9 Cheap Makeup Must-Haves Under $10 That Deserve a Spot in Your Beauty Bag
Finding quality makeup on a budget can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With prices soaring and new products launching every week, it’s easy to think you need to splurge to get something that actually works. But the truth is, some of the best makeup products on the market cost less than your morning coffee run. From long-lasting lipsticks to skin-perfecting foundations, there are affordable gems that can rival high-end alternatives.
“The key to budget-friendly beauty is knowing where to look and what to look for,” says Bianca Rivera, a professional makeup artist based in New York. “A lot of drugstore brands use similar formulas to luxury brands, so you’re often getting great quality for a fraction of the price.”
Whether you’re building your collection from scratch or just looking for a few affordable additions, these nine must-have makeup products—all under $10—are about to become your new favorites.
1. e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer
A concealer that provides coverage without feeling heavy? Yes, please. This Concealer is a go-to for those who want to brighten under-eyes, cover blemishes, and even out their skin tone—all while keeping their skin hydrated.
“This concealer has the perfect balance of coverage and hydration, making it great for dry or combination skin,” explains Rivera. “It blends beautifully and doesn’t settle into fine lines, which is something you usually see in more expensive formulas.”
The creamy consistency ensures a smooth application, and with a variety of shades, you can easily find your match. Plus, it’s long-wearing, meaning it won’t disappear by lunchtime.
2. Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
A mascara that delivers volume, length, and definition without clumping? The Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara does exactly that, making it a top choice for beauty lovers on a budget.
“This is one of the best drugstore mascaras out there, and it honestly outperforms a lot of high-end ones,” says Rivera. “The curved wand helps separate and coat every lash, giving a full-fan effect without weighing them down.”
Whether you prefer one coat for a natural look or multiple layers for a dramatic effect, this mascara is buildable and flake-free. And at just under $10, it’s a steal.
3. Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder
A good highlighter doesn’t have to break the bank, and the Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder is proof of that. This silky, blendable formula adds the perfect amount of glow without looking glittery or chunky.
“It gives you that lit-from-within glow that everyone wants,” says Rivera. “You can go subtle or intense, depending on how much you apply, and it looks stunning on all skin tones.”
Available in multiple shades, including soft pinks and warm golds, this highlighter is versatile and works beautifully on the cheekbones, brow bones, and even as an eyeshadow.
4. NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream
Finding a comfortable matte lipstick that doesn’t dry out your lips can be a challenge, but the NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream nails it. This lightweight, mousse-like formula glides on smoothly and sets to a long-wearing, velvety matte finish.
“What makes this lip cream stand out is its comfort factor,” explains Rivera. “It doesn’t feel heavy or crack throughout the day, and the shade range is incredible.”
From everyday nudes to bold reds, there’s a color for every occasion. And at just over $6, you can grab a few without feeling guilty.
5. Essence Pure Nude Blush
A good blush can make all the difference in your makeup look, and the Essence Pure Nude Blush is an underrated gem. With its smooth, blendable formula and natural finish, this blush adds the perfect flush of color to your cheeks.
“This is such an easy-to-use product,” Rivera says. “It blends like a dream and has just the right amount of pigment—so you don’t have to worry about going overboard.”
Available in soft peach, rosy pink, and deeper tones, it complements a variety of skin tones and gives a healthy, fresh-faced glow.
6. Milani Make It Last Setting Spray
A setting spray that locks in your makeup for hours without making your skin feel dry or greasy? The Milani Make It Last Setting Spray delivers a flawless, long-lasting finish that rivals high-end brands.
“This setting spray is a must for keeping your makeup fresh all day,” says Bianca Rivera, a professional makeup artist. “It works well for all skin types and even helps blur imperfections.”
With 16-hour wear, this lightweight mist can be used before makeup as a primer, after application to set everything in place, or even throughout the day for a quick refresh.
7. L.A. Girl Shady Slim Brow Pencil
If you want defined, natural-looking brows without the high price tag, the L.A. Girl Shady Slim Brow Pencil is a game-changer. Its ultra-fine tip allows you to create hair-like strokes for a precise, effortless look.
“This brow pencil is perfect for filling in sparse areas without looking too harsh,” says Rivera. “It’s smooth, pigmented, and stays put all day.”
Available in multiple shades, this brow pencil comes with a spoolie on the other end to blend everything seamlessly.
8. Covergirl Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm
A tinted lip balm that hydrates while adding a hint of color? Yes, please. The Covergirl Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm gives you the best of both worlds, keeping your lips soft and nourished while adding a sheer wash of color.
“It’s the perfect everyday lip product,” says Rivera. “You can swipe it on without a mirror, and it gives your lips that naturally healthy look.”
With hydrating ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera, this balm is comfortable to wear and comes in a range of flattering shades.
9. Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder
For those who struggle with oily skin or want a shine-free finish, the Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder is a must-have. This lightweight, oil-absorbing powder keeps your makeup in place and prevents midday shine.
“It’s one of the best budget powders out there,” says Rivera. “It mattifies without looking cakey and helps extend the wear of your foundation.”
Whether used alone for a natural look or as a setting powder over foundation, this compact is an essential for on-the-go touch-ups.