Makeup product reviews
the best drugstore makeup products of the year
By Daisy Hernandez
Published: 10 May 2025
woman looking at makeup at the drugstore | Image: Supplied
Foundation That Feels Like a Dream
First up, foundation. Finding the perfect one can be a quest, but I've got a couple of winners for you this year. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless is still a powerhouse—it's affordable, blends beautifully, and provides a natural, flawless finish. If you prefer a dewy look, the L'Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Healthy Luminous Makeup is a stunning choice. It gives you this gorgeous, lit-from-within radiance without feeling heavy or cakey. Seriously, it's like your skin, but better. I've been using it myself, and my friends keep asking me what's my secret... and I'm happy to share it! 😉
woman applying foundation | Image: Supplied
Concealer That Really Conceals
Under-eye circles? Blemishes? No problem! The Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Treatment Concealer is a total lifesaver— it's super creamy, blends effortlessly, and is amazing at covering dark circles and imperfections. I've been known to use it to highlight certain areas as well! It's lightweight enough for daytime wear, yet powerful enough for a more polished evening look. For a slightly more budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality, check out the e.l.f. Camo Concealer. It's surprisingly great, and packs a real punch!
woman applying concealer | Image: Supplied
Blush That Brings Out Your Radiance
I love a good blush, and the drugstore has some seriously impressive options! Milani Baked Blush is my go-to for a natural flush of color. The texture is super smooth, the color is buildable (meaning you can go from subtle to bold depending on what look you're aiming for), and the range of shades is incredible. Plus, they look stunning in your makeup bag. If you're after a cream blush, the NYX Professional Makeup HD Cream Blush is your best bet. It adds a gorgeous pop of color and leaves your skin looking fresh and healthy.
woman applying blush | Image: Supplied
Mascara That Defines and Lengthens
Mascara is a game-changer, and the right one can open up your eyes and elevate your entire look. CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara is an old-school favorite with a seriously good reason! It adds tons of volume without clumping, making your lashes look long, full, and fluttery. It's a must-have for any makeup bag. However, my recent find is the Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara. It's ridiculously affordable and makes my lashes look absolutely amazing; long, full and gorgeous! It's honestly changed my makeup routine.
woman applying mascara | Image: Supplied
Lipstick that Lasts All Day
Long-lasting lipstick is my personal holy grail product, and the Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick is a cult classic for a reason. It's comfortable to wear, the color payoff is amazing, and it lasts for hours without needing a touch-up. Plus, the shade range is massive, so you're guaranteed to find your perfect match. For a matte option, the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick is unbeatable—it's seriously long-lasting, intensely pigmented, and surprisingly comfortable, despite being a liquid matte. Be careful though, these can be a little drying; make sure you have some good lip balm with you!
woman applying lipstick | Image: Supplied
Brows That Frame Your Face
Perfectly groomed brows can completely transform your look. This year, I'm obsessed with the NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil. It's super precise, allowing you to create natural-looking hair-like strokes. It's easy to use, even for beginners, creating a super polished look in seconds. If gels are your thing, the Benefit Gimme Brow+ Volumizing Eyebrow Gel isn't exactly drugstore priced, but is usually found at many drugstores and is worth the splurge. It makes my brows look full and defined without looking artificial. It's become my holy grail product!
woman shaping eyebrows | Image: Supplied
