Walk into any beauty aisle—or scroll through your feed—and you’re bombarded with makeup options at every price point. From $6 mascaras to $60 foundations, it’s easy to wonder: is luxury makeup actually better, or are you just paying for the name? The truth is, sometimes a drugstore gem performs just as well (if not better!) than a high-end alternative, while other times, a splurge can make a noticeable difference in quality and wear.
If you’re looking to build a smart, balanced beauty routine without blowing your budget, here’s a breakdown of when to save and when to spend.
Foundation: Splurge—When Skin Is the Star
Why Splurge: Foundation sits directly on your skin all day, so quality matters. Luxury foundations often offer a wider shade range, better undertones, smoother texture, and longer-lasting formulas. Brands like Armani Beauty, Estée Lauder, and NARS invest heavily in research and development, which translates to more refined finishes and customizable coverage.
When to Save: If you’re just starting out or don’t need all-day wear, drugstore foundations have seriously improved. Brands like L’Oréal, Maybelline, and e.l.f. offer impressive coverage and shade variety for very reasonable prices.
Verdict: Splurge if you wear foundation daily or have specific skin needs (like dryness or acne). Save if you only wear it occasionally or prefer lighter coverage.
Mascara: Save—Seriously, It’s Almost the Same
Why Save: Mascara is one of the most frequently replaced beauty items (every 3 months is the rule), so it doesn’t make sense to spend $30+ on a tube that dries out quickly. Drugstore formulas like Maybelline Lash Sensational, L’Oréal Voluminous, and CoverGirl Lash Blast consistently rival—or even outperform—luxury mascaras in volume, length, and smudge-resistance.
When to Splurge: If you have ultra-sensitive eyes or want a niche formula (like tubing mascara), high-end brands like Clinique or Blinc might be worth it.
Verdict: Stick with drugstore unless you need a specialty formula or have sensitivity issues.
Lipstick: It Depends on the Occasion
Why Splurge: Luxury lipsticks often boast buttery textures, rich pigmentation, and sleek packaging that feels luxe to apply. If you’re going for a bold red or a special-occasion nude, investing in a high-end lipstick (like those from Charlotte Tilbury or Pat McGrath) can offer better precision and wear.
Why Save: Drugstore lipsticks have come a long way—brands like NYX, Revlon, and Milani offer stunning shades and impressive formulas. They’re perfect for experimenting with trendy colors without the guilt.
Verdict: Splurge on timeless shades you’ll wear often. Save for fun, everyday colors or seasonal trends.
Eyeshadow: Save for Neutrals, Splurge for Special Looks
Why Save: Neutral palettes with browns, taupes, and champagnes are easy to dupe. Drugstore brands like Wet n Wild, e.l.f., and ColourPop have affordable palettes with decent color payoff and blendability.
Why Splurge: High-end palettes shine when it comes to complex shades—duochromes, glitters, and buttery mattes. Brands like Natasha Denona, Urban Decay, and Pat McGrath offer textures and pigments that drugstore brands can’t quite match.
Verdict: Save for basics. Splurge when you want standout shimmer, complex looks, or makeup-artist-level payoff.
Blush & Bronzer: Save—Pigment Doesn’t Have to Cost a Lot
Why Save: Many drugstore blushes and bronzers deliver excellent color payoff and blend beautifully. Milani Baked Blushes, Physicians Formula Butter Bronzers, and e.l.f. Putty Blushes are beauty community favorites for a reason.
When to Splurge: If you want an ultra-refined formula or a more luxe application experience, high-end options might feel smoother or more finely milled.
Verdict: Save unless you’re looking for something ultra-specific or luxe in feel.
Setting Products: Splurge on Powders, Save on Sprays
Why Splurge (Powders): Setting powders can make or break your finish. Luxury formulas tend to be more finely milled and less cakey. If you have oily or textured skin, a high-end setting powder (like Laura Mercier or Hourglass) can blur and set without looking heavy.
Why Save (Sprays): Setting sprays like NYX Matte Finish or Milani Make It Last perform just as well as many high-end sprays. Unless you’re after a specific finish or scent, drugstore sprays will do the trick.
Verdict: Splurge on powders for a flawless finish. Save on sprays unless you’re super picky about the mist or formula.
Know Where Your Money Matters
When it comes to makeup, price doesn’t always equal performance. Many drugstore products hold their own—and sometimes outperform—luxury counterparts. The key is knowing where to invest and where to save. Build your core routine with budget-friendly essentials, and reserve splurges for items that elevate your overall look or enhance your experience.
At the end of the day, the best makeup is the one that makes you feel confident—and fits your budget.