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As a beauty lover, I’m always chasing that perfect combination of luxury and performance. High-end products can be tempting, and there’s no denying the allure of lavish packaging, cutting-edge formulas, and the promise of skin-transforming results. But over the years, I’ve realized that the price tag isn’t always what guarantees quality. In fact, some of the most impressive products in my routine are surprisingly affordable—many of them clocking in at under $20.
While I’ll always have a soft spot for my designer beauty picks, there are a few drugstore gems that I truly can’t live without. They deliver exceptional results, have become my go-to essentials, and they don’t break the bank. If you’re looking to stretch your beauty budget without sacrificing quality, here are the under-$20 products that have earned a permanent spot in my routine.
1. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser ($14.97)
When it comes to face cleansers, I’ve tried a wide variety, from high-end gels to foaming formulations. But I always come back to CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser. This drugstore classic has everything I need to remove makeup and impurities without stripping my skin’s natural moisture. Packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, it keeps my skin hydrated, soft, and balanced.
Why I love it:
- Gentle, non-foaming formula that cleans without drying out the skin.
- Hydrates while it cleanses, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin.
- Suitable for daily use and leaves my skin feeling refreshed but never tight.
Tip: I use it as the first step in my double cleanse routine. It’s perfect for removing makeup and prepping my skin for the rest of my skincare.
2. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum ($6.50)
When it comes to budget-friendly skincare that truly delivers, The Ordinary is a game-changer. Their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum has done wonders for my skin, especially when it comes to reducing the appearance of pores and helping to control oil. Niacinamide is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and this serum helps even out my complexion without being harsh.
Why I love it:
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing, so it works well even with other serums or moisturizers.
- Reduces redness and calms my skin, making it an excellent option for anyone with acne-prone skin.
- Affordable but effective—definitely a steal for the price!
Tip: Use it morning and night for consistent results, but don’t forget to follow up with sunscreen since niacinamide can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
3. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation ($7.99)
Foundation is one area where I used to splurge, but after discovering Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation, I haven’t looked back. This foundation gives me the perfect balance of coverage and wearability. It’s buildable, lightweight, and has a beautiful matte finish that controls oil while still looking natural.
Why I love it:
- Great for oily or combination skin—it stays put throughout the day without feeling cakey.
- Provides a smooth, poreless finish that doesn’t accentuate texture.
- Available in a wide range of shades to match every skin tone.
Tip: Use a makeup sponge to apply for a more dewy finish, or a brush for a more matte, full-coverage look. I find it works great for both everyday wear and more formal events.
4. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara ($10.99)
It’s no secret that I’m a mascara enthusiast, and I’ve tested everything from high-end formulas to drugstore brands. But L’Oréal’s Voluminous Lash Paradise is the one I always reach for. This mascara gives my lashes serious volume, length, and a beautiful fanned-out effect—without any smudging or clumping.
Why I love it:
- Adds instant volume and length, giving lashes a dramatic, false-lash effect.
- It’s buildable—so I can go from a more natural look to a bold, voluminous finish.
- The formula is long-lasting and won’t smudge or flake throughout the day.
Tip: For an extra lift, use an eyelash curler before applying Lash Paradise for sky-high lashes that last all day.
5. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer ($19.99)
If you’re after a moisturizer that hydrates without feeling greasy, Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Gel is the holy grail. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and leaves my skin feeling plump and refreshed. I love that it’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, which helps lock in moisture, making it perfect for both dry and oily skin types.
Why I love it:
- Non-comedogenic, so it doesn’t clog pores, making it great for those with acne-prone skin.
- Instantly hydrates and replenishes, leaving my skin soft and smooth without any heavy residue.
- It’s perfect for layering with other skincare products, and it works well under makeup.
Tip: Apply it on damp skin after your toner or serum to help seal in extra hydration. It works especially well in the colder months when my skin needs extra moisture.
6. e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer ($10.00)
I’ve tried so many high-end primers, but e.l.f.’s Poreless Putty Primer has been my favorite for years. This drugstore gem smooths out my skin’s texture, fills in pores, and creates the perfect base for makeup. It’s velvety, lightweight, and helps makeup glide on smoothly while keeping it in place all day.
Why I love it:
- Works well on all skin types, especially those with larger pores or uneven texture.
- Silky texture that melts into the skin and provides a flawless finish.
- Can be layered under foundation for a long-lasting, airbrushed look.
Tip: I warm it up between my fingers before applying to allow for an even layer over my face. Just a little goes a long way.
7. Pixi Glow Tonic ($15.00)
Exfoliating toners are a must in my skincare routine, and Pixi Glow Tonic is my all-time favorite. This glycolic acid-based toner gently exfoliates the skin, leaving my complexion glowing and radiant. It helps to remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother, more even skin.
Why I love it:
- Exfoliates and brightens skin without being overly harsh.
- Contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera to prevent irritation.
- Leaves my skin feeling refreshed and glowing.
Tip: I use this toner every other night as part of my evening routine. I follow it with a hydrating serum and moisturizer to lock in moisture after exfoliating.
Final Thoughts
While I absolutely enjoy splurging on luxury beauty products, these under-$20 gems have proven time and time again that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get high-quality results. From skincare to makeup, these products deliver performance that rivals some of my more expensive favorites. They’ve earned permanent spots in my routine because they work—and they’re affordable enough to repurchase without guilt.
So, if you’re looking to build a beauty routine that doesn’t break the bank, these affordable products are the perfect place to start. Trust me, your skin and your wallet will thank you!
What are your favorite budget-friendly beauty products? Let me know in the comments below!
