Review: Affordable Make-up Essentials

It was time to declutter my make-up pouch after a year of quarantine and believe me, I discovered that my only staples are just just a few pieces:

Maybelline

I realized that most of the items that worked best for me are from Maybelline—since college days, actually. It’s affordable, offers a lot of options, and goes well with my skin type and color.

Here’s my line up:

Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lipstick in Touch of Spice

This was introduced to me back in 2017 by my friend, Marie, who I consider an authority figure in makeup. She sent me a couple (for spare) in Iligan as the color is fast-moving and it has been my favorite since.

What I like about it:

1. The color complements most skin tones
2. Has a creamy matte finish
3. Super moisturizing
4. Lasts up to 6 hours (without eating)
5. Only PhP 199.00!

Where to get it:

All leading drugstores and department stores and also:

Shopee: https://bit.ly/3cOVMGU

Lazada: https://bit.ly/3ug46GO

SuperStay Matte Ink in Lover

After giving birth, a mom-friend gifted me this together with a note that says, “because sometimes, a touch-up is just impossible.” I teared up because 1. Hormones, 2. I was overwhelmed with motherhood that I didn’t think I deserved some vanity (however little that is). But that’s another topic for another blog. So, going back: what I liked about this is that it delivers! It stays on even when you’ve already eaten.

What I like about it:

1. Rich pigmentation. You’re done with 1 swipe.
2. Has a precision applicator.
3. Lasts up to 16-hours.
4. No need for touch-up even after eating.
5. Only PhP 329.00!

P.S. As it’s meant to be food-proof, and transfer-proof, you will need a make up remover when you wash up.

Where to get it

All leading drugstores and department stores, and also:

Shopee: https://bit.ly/3eZ3Fwg

Lazada: https://bit.ly/3ly5ph6

Hypercurl Mascara

The hypercurl is my favorite mascara.

What I like about it:

1. Waterproof and smudge-proof.
2. Complements the length of my lashes.
3. Only PhP 199.00!

Where to Get It

Lazada: https://bit.ly/3cP9hq1

Shopee: https://bit.ly/3eVpDAc

Hypersharp Liner

I have nothing but love for this amazingly hyper sharp pen liner for simple make-up and cat eyes.

What I like about it:

1. 0.01 m point that makes it easy to draw a thin line for a minimal make up look, but also easy to control if you’re going for fuller lines or cat eyes.
2. Long-lasting (better with primer, of course).
3. Only PhP 349.00!

Where to get it

Shopee: https://bit.ly/3lwD1vQ

Lazada: https://bit.ly/3s8ZUIf

Big sales are up at the official stores, so do grab the deals! In the meantime, I’ll be browsing blushes.

Happy Skin

Happy Skin is a Filipino beauty brand that offers skin-caring make-up that uses “bio-compatible ingredients” that are proven to cooperate with our skin to keep it “healthy, strong, and balanced.”

Shut Up & Kiss Me Moisturizing Matte Lippie in It Girl

I can still remember when I bought my first lipstick from Happy Skin on a whim with another friend, Mariko, while we passed by its booth in a department store. She says it’s good, and that’s all I ever needed to hear to get one. Turns out, it is good! And you can feel how moisturizing it is.

What I like about it

1. The tint looks like a pinker version of my natural lips.
2. Ultra-hydrating.
3. On sale now at PhP 300.00! (50% OFF!)

Where to get it

Lazada https://bit.ly/2QpInxy

Shopee https://bit.ly/39h6lSn

On the Glow Instant Complexion Perfector Moisturize + Blend

What I like about it

1. Super light, comfortable and lasting.
2. Never had a breakout or any skin reaction even on the first few uses.
3. Matte but catches light for a healthy skin look.
4. Nourishes skin with Soy Bean Seed Extract for a more radiant skin.
5. Worth the quick swipe for your Zoom meetings!
6. PhP 1020.00 (Don’t think twice! It’s definitely sulit!)

Where to get it
Shopee https://bit.ly/2OUKCZ8
Lazada https://bit.ly/3vMIaob

Stay Fresh Pressed Powder

The perfect complement for On the Glow.

Where to get it:
Lazada https://bit.ly/3tD1JgN
Shopee https://bit.ly/3r5rcOc

Quick FX

Quick FX No Shine Mattifier

I’m so happy for this drugstore discovery! I tried another brand before and it just made my skin extra oily. Just get a pea-sized amount and spread it on your skin. (You’ll be amazed by its weirdly satisfying texture!)

What I like about it:

1. It can be used as a makeup base.
2. Minimizes pores and fine lines.
3. All-day oil control.
4. Acts as a barrier from pollutants.
5. Does not clog pores.

Where to get it:

Watsons, leading department stores, and:

Lazada https://bit.ly/3rdmT3P
Shopee https://bit.ly/2PbGqUV

Quick FX CC Cream

The magical cream for everybody. It color corrects and enhances skin’s hydration and elasticity.

Where to get it:

Watsons, department stores, and:

Lazada https://bit.ly/3f2hN7Q
Shopee https://bit.ly/3eYbdz7

Hope you’ll find these affordable makeup suggestions useful!

Disclaimer

Please note that these product recommendations are based on my experience and may differ from yours. If you have certain skin conditions, consult your dermatologist first.