Beauty on a Budget

22/08/2025


Makeup is expensive. As someone who has been into makeup since secondary school, and whose bank account leaves a lot to be desired, I have become an expert in scouting out amazing products that don't break the bank. I am a high street brand girlie at heart and I am so excited to be sharing some of my favourite products with you.

Face Products

Natural Collection Illuminating Primer ( £4)

  • Costing less than a fiver, this primer does exactly what it says on the bottle – gives you a lovely glow whilst prepping your skin for makeup. They also do a matte version. For more on my thoughts about this primer, go and check out my review of Natural Collection 😊

Foundation – Second Skin Enhancing Foundation by 17. (£5)

  • This brand was all over social media last year, and for good reason. Cheap, cheerful and with buildable coverage, this foundation is a great affordable option for people with normal to dry skin.

Concealer – Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer ( £4.49) and 17. Second Skin Enhancing Concealer (£2.50)

  • Whilst both products are under a fiver, high quality and work well, they serve different purposes. I would recommend collection concealers to anyone seeking full coverage, whereas the 17. Concealer is perfect for those who want something a little more natural.

Cheek Products – The Rimmel Bronze, Sculpting and Highlighting Kit ( £7.99) Natural Collection Cheek Products ( £3 each)

  • My only critique of this is the shade range is limited. However, if you like shimmer, this is the palette for you. The formulas blend beautifully, and this product is perfect for summer. For those who prefer a matte look, Natural Collection do amazing blushers, bronzers and highlighters for a range of skin tones.

Eyes and Eyebrows

Eyebrow Products – Makeup Revolution – Precise Brow Pencil £3

  • This pencil is only £3 and is honestly the best one I've ever used. The shade range is great, they do different styles of the same product and its super affordable. I go through about ten of these a year.

Eyeshadow Palettes – Any Makeup Revolution Palette ( Prices range from £2.99 to £15)

  • This may be cheating slightly, but I can't pick a favourite palette that Makeup Revolution has produced. They have so many colour and size options, the eyeshadows blend well and are flattering on all eyes. There really is something for everyone.

Eyeliner – Elf Expert Liquid Liner ( £4)

  • I have tried a lot of high street eyeliners, and this is by far the best in terms of staying power, pigmentation and how long it lasts on my eyes. The Makeup Revolution Double Eyeliner pen is a close second.

Maybelline Mascaras – Especially the Lash Sensational (£9.99)

  • With prices ranging from £5.85 to £12.88, Maybelline mascaras are popular for a reason. They are versatile, long lasting and don't dry up quickly.

Lips / Setting Spray

Makeup Revolution Lip Products ( starting at £2)

  • Their Pout Bomb Lip glosses are some of my favourite makeup products ever. I can't put into words how much I adore them ( and I am not a lip gloss person)

Natural Collection Setting Spray ( £5)

  • This setting spray does the job and sets your face. The bottle is huge, meaning the product lasts you ages, and it makes your makeup last a long time. Available in dewy and matte finishes.

A Final Note

In total, these products come to £61.46, which I don't think is too bad for a full face of makeup. I will forever believe most makeup is overpriced, and I wish it wasn't so expensive. I will always encourage people to wait until offers are on before stocking up, this saves you a fair bit of money in the long run.

What are your favourite high street makeup products? Let me know in the comment box 😊

Love,

Em x