Most of us would be lying if we said we never looked down on a store-brand product. While these brief moments may seem snobby, assuming that the name-brand option is superior is how we justify those pricey purchases to ourselves. Of course, if our love of drugstore beauty has taught us anything, it's that quality isn't always based on the price tag — and we're here to affirm that with flying colors.
We're happy to report that when it comes to beauty, many stores are sloughing off the bad rap and turning out amazing products within the in-house lines — a lot of which are even better than the more-esteemed counterparts. Thank our bargaining mothers, college budgets, and, of course, our careers in beauty writing, but we can tell you exactly when it's a smart idea to skew generic.
We've rounded up some of the best-of-the-best generic buys for you to try — and inevitably adore. Look ahead to see which ones we always keep stocked in our own medicine cabinets.
Sephora
It's an industry secret that we know very well: Sephora's in-house line is boss — including the soft and durable brushes. The one we lust after the most? The Pro Airbrush. This is a dutiful foundation blender and works well for cream blushes and bronzers, too.
Sephora Collection Pro Airbrush #55, $34, available at Sephora.
This lip stain is quickly becoming the holy grail of long-lasting lip color. It goes on smooth, soft, and creamy, but dries to a matte finish. Plus, it will last through drinking, kissing, and snacking — seriously.
Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain, $14, available at Sephora.
PSA: This formula is powerful. Splash a few drops on a cotton pad and watch your waterproof eye makeup disappear in seconds. Made for people with sensitive eyes, it not only washes away the day, it has a strengthening complex of plant extracts to safeguard lashes.
Sephora Collection Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover, $15, available at Sephora.
Target
Going without a daily lotion can mean dry, irritated skin. This formula is lightweight and soaks in quickly, plus it has a dose of SPF. (Of course, you still need more protection if you're going to be outside.)
Up & Up Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 15, $6.99, available at Target.
Cotton balls and nail polish remover can be a pain, but this option is mess-free and under $2. Just dip your finger in and voila, you have bare nails once again.
Up & Up Maximum Strength Acetone Nail Polish Remover, $1.49, available at Target.
Even if you don’t use them regularly, having a pack of cleansing towelettes is a total necessity — you never know when you’ll need them. Target makes it super easy by making these ones cheaper than a cold brew.
Up & Up Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes 25 ct, $3.84, available at Target.
CVS
Finding a good eye cream is like finding the right mattress — it's all about your individual needs. This anti-aging formula is here to plump the skin under your eyes and keep your dark circles at bay. Sound like you? It's under $15 and a solid product to take home.
Skin + Pharmacy Advanced Anti-Aging Therapy Hydrating Eye Cream, $14.99, available at CVS.
Week nights watching the tube are made for sheet masks — but don't think you need to splurge. At only four dollars, we suggest buying these in bulk. With a load of antioxidants, it will wake, protect, and refresh your skin just as good as masks in the double digits.
Beauty 360 Detoxifying Antioxidant Tissue Facial Mask, $3.99, available only at CVS.
Retinol doesn’t need to cost you loads of dough. These 20 wipes are a low-percent option, so they're more gentle than many retinol serums, and pack in hyaluronic acid to maximize your skin’s hydration and supple appearance. They're also individually wrapped — perfect for weekend getaways or hotel staycations.
Skin + Pharmacy Advanced Anti-Aging Therapy Retinol Wipes, $19.99, available at CVS.
Ulta Beauty
Calling anyone who loves a dupe! This is a great substitute for Urban Decay’s Rose Naked Palette, but less than half the price. Who could pass up a versatile range of shadows like this?
Ulta Collection Rose Gold Natural Eyeshadow Palette, $20, available at Ulta Beauty.
You can strobe like Gigi Hadid with this easy-to-use pen. Nearly foolproof, this stick clicks up the product, then you just smooth it on any high points you fancy and pat into skin with your ring finger.
Ulta Collection Strobing Pen, $12.50, available at Ulta Beauty.
Lip crayons are quite possibly the easiest way to apply a sweep of color on your pout. Bonus? This one finishes matte — minus the dryness.
Ulta Collection Matte Lip Crayon, $8, available at Ulta Beauty.
Trader Joe's
This gel face wash is a lifesaver when more than one step sounds like hell: it removes makeup and cleanses in one wash.
Trader Joe's All-In-One Facial Cleanser, $5.99, available at Trader Joe's locations.
This spray sunscreen checks all the boxes: broad-spectrum, a high SPF, and totally affordable. Done, done, and done.
Trader Joe’s Spray Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+, $5.99, available at Trader Joe's locations.
Dry hair? You will adore this conditioner. It's packed with beneficial ingredients like vitamin E and argan oil that add moisture to locks.
Trader Joe's Nourish Spa Conditioner, $2.99, available at Trader Joe's locations.
Walgreens
Blotting papers are the perfect way to absorb oil from your T-zone without messing with your makeup — or adding more. Pick up a pack (or two) of these the next time you stop in Walgreens for a late-night Ben & Jerry's run.
Walgreens Oil Absorbing Sheets, $4.59, available at Walgreens.
While we still love our Beautyblenders, sometimes we need extra makeup sponges on hand for touch-ups and travel bags. This one rings in at under $6 bucks and is the perfect stand-in.
Walgreens Studio 350 Blending Sponge, $5.99, available at Walgreens.
The colder months can be brutal without a rich lotion to get you through the chill. This option goes on smooth, absorbs quickly, and always leaves your body hydrated.
Walgreens Studio 35 Intensive Skin Repair Lotion, $8.29, available at Walgreens.
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