By Isabela Jacobsen
Features Editor
Put down the Ramen Noodles and let’s talk money. It’s no surprise that Hofstra students are struggling to balance school, internships and work. At the end of the day, you want your makeup to last, but is it really worth buying expensive makeup? If you’re looking to save some money the next time you go makeup shopping, don’t be afraid to start at the drugstore. I know, drugstore foundation makes your skin crawl, but it doesn’t have to. There are actually good, reasonably priced makeup products that don’t hurt your skin and last through your long days.
My first must-have drugstore foundation is from Revlon. It’s the “Color Stay” foundation that lasts for 24 hours. Yes, a full day; it’s just as amazing as it sounds. If you don’t believe me, check the reviews online or ask your friends. I’ve heard my friends rave about this product so it’s obviously a crowd favorite. Another reason to love this product is the way it treats your skin. The foundation feels light on the skin and keeps dry skin moisturized. If you don’t have dry skin, there is also an oily combination formula. This foundation doesn’t harm your skin, but keeps your makeup fresh and natural. It’s definitely my favorite drugstore foundation.
I was hesitant when I heard about one-dollar lipstick and three-dollar bronzer, but New York City has won me over. This brand delivers quality and options. There are so many different products, and the ones I’ve tried so far have not disappointed. The one-dollar lipstick comes in several colors and the one I own is “Retro Red.” It gives me the radiant, bright red I want and lasts through the night. The only downfall is that it doesn’t moisturize the lips, so make sure to stock up on some Chapstick before you apply the lipstick. For one dollar, this lipstick is pretty impressive.
You’re going out and you have your red lips ready, now it’s time for the bronzer. NYC has the best drugstore bronzers I’ve ever tried. The best part is how natural it looks. Circle your brush a few times around the bronzer and apply to the hollows of your cheek for a light, bronzed look. It looks great for class, as well as going out, when you want a light makeup look day or night. Once you’ve become a NYC fan, check out their blushes. Like the bronzer, the blush will give you some color while keeping things natural.
Similar to having different skin types, everyone also has different eyes. Sometimes we forget that eyelashes are a unique and individual feature. Some curl easier than others, so it really does matter what kind of mascara you’re using. The Maybelline, “Great Lash” is great mascara that works well for different types of eyelashes. It’s my go-to when I don’t want to spend a lot of money. The mascara lasts the whole day and doesn’t smudge. This is a classic pick for those who can’t decide on what to buy.
Although mascara is one of my favorite beauty products, it’s nothing without a pretty eye shadow. Cover Girl eye shadow is the kind that you’ll want to use daily. The neutral palette colors are prominent enough to make a difference to your look, but light enough to keep your makeup wearable for daytime. You can play around with the colors and choose the eye shadow intensity.
There are several other drugstore products that will have you ditching your expensive makeup brands, but these are some good basics to start off with. Drugstore makeup doesn’t have to be so drab. Play with some colors, look for some quality products and you won’t regret giving your wallet a break.
