The real-life make-up edit: Save vs Splurge
This week I had a make-up lesson (because let’s be honest, my contour game needed help), and it turned into a full-on education. As someone who’s big on getting value for money, I wanted to share exactly what the make-up artist used, and whether it’s worth spending on - or, if a budget-friendly dupe does the job just fine.
So here it is: my make-up edit, broken down by area - face, base, lips, and eyes - with everything clearly labelled as a SAVE or a SPLURGE so you know where to spend and where to skip.
Face (prep + glow)
Weleda Skin Food – 💸 SAVE
Thick, nourishing and dreamy for dry skin. This gives you that glowy-from-within look everyone’s after. Affordable and a total cult fave.
Elf Thirst Burst Drops – 💸 SAVE
Great for hydration before make-up. Light and budget-friendly.
Maybelline Grippy Primer – 💸 SAVE
This one’s trending right now and for good reason. It gives your foundation that stick-to-the-skin grip without a premium price tag.
L’Oreal Lumi Glotion – 💸 SAVE
For a dewy, healthy glow under foundation or worn on its own. Adds radiance without the spend.
Base (foundation, bronzer, concealer, powder)
Maybelline Super Stay Foundation – 💸 SAVE
Full coverage, lightweight feel, long-lasting. A brilliant alternative to Estée Lauder Double Wear if you’re not up for that £40+ price tag.
No7 Cream Bronzer (Pro Artist Range) – 💸 SAVE
A fab dupe for the Charlotte Tilbury cream bronzer. From No7’s pro range so still feels luxe. Bonus tip: Get £10 off at no7beauty.co.uk with referral code BETH-RV1 (min spend £20). Just create an account and pop the code in.
Charlotte Tilbury Powder Bronzer – ✨ SPLURGE
She said this was one of the few powders worth the money. Rich tone, lasts forever, beautiful finish.
Elf Concealer – 💸 SAVE
No need to splurge here. Go 1-2 shades lighter than your foundation for that brightened look.
Kosas Concealer – ✨ SPLURGE
A great choice if you struggle with blue or purple tones under the eyes. It neutralises and brightens.
Airspun Loose Face Powder – 💸 SAVE
Tried and tested by so many pros. She’s tried loads and always comes back to this one. It's a cult fave on Amazon and lasts forever.
Lips
Kylie Lip Kit (Velvet) – ✨ SPLURGE
The only area she recommended splurging on. Go for velvet instead of matte for a softer, comfier finish. The crayon + liquid combo is super long-lasting and perfect for everyday glam.
Eyes (brows, mascara, shadow)
Revolution Eyebrow Pencil – 💸 SAVE
Double-ended with a crayon and spoolie. Easy to use and under a fiver - job done!
Ellie Brow Texture Gel – ✨ SPLURGE
Gives that fluffy, laminated brow look without the faff. She swears by this one for texture and hold.
Maybelline Sensational Waterproof Mascara – 💸 SAVE
She was very clear: don’t waste your money on expensive mascara. This one lifts, lengthens and lasts all on a budget.
Fyne Art Beauty Eyeshadow Palette – ✨ SPLURGE
This one had seriously good pigment. Smooth, blendable, and gives that pro-finish. Worth it if you love your eye looks.
My thoughts
If I were rebuilding my make-up bag from scratch? I’d spend smart - save on the base, splurge on the bits that give that final oomph. You really don’t need a £300 haul to look and feel great.
Budgeting isn’t about missing out - it’s about knowing what’s worth it.
If this was helpful, let me know! I’m thinking of doing a five-minute mum routine using these exact products next.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog are affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
You might also like
