This month I finally packed up my life and moved myself to Manchester for uni. If you’re reading this blog, chances are you’re also a student. And arguably the biggest lesson I’ve learnt this month is that finance is a big deal.
But, as a beauty blogger and soon to be makeup student, I’m not about to start sacrificing cosmetics. So, while I start saving up for my MAC cosmetics, I suppose I’ll have to make do with drugstore gems. I’ve compiled a short list of some of what I consider to be the best budget beauty buys for students.
One of the best pressed powders I’ve found so far. It’s soft and smooth, and impressively lightweight. This powder exceeded my expectations by staying cake-free, even after it’s been reapplied. The lightest shade can be used as a translucent powder, while the other shades offer slightly more colour.
There’s a reason beauty bloggers keep comparing MUA’s palettes to Urban Decay’s Naked 1 and 2. They hold a range of matte and shimmer earth tones which are perfect for everyday. The shadows are each surprisingly pigmented and creamy. This a palette won’t let you down, and it’s only £4 from Superdrug.
This is by far the best drugstore eyeliner I’ve ever used. The formula is so creamy – it just glides on. I’ve had mine for about a year now and I’m shocked that it’s not dried up yet. Because this is a cream liner, it also avoids getting all over your lashes like liquid liner can do. The staying power of this stuff is miraculous – with a good primer, it won’t budge.
Another absolute favourite of mine is Barry M’s Nail Paint. The formula is nice and thin, but each polish offers great coverage. They have a beautiful range of shades. The basic nail colours are £2.99, but for £3.99 you can get your hands on a whole range of effects and glitters. I also love that Barry M often have a 3 for 2 offer on – perfect for student purse strings.
Simple Skincare is a brand known for leaving out the artificial fragrance and colour, while adding in a little goodness here and there. Their products are exceptionally priced, and are also often on a 3 for 2 offer at Boots. This means your entire skincare routine might only set you back about £5.
Another great product from ELF. This is my all time favourite drugstore primer. At £1.95 it’s quite astonishing that this stuff just doesn’t crease. It’ll last right through to the end of the day. Eyeshadow colour payoff isn’t improved a great deal with this primer, but for £2 I’m not complaining. It’s also worth noting that ELF online are constantly handing out promo codes and free delivery. Once I managed to get 50% off everything in store with free delivery – so keep an eye out.
Another great nail polish for £2.99 and yes, Maybelline also usually have a 3 for 2 offer on at Boots. Again, these colours are highly pigmented and the formula is a beautiful consistency. The brushes are especially thick and therefore a little easier to use for the shaky handed. For an extra £1 you can again get hold of some unique effect or glitter polishes.
