Written by Jane Armbruter, Relate Intern
Usually magazines review and recommend trendy cosmetic lines in mid to high price ranges; we admit Relate is guilty of it, too. But products found in your local drugstore deserve equal praise for their quality, variety and especially their affordability. Following are some of our favorite brands that can be found at any major drugstore (businesses vary upon region). The best part: they are cheap, cheap, cheap.
CoverGirl Queen Selection Eyeshadow Single ($2.99 per unit):
CoverGirl is cosmetic royalty, and there’s a reason why – its affordable quality. This eye product comes in dozens of beautiful shades suitable for any time of day. The hues are separated into two types: enhance and blast. Enhance encompasses subtle colors like light pink, nude and pale blue. Blast provides dramatic glamour: bright yellow, vibrant green and eye-catching turquoise. Both lines offer matte, pearl and sparkle finishes, perfect for any occasion. This product also blends easily with skin and comparable products to complement any eye.
Wet n’ Wild Nail Color ($0.99 per bottle):
Possibly my most preferred nail polish brand. Most consumers pass by products this unbelievably affordable, but in Wet n’ Wild’s case, the low price masks this nail line’s overwhelming quality. For example, my last Wet n’ Wild application lasted for one whole week, chip-free. Such unwavering reliability can’t be discarded; this brand is the real deal. Our favorite shades: Blazed (a coral-inspired pink), Ice Blue Pearl (an almost-white glaze), Wild Orchid (a deep violet).
Jordana InColor Squeeze n’ Shine Super Shiny Tasty Lip Gloss ($1.99 per unit):
The name is long, and so is this gloss’s wear-ability. Compared to other more expensive brands whose products claim more than they deliver, Jordana’s line of affordable, easily applied glosses supplies high shine at a low cost. Our favorite shades: “Honey Luau” (a sparkly neutral), “Lollipop” (the palest and prettiest pink known to glam girls everywhere), and “Be Coralful” (a plush, orange-ish red – infused with pink). And you can’t go wrong with plain, old clear – a standby for any girl that doesn’t want her gloss to detract from her already applied stain or stick.
Rimmel Powder Blush ($3.49 per unit):
If you’re looking for a standard, easy-brush blush for a great price, Rimmel’s powder is the way to go. Not only is Rimmel a credible and popular brand, but their edgy “London look” products also provide youthful energy for young faces. Our favorite shade: berry, a deep purple-inspired tone perfect for providing drama for any look.
Who says makeup has to be highway robbery? The above product lines prove that cosmetics can be affordable and beautiful for any girl – on any budget.
(Photos from www.walgreens.com)
