13 High-End Makeup Products and Their Wallet-Friendly Dupes
If you love high-end makeup but don’t love the price tags that come with it, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to achieve that luxe, flawless finish. There are plenty of affordable makeup dupes that perform just as well—sometimes even better—than their high-end counterparts.
As someone who has tested a lot (and I mean a lot) of makeup, I can confidently say that drugstore beauty brands have seriously stepped up their game in recent years. So, if you’re looking to save some cash without sacrificing quality, I’ve got you covered. Here are thirteen must-have affordable dupes for high-end makeup products that deserve a spot in your beauty routine.
1.
If you’ve been on TikTok at all in the past year, you’ve probably heard of the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter. It’s the ultimate glow-enhancer that smooths, blurs, and adds a lit-from-within radiance. But at $53, it’s definitely a splurge.
Enter: e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter. Coming in at just $14, this budget-friendly alternative is a near-identical dupe. It delivers that same soft-focus glow, whether worn alone, under foundation, or as a highlighter. The texture and finish are incredibly similar, and honestly, you might not even be able to tell the difference once blended out.
2.
Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint is iconic for its ultra-pigmented, long-wearing formula that looks amazing on all skin tones. But at $29, it’s not the most budget-friendly option for everyday wear.
If you want that same bold, glossy, and long-lasting finish, Maybelline Superstay Vinyl Ink is where it’s at. At around $10, it delivers a strikingly similar high-shine effect with impressive staying power. Bonus: It doesn’t feel overly sticky, and it won’t dry out your lips.
3.
If you swear by Tarte’s Shape Tape Concealer for full-coverage and crease-resistant wear but don’t want to drop $27 per tube, say hello to Revolution Conceal & Define Concealer.
At just $7, this dupe offers a very similar matte, high-coverage formula that blends seamlessly and lasts all day. It brightens under-eyes, covers blemishes, and provides that flawless base—without the hefty price tag.
4.
Defined brows can make or break a makeup look, and the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz is a cult favourite for a reason. It’s precise, blendable, and delivers the perfect amount of pigment. But at $25, it’s not exactly budget-friendly.
The NYX Micro Brow Pencil, priced at $8, is an incredible dupe. It has the same fine tip for hair-like strokes, a creamy-yet-firm texture, and a spoolie to blend everything seamlessly. Honestly, the difference is almost imperceptible.
5.
NARS Orgasm Blush is famous for its universally flattering peachy-pink tone with a golden shimmer. But at $24, it’s quite the investment.
Luckily, Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso offers an almost identical shade and glow for just $9. It gives that same healthy, radiant flush with a soft shimmer that mimics the high-end version perfectly.
6.
If you’re after full coverage and longevity, you’ve probably tried (or at least considered) Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation. It’s a go-to for flawless, all-day wear—but at $52, it’s definitely an investment.
Enter L’Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation. At around $14, it provides that same full-coverage, long-wearing formula with a natural matte finish. It’s lightweight, breathable, and doesn’t cake or crease—everything you’d want in a high-end foundation, minus the price.
7.
The Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer is a go-to for locking in makeup and keeping your skin hydrated all day long. But at $38, it’s not exactly the most affordable option.
Luckily, e.l.f. Power Grip Primer is a spot-on dupe at just $10. It has that same sticky, tacky texture that ensures foundation stays put all day while delivering a hydrated, glassy-skin finish.
8.
Benefit’s Hoola Bronzer is a classic for achieving that perfect, sun-kissed glow. It’s blendable, smooth, and the perfect shade for a natural bronze—but at $36, it’s a bit pricey.
The Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer, priced at $12, delivers that same soft, buildable warmth with a buttery smooth finish. Bonus: It smells like a tropical holiday.
9.
Highlighter lovers, this one’s for you. The Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector is known for its intense, buttery glow that melts into the skin. But at $42, it’s definitely a splurge.
The ColourPop Super Shock Highlighter, available for around $7, gives you that same smooth, high-impact glow with a soft, bouncy texture. The pigmentation is stunning, and it blends seamlessly for a radiant finish.
10.
Contouring is a game-changer for sculpting the face, and the Fenty Beauty Match Stix are a fan-favorite for their creamy, blendable formula. However, at $32 each, collecting multiple shades can add up quickly.
The Wet n Wild Megaglo Contour Stick, priced at just $4, delivers a very similar creamy texture that blends effortlessly for a natural-looking contour. It’s easy to apply, long-wearing, and available in flattering shades for different skin tones.
11.
A good mascara can make all the difference, and the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara is iconic for its volumizing, lengthening formula. But at $29, it’s quite an investment for a product that needs replacing every few months.
The Essence Lash Princess Mascara, which costs around $5, is a viral sensation for a reason. It delivers dramatic volume, length, and curl—without flaking or smudging. Many beauty lovers swear it’s even better than the high-end version!
12.
A good setting spray can make or break your makeup routine, and the MAC Fix+ Setting Spray is a staple for hydrating and locking in makeup with a natural, dewy finish. But at $34, it’s not the most budget-friendly option.
The Makeup Revolution Glass Glow Fix Spray, priced at around $11, is a fantastic alternative. It delivers that same luminous, skin-refreshing effect while ensuring your makeup stays put throughout the day. Plus, it gives your skin a healthy glow without feeling sticky or heavy.
13.
The Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder is widely loved for its silky, lightweight formula that blurs pores and sets makeup flawlessly. However, at $43, it’s definitely a luxury buy.
For just $9, the Milani Make It Last Setting Powder offers a similar finely-milled texture that keeps shine at bay and ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish. It works beautifully on all skin types and gives that soft-focus effect without making the skin look dry or cakey.
What are makeup dupes?
Makeup dupes (short for “duplicates”) are affordable products that closely resemble high-end or luxury makeup in terms of color, formula, or performance. They offer a budget-friendly way to achieve similar results without the hefty price tag.
Are dupes as good as high-end makeup?
While dupes may not always be identical to high-end products, many are incredibly close in quality and performance. The dupes listed in this blog have been carefully selected for their ability to deliver similar results at a fraction of the cost.
How do you find reliable dupes?
Finding reliable dupes involves researching product reviews, swatches, and comparisons. Many beauty enthusiasts and experts (like us!) test and compare products to identify the best affordable alternatives.
Will the dupes last as long as high-end makeup?
Longevity can vary depending on the product and formula, but many dupes are designed to be long-lasting. Tips like using a primer or setting spray can help extend the wear of any makeup, whether high-end or affordable.
Why should I try dupes instead of splurging on high-end makeup?
Dupes are a great way to experiment with trends, save money, and still achieve a high-quality look. They’re perfect for beauty enthusiasts on a budget or anyone who wants to stretch their makeup dollars further.