Anyone who loves makeup knows that it's a dangerous, slippery slope from buying your first Sephora product to full-tilt bankruptcy. Seriously, there are some absurdly expensive products out there, and many people wonder if a $40 lipstick is actually worth it. In most cases, the answer is no. The cheaper brands at Sephora are great, and there are many excellent drugstore products that work just as well, or better, than their pricey counterparts.
However, there are a small handful of products that really are worth the price and the hype. Consider getting your hands on one of these fantastic products, and you'll find your makeup routine infinitely improved. Splurge on these, but save on eyeliner, mascara and lip gloss- those you can safely buy at the drugstore.
1. Urban Decay Naked Palette ($54).
This eyeshadow palette is the only set of shadows you'll ever need. Twelve neutral, highly-pigmented shadows blend beautifully and go on like a dream. The set has shimmery shadows and matte ones, so you can choose how shiny you wanna go. The brush it comes with is great, too, and you'll get use out of every single shadow in the mix.
2. Nars Orgasm ($30).
This blush has garnered rave reviews from beauty bloggers, makeup artists and celebrities because it's highly pigmented but smooth and blendable, and it's a natural shade that'll never leave you looking like a clown.
3. Egyptian Magic All-Purpose Skin Cream ($39).
This super-pricey moisturizer is worth every penny. Made with olive oil, bee pollen, royal jelly, honey, beeswax and bee propolis, its ingredients list is unlike any other cream on the market. It's a perfect overnight or after-shower moisturizer that sinks in over time and leaves you feeling dewy and fresh. Dry skin no more. You can even use it on your hair like conditioner! It helps with healing scars and rashes, as well.
4. bareMinerals Ready Bronzer ($25).
This bronzer is full of amazing ingredients like carrot oil and antioxidants, so it goes on smooth and blends beautifully. Drugstore bronzers can look fake and clunky, and this bronzer will not disappoint. It doesn't have any shimmer or glitter, so it's perfect for everyday wear when you need a color boost.
5. MAC Lipsticks ($17).
Available in 194 shades and many different feels and finishes, this lipstick slides on easily, and you'll forget you've got it on within minutes. It's long-lasting without being sticky or dull. Plus, at $17, it's pricey but won't break the bank.
