As someone who loves the makeup, experimenting with a variety of products and brands is one of my favourite pastimes. When I started wearing makeup many moons ago, I believed only high end products – like those sold at Sephora and Mac – were suitable for my face, but my wallet strongly disagreed!

Slowly, I started incorporating drugstore makeup in my makeup routine. As I started using different products, I found myself falling in love with certain items; items that have now become staples in my beauty kit.

Here’s my take on the best drugstore products you can buy!

BRONZER – for that instant glow!

Powder Palette, Multi-Coloured Bronzer by Physicians Formula

Why it works: There are two shades: Light and Medium/Dark. I use the Medium/Dark formula year round and absolutely love it; in the winter I simply apply a little more all over my face, while in the summer when I am tanned I just use it to contour my cheekbones. The formula is light and soft and because of the multi-colored palette, it provides the perfect color combination to perfectly bronze your skin. The color is very natural and you can simply apply more or less depending on how dramatic you’d like your makeup to look.

EYELINER – craving that perfect wing?   

Colourstay Skinny Liquid Eyeliner by Revlon 

Why it works: This liquid formula has been in my kit for years now and admittedly it just keeps me coming back. I’ll try something new and almost immediately return to this product. The brush is very skinny and pointed which allows for precision and easy application. The formula sweeps on effortlessly and stays in place for fairly much the entire day.  Revlon has been rated the number 1 longwear brand and this product truly lives up to its ‘Colorstay’ name!

 

MASCARA – to look alive even when you feel dead.  

Lash Sensational Mascara, Very Black, Waterproof by Maybelline New York

I love mascara and truthfully it is the makeup product I cannot leave my house without – my face feels naked without it! As soon as I sweep it onto my lashes I feel instantly more awake. I’ve tried my fair share of different waterproof formulas and find Maybelline’s New York Lash Sensational Mascara simply that – sensational! I wear this product whenever I’m travelling because it allows me the luxury of being able to jump into the water at any given moment and not have to worry about having black smeared all over my face!

 

For Lengthening and Thickening:

Instant Lash Extension Kit by Physician’s Formula

Why it works: I immediately fell in love with the product after the first use. I was so skeptical because I have tried hundreds of mascaras trying to get that long lash look. This kit comes with two different components:: the actual mascara element and the lengthening fibers. The mascara in and of itself is absolutely amazing, and when I want to go a little less dramatic I simply use this alone. When paired with the lengthening formula, your eyes instantly awaken and I can honestly say, I’ve never been more impressed – people we’re even asking me if I was wearing falsies or extensions! Application is easy: you simply apply the mascara, sweep on the fibers over the wet mascara, and seal with another coat of mascara.

EYESHADOW – elevate your eyes and get that glam look   

Synchronicity Eye Shadow Trio by Vasanti

There are three different palettes to choose from. For my skin tone I use the Inevitable palette with bronzy brown metallic colors. The pigment is lightweight and luxurious feeling, sweeping on easily. The trios come in kits with a versatile brush and fun flirty lashes, perfect for creating a dramatic look!

 

LIP GLOSS

“Oh My Gloss”  by Rimmel London

 

I’m a gloss girl. I love the shiny lip look and always sweep over a clear coat even when I’m not wearing a colour. This gloss is the perfect finishing touch.

For more beauty, check out @HOLRMagazine on Instagram!