In an era where a single concealer can cost as much as an entrée at an upscale restaurant, I’ve found joy in discovering the best drugstore makeup products that perform just as well — sometimes even better — than their department store counterparts.
Gen Waring, a professional makeup artist in Ottawa, agrees with me that budget-friendly brands are making moves. “Drugstore makeup has come a long way in the past decade. It’s no longer about having to compromise from luxury brands, it’s about knowing what to look for that makes a product great,” says Waring.
“The key to finding a great drugstore option is to shop with intention,” she says. “I always suggest that clients start by considering their skin type. And then look for long-wear formulas that feel lightweight and include ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, or plant extracts that support skin health.
“I also recommend my clients focus on finding multi-use products, like a lip stain that can double as blush. They’re a smart way to get more value from a single item and not having to spend as much,” she explains.
With this advice in mind, I went on the hunt for viral standouts and underrated heroes to find the best of the best. I tried and tested dozens of top-rated products that promised performance on a budget. (Though, I’ve tried dozens upon dozens over the years).
How I tested
I love makeup and rarely go a day without wearing any, so I tested each product by wearing it as I would any other day, which includes an hour-long workout, working from home, running errands, looking after my kids, and, if I’m lucky, a night out.
To find the best drugstore makeup across a range of different categories, the testing criteria differed by product. But essentially, I looked for formulas that felt good on the skin, held up through a long day, and delivered on their promises — whether that meant staying put, blending seamlessly, or adding a little extra glow.
I paid close attention to ease of application, how it paired with other makeup, and whether it felt like something I’d actually reach for again. Where relevant, I considered color payoff, staying power, and I was on the hunt for affordable, foolproof makeup that performs like the expensive stuff — and these are the ones that really delivered.
Why you can trust IndyBest U.S.
IndyBest U.S. is the ultimate destination for product reviews from The Independent, all of which are a result of real-world testing. Brigitt Earley is a writer based in New Jersey. Having written beauty reviews since 2010 (and used beauty products far longer), she knows her way around different formulas, and importantly, knows the ones that work. She’s also passionate about finding products that perform just as well — sometimes even better — than their department store counterparts, which means she’s well-placed to write this review.
The best drugstore makeup products for 2025 are:
- Best drugstore primer – e.l.f. power grip primer: $10, Amazon.com
- Best drugstore mascara – essence lash princess false lash effect mascara: $3.99, Amazon.com
- Best drugstore lip tint – CoverGirl clean fresh jelly water lip and cheek tint: $11, Ulta.com
- Best drugstore setting spray – Wet n Wild photo focus setting spray: $7, Ulta.com
- Best drugstore foundation – Revlon illuminance skin-caring liquid foundation: $18, Amazon.com
