How a Beauty Editor Would Spend $50 on Makeup at Amazon
May 18, 2021It’s almost too easy to fall into an Amazon shopping sinkhole — and beauty editors are not exempt. There are so many amazing beauty deals and buzzy new products, it was hard for us to round up all of our favorites, but we managed to do it with only $50 a piece. Keep reading to find out our go-tos, from plumping lip gloss to waterproof mascara.
Alanna, Assistant Managing Editor
True life: I’m addicted to Amazon shopping — and honestly, who isn’t? If I had $50 to pick up some beauty products via Prime, you know I’m restocking staples. First up, I’d add the NYX Professional Makeup Marshmellow Smoothing Primer ($17) to cart. This affordable smoothing formula has become my holy grail for smooth, crease-free foundation application. Next, I’d add the Maybelline New York Hydrating Lip Lifter Gloss With Hyaluronic Acid ($7) because it’s super hydrating, glossy and gives my lips just the right amount of plump. Finally, the Lime Crime Softwear Blush in Gigabyte BB ($22) is a must-have on my Amazon shopping list because it gives me a dewy, natural flush.
Caitlyn, Assistant Editor
Every beauty lover knows a flawless makeup look starts with prepped skin, and the Urban Decay All Nighter Longwear Face Primer ($36) helps me get my glow on before applying an ounce of makeup. A dime-sized drop of this primer ensures my foundation will stay in place for hours, regardless of how many times my mask goes on and off. Another automatic add to cart is the L’Oréal Paris Air Volume Mega Mascara ($9.19). It gives lashes a puffed up and fanned-out effect with its lightweight formula and cushiony bristle. After going viral on TikTok, this mascara is sold out every time I go to the store, so if it’s available on Amazon, you can bet I’m grabbing a bunch.
Sarah, Senior Editor
Once you find a foundation that comes in the right shade, gives you the right finish and works for your budget, you just can’t go back. The Dermablend Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation Makeup ($34) is that formula for me, so it’s always in my Amazon cart. I love that it’s full coverage yet feels lightweight, and that I can mix it into my moisturizer when I’m going for a more sheer, dewy look. To add to the total, I’d pick up a bottle or two of the Garnier Invisible Dry Shampoo ($12), another staple of mine. I have dark brown hair and this formula doesn’t leave any white residue behind. But perhaps the biggest selling point is the tropical scent that transports me to an exotic locale every time I use it.
Ariel, Associate Editor
For $50, I’m shopping for mostly staple products — and a fun little something extra, of course. That would be the L'Oréal True Match Lumi Glotion ($11.44). While body highlighter may not be a necessity, a coat of this on bare shoulders, collarbones and legs in the summer is gorgeous. The formula is pearly, not overly shimmery, and it adds the perfect warm-weather glow. I’m also stocking up on my favorite moisturizer, the ELISHACOY Premium Skin Refining Snail Cream ($24.99). For under $25, this lightweight snail mucus cream is the perfect layering step before I apply my oils at night. Lastly, I’m buying the L'Oréal Lash Paradise Mascara ($8.70). This mascara makes my lashes crazy long and dark — and even though most mascara formulas flake and smudge on me, this one never leaves me looking raccoon-eyed.Mary, Associate Editor
The Maybelline New York Sky High Waterproof Mascara ($8.98) became a staple in my mascara line up from the first use, but since it blew up on TikTok — and sold out twice at Ulta — it can be difficult to come across. So, when it’s available I make sure to stock up. My new shadow staple is the Haus Laboratories Four-Way Shadow Palette in Sunset ($24). Each quad offers versatile matte, metallic and shimmer finishes that are buildable and long-wearing — and the warm, copper hues in this colorway are perfect for creating a sultry summer look.