Happy Valentine’s Day, Beauty ’Cats! Whether you have a hot date with your significant other or your gal pals, today is a day to look fabulous and be confident in yourself — much like every other day. I’ve been asked by many of you to include more budget-friendly products that are good for people who are dipping their toes in the beauty pool instead of taking the plunge for higher-end products.
I think it’s pretty safe to say that makeup holds a big portion of my heart, and I’m not embarrassed to admit that some products have reached valentine status. So today, in honor of the day of love, I will share some of the cheaper beauty products that I love and I know you’ll love too.
When it comes to cheap foundation that packs a high-end punch, I love Rimmel London. The Match Perfection Foundation (about $6) is a great product and I actually prefer it to some of the higher-end foundations that I’ve tried. Match Perfection paired with the Rimmel Stay Matte powder (about $4) is a beautiful combo, and even your bank account will fall in love with it.
I prefer to apply makeup with brushes, which I found provide a better finish than the sponge or puff that come with most products. The Real Techniques brushes are great for everyone from beginners to professionals, and they work wonderfully. The brand sells the brushes alone or in sets (which are about $18) depending on what you are looking for. While I have since graduated to higher-end brushes, Real Techniques will always have a place in my heart as one of my first loves and I recommend them to everyone.
For lower-end eyeshadows, I like the Sephora Collection. Although Sephora is most popular as a high-end beauty store, I don’t like to discount their store-brand merchandise. The Sephora Collection offers quality products at a cheaper price, and my current favorite is the MicroSmooth Baked Eyeshadow Trio in the shade Sunray. These cool trios come packaged in a small palette and there are tons of colors available. I don’t remember how much I paid for it, but I tend to pick up Sephora Collection shadows from the clearance bin and never spend more than $10 on them — which always wins my heart.
A good eye makeup look is never complete without great mascara. I’m generally really picky about my mascara but when I’m on a tight budget, I tend to opt for Maybelline. I really love the Falsies Big Eyes Mascara (about $8) because it works double duty; one end has a big brush that lifts and separates your lashes, and the other end has a skinny brush for your lower lashes. It’s perfect for achieving a sultry look — especially on Valentine’s Day.
If you’re looking to try something new, these products are a great start. I know you’ll fall in love with them just like I did. On this Valentine’s Day, remember that your makeup is for you and it’s not needed it to impress your valentine. While expressing your love is important today, don’t forget to love yourself.
Taylor LaPuma is a junior studying journalism and the asst. copy chief of The Post. What does your V-Day look include? Email Taylor at tl674710@ohiou.edu.
