Top 5 Budget-Friendly Makeup Brands Recommended by a Pro Makeup Artist

Introduction

Hey there besties! I am going to go over my personal favorite brands as a MUA.

Plus, the importance of finding quality products on a budget cause we ALL deserve to treat ourselves!

All budget-friendly makeup!

The Beauty of Affordable Makeup

Know what is great about affordable makeup?

• It doesn't break the bank, obviously

• Cheap does NOT mean bad quality

• easy to find at local stores

• brands to help empower women

Here are my top 5 favorite affordable brands that I use on myself and my clients because I like them so much!

1. e.l.f. Cosmetics

E.l.f. is at the top of my list for a reason. They have so many amazing products that work like high end! They are inclusive with large shade ranges. And they are always launching new, innovative products that have us coming back for more. One of the most affordable brands on the market, it is trusted by enthusiasts and professionals alike. My two top products are the Soft Glam foundation ($8) and the Lip oils ($8).

2. NYX Professional Makeup

It was hard to choose if this or Elf would be on top because they are both just so good guys. NYX is always releasing trendy products that keep up with the times. From neutrals to bold colors, from matte to dewy, this brand truly has a lil' something for everyone. My two favorite products are their creamy lip liners ($3), and their Lip IV tints ($12).

3. ColourPop Cosmetics

I'll be honest, I am not always the biggest fan out some of their formulas. BUT!! This is such a fun, unique brand! They collaborate with so many shows and movies- I have the entire Pokémon and Avatar- LoK lines and I am not sorry. Their eye shadows are some of the most pigmented on the market and come in a variety of shades and color stories. If you don't find something you like, well, I don't know what else to tell you other than to lighten up, bud. My two favorite products from this brand are the Fresh Kiss Glosses ($10) and any of their eyeshadow pallets ($14-$35 pending on size)

4. Milani Cosmetics

This is the high-end brand of affordable makeup, and it's worth every cent. They pride themselves on being inclusive, so they have large shade ranges for their products. The creams are so easy to blend, and the powders and so pigmented and beautiful. You use these products on someone and ask them what brand I just used they ain't gonna say any of the brands on this list, I can guarantee that. My two favorite products are the cream bronzer- one of the easiest to blend I have ever used ($12). And the baked blushes ($10).

5. Essence

The cheapest and easily one of the best brands out there. This brand is MASSIVE and has so much to offer you, besties, regardless of budget. I would put this at the top of the list, but didn't because they are not as easy to find in stores as the other brands- shame, really. From their brushes to their cream sticks that cost almost as much as a bottle of soda, the quality of makeup you buy is worth more than the money you spend in my humble opinion. My two favorite products from them are the loose setting powder ($6) and, my all time favorite contour stick, the Baby Got Bronze mini stick ($4).

Conclusion

I will keep screaming that makeup doesn't have to break the bank for it to be good, or look good. I always and forever will encourage everyone to explore and appreciate these brands. These brands are out here doing the Lord's work for us makeup lovers!