My bathroom is currently a mess—thanks to a contractor who botched our remodel. Now, we’re paying someone else a hefty sum to fix it. Frustrating, right? But on the bright side, moments like these remind me why I love being a budget-conscious shopper.
Take Lancer’s $150 Lash Serum Intense, for example. As tempting as it sounds, I can easily resist the urge to splurge by remembering our unexpected expenses—like this twice-paid-for bathroom remodel. So, I stick to my tried-and-true affordable beauty products. Here are my current favorites!
**Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water** is a game-changer. It removes makeup and cleanses in one step—no water needed. I just pour a little onto a cotton pad and wipe my face clean. No more splashing icy water or waiting for the tap to warm up.
I recently switched from **RoC MULTI CORREXION 5-in-1** to **RoC RETINOL CORREXION** after taking a quick skincare quiz on RoC’s website. Based on my answers, the site recommended the retinol line, so I gave it a shot. Now, I use the day, night, and eye products, and I’m loving them—especially the eye cream. They absorb quickly and feel great on my skin. Plus, the **Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer with SPF** ensures I never leave the house without sun protection.
When it comes to foundation, I prefer a lightweight, natural look. I’ve bounced between **bareMinerals original powder foundation** and various **CoverGirl and Revlon liquid options** for years. I love that bareMinerals has SPF, but the loose powder gets everywhere—even on my bathroom counter. When I have to use my micellar water to clean my vanity, it’s time for a change.
Recently, I tried **NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation** from Target, and I’m pleasantly surprised. It applies smoothly, blends well, and stays put without primer. I use it dry for light coverage, but applying it with a wet sponge gives a flawless, porcelain-like finish. No SPF, but my RoC moisturizer has that covered.
For eyeshadow, I like compact kits with coordinated shades—they’re versatile and easy to pack. **e.l.f. Flawless Eyeshadow** kits are perfect for this. They’re small, affordable, and come in great color combos. My favorite is **Rich Plum**, which includes olive, plum, and a deep gray shade.
My go-to eyeliner is **CARGO Swimmables Eye Pencil in Shelly Beach**. I don’t swim, but I do ride horses, and after 40 minutes in the saddle, most eyeliners smudge. This one glides on smoothly and stays put all day. Plus, the dark green shade pairs beautifully with my e.l.f. eyeshadow.
On busy mornings, I might skip eyeliner, but I never leave the house without doing my brows and lashes. **Maybelline Brow Drama Pencil with Pomade** adds color and texture in one swipe, while **NYX Pin-Up Tease Mascara** is my top pick for lashes. It’s affordable, long-lasting, and doesn’t clump—definitely the best budget mascara at Target.
On a whim, I grabbed **e.l.f. Gotta Glow Lip Color in Perfect Berry** at TJMaxx for $3. It looked deep purple in the tube—almost like Halloween makeup—but it’s actually a self-adjusting tint. Now, I carry it everywhere. It’s perfect for daytime and layers beautifully over a lip pencil for evening looks.
These are my go-to beauty products! If you’re looking for more affordable drugstore finds, there are plenty of great options out there.
And about that bathroom remodel—if you’re hiring a contractor in St. Louis, call me first. I’ll tell you who to avoid!