By Kimberly Ayon

Many brand name makeup cosmetics are very expensive, although usually that extra amount you pay is returned to you through the promises of a long-lasting lip or a super pigmented eyeliner. But, the great debate still remains: is it really so different or better than the products you’d find at your local CVS? And if so, why do consumers fall into the trap of paying more for high-end dupes?

The first and, arguably most obvious reason for stark contrasts in prices comes down to aspects unassociated to the actual product. Concerns such as the brand name, fragrance, and better applicators all coax us into spending $40 for a product we can get a drugstore version we can get for $10. As a result of these “high end” brands ,drugstore products tend to cost less. For instance, brands like Maybelline, L’oreal, and Revlon are more cheaply produced and often tested on animals, thus driving the price lower. But nevertheless, they are cheaper and, if you find the right dupe, just as quality as high-end. From mascara to foundation, whatever floats your boat, we’ve got you covered for the best products from both ends of the spectrum.

Blush is a cosmetic that is used to redden the cheeks. If you are looking for an affordable blush, don’t hesitate to try a drugstore. You can always get it for a cheaper price. Blush has been one of the longest shelf lives of any other makeup. Also, all drugstore makeup is usually based off the same ingredients as high-end makeup; you don’t have to splurge significantly on high- priced cosmetics.

Mascara is a product for darkening and thickening the eyelashes. For mascara,  there are other products that have the similar formulas from brand to brand. It just depends on how much money you’re willing to invest on mascara. Also consider that mascara depends on both brush type and pigmentation. Drugstore and designer mascara do vary in that some give you flatter lashes and some offer no lengthening benefits.

Concealer is a color corrector used to mask dark circles, age spots, large pores, and other blemishes visible on the skin. Foundation is similar, but thicker in consistency,and is used to hide uneven pigmentation by blending the imperfection with color into the surrounding skin tone. Designer brands frequently have more pigment and comes along with a “healthier” serum. You can either get both drugstore or designer makeup. The high end concealer and foundation offers different type of additions too. For example drugstore foundations do not include sunscreen and light reflectors.

Eyeshadow is applied on the eyelids and under the eyebrows. For this cosmetic, you can either go for drugstore or high end makeup, depending on your budget. Eyeshadow and blush have the similar component, yet designer brands have the premium versions of those ingredients. Drugstore eyeshadow can sometimes feel chalky and have less pigmentation. Although, in the end,  you can use a combination of both and  get the same results. You get great coverage for everyday looks at drugstores, it just depends on how you creative you’re willing to get, in avoidance committing to a pricey palette.