Affordable makeup that works (and why it’s not just about the product)
Confession: I love luxury makeup. I’ve spent way too much of my own money testing high-end foundations, concealors, and blushes. And there’s nothing like a beautifully packaged powder compact or a fancy lipstick that glides on just right.
But here’s what I have also learned, especially from working with women who are new to makeup or feeling a bit lost with it: great makeup doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
In fact, some of my absolute favorite products are straight from the chemist shelf. You don’t need the most expensive brand to get a beautiful result.
Why? Because it’s not just about the product—it’s in how you apply it.
If you’re new to makeup, or if you’re still figuring out how to apply it, budget-friendly products are a brilliant place to begin. You can learn what works for your face, your skin, and your style without spending a fortune.
We can talk luxury another time, but today, here are five products I recommend frequently that are beginner friendly, look beautiful, and won’t empty your wallet:
Maybelline Super Stay Skin Tint: Lightweight and easy to blend with your fingers or a makeup sponge. Surprisingly good coverage with a touch of fuss-free glow.
Sephora Best Skin Ever Concealer: Natural finish that covers dark circles and the odd spot without looking cakey. The texture is smooth and skin-like and works beautifully with fingers or a sponge.
ELF Camo Liquid Blush: A little goes a long way (seriously). It melts into the skin for a natural flush and blends easily—even if you’re a beginner. Great colour selection, and the bottle lasts ages.
Mecca Max Zoom Cream Eyeshadow Stick: If eyeshadow palettes overwhelm you, this is the answer. Creamy, quick, and easy. Swipe it on, blend out the edges with a finger, and you’ve got a soft, polished eye look in under a minute.
Mecca Max Brushes: A few good brushes make a huge difference. Mecca’s brushes are affordable, soft, and actually do what they’re supposed to. I can show you exactly which ones are worth having, but this set is a good place to start.
You may already have some of this in your bag—or something similar. Start with a few basics and build from there.
And remember what I said at the beginning? It's not always about the product. It's about how you use it, your application technique and choosing the right product for your skin type.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start feeling good about what you’re doing, book a Signature Edit (a 1:1 makeup lesson). I’ll help you figure out how to apply what you’ve got—and what’s worth adding in—so you feel confident, not overwhelmed.