Brows

Maybelline Super Lock Brow Glue Gel – Medium Brown

Brows are hard to simplify because usually you need:

1. A pencil to fill

2. A gel to set

But this product basically solves that. It gives color and hold in one step.

It’s perfect if:

• You don’t want a complicated brow routine

• You’re in a rush

• You’re a beginner and don’t want to overdraw

It keeps the brows in place and still looks natural.

Link: https://amzn.to/4qBvJHg

Foundation (Everyday Base)

L'Oréal Paris True Match Nude Plumping Tinted Serum

Okay — technically not a foundation, but I love this for everyday wear.

It feels:

• Like second skin

• Lightweight

• Fresh and natural

It gives coverage without feeling heavy or cakey. If you don’t like full-coverage foundation, this is such a good starting point.

I genuinely keep repurchasing this — it just works.

Link: https://amzn.to/4afFnue

Concealer

L’Oréal Paris True Match Radiant Serum Concealer

I LOVE this concealer.

The texture? Smooth.
The applicator? Easy.
The blend? Effortless.

It’s especially beautiful under the eyes. It brightens without looking dry or creasy — which is key for beginners.

Link: https://amzn.to/4rgm0XW

Bronzer

L’Oréal Infallible 24H Soft Matte Bronzer

This is such a safe bronzer — especially if you’re new to contouring or bronzing.

It’s:

• Soft matte

• Easy to blend

• Forgiving if you apply too much

You don’t need expert skills to make this look good. That’s why I recommend it.

Link: https://amzn.to/3ObeyyE

Setting Powder

Maybelline Fit Me Loose Setting Powder – Light

You can instantly see the difference after applying this.

It:

• Smooths the skin

• Sets makeup beautifully

• Doesn’t feel heavy

It’s one of those products that makes your makeup look more “finished.”

Link: https://amzn.to/407by96

Blush

This one was hard to choose — so I didn't.

Maybelline Fit Me Powder Blush

Great colors, long-lasting, seriously a solid product.

Fit Me by Maybelline is always a good choice.

Link: https://amzn.to/4ao6ZNT

Milani Baked Blush

The color payoff is fantastic, and it actually stays put. It gives that healthy glow without disappearing after an hour.

Such a solid drugstore blush.

Link: https://amzn.to/4rfdFnr

Eyeliner

e.l.f. Expert Liquid Liner

I have a love-hate relationship with eyeliner — it’s not always easy.

But this one makes it easier.

The thin liquid tip gives control, and if you mess up, it’s easy to correct. That’s important, especially if you’re still practicing your wing.

Link: https://amzn.to/4tyzkZd

Eyeshadow

NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow Palette

A basic, reliable palette that does its job.

It has:

• Neutral shades

• Everyday colors

• Everything you actually need

Perfect if you don’t want something overwhelming.

Link: https://amzn.to/4ky20NG

Mascara

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Such a good mascara.

It gives:

• Length

• Volume

• Lift

It makes lashes look dramatic without feeling heavy. One of my absolute drugstore staples.

Link: https://amzn.to/3ODKFXL

Highlighter

NYX Jumbo Multi-Use Face Highlighter – Vanilla

I especially love this for the inner corners of the eyes.

It adds brightness instantly and is super easy to apply. Great if you’re not into intense highlight but still want that glow.

Link: https://amzn.to/4tu66Lb

Lip Liner

Okay… I cannot pick just one.

NYX Professional Makeup Lip Liners
Great colors, smooth formula, perfect everyday liners.

Link: https://amzn.to/4rboQNJ

OR

Maybelline Lifter Liner Lip Pencil – “On It”
If I want something that really STAYS — this one does not move.

Both are amazing, depending on the look you’re going for.

Link: https://amzn.to/4bRHvcM

Lipstick

Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Lipstick Mover

Amazing Lipstick. Great colors, stays in place, does not feel like it dries the lips.

And great packaging.

Link: https://amzn.to/4kyMocP

Setting Spray

Milani Make It Last Setting Spray

A classic.

It melts everything together and helps makeup last longer without making your skin feel tight.

Such a strong drugstore finisher.

Link: https://amzn.to/4bRK92c

A great choice if they don't ship it to your location is the elf Dewy Coconut Setting Spray

Link: https://amzn.to/4bRKEJC

Final Thoughts

You don’t need luxury makeup to look good.

These products are:

• Affordable

• Beginner-friendly

• Reliable

• Easy to work with

If someone asked me to build a full drugstore kit from scratch — this would be it.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — at no extra cost to you.