Five makeup finds that we'd actually be willing to pay more for
My personal thrill in life is finding quality makeup without the hefty price tag. Admittedly, you don't usually expect a lot from something you picked up from the drugstore but then some products perform way better than splurge options. Here are some discoveries that prove top-notch quality can be well within budget!
Pinkies Collections Smooth Silky Long Liner Pencil, P89 at department stores
I probably wouldn't have noticed this unassuming pink pencil had I not been on the hunt for a cheap lip liner. I got the shade Bubblegum, a rosy-brown color reminiscent of those on-trend 90s lip colors. The formula is surprisingly opaque and so creamy that it glides on the lips easily. It dries down comfortably and has a satin finish. You'll need a makeup sharpener to maintain the fine point but it's longer than the standard lip pencil and contains 2.2g of product.
If you want to use this on its own (like I usually do), lasting power is about four to five hours or until you eat something greasy. These come in 19 different shades, ranging from the tame (your usual reds and pinks) to the outrageous (blue, black, white)!
San San Cosmetics Lip Crayon, P165 at HBC
They look like jumbo lip liners but these are actually richly pigmented and creamy lip crayons! I got curious about these when I saw them at the store because I wanted to try some matte lippies, and these were available in a variety of shades. Rich Mocha seemed like browny-pink nude shade but it turned out more peachy-brown on when applied to the lips. Power Plum is a beautiful deep wine color that looks even more sophisticated because of the matte finish.
Upon application, they have a slight minty tingle to them. It doesn't bother me it but it’s something to keep in mind, particularly for those with sensitive lips. Staying power is four to five hours, which is pretty decent considering the pocket-friendly price tag. Just make sure to blot off the excess to prevent this from moving around!
Nature Republic Botanical Cake Eyebrow Powder, P385 at Nature Republic stores
This set is super sulit given what you’re getting: two eyebrow powders, a little spoolie and brush, and a good-sized mirror. The pigmentation of the powders is just enough that it’s foolproof, and the tools can get the job done if you don't have a separate brush. Best of all, the powder stays put all day, especially when set with a brow mascara! I’ve had my set for a solid two years, and only hit pan recently even with daily use.
You can choose from two shades: No. 1 is good for those with black to dark brown hair, while No. 2 can be used to match lighter hair. The powder shades are also neutral, not too reddish or orangey, so it suits both natural and colored hair.
Flormar Perfect Coverage Liquid Concealer, P399 at department stores
The Perfect Coverage Liquid Concealer has a consistency that’s between creamy and watery. It has enough slip that it blends easily but it’s thick enough that you only need to use a little. The shade that I have, Light Beige, was the darkest available shade when I bought it, and I find that this totally erased the darkness on my under eye area because of its peachy tone!
Something to also note: this has a strong powdery scent. It goes away within seconds after application but it may be a deal-breaker for those with sensitive noses. I personally dislike the scent myself but given how well this covers my dark circles, I'm only too willing to keep repurchasing!
Pink Sugar Our Lil’ Secret Concealer, P299 at department stores
This ain’t a PV favorite for nothing! A little goes a long way for this concealer. Make sure to work fast because it sets fast! And once it sets, you’re good for the day. This has lasted me through MRT commutes, and we know how hot it gets especially during rush hour.
I currently have two colors: I use Light-Medium as an eyelid primer for my oily lids and I find that this helps in prolonging my eye makeup! Just remember to use sparingly or risk having cakey eyelids! For blemishes and pimples, the Medium shade matches my skin tone perfectly.
Got any bang-for-your-buck products you’d like to share? Let's hear it!
