Budget-Friendly Starter Makeup Kit

I’m no newbie to makeup. I’ve been playing around with the stuff since I was 6 years old and I’d crack open my sisters’ Caboodles and get into the lipstick, blush and eyeshadow. Whatever colors I could find, the better. Now as the years have passed my own personal makeup collection has grown beyond what’s useful or necessary. I’ve been trying to slim down my own makeup collection. The 6 items I’ve listed below would make a perfect starter kit for someone just getting into makeup, or a streamlined collection for someone trying to pare down their makeup drawer (me!) and even a simple collection to keep as your travel/gym makeup bag (me too!). Here are the 6 (cheap) basics I recommend for a simple makeup kit.

1. Baby Lips Moisturizing Lip Balm – This is the only lip balm I’ve purchased and actually held on to closely enough to finish the container! That’s no easy feat. I’ve purchased Baby Lips in Clear and Grape Crush, a sheer rose/purple shade. The balm is sheer enough to wear every day, plus the formula is clinically proven to improve the condition of your lips.
2. Master Contour Kit – This is the kit I purchased to test out the waters of contouring. Contouring isn’t something I would consider doing every day; however, the kit makes it so simple to add some definition, color and highlight to your face that I’ve been using it quite often. The blush and highlighter alone make the kit worth it. But the entire kit makes contouring very approachable for anyone hoping to give it a try.
3. Brush Set – Even though many eyeshadow & powder sets come with their own brushes, it’s 1000% worth it to purchase your own set. This is where you’ll want to spend a little more money. However, with proper care, a quality brush set can last years. Just be sure to clean them regularly. I would recommend popular Target Brand Sonia Kasuk or the Sephora brand set of brushes.

1. Eyeshadow Kit of “Nudes” – For an everyday or starter kit of makeup, keep the shadows neutral. Grab a kit that includes several shades for more variety. I really love the CoverGirl Tru Naked Eyeshadow Palettes. The kit comes in “Nudes,” “Goldens,” and “Roses.” I actually purchased the Roses for myself, because I had recently tossed out an unused palette that contained a lot of golden/nude shades that weren’t flattering on my skin tone. Find what kit works best for you! As a redhead with fair skin and green eyes, purple shades typically work well as my eyeshadow. Since I don’t often rock a dark purple, I figured a collection of rose and soft purple shades would be a great every day look
2. Mascara – There are SO many mascaras on the market that it’s impossible to choose a favorite. However, I’ve used some expensive department store brands and have yet to find one that outdoes the less expensive options. The Clump Crusher is a great, basic option for mascara. It does not come on too heavy and gives my lashes just enough length and definition. It’s a great mascara for everyday wear.
3. BB Cream – For everyday wear, I’d skip a heavy foundation and instead opt for a BB/CC cream or tinted moisturizer. Even better if you can find one with SPF in the formula. I wanted to include a Rimmel London item in this round-up because I’ve purchased quite a few of their products and have liked them all, especially their lipsticks. Review different BB creams and find a formula that will compliment your skin. They have option for dry, combination, oily, acne-prone, etc. etc. Spend some time in the makeup aisle to find your perfect match.

What would you add to this list of basic essentials? Comment below to let me know!  I’ll be doing a round-up soon of my favorite beauty buys that are a bit pricier. So let me know of any makeup you’ve splurged on that’s totally worth the price. 

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