Those of you who’ve ever had a cheap coffee from a convenience store know that when you buy something for a ridiculously low cost, you usually end up with exactly what you paid for.
But surprisingly, this isn’t always the case with beauty products. Turns out you can get some pretty decent loot for only $8 or less…
RELATED: How to build a basic beauty kit for $35
Mode 2 in 1 Foundation & Concealer
Cost: $3.00
Star rating: 4/5
“I wanted to try this after reading good reviews, and as it is so cheap didn’t have anything to lose. I love the finish to this when worn as a foundation, as it has a glowing, dewy look that is very natural looking. I just use a little powder on the T zone and it lasts all day.” – Vintage Chic
Designer Brands Kohl Eye Pencil
Cost: $5.99
Star rating: 4/5
“The eye pencil is highly pigmented and applies an intense colour in one simple stroke. It is super creamy and is also perfect to use on the eyelid, as it glides on so smoothly. However, it is not waterproof, so I would suggest keeping it in your purse for a touch-up throughout your day or evening. Definitely a great product for its value, exceeded my expectations.” – miss.ske
MUD Nail Polish
Cost: $3
Star rating: 5/5
“I absolutely love these nail polishes. After just a couple of coats you get a nice opaque smooth colour on your nails. I [apply] a top coat and don’t experience any chipping for a few days and even then a touch-up is all you need and it still looks great.” – Maddy_249
essence 3D Eyeshadow
Cost: $5.75
Star rating: 4/5
“This is definitely a must-have in any make-up kit, whether you’re a beginner, professional or anyone in between. Why? It’s VERY cheap, SUPER pigmented and there’s a bunch of cute shades to pick from. It lasts ages, doesn’t crease and looks absolutely divine.” – Rei_
e.l.f. cosmetics Essentials Shimmering Facial Whip
Cost: $3
Star rating: 4/5
“For the price this [is] a great highlighter. It’s easy to apply and difficult to mess up. It gives the cheeks a lovely sheen that looks very natural. The tube lasts a very long time as you don’t need very much.” – livewithlove
Swisspers Make-up Pads
Cost: $5.95 for 160 pack
Star rating: 4/5
“I’ve tried about all of the cotton pads on the market, but these are my favourite. They’re thick, soft and don’t absorb too much of what you’re pouring on – meaning that more goes on your face! I love these for toners, micellar waters and make-up removing lotions. They can also be used to remove nail polish.” – missAdorable
Dove Original Anti-Perspirant Aerosol
Cost: $5.25
Star rating: 4/5
“It has a subtle, clean smell and feels very nice on the skin once applied. I find that it will help prevent body odour all day long for me, even if I am out and about and being physically active. And it does not seem to leave any white marks on my clothing which is a huge bonus for me.” – Bellefleur
Blistex® Lip Conditioner SPF 15
Cost: $4.95
Star rating: 5/5
“I have this lip balm everywhere – in my car, on my desk, in my hand bag, beside my bed. It leaves my lips so soft, well moisturised and kissable. It glides on smoothly and a little goes a long way and it has a lovely light fragrance. Bonus SPF too!” – Suzie480
Vaseline Intensive Care Lotion – Cocoa Glow
Cost: $5.29 for 225mL
Star rating: 5/5
“[This is an] amazing moisturiser that I have continued to buy over and over again. It has a good smell, good texture and feel on the skin and not at all oily – it absorbs right into your skin leaving you feeling nice and moisturised.” – Sarah618
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cost: $7.60 for 125mL
Star rating: 4/5
“This cleanser ticks all the right boxes for me. It’s affordable, gentle and leaves skin soft and hydrated after use. Gentle enough for the whole family which is a huge plus and [because it’s] affordable, I’m happy to share this one!” – Mandy_1987
LUSH Amandopondo Bubble Bar
Cost: $7.95
Star rating: 5/5
“This is one of my favourite bubble bars from LUSH. The scent is so pretty and relaxing. I only get two baths from this but I like LOTS of bubbles! So you can use it three-four times if you are more conservative.” – mrscleaver
ulta3 Matte Lipstick
Cost: 4/5
Star rating: $3.95
“I was pleasantly surprised to find that it applies smoothly and feels quite creamy even though it looks matte. Don’t be fooled by the cheap price because they wear just as well and are as long lasting as the more expensive brands.” – KiwiGirl75
Palmolive Hand Sanitiser Fig & Coconut
Cost: $3.69
Star rating: 5/5
“This smells so much nicer than your typical hand sanitiser! It kills germs, doesn’t dry out your hands, and smells great. It has good packaging too with a lid that doesn’t open too easy, so the contents don’t spill throughout your handbag.” – Kate486
I don’t buy swispers anymore because of its price. I buy a standard supermarket brand or my face halo which works for me.