There’s no denying that I’m constantly on the hunt for the best beauty products out there. But with so many brands and innovative products on the market, it can be difficult to decide what you actually need. Building a collection of products for your morning and evening routines can also become really expensive if you don’t know where to splurge and where to save. After testing so many different items over the years, I’ve come to realize that not everything is worth the splurge. There have been many times where I caved on a beauty purchase I didn’t really need – and then discovered a drugstore dupe that was on par with its luxury beauty counterpart. That being said, I do have a list of cult-favorite beauty products from skincare to makeup that I swear by. I don’t think it’s necessary to buy every single one of them, so I wanted to share the products that are worth splurging and the ones you can save on.

Where I Splurge…

Skincare

Essential skincare products like moisturizers and serums are worth the splurge. Quality skincare products tend to be more expensive because the ingredients are highly concentrated in order to deliver maximum results. These are the products you rely on for anti-aging benefits and deep hydration, which are my priority as we head into the colder months. A high-grade skincare regimen is one of the best investments you make for your skin. Some of my favorites are By Terry’s Cellularose Brightening Serum and the La Mer Face Cream.

My Splurge Skincare

Base Makeup

Whether you’re into full or light coverage makeup, having a line up of quality foundations, primers, and concealers make a huge difference. Higher-end base makeup is comprised of better ingredients, which ultimately impact the color, wear-time, and how it feels on your skin. That’s exactly why the Luminous Silk Foundation is revered by so many people – myself included. Concealers and setting powders are the two items I use daily, so it’s a good idea to invest.

My Splurge Base Makeup

Perfume

Perfumes are one of those things you can’t skimp on especially if you’re a true fragrance fanatic like me (love this one). While I don’t think it’s necessary to buy an entire collection of them, having one or two that you genuinely love can make a huge difference in your wardrobe. I personally feel that perfume puts the finishing touch on every look.

My Splurge Perfume

Haircare (also save here too)

If you’re someone who colors your hair often or uses heat tools regularly, luxury haircare products can transform the way your mane looks and feels. I have been using Olaplex regularly, and it’s been a game changer. Within a few uses, I could tell that my hair was stronger and healthier. It’s also important to apply a reliable heat protectant product to prevent future damage.

My Splurge Haircare

Eye Makeup (also save here too)

There are several amazing drugstore products for eyes out there, but many fall short when it comes to pigmentation. I have tried my fair share of eyeliners and I don’t think any come close to Kat Von D’s Tattoo Liner. I also can’t give up Too Faced Better than Sex Mascara because it goes on so easily and produces a ton of length and volume.

My Splurge Eye Makeup

Lipstick (also save here too)

Lipsticks are another one of those products that you can splurge and save on. A few of my higher end favorites are from Charlotte Tilbury and Tom Ford. The color payoff, wear-time, and nourishing formula are unparalleled.

My Splurge Lipstick

Where I Save…

Nail Polish

I change my nail polish so often that I don’t think it’s necessary to splurge here. While brands like Chanel and Nars offer dramatic, lacquered polishes, Essie and OPI are serious contenders that perform just as well. At under $10, you can’t go wrong with the latter.

My Save Nail Polishes

Body Lotion

Over the years, I found that most body creams and lotions contain very similar ingredients to high end ones. As a result, drugstore brands like Aveeno and CeraVe are very effective. I think it’s perfectly fine to save here and splurge in other categories like skincare.

My Save Body Lotions

Eye Makeup (also splurge here too)

As I mentioned earlier, there are some really great drugstore eyeliners, eyeshadows, and mascaras. This L’Oreal mascara and Maybelline eyeliner has had long-time reputations of living up to high end brands. And if you’re in the market for blendable, pigmented eyeshadows, then be sure to check out ColourPop.

My Save Eye Makeup

Haircare (also splurge here too)

If you rarely color or style your hair, you have plenty of haircare options under $20! A few of my favorite brands are Pureology, L’Oreal (for hairsprays), and OGX. I love that so many drugstore brands are going sulfate and paraben free in their lines, giving us even more options in the future!

My Save Haircare

Lipstick (also splurge here too)

I favor a variety of lipsticks ranging from drugstore to luxury picks, and my top brand from the drugstore goes to NYX. If you are a fan of taupes and nudes, you will love the Lingerie Liquid Lipstick line. I have been wearing NYX lip products for years and continue to buy them. I also love this product!

My Save Lipsticks

xo, Maria

Outfit Details

Lovers + Friends Trench (wearing an XS)
GRLFRND High-Waisted Denim (wearing a 23, size down)
Urban Outfitters Crop Sweater Tank (wearing an XS)
Gucci Marmont Bag (mini size, also here)
Christian Louboutin White Heels (better for budget here)

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