10 drugstore products that work better than the pricey stuff
High-end beauty brands love to sell the idea that you need to spend more for quality, but that’s not always the case. Plenty of drugstore products perform as well—or better—than their luxury counterparts. The key is knowing where to save and what actually works.
These affordable finds prove that you don’t have to drain your wallet to get results, and you might even like them more than the pricier options you’ve been tempted by.
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
This gentle cleanser is proof that you don’t need a $40 face wash for healthy skin. It removes dirt and makeup without stripping, leaving your skin comfortable instead of tight. Dermatologists often recommend it because it’s effective and affordable.
If you’ve been spending big on a luxury brand, switching to CeraVe can save you money without sacrificing results. The bottle is generously sized, and a little goes a long way, which means it lasts longer too.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
Mascara is one of those products where high-end promises often fall flat. This drugstore option gives you dramatic, fanned-out lashes without clumping, rivaling mascaras that cost three times as much.
It also holds up through the day without flaking or smudging, which isn’t something every pricey mascara can claim. If you replace your mascara often, the savings add up quickly while still keeping your lashes looking full and defined.
NYX Butter Gloss
High-end lip glosses often come with a luxury price tag but don’t last any longer. NYX Butter Gloss is lightweight, comes in a wide range of shades, and feels smooth without being sticky.
At under $6, you can afford to try multiple shades and still spend less than you would on a single tube of designer gloss. It’s a great reminder that paying more doesn’t automatically mean you’re getting a better product.
e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer
This primer has become a cult favorite because it delivers results similar to luxury versions at a fraction of the cost. It smooths over pores, evens texture, and helps makeup apply more evenly.
It’s also versatile enough for different skin types, whether you’re oily or dry. With a price tag under $10, it’s a smart swap that shows you don’t need to spend $40 or more for a reliable base.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
High-end moisturizers often advertise hydration as their big selling point, but Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost does it for much less. With hyaluronic acid as a key ingredient, it provides lasting hydration without feeling heavy.
The lightweight gel texture makes it easy to layer under makeup or wear on its own. Instead of splurging on designer creams, this affordable option gives you the same refreshing feel at a drugstore price.
Wet n Wild Megaglo Highlighter
A good highlighter doesn’t have to cost $30. Wet n Wild’s version gives you a natural glow that rivals high-end formulas. It’s smooth, easy to blend, and available in flattering shades that work for everyday wear.
Because it’s inexpensive, you can experiment with different shades without guilt. Many people actually prefer it to pricier highlighters because it performs consistently without emphasizing texture.
L’Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation
This foundation has built a reputation for being long-wearing, breathable, and buildable—all things luxury foundations advertise. The difference is that this one comes at a fraction of the cost.
It works well across skin types and stays put throughout the day without feeling heavy. If you’re tired of spending $50 or more on foundation, this option proves you don’t have to.
Milani Baked Blush
Blush is another category where drugstore products shine. Milani’s Baked Blush offers buildable color with a subtle sheen, making it look natural and flattering on the skin.
The pigmentation and finish often get compared to high-end blushes, yet you’ll pay a fraction of the price. It’s affordable enough to try more than one shade while still saving money.
Garnier Micellar Water
A $30 makeup remover isn’t necessary when Garnier’s micellar water works so well. It lifts makeup and impurities without harsh scrubbing and is gentle enough for sensitive skin.
It’s also multipurpose—you can use it to refresh your face in the morning or as a quick clean-up tool for makeup mistakes. The large bottle lasts a long time, making it even more budget-friendly.
Real Techniques Makeup Sponges
You don’t need to spend $20 on a single makeup sponge when Real Techniques offers packs at a much lower price. These sponges expand when damp, blend makeup seamlessly, and hold up well with regular washing.
They’re durable enough to last through repeated use, which saves you from constantly replacing them. You get professional-looking results without the inflated cost of a high-end tool.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
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