I surveyed over 15 celebrity makeup artists to find out which 11 drugstore products they believe surpass luxury items.

      (Image credit: Maybelline, Amazon; L’Oréal, Ulta; NYX, Target; ColourPop, Ulta)

      If you ask any makeup artist about their favorite products, you'll likely hear a blend of high-end and drugstore options. While iconic items such as Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation (including the reformulated version) and Dior’s celebrated 999 Rouge Dior Velvet red lipstick will always be essential, many artists heavily rely on their trusted drugstore finds. Their kits typically feature a mix of $145 foundations (shout-out to Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte) and $10 mascaras, demonstrating that both budget and luxury products can deliver professional results. After consulting over 15 expert makeup artists regarding whether drugstore options can rival high-end ones, most affirmed that they can—but noted that not all products are created equal. Celebrity makeup artist Neil Scibelli attributes the impressive performance of drugstore beauty products to their accessibility. “People want the freedom to experiment with new styles without making a significant financial commitment, and mass brands provide that opportunity for consumers and beauty enthusiasts,” he explains. In an economy where living costs continue to escalate, Scibelli understands that beauty may not be a top priority for most individuals, making affordable drugstore products particularly influential. Fortunately, there are several items that professionals say can compete with, or even substitute for, your pricier purchases. Continue reading for our comprehensive list of drugstore beauty products that perform like high-end options.

      11 Drugstore Beauty Products that Rival Luxury Formulas

      **NYX Professional Makeup Long-Lasting Slim Lip Pencil**

      According to the pros, lip liners are available at both drugstores and luxury retailers, but nothing surpasses the affordability of NYX's offerings. "The NYX lip liners are just as effective as their high-end counterparts," says celebrity makeup artist Kirin Bhatty, who works with stars like Chase Infiniti and Lilly Allen. "I swear by them!" adds celebrity makeup artist Mical Klip, who cites the brand's Slim Liner as a favorite. "[It] gets a lot of use in my kit," they tell Who What Wear. The formula is creamy and available in a wide range of shades, each providing impressive long wear and a comfortable feel.

      **L'Oréal Infallible 3-Second Setting Mist Spray**

      Setting sprays are a must-have in every makeup artist's kit, but most will agree that you don't have to spend over $30 to achieve long-lasting, high-end results. "Honestly, I prefer the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Setting Spray over the One/Size," one celebrity makeup artist shares anonymously, referencing the trending One/Size On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray. Scibelli concurs that drugstore options perform just as well as high-end products, even with expensive foundations. "Think of it like fashion: you might combine a designer handbag with some fast-fashion items," he explains.

      **MAYBELLINE Lash Sensational Washable Mascara**

      "I simply can't justify spending more than $15 on a mascara," confesses one celebrity MUA anonymously. Many others seem to agree, as experts Kelli Anne Sewell and Alexandra French have previously endorsed this lash-boosting mascara over pricier alternatives. The curved brush enhances application by capturing every lash—yes, even the tiny ones in the inner corners—delivering noticeable yet natural length with each swipe.

      **ColourPop Hydrapop Glossy Lip Stain**

      Bhatty loves these glossy lip stains for their long-lasting, eye-catching finish. The formula glides on with shiny, vibrant color that eventually settles into a watercolor-like wash—allowing for buildable intensity throughout the day or providing a hydrated, transfer-proof hue that endures for hours. "I use them constantly," she states. "They are high-performing products that feel luxurious."

      **KIKO Milano 3D Hydra Lipgloss**

      Lip gloss is another category dominated by formulas that excel at both drugstores and high-end stores. Klip recommends the 3D Hydra glosses from Kiko Milano, priced at just $14 and available in a plethora of bright, vivid shades with both sparkling and classic glossy finishes. Although we love our luxurious options from Dior, Chanel, and Armani Beauty, it's hard to overlook a solid drugstore lip gloss.

      **Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder**

      In the era of dewy skin and glass-like finishes, powder can often be overlooked. However, the pros confirm this product is a must-have for any makeup routine—whether for setting, baking, or as foundation—especially for long wear. This drugstore favorite is often recommended by makeup enthusiasts due to its versatile formula, which allows you to apply a light layer over liquid foundation for setting or use a sponge for optimal oil control and buildable coverage. Plus, it comes in 25 adaptable shades.

      **Makeup