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Makeup MUST haves ft. Real Results ✨
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items As a college student, I know finding good, affordable products is tough, so here’s my tried-and-true list just for you! Tested by me, with some fave affordable luxury picks too (hi Fenty & Rare Beauty!). 💕
Map
Sections
5
Setting Sprays & Powders! Lock it in 🔒✨
Highlighter! Glow all day ✨
Foundation
Conceal, don't reveal!
Contour Snatched and sculpted
Setting Sprays & Powders! Lock it in 🔒✨
Slept in it. Woke up with the makeup STILL on. These setting sprays and powders lock it down. No smudge, no budge, all day
This keeps my makeup in place all day long. I wore it in over 100-degree heat and nothing moved! It’s a must-have for every season & occasion!
On 'Til Dawn Setting Spray | ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starrr
The best budget-friendly setting powder I’ve found! It keeps my concealer locked in and instantly mattifies any look. KimChi always runs sales, so keep an eye out! 💗
PUFF PUFF PASS SET & BAKE POWDER - 03 Translucent
Flawless finish for less? Say no more! This is seriously the BEST One/Size dupe ever. My makeup doesn’t move at all, and it’s a total lifesaver when I’m on a budget and can’t restock my One/Size.
Infallible 3-Second Micro Fine Setting Mist | L'Oréal Paris
The powder that got me through freshman year with no creasing, no budging. One compact. Zero touch-ups.
Finishing Powder
Moving into college, I knew I couldn’t splurge on a $50 setting powder. But my local drugstore came through. This setting powder kept me locked in all orientation week. Through 90+ degree heat, sweat, stress, and sleepless nights. Proof? Absolutely. ...
Photo Focus Loose Setting Powder
The BEST beginner-friendly setting spray that I still use it to this day. It held me down from humid Florida heat to dry New York summers. Super gentle on the skin, hydrating, and gives that flawless, melted-in finish. Your makeup? Locked in, lived i...
Make It Last Original - Natural Finish Setting Spray
If you need a mini before buying the full thing, I got you. This one is $18 and free shipping with prime <3
Mini On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Spray
Highlighter! Glow all day ✨
The PERFECT Fenty highlighter alternative if you’re trying to save (like I did while I saved up for the real thing!). The shade Opal is such a good dupe a super close match and so pretty! ✨
Facestudio® Master Holographic® Prismatic Highlighter
The most gorgeous and effortless highlighter I’ve ever found! Every time I wear it I get compliments on how long it lasts and how stunning the glow is. If you want that head-turning, all-day shine this is it!
Diamond Bomb All-Over Highlighter
This could NOT be a highlighter list without the affordable and BEGINNER friendly NYX pencil could it? Loved how easy it is to apply and how sparkly it is!
Highlighter Makeup & Illuminators | NYX Professional Makeup
Foundation
Affordable foundations that actually deliver. These picks are student-budget approved
Every beginner’s favorite foundation for a reason! This one’s gotten me through parties, conferences, pitch events—you name it. Super affordable with amazing coverage. You can wear it solo (like I am in this photo) or go all out. I’m wearing shade 22...
Fit Me® Matte + Poreless Foundation Makeup
Gotta admit I was a matte girl when I first started college (still kinda am 😅) but when it comes to foundation this one is hands down my holy grail. It’s truly tried and true—and the shade range? Immaculate. It’s the only one I’ve found that matches...
Halo Glow Liquid Filter Complexion Booster
Conceal, don't reveal!
Affordable, dependable, and smooth these concealers are perfect for hiding stress (or sleepless nights). Whether you’re heading to class or the club they’ll keep you looking refreshed.
Okay, I’ll admit it… this one’s a newer addition to my makeup bag buut I’m already obsessed. It blends great and holds up in both the NYC heat waves and Florida humidity. I’m wearing it in this photo zero complaints. Definitely a new staple in my rou...
Slip Tint Radiant All-Over Concealer
Okay wait this is my girl. I can definitely vouch for Ms. L’Oréal. Do you see her in action in these two pics? Full coverage. Flawless finish. Long-lasting. She’s never let me down. Period. The REAL definition of a girl's girl.
Infallible Full Wear Concealer 24H Coverage
Contour Snatched and sculpted
Snatched? Yes. Subtle? Only if I want it to be.
Okay my absolute favorite contour right now. I know she’s new to the market but she blends so seamlessly with everything else I’ve shared and keeps me looking SNATCHED. 10/10 no notes. Do you see those cheekbones, baby? Yeah… Selena really did her th...
Soft Pinch Liquid Contour | Buildable and Streak-Free
When Ms. Rare Beauty wasn’t around this ELF contour held it downnn. She understood the assignment and then some. Blended like butter, snatched me up, and never missed. Loved every second of her.
Halo Glow Liquid Contour Wand