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In an age where a concealer can cost as much as an entrée at an upscale restaurant, I’ve found the best drugstore makeup products that sometimes perform better than their department store counterparts.
General Waringa professional makeup artist in Ottawa, agrees with me that budget-friendly brands are taking action. “Drugstore makeup has come a long way in the past decade,” says Waring. “It’s no longer about compromising with luxury brands, but about knowing what to look for and what makes a product great.”
“The key to finding a great drugstore option is to shop with intention,” she says. “I always suggest clients start by considering their skin type. And then look for long-wear formulas that feel lightweight and contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, or plant extracts that support skin health.
“I also advise my clients to focus on finding multi-use products, like lip stains that can double as blush. They’re a smart way to get more value out of a single item,” she explains.
With this advice in mind, I went looking for viral standouts and underrated heroes to find the best of the best.
The best drugstore makeup products for 2025 are:
- best drugstore primer – Elf Power Grip Primer: $11, Amazon.com
- best drugstore mascara – Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara: $4.99, Amazon.com
- best drugstore lip tint – CoverGirl Clear Fresh Jelly Water Lip & Cheek Tint: $10.99, Ulta.com
- best drugstore setting spray – Wet N Wild Photo Focus Setting Spray: $6.99, Ulta.com
- best drugstore foundation – Revlon Illuminance Skin Care Liquid Foundation: $3.86, Amazon.com
how i tested
I love makeup and rarely go a day without it, so I tested each product by wearing it like any other day, which included an hour-long workout, working from home, running errands, taking care of my kids, and, if I was lucky, a night out. I tried and tested dozens of top-rated products that promised performance on a budget. (Although I’ve tried dozens upon dozens over the years).
To find the best drugstore makeup in different categories, the testing criteria varied by product, but overall, I considered each product’s formula, feel on the skin, ease of application, and staying power. I think the only products that have been finalized are makeups from high-end brands that rival them.