from medium to medium-full. It has a lovely natural, skin-like finish and performs well on all areas of my face, whether it’s my shine-prone or dry areas. I wear shade 23N most of the year and 24N in summer. Check out THIS video to see a demo and wear tests!

P.S. Think you might be my shade match? Check out my foundation shade matches here!

e.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation

e.l.f. has many amazing products, and this foundation is no exception. It blends like a dream with any method and gives a natural, flattering, satin finish with solid medium coverage. A little goes a long way with this formula, so start light and build only where needed to avoid over-applying and going into cakey territory. If you apply it in thin layers, you’ll end up with a beautiful finish. This great everyday foundation wears well, feels comfortable, and looks high-end. This under-$10 product absolutely deserves a spot in your routine!

Maybelline Lifter Lip Liner

Maybelline Lifter Lip Liner has quickly become one of my favorite drugstore finds. The creamy, smooth formula glides on effortlessly without tugging, delivers rich pigment, and makes shaping or evening out your lips effortless. It plays well with any lip product layered on top and helps extend wear time without drying out your lips. I especially love the shade Line Leader — a soft mauve-pink that’s neutral, flattering, and versatile for everyday wear.

e.l.f. Glow Reviver Tinted Lip Oil

If you’re a fan of Clarins Lip Oils but want a more budget-friendly option, this one from e.l.f. is a fantastic alternative. These lip oils are vegan and cruelty-free and feature a plush, comfy, oversized doe-foot applicator. The formula delivers a sheer, juicy tint with a glossy shine that enhances your natural lip color without feeling sticky or heavy. Infused with squalane and a blend of nourishing oils, they keep your lips hydrated and comfortable all day.

Maybelline Build-a-Brow

A fine-tip brow pen is a must in my makeup routine for my sparse, uneven brows. And this one from Maybelline is one of the best I’ve found. The ultra-precise tip makes mimicking the look of real brow hairs easy, helping you fill in sparse areas with soft, hair-like strokes. The formula glides on smoothly without skipping or smudging, giving you total control over your brow shape and fullness. It also has a clear brow gel on the opposite end to help lock everything in place. Or, if you prefer a spoolie on that end, remove the gel tube like I did, wipe off the applicator, and you’re good to go. It’s priced so nicely, I get my money’s worth from the brow pen alone! 

L’Oreal Voluminous Panorama Mascara

When it comes to drugstore mascaras, L’Oréal Voluminous Panorama Mascara is a standout favorite. I have straight lashes that don’t hold a curl. The waterproof version of this mascara helps deliver length, volume, and curl without smudging or flaking throughout the day. The brush design helps fan out the lashes for that wide-eyed effect, and the formula layers beautifully without getting heavy or crunchy. It holds my curl nicely when worn alone or as a base under a non-waterproof mascara.

e.l.f. Keep It Ethereal Eyeshadow Palette

I grabbed this eyeshadow palette on a whim, and it’s been a favorite ever since! With soft, neutral shades and a mix of shimmer toppers and wearable mattes, it’s perfect for everyday looks or adding a bit of extra glow. The textures are smooth, bendable, and buildable without fallout. If you love an ethereal eye with a touch of sparkle, this palette delivers for under $15.

I always love mixing affordable finds with higher-end staples, and these under $25 finds hold their own (and even outperform!) against much pricier options. If you’ve tried any of these or have a favorite budget beauty must-have, let me know in the comments below!

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