Are you a makeup addict? (Don’t be shy 😉 ) There’s a nasty rumor going around that drug store brands will ruin your skin or not wear as well as the $50 department store foundation you sacrifice your morning lattes for. What if I told you that’s not always true?
Introducing: Dupes
Many high-end cosmetic products have “dupes” — counterparts that look and wear practically the same, without the crazy price tag. And let me tell you: dupes will change your life.
For example, Urban Decay’s Naked eyeshadow palette ($54, urbandecay.com) is every makeup addicts must-have. But $50? Seriously? You can get more colors and the same great quality from Coastal Scents’ Revealed palette ($15, influenster.com).
Another great dupe is L’Oréal’s True Match Mineral Foundation in Alabaster ($9, target.com) for Urban Decay’s Naked Skin Ultra Definition Powder Foundation in Fair/Cool ($36, urbandecay.com).
The vibrant oranges and pinks in palettes like Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance ($42, sephora.com) and Urban Decay’s Naked Heat ($54, urbandecay.com) are totally hot right now, making cool-toned chicks momentarily forget that those shades make us look like Oompa Loompas. Dupes to the rescue! L’Orèal Paris Infallible 24HR Eyeshadow in Amber Rush ($7, target.com) becomes an instant makeup staple. It looks amazing on cool-toned skin and glides on like velvet.
Cult-status lipstick for penny pinchers
There are also products that have been around long enough to attain cult status, without the prestige of a cringe worthy price tag (even though they could totally get away with it).
Revlon’s Super Lustrous Lipstick in shades “Cherries in the Snow” and “Fire & Ice” (both $9, ulta.com) came out in the 50s and has certainly withstood the test of time. Both are considered universally flattering, although Cherries in the Snow has blue undertones and Fire & Ice may be too orange for cooler skin tones.
A quick shout out to you hair people out there
Between haircuts, extensions, hair dye, and daily styling, we ladies spend a lot on our hair. And the really high quality products (you know, the ones you stare longingly at in the hair care aisle) are always just so expensive. Here are a couple great drug store finds:
Long hair can be a special pain in the wallet — especially because you end up using just so. much. product. But you can buy Nature’s Advantage shampoos and conditioners are less than $10 for a freaking GALLON of it (joocydoo.com)! And they have a nice selection, depending on what type of hair you have: aloe vera, apple, honey almond, raspberry vanilla, and a special neutralizing formula.
For those ladies looking for a great black hair care line that doesn’t break the bank, you have got to try Shae Moisture. Their hair and skin products are to die for, and the smell — don’t even get me started. Hint: It’s heavenly.
Beauty doesn’t have to break your bank. Next time try your local CVS!
