Whether you’re embracing the Clean Girl aesthetic, channeling Tomato Girl vibes, or leaning into the sophistication of Old Money, the cosmetics industry is thriving like never before. In 2023 alone, the U.S. generated approximately $2.3 billion in revenue from facial cosmetics, reflecting a growing obsession with beauty that’s fueled by both online and brick-and-mortar shopping experiences. With cosmetic brands continually flooding the market with new releases, it can be challenging to discern which products truly deserve a place in your collection. While many items ride the wave of fleeting trends, some standouts are worth the investment. So before you embark on your next makeup shopping spree, here are some must-have makeup products that are worth every penny.
When it comes to building a makeup collection that balances quality and value, it’s essential to focus on versatile products that deliver exceptional performance. From primers that allow flawless coverage to lipsticks that offer long-lasting wear, investing in the right items can elevate your beauty routine and save you money in the long run. Below, we’ve curated a selection of standout makeup products that not only live up to the hype but also ensure you get the best bang for your buck.
Check out five makeup products that are actually worth your money…
#1. Clinique’s Black Honey
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Even before Y2K style made a triumphant return, Clinique’s Black Honey has been a beloved staple for cool girls since the 90s. This soft sheen balm, with its warm raisin tint, is often celebrated for its flattering effect on a wide range of skin tones and undertones. Since its resurgence in 2020, it has repeatedly gone viral, frequently selling out. In response to its popularity, Clinique expanded its Black Honey line across trusted makeup platforms. Now available on QVC, shoppers can snag a Black Honey duo in the coveted Almost Lipstick formulation.
This duo, featuring both a full-size and a mini, is perfect for keeping one for yourself and sharing the Black Honey phenomenon with a friend. With its sheer pigment that effortlessly blends with your natural lip color, this product ensures you achieve that coveted “my lips but better” look—perfect for any occasion.
#2. Rhode’s Peptide Lip Tint
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Whether you love her or not, Hailey Bieber’s beauty brand, Rhode, has made waves with some impressive products. From the popular Glazing Milk to the recently launched pocket blushes, fans are enamored with her skincare-driven offerings. Among Rhode’s collection, the Peptide Lip Tints stand out as the undeniable star.
Available in eight shades—four of which are limited edition—these tints nourish the lips while delivering a sheer, buildable wash of color. With options ranging from warm browns to vibrant corals and luscious berries, each tint offers a subtle plumping effect thanks to its high shine and peptide-rich formula. Adding to the buzz, Rhode’s clever marketing strategy of releasing matching phone cases has propelled the brand into the spotlight, both online and off. As of 2023, these efforts have brought Rhode close to selling one million Lip Tints—a remarkable feat, especially considering they’re not available on major retail sites like Sephora or Ulta.
#3. Benefit’s POREfessional Primer
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Considered one of Benefit’s bestsellers, the POREfessional is widely regarded as one of the top silicone-based primers on the market. Its translucent, non-comedogenic formula is suitable for all skin tones, ensuring a lightweight feel that won’t leave your skin feeling congested or heavy. Plus, it’s not tacky, making it an excellent choice for those with sensory sensitivities.
The real magic of this primer lies in its exceptional blurring effect, which minimizes the appearance of fine lines, pores, and blemishes for a smooth, flawless complexion. Available as a pair on QVC, this value set ensures you’ll have enough primer to last for months, as a little goes a long way. For those busy days, it’s versatile enough to wear on its own, providing an effortlessly airbrushed finish.
#4. Loreal’s Telescopic Lift Mascara
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If you were anywhere in the online beauty community last year, you likely heard about the buzz surrounding L’Oréal’s Telescopic Lift Mascara, which became the center of a notable influencer scandal. In a sponsored video, content creator Mikayla Nogueira was allegedly caught wearing false lashes while promoting the product. However, many beauty enthusiasts agree that the Telescopic Lift doesn’t need any gimmicks to showcase its impressive performance.
Since its launch, this mascara has garnered acclaim for its exceptional curling and lengthening abilities, solidifying its status as one of the most effective mascaras on the market. What truly sets it apart is its small, flexible wand, designed to evenly coat and separate each lash—ensuring no clumpy, spider-like effects. With this mascara, you can achieve beautifully defined lashes that look naturally stunning.
#5. Ardell’s Demi Wispies
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Available almost everywhere, including popular pharmacies like Walgreens, Ardell’s Demi Wispies has become a beloved staple for beauty enthusiasts. Their timeless design strikes the perfect balance: subtle enough for everyday wear yet dramatic enough to elevate any special occasion. Many have speculated that these are the very lashes Mikayla used in the infamous mascara video.
Featuring a graduated mixed length that gently flares out at the corners, Demi Wispies are incredibly easy to apply, making them an excellent choice for makeup novices and seasoned pros alike. For a seamless application, consider using an eyelash fan. This handy tool speeds up the drying process of lash glue, ensuring your falsies are securely in place in no time.
Conclusion
In a world overflowing with beauty products, knowing which ones are truly worth the investment can make all the difference in elevating your makeup routine. From timeless classics like Clinique’s Black Honey to innovative newcomers like Rhode’s Peptide Lip Tints, these standout products not only deliver impressive results but also enhance your beauty experience. As you navigate the ever-changing landscape of cosmetics, consider adding these must-haves to your collection for a flawless finish that won’t break the bank.
Featured image: @rhode/Instagram
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