The 25 Best Drugstore Makeup Products to Try in 2025
Discover 25 top-rated drugstore makeup picks tested and loved by beauty editors—for every budget and occasion.
Drugstore makeup has come a long way, consistently delivering high-performance products at wallet-friendly prices. Whether you’re a seasoned beauty enthusiast or just starting to build your makeup bag, the shelves of your local CVS, Walgreens, or Target are packed with hidden gems that rival even the most luxurious brands. After extensive testing and expert recommendations, Cosmopolitan’s beauty editors present the top 25 best drugstore makeup products for every need and skin type in 2025.
Why Trust Drugstore Makeup?
Before becoming beauty editors, many on the Cosmo team relied almost exclusively on drugstore makeup. The affordability, accessibility, and impressive innovation in these products—even compared to expensive department store picks—make them must-haves for all beauty lovers. Cosmo’s editors constantly test new and classic launches to curate the absolute best for you, cutting through crowded aisles to help you shop smarter.
Our Top Drugstore Makeup Picks
From primers and foundations to concealers, setting sprays, and color products, each selection below is chosen for its performance, reliability, and editor approval.
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer
Price: $11
- Pros: Tacky finish holds makeup all day, lightweight feel
- Cons: Not very moisturizing
“Power Grip Primer is one of my MVPs. Its sticky gel texture with hyaluronic acid locks any look in place from morning to night.” — Julee Wilson, Beauty Editor-at-Large
Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream
Price: Varies
- Pros: Evens skin tone, lightweight coverage
- Cons: Needs more shades for inclusivity
“I love how the semi-sheer formula blurs and perfects while feeling breathable and blendable. Perfect alone or layered.” — Samantha Jones, Commerce Editor
L’Oreal Infallible Skin Ink 2-in-1 Foundation Concealer
- Pros: Sets without powder, stays all day, inclusive shade range
- Cons: May be too mattifying for dry skin
“The oversized applicator gives targeted or all-over coverage—lightweight, never cakey, and lasts 12 hours.” — Lauren Balsamo, Beauty Director
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Treatment Concealer
- Pros: Award winner, creamy and blendable
- Cons: Applicator can be messy
“This concealer delivers seamless, buildable coverage for dark circles and blemishes. The sponge is unique and easy to use.” — LB
L’Oréal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist
- Pros: Majorly increases makeup longevity, continuous mist
- Cons: Can dry out skin
“Locks makeup in place for 12 hours with one even, hydrating mist. Replaces even my expensive favs.” — JH
Editor-Loved Classics and New Drugstore Hits
Our list includes both classic fan favorites and standout new releases, tested by the entire Cosmo beauty team. These picks cover every step of your makeup routine:
- Primers and BB creams for a flawless base
- Foundations and concealers for customizable coverage
- Setting sprays to keep your look locked all day
- Mascaras and brow gels for definition
- Blush, highlighter, and bronzer for color and glow
- Lipsticks, glosses, and stains for every mood
Product Highlights and User Tips
| Product Name | Best For | Editor Tip |
|---|---|---|
| e.l.f. Power Grip Primer | All-day makeup hold | Use after moisturizer, before foundation for best grip |
| Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream | Natural, everyday look | Apply with fingers for light coverage, or build with sponge |
| L’Oreal Skin Ink Foundation Concealer | Full coverage | Spot-apply or sweep across face; blend quickly for seamless skin |
| Maybelline Age Rewind Concealer | Dark circles, blemishes | Twist for product, tap to blend—build in thin layers for natural finish |
| L’Oréal Infallible Setting Spray | Long-lasting makeup | Hold bottle 8-10 inches from face, spray in an ‘X’ motion for even mist |
FAQs: Drugstore Makeup Shopping
Are drugstore makeup products really as good as expensive brands?
Yes! Many drugstore products use similar or identical ingredients and technology as high-end brands, and our editors regularly find formulas that perform just as well in tests and everyday use.
How do I pick the right shade when shopping at the drugstore?
What others are reading
Look for clear packaging with samples, compare undertones, and use shade finder apps or online guides to narrow down options. Many brands are now offering even wider, inclusive shade ranges.
Which drugstore foundation is best for oily skin?
L’Oreal Infallible Skin Ink 2-in-1 is highly recommended for its long-wearing, matte finish that controls oil without looking heavy.
Can I find cruelty-free or vegan products at the drugstore?
Absolutely. Brands like e.l.f. and NYX are cruelty-free and offer vegan formulas. Always check labels for certification.
What’s the difference between BB cream and foundation?
BB creams provide sheer, hydrating coverage and may offer skincare benefits, whereas foundations come in a wider range of finishes and coverage levels. For light, natural looks, BB creams are ideal.
Expert Tips for Flawless Drugstore Makeup Application
- Prime for Success: Prep with a primer suited to your skin: tacky formulas lock makeup, hydrating primers smooth dry skin.
- Layer Thinly: Build up coverage with several light layers to avoid cakey buildup.
- Set Strategically: Use setting spray and/or powder only where needed—T-zone or high-touch areas.
- Don’t Skip Brows: Drugstore brow gels and pencils offer excellent precision and hold at fraction of luxury prices.
- Mix and Match: Combine drugstore staples with higher-end finds if you want; editor routines blend both for best personal results.
Additional Drugstore Makeup Must-Haves
- Maybelline Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara — Big, bold lashes with no clumps
- Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes — Gentle, non-drying makeup removal for sensitive skin
- Ardell Duralash Individuals — Easy custom lashes for extra drama
- Avene Thermal Spring Water — Refreshes skin, helps set makeup with a cooling mist
- Maybelline Baby Lips Balm — Moisturizing, tinted lip care with SPF
- Revlon ColorBurst Balm — Range of glossy and matte lip colors at a steal
What Editors Love About Drugstore Makeup
Drugstore formulas are getting more innovative every year. From clean beauty advances to new packaging and shades, these picks are proof you don’t have to splurge for a complete and stunning look. Our testing covers texture, longevity, pigment payoff, ease of use, and price-per-wear.
- Accessibility: Find great makeup products everywhere—no need to wait for online deliveries
- Inclusive Options: Expanded shade ranges and formulas for all skin types and tones
- Multi-Taskers: BB creams, dual-ended concealers, and all-in-one palettes simplify routines
- Budget-Friendly: Frequent sales and low prices mean you can experiment without stress
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes a drugstore product editor-approved?
A: Editor approval means products have undergone multiple rounds of real-life testing for performance, quality, and versatility.
Q: Do these picks suit sensitive skin?
A: Yes, many products—like Burt’s Bees wipes and Avene Thermal Water—are gentle and safe for sensitive complexions.
Q: Can drugstore setting sprays really extend makeup wear?
A: Absolutely. Our editors found L’Oréal Paris Infallible Setting Spray Mist locks in looks for up to 12 hours, rivaling high-end formulas.
Q: How often do drugstore brands update their formulas?
A: Frequently. Leading brands release new and improved products several times a year based on customer and editor feedback.
Q: What’s the best affordable mascara for a bold look?
A: Maybelline Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara is a perennial favorite for big, defined lashes that don’t clump.
Your Drugstore Makeup Shopping Checklist
- Check for sales or coupons to save even more
- Read shade descriptions carefully before purchasing
- Test texture in-store if possible for foundation or concealer
- Try miniature sizes for travel or first-time use
- Follow editor recs for products with consistent performance and quality
Final Thoughts: Drugstore Beauty Wins in 2025
This year, drugstore makeup stands tall as a reliable, modern, and creative resource for all beauty lovers. Whether building your kit from scratch or upgrading a few must-haves, these 25 editor-tested products guarantee great skin days, dramatic eyes, and playful lips—without the price tag. Start your next beauty adventure in the drugstore, and discover new favorites for every look, skin type, and budget.
References
- https://brushbeauty.com/best-drugstore-makeup/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g66156939/best-drugstore-makeup/
- https://www.racked.com/2014/4/3/7608499/beauty-diary-carly-cardellino-cosmopolitan-beauty-editor
- https://www.blackradiancebeauty.com/blogs/press/black-radiance-featured-on-cosmopolitan-in-the-article-titled-13-best-drugstore-concealers-to-cover-your-acne-hyperpigmentation-dark-circles-and-more
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtRCeq_-DCI
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g65666880/suni-lee-favorite-drugstore-makeup/
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