Exquisite beauty accessories need not demand a high price tag. There’s a considerable array of budget-friendly alternatives that can help you create a perfect base, emphasise your eyebrows or obtain a shiny pout. Below are six recent noteworthy items that can readily compete with their luxury counterparts.
Introducing the Catrice Instant Awake Under Eye Brightener, perfect for those days when you wish for a light or no-makeup look but still demand a rejuvenated appearance (only €4.95 from mccormackspharmacy.ie). Don’t be misled by the eye-catchingly low price and appealing packaging; this petite pink container is the ultimate combatant against weary under-eye manifestations. It perfectly conceals shadows, camouflages hollowness and leaves a bright and revitalised effect. A modest amount does the trick, so start with a small application and gradually increase as required. Two colours are available namely: Light Rose and Warm Nude.
Stepping onto the stage is The Revolution’s Skin Silk Luminous Serum Foundation, blending makeup along with skincare ins a pleasing glass container, available for €15.49 from Boots. Featuring 20 different shades, I am currently of the opinion that this foundation merits a “fantastic for daily use” slogan. It gives a comfortable fit for the skin due to the hydrating substances involved such as hyaluronic acid and peptides. Its light, fluid formula can be applied rapidly providing medium coverage, with a smooth and bright finish, plus it endures quite well. After a day totalling 14 hours, I noticed only minimal discrepancies on my chin. Not too bad a deal for under €16.
Ending off with the L’Oreal Lash Paradise Mascara.
My affection for L’Oreal Lash Paradise mascara (available at Boots for €16.99) has endured for over seven years. Despite there being a multitude of varieties and shades to choose from, none match up to the original. Consistently delivering lash extensions that are elegantly long, voluminous, and dark, it remains unparalleled. What’s more, it resists clumping or flaking throughout its wear, whether during day or night. It’s also possible to layer it. Typically, I apply one or two layers during the day and ramp it up to three or four later in the evening. This effectively creates an illusion that leaves others wondering whether the lashes are genuine or artificial. Truly one of the best mascaras ever produced.
Maybelline’s Build A Brow Pencil and Gel is another favourite. Having tested almost all the brow pens in the market, I believe this one (available at lookfantastic.ie for €13.95) stands out, not only for its affordability but also its effectiveness. Both the sharpness of the pen and the uniformity of the pigment flow are essential for mimicking natural hair strokes, and this pencil delivers. It’s also a dual product, containing both gel and pen, providing great shape, definition and hold. It comes in four shades.
Lip oils are currently in vogue, and Irish brand, Kash Beauty’s Sweet Dreams Lip Oil (for €14.95 at kashbeauty.com), has caught my attention. Filled with several luxurious ingredients for hydration and plumping, including collagen, vitamin E, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, rosehip oil and shea butter, this lip oil offers not just an appealing appearance but also nourishes deeply. Its rich, glossy finish makes it a deluxe product, and it is available in numerous shades. My personal preference is Candy Kiss, a chilled, rosy pink shade.
Lastly, the Complexion Duo Brush from Sculpted by Aimee rounds out my go-to beauty product list.
Far from a mere product, Aimee’s Complexion Duo Brush from Sculpted is rather a high-grade makeup brush that proffers numerous solutions while simultaneously boasting a sophisticated design. You can buy it for €19 from sculptedbyaimee.com. The dual-ended, synthetic brush is plush and skillfully applies foundation and concealer without tugging on the skin or wasting too much product. It’s perfect for carrying along on travels, or simply for preserving space in your makeup bag. I have such high regard for it that I’ve bought a second one to apply cream blush and cream eyeshadow.
This week’s favourite is Bumble and Bumble’s Dryspun Texture Spray Light. If you desire a naturally tousled texture, I can’t recommend this product enough. You can buy it for €35 from zolobeauty.com. The latest member of the brand’s Thickening line, this weightless spray instantly revitalises hair while adding volume and texture, without any heaviness or a crunch. The non-gritty, lightweight composition means you can use it freely while still maintaining a natural appearance.