Did you set yourself a budget for spending this Christmas? As much as I would like it, I don’t think I can afford $50-$100 gifts for all my friends.. (hey I have quite a few friends!!).
So what I do is this: I either choose a small gift from an expensive brand, or a few gifts from a more affordable brand!
If you’ll like to build a makeup kit as a gift, I’ll show you how to get more makeup and skincare for the right price, without compromising on the quality!
Here are four types of products which can create a simple makeup kit. With these, the user can achieve a 5 minute makeup look real quick. I’ve also sourced for all their prices right here so you can whip out your calculator right now and plan your budget!
#1: Tinted lip balms
These pencil-shaped lip balms need no sharpening. For a sheer touch of colour, with lots of moisture, these toe the line between lipstick and chapstick.
Splurge: Tarte Lipsurgence Lip Tint in Hope, S$36
A soothing formula with peppermint and jojoba oils. Available at Sephora
Spend: Clinique Chubby Stick, S$26
Fragrance-free with mango and shea butter. To date I’ve bought 3 shades, and my fav is Two Ton Tomato. Available at major departmental stores.
Save: Catrice Pure Shine Colour Lip Balm, S$9.90
It’s glossy, has a sheer hint of colour, and feels really moisturising! Makes the perfect stocking stuffer or party gift! Available at Guardian.
#2: Mascaras that work
I’m always on the hunt for great mascaras that stay put when you need them to! This year I’ve gone through about 10 mascaras, so here are my picks.
Splurge: Becca Ultimate Mascara. S$54
My current favourite, it stays on all day without smudging or clumping. It’s available at Escentials Paragon and Tangs, but so expensive here! You can get it on their US website for US$24
Spend: Benefit They’re Real Mascara S$16 (deluxe mini size)
The first time I saw a friend wear this, I asked, “What mascara are you wearing?”
She said, “They’re Real”.
I’m like, “Yes, I know they’re real, but what mascara are you wearing??!”
The mini-sized version is available at Sephora and gives you length and volume.
Save: Catrice Glamour Doll Volume Mascara Waterproof S$7.90
I know I said in this post that I’ll stick to my luxury mascaras. I had to eat my words after I tried Catrice Glamour Doll Volume Mascara. It gave a WOW eyes-wide-open effect and stayed all day. Best of all, it’s less than eight bucks! What a steal! Available at Guardian Pharmacy.
#3: An all-in-one base
Splurge: NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser S$66
I bought this last year when I was searching for a tinted moisturiser (even though the rage was BB Cream, I wanted something with a warm undertone). This is by far my favorite tinted moisturiser ever. It gives as much coverage as a sheer foundation (think Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation), but a wonderful glow. Best of all, it comes in 11 shades.
Spend: PureHeals Propolis 27 Cover Cushion, S$43
With SPF, 27% Propolis, and 16 different herbal oils it provides the skin with moisture and nourishment. It just launched in Sephora Singapore.
Save: The Body Shop All-In-One BB Cream, S$32.90
This colour-adapting moisturising BB Cream never looks ashy, but gives you a natural coverage and glow. It was even used on the models during Digital Fashion Week 2013!
#4: A Radiant Blush
I had a hard time narrowing down the splurge and spend choices there were for blushers. A good powder blush lasts you a long time (up to 3 years), doesn’t go bad in 6 months like liquid eye products, and can transform your skin from bleah to KA-POW!
Splurge: Nars Blush in Orgasm S$50
The godfather of all blushes. Probably everybody’s favorite blusher, this peachy pink blush with flecks of gold shimmer immediately brightens up your face. This is one splurge you won’t regret.
Spend: MAC Mineralize Blush in Gentle, S$42
A soft pink that I love to use on brides and anyone wanting a naturally blushed look.
Save: Sleek Blush in Rose Gold, S$14
Reviewers rave about this blush being highly pigmented, which means what you pay for goes an even longer way. Buy on Luxola
