When to Save and When to Splurge on Makeup

New York-based makeup artist Jessica Lauren shares tips on how to get more bang for your buck at the makeup counter.

By: Artesia Peluso

The beauty industry is oversaturated with products that claim to work miracles. One trip through a department store’s cosmetics section can have you instantly overwhelmed by shiny boxes and pretty bottles claiming to plump lips, lengthen lashes and erase wrinkles. So, how do you know which products are really worth your hard-earned money? Jessica Lauren gives PINK the inside scoop.

Save: Eyebrow Pencil

Filling in eyebrows leaves a more finished look and enhances the eyes,” says Lauren. When it comes to finding the perfect brow pencil, there’s no need to look any further than your local drugstore. Maybelline Define-A-Brow Eyebrow Pencil blends easily and has a convenient comb attachment. “The waterproof formula allows for a long-lasting finish that won’t need to be reapplied,” she adds. Maybelline Define-A-Brow available at Walgreens for $6.99.

Splurge: Eye Shadow

The colors that come in the palate are rich and go on smooth, making it easy to create gorgeous eyes,” Lauren says. She recommends a combination of lighter tones with a hint of darker shade to create a natural daytime look, then accentuating the eyes for evening with darker shades at the crease. “Although some eye shadows from drugstores can be bought for under $10, this investment is well worth it,” promises Jessica. Dior 5 Couleurs Eye Shadow available at Bloomingdales for $58.

Save: Mascara

My clients always ask for full lashes,” says Lauren. Rather than splurge for the expensive brands, she recommends using Maybelline Falsies Volume Mascara, which is designed to give lashes fullness while fanning them out. “Even better than most brands on the market, this mascara contains fiber enriched formulas to give lashes extra length as if false lashes were applied.” Maybelline Falsies Volume Mascara available at Walgreens for $7.99.