When you’re as addicted to beauty products as most of us are, it can easily turn out to be a bit of a costly habit.Which is why it’s so brilliant when you either come across or are recommended a beauty product that’s not only beyond brilliant, but it’s kind to your bank account, too. So, with your budgets and passion for beauty in mind, here are – as part of beautyheaven’s Top 200 Beauty Products Under $20 – the top 35 make-up products to get your hands on – as reviewed by beautyheaven members!
“In case you can’t tell, I love this liquid eyeliner. I’ve tried a fair few eyeliners in my time, and my god this is my Holy Grail! The liner is like a felt tip pen in design. It has the perfect thickness and length of a nib to control what you are doing. Some liners I have used have had too long of a nib and it’s hard to control, or too thick, but Maybelline has done it PERFECTLY with the Master Precise.It’s so easy to use, and it actually lasts quite a long time before drying out considering how often I use it. Couldn’t recommend it enough.” – bh member tarameoww
“Ulta3 lipsticks really surprised me, with the cheaper price point I was expecting a poor quality product, but what a pleasant surprise when I purchased one of their lipsticks on a whim.I wanted to try a deep berry colour for winter but I didn’t want to outlay big bucks just in case I didn’t wear it. But for less than $3 and less than a cup of coffee, I had nothing to lose. I ended up purchasing Sweet Currant, a beautiful rich berry shade. The lipstick is quite pigmented and smooth to apply. I found the lipstick didn’t bleed and was very moisturising and comfortable to wear. I wouldn’t say it had great longevity, but I would always prefer a hydrating formula rather than one that lasted all day but makes my lips dry and uncomfortable.The black plastic casing looks sleek and much more expensive than the price I paid.Overall, I think Ulta3 lipsticks are worth much more than $2.95 but hey, I’m happy to pay that price. For $10 your can pick up 3 lipsticks, which is fantastic value. I like the fact that I can try out new fashion colours and trends and not feel guilty if I only get a few uses out of it.I highly recommend Ulta3 lipsticks, great quality for a cheap as chips price!” – bh member Claire88
“This is a great everyday lip product!!! It’s really moisturising and the colours are beautiful and look even better on the lips. The colour is fairly sheer, but is just enough to make me look put-together. I’m not crazy about the taste, but it’s not enough for me to take a star off!Really recommend and I think I’m going to have to go out and buy a few more!” – bh member xgingapowerx
“These false lashes are easy to apply and you can trim them to help them match your lashes if needed. They give a stand out lash look that really makes my eyes stand out while still looking natural. They deliver a much more voluminous lash look than my natural lashes. These would be perfect to wear when dressing up for a night out!” – bh member Chickybabe1
“The formula for this is like a powdery cream. It’s a bit weird but it’s incredibly easy to blend. It leaves the skin feeling very, very soft and matte looking. It blurs imperfections and makes my pores look a bit smaller.” – bh member jazlovestoskate
“I own quite a few shades of the Jumbo Pencil and I love the formula. It glides easily on the eyelids and makes any eyeshadow you apply POP! Although the wear is quite long, I’ve found that pairing it with an eye primer made the shadow last longer and eliminated creasing for up to 7-8hrs.” – bh member Lankan Princess
“It is no wonder why these lipglosses are so popular – they come in a range of beautiful colours which are highly pigmented.I find that these are beautifully shiny and have pretty good lasting power, which also tints the lips (added bonus I think!). I would recommend using a lip liner to keep the colour from bleeding.I can find them a bit sticky at times but it is not too uncomfortable for me. I would prefer if they were a bit more hydrating – don’t get me wrong, they are not bad just I would prefer a bit more moisture.Overall, I love how pigmented and vibrant these are and I would highly recommend them as a result especially if you don’t mind a little bit of stickiness.” – bh member Ms Billi
“This brush is not only amazing to use for foundation and blush as suggested, but is literally amazing for everything and anything you can think of! I use it mainly to apply concentrated amounts of bronzer, which can help with contouring, it’s also ideal to use with setting powder for direct application and it’s amazing to go over your face once all your make-up is finished simply to smooth out any lines that may have formed from smiling! It is my go-to, I couldn’t do my make up without it!” – bh member BrendaHerc*Update from bh: Oops! It seems like the price of this one has increased to $22.99 – not under $20, but still worth it!
“From the first use, I have been in love with it. The brush is super-easy to use and coats all lashes at once. You can squeeze the tube for a thicker coating, otherwise the regular amount is plenty. I use it every day and it immediately makes my eyes pop. It’s going to be a bit annoying buying a replacement when it runs out (it’s showing no signs of giving up) but I will definitely be purchasing again and again.” – bh member MelissaFay89
“I absolutely love the essence Kajal Pencil in 22 Taupe Me. It’s a gorgeous colour for blue eyes and very subtle. I steer away from black liner because I feel it looks too harsh on me for an everyday look, but this colour is perfect. It applies easily and smoothly and I think it’s quite creamy. It’s very affordable from Priceline and Target. I always have a backup of this because it’s so good. It’s fairly easy to smudge and is long lasting. Always receive compliments when I’m wearing it.” – bh member Tiffanyb
“I love love love this product for my brows!!! I discovered this product a few months ago as I was looking for a cheaper alternative to a similar Benefit product. I have this in the darkest shade as my hair colour and brows are a dark brown. The shade is perfect and never looks too overdone. I already have full and thick brows but this helps fill in sparse areas and keeps my brow hairs tamed all day! This product is long wearing and will not budge until it’s removed at the end of the day. I use this on its own and also layer it over a brow powder when I want a more dramatic and defined look.” – bh member Karla586
“I bought this about two-three weeks ago because I’ve been really into the glowing face look and my highlighters weren’t doing it so much for me, so I wanted to try something different. I now am in looove. I love that I can mix it with any foundation and it just works so well and blends completely. I don’t feel like my face is all shimmery or anything dramatic – it’s just the perfect amount to let it beautify. At an excellent price plus such a generous amount of product you really can’t be too disappointed with it. It could of course have some more things about it that could make it a bit better but overall it does what it says so can’t go too wrong!” – bh member jesswhid
“I didn’t think this was going to be such a great mascara but I thought I would give it a go anyway since I hadn’t really experimented with Natio Mascaras before. When I first tried it on, I was instantly surprised. The brush did a great job of separating and coating each individual lash without any clumps at all. It gave my lashes the appearance that they were longer and gave them a great volume boost. They looked thick and it looked like I had more lashes than I really did. It didn’t smudge throughout the day, and even into the night it stayed put. It is waterproof so water didn’t affect it, however with make-up remover it is still easily removed.” – bh member aleksandra
“I absolutely LOVE this stuff. I have a medium skin tone and this bronzer still shows up on me. It doesn’t make me look ‘dirty’, instead it gives me a nice bronzed glow. The best thing about this is that I will NEVER hit pan. For $19.95, it will last you a lifetime, so I suggest you purchase this asap!” – bh member Michelle445
“I am obsessed with this product and onto my third tube of it. I use it every day and it makes my skin look amazing.I love that it is moisturising and has a SPF. The colours are quite versatile, yellow based and the coverage is amazing! If you just want a little bit of coverage, this will do it. But if you want a bit more, just layer it up / pat it on the areas you want more coverage.The smell took me a while to get used to, but it leaves a really nice texture and glow to the skin. It also lasts all day. I totally recommend!” – bh member minn880*Update from bh: Oops! It seems like the price of this one has increased to $22.95 – just over the $20 mark, but we think it’s worth the few extra dollars.
“I’ve been on the hunt for a while for a new blush that both complemented my skin and was well pigmented. I’ve stopped looking, as this blush is perfect! The shade I have is ‘Beauty Addict’ and it works so well. I agree with the other beauties, though, that a little goes a long way and it’s easy to over-indulge. Highly recommended!” – bh member nomazoca
“These eyeshadows are incredible. I am not usually a fan of single eyeshadows and generally go for a palette. But I heard such good things that I decided to give them a go. I was not let down at all! They are buttery soft, spread and blend really well and the colour pay off is unmatched. The colours in this range are beautiful; I have a beige, chocolate brown and a coral/copper colour. I just wish that there were more colours. So blown away by the pigment. They are quite pricey for a small amount but will last a long time. Love them, can’t get enough.” – bh member Millecat
“It applies very smoothly, stays all day if you leave it alone, or if you want, it is very easy to smudge out for a more smoky eye look. It’s my go-to brown eyeliner and I’ll definitely repurchase and will probably check out the black as well when I use up my hoards of black eyeliners.” – bh member Kiwi@heart
“I was looking for a simple, inexpensive lip product that would moisturise and protect my lips from sun exposure. I purchased Pink Lolita for $3.95 and would recommend it again and again. At that price you could buy a couple – one for your purse, one for home. The sheer, moisturising coat of soft pink balm would be flattering for most skin tones but there are a lot of soft or trend colours in this line. There is a yummy, slightly fruity taste that makes this product a perfect “grown up” version of a Bonnie Bell Lipsmacker. Very fun, very affordable.” – bh member American Beauty
“Having tried all the silicone primers that everyone loves and raves about, I have found that they are not for me at all. In my search for a water-based primer, I came across this one and it is everything I have every wanted and more! It is a liquid-gel that you spread thinly across your face and it dries in about 30 seconds. Then, you apply your foundation and concealer, and set it with powder. This combination stops my foundation from moving all day. It also moisturises my skin and stops my dry flakes from being accentuated by my foundation. Love this primer!” – bh member Snailor
“For the price of a coffee, this blush is certainly worth it, and lasts a lot longer!I only have one of these, and I would love to add a bunch more to the collection! I have one in a peachy shade, which adds a subtle pop of colour to the apples of my cheeks. Over my BB cream and primer, this seems to hold quite well.What I really like about this is that it doesn’t have a lot of unnecessary glitter and shimmer in it, which makes this a winner in my books.” – bh member Temporary Princess
“Tinting your lower lashes is an absolute beauty game-changer. I guarantee your lower lashes are longer than you realise! The best way I’ve found to unlock their true awesome potential is to dye them. This kit is of great quality, seriously simple to use. The instructions are detailed and helpful. It comes with a plastic tray so it’s easy to avoid making a mess. These make my lashes look fabulous for 4-5 weeks.” – bh member p.rosalie
“Rimmel have some of the best lipsticks in the lower price range in my opinion. The range produced through the Kate Moss line is no exception. I don’t really wear red lipstick a whole lot, just on special occasions, which is why I can’t ever really justify a splurge on them, but because these are pretty affordable, I’ve allowed myself to buy two or three shades. The application is easy and there isn’t any feathering. The matte black casing is nice in my handbag. Highly recommended.” – bh member makeup newbie
“With just one application, you have a beautiful set of long black lashes. This product is now the only mascara I use as it is so phenomenally effective. In my opinion a Holy Grail item that every girl should have at her disposal.” – bh member EMaddden
“I find that this is the perfect addition to any make-up look to add a beautiful glow to your look. It gives off a pearl/ shimmery glow, yet still makes your make-up look natural and not too over-the-top. I use it on top of my cheekbones, or you can also mix it in with your foundation for an overall glow.” – bh member Ally_xo
“I heard it was a dupe for the UD Naked, and as it was harder to get those palettes back then, this did a great job standing in for the UD. I own about 5 of these palettes, this one in particular is really versatile. There are 2 matte shades out of the 12 shadows that are in the palette, the rest have varied amounts of shimmer / sheen to them. The pigment is quite good on all shades. There are a couple of cool shades but it is predominantly a warmer toned palette. You can get a plethora of looks out of this. It is a great palette to travel with as you have everything you need. I like how the top of the case is clear allowing you to see the shades, also the whole case itself is nice and slim lined and doesn’t take up much space. The packaging is not as luxe as some of Chi Chi’s other products but it holds its own. A great palette if you’re on a budget!” – bh member kaikaii*Update from bh: Oops! It seems like the price of this one has increased to $22.95 – a few dollars over $20, but it’s still works out to $1.90 a shade!
“Swisspers cotton pads live up to the brand’s image of great quality.These are the right size and thickness and don’t fall apart unlike cotton balls. I cannot live without them as I use them to remove make-up and nail polish and also for spot cleaning spills on my dresser! I always pack some while travelling, too, because I’m just afraid to be without them. They are awesome.” – bh member Munaza
“My sister brought me this for my birthday a few years ago and I’ve used it ever since. Typically, when I’m out or working I tend to use a normal foundation, but if I’m around the house or having a day to run errands out and about and don’t feel like any heavy make-up on my face, then this is fantastic. This is also great when I go away on holidays – it’s light and perfect for those hot island escapes.What I love about the product is that you only need a small amount to give you this natural look with really good coverage. I’ve tried others in the past that still showed any blemishes I had on my skin, whereas this one covers them but still to the point your face looks and feels natural. This is and always will be a regular product of mine.” – bh member Aleesa
“I immediately fell in love with how easy it is to use! Making a winged liner has never been so easy. I love this so much! I tried the black one and I want to try the brown also. I just want to buy like 100 more of these in case they get discontinued!” – bh member Amelda
“I love a good lipstick, and this is one of my absolute favourites. Amazing value for money with a great range of colours. I have a number of different shades with my favourites being ‘Flamenco’ and ‘Make a Wish’. They are so bright and make any look pop! The best part is that this lipstick feels super moisturising and can last several hours – I usually apply in my car on the way to work and don’t have to retouch until lunch!” – bh member Ms generic face
“I love this mascara. It darkens, thickens, lengthens and curls lashes beautifully! Lashes aren’t just defined, they’re amazing!The large, soft brush is an incredible design. The mascara goes onto the lashes smoothly and easily and provides lots and lots of stunning lashes.Application took me a bit of practice before getting it right, but as soon as I’d found my own technique I was very happy with the results.This is one of the best mascaras out there and it’s a steal at about $18, or less if you wait until it’s on special at supermarkets or pharmacies.” – bh member Heidi Purrs
“This is one of my faves. I have pale, freckled and normal-dry skin and it gives me perfect coverage. The colour blends perfectly with my skin tone, and it’s a great daytime foundation if you want moderate coverage. It didn’t break me out or irritate my skin like so many others do. This is a highly used item in my make-up bag, can’t do any better for the price.” – bh member duality
“This little compact brow kit is a must-have either in your make-up kit or on-the-go.It comes with a gel and powder, and I use the gel to shape around my brows then fill in with the powder and it takes as little as one minute.” – bh member Becca_jade27
“These eyeshadow pots are incredible, they have nice pigment and hold just the right amount of shine. I use the ‘Bad to the Bronze’ for my daily look. Although the packaging is small, a little goes a long way. The product is creamy and easy to blend, it doesn’t transfer or fade and stays put as it claims.” – bh member Mae833
“I have this in the shade ‘Pinched’ and was worried that it may be too bright or intense but this is a lovely blush. The quality is that of a high-end brand but for a great price and they come in decent sized packaging. The key with these is to use a light hand to avoid overdoing it. Definitely a great product to own and I will be trying more shades.” – bh member jesssmacccHave you tried any of these products? What are your favourite make-up products under $20?Click here to check out other top beauty products for under $20!*Star rating is correct as of 14/10/2015.
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Such a great article!! Can’t wait to try my Ulta3 moisturising lippy from the RR