When To Buy Makeup at Target

Copyright Stuff Point

My mom first took me to the Clinique counter at Macy’s when I was 15, about to enter high school.  I know, kids nowadays probably wear makeup and fake eyelashes to second grade. At that first makeup application, my mom purchased everything that the salesperson put on me including some lotion for fine lines and wrinkles.  I was in heaven.  Since then, I’ve come a long way as far as makeup knowledge, and I think I know when to buy the more expensive department store makeup and when to go to Target.  I have also purchased every brand of makeup, and here is what I have found:

Buy these makeup items at discount retailers:

Mascara |  Lipgloss  |  Some eyeshadows  |  Lipstick  | Blush

The above items are essentially the same whether you buy them from Nordstrom’s or Target for $7.00.  For example, right now, I have Diorshow mascara ($30) Estee Lauder mascara ($22) and Covergirl Lashblast ($7).  Guess, just guess which one I use every day and works the best?  The Lashblast and most inexpensive option.  Why? They virtually all have the same ingredients, it is likely the brush design that matters.

The items that I would recommend buying at the more expensive price points are:

Foundation  |  Powder  |  Metallic-glitter based eyeshadows  | Makeup brushes

Pricier eyeshadow with glitter or mica elements look nicer.  For whatever reason I have found that the less expensive metallic eyeshadows have larger glitter or mica bits, making them look cheap.  If you want a great metallic eyeshadow, try anything from MAC or Benefit’s cream eyeshadow line.  I may have purchased every possible color.  They are so easy to apply and look amazing.

Quality makeup brushes are essential to a flawless look, no matter how inexpensive your makeup.  My Chanel set cost about $120 about two years ago and will last for many years if taken care of properly.  Go here to see how to clean your makeup brushes.  I recommend going into the department store and asking if they have a set.  You will often be able to purchase the set for much less than you would buying separate brushes.

The bottom line is: don’t get ripped off at the makeup counter, It is not noticeable enough to be worth the money, buy as much of your makeup at Target or another discount retailer.  You will still look fabulous.