Beauty Break: Wallet Watchers Drugstore Edition

When asked whether we would prefer to shop for our beauty necessities at Sephora or in the fluorescently lit aisles of a drugstore - the answer would most likely be Sephora.  However, what the drugstore lacks in sophistication and glamour it makes up for in product effectiveness and cost efficiency.  And while you may never get helped at the drugstore, at least you won't be harrassed by pushy make-up counter sales people.

With summer and all of it's beauty and grooming necessities upon us (self-tanner, sunscreen, razors, foot scrubs, etc.) we thought now would be a great time to highlight some of our favorite drugstore bargain buys. 

Make-Up

Ardell Lash Kit:  This is our go-to when we need to look extra special.  Fake eyelashes (although a strange concept) really do make a big difference.  Getting used to the application can be a bit tricky, but this lash starter kit makes it easy for anyone to apply.

Maybelline Eyeshadow in Stylish Smokes:  We use this as a dramatic eyeshadow for evening and as a liner for day.  It's much softer and more natural than a pencil, but dark enough to give you that extra va-va-voom at night.

Almay Blemish Heal Technology Pressed Powder:  Best pressed powder and essential in the summer heat! It's not super cheap (~$14), but it lasts forever.

Face

Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser:  This foaming facial cleanser is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin.  It's made with soy, won't irritate skin and is fragrance free.

Neutrogena Healthy Skin, Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-Blemish Lotion:  Ohh the woes of late-20s skin.  Pimples? Got 'em.  Wrinkles? Got those too.  Thank god the wonderful people at Neutrogena created this lotion to solve both issues.  Two birds, one stone baby.

L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Face Towels:  A cheaper, but just as effective version of Tan Towel.

Body:

Palmer's Cocoa Butter w/ Vitamin E:  The fact that this stuff is commonly recommended to new mothers for treating stretch marks should tell you something. It soothes the skin under eyes, softens dry hands and feet, helps heal scars, prevents irritation post wax/shave, etc. Truly a one stop shop in a bottle.

L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion:  This is a great, natural looking alternative to a real tan.  It dries quickly, is completely streak-free and even has SPF 15 protection built in. 

CeraVe:  It may not look glamorous, but this moisturizing lotion works.  It was recommended as a dry skin cure by P's dermatologist during a particularly frigid February and her apartment hasn't gone a day without it since.  It's not super cheap, but really, can you put a price on perfectly soft skin... ;)

For more information on beauty bargains check out the July issue of Allure magazine.  It features two separate articles on drugstore beauty:  Rich Women, Cheap Thrills; Secrets of the Drugstore - both with a complete list of Allure recommended products. 

We are always looking for budget friendly new products so if you have any recommendations we would love to hear about them!!



<3,

Emy & Po