Bursting with tiny exfoliating micro-beads, this rose-colored cleanser is ideal for fighting body breakouts. "I use it after working out to dissolve accumulated sweat and dirt -- especially on my shoulders and back," says Senior Associate Editor Cinya Burton. Bonus: Despite being filled with the powerful acne-fighter salicylic acid, the wash has a fresh grapefruit scent and won't dry out your skin.
This delicious-scented combo returns hair to a soft, shiny state thanks to ingredients like ultra-hydrating coconut oil and keratin amino acids -- a protein that helps relax frizz. Executive Editor Meghan Rabbitt says, "This shampoo-conditioner duo makes my unruly, curly hair look like I just got a salon treatment."
This airy formula camouflages surface flaws without feeling cakey. The lightweight liquid is perfect for anyone looking for a base that provides more coverage than a tinted moisturizer but still allows skin to breath in the warmer months. Sarah Carrillo, Senior Editor, says, "It does exactly what a good foundation should: It covers up imperfections and stays put all day. Plus, it gives you a natural finish -- not too matte or dewy."
Whether you're contending with dry lips or a nasty paper cut, this classic multitasking petroleum jelly formula can be used as a head-to-toe skin saver. And, the mini tube is ideal for busy girls on the go. Associate Editor Sharon Yi loves it, saying, "This little jar provides immediate moisture for my chapped lips and leaves a clear gloss that highlights my natural lip color."
Celebrity makeup artists have long been obsessed with the ubiquitous pink and green tube that is "Great Lash," but we're all about the brand's new Falsies. The curled wand extends each lash upward and the formula doesn't clump. "I'm obsessed," says Beauty Editor Dawn Davis. "It's my favorite mascara of all time. It makes my lashes look at least twice as full and thick -- as if I'm wearing, you guessed it, falsies."
As beauty editors, a whole lot of fun stuff comes across our desks. From break-the-bank night creams to lip glosses you'll find at the Dollar Store -- if it's new to market, we see it and try it out first hand.
It's this exposure to the latest and greatest that prompts friends to ask what we like best -- and they always want to know whether the cheaper stuff really stacks up against the hoity-toity luxe brands. What's the best eyeshadow for less than $10? The best moisturizer that doesn't cost a fortune? The most effective, cheapie leave-in conditioner? And so on.
Of course, it's not only our friends who are looking for beauty bargains; we're all searching for ways to save. After all, in this economy, cheap is chic. And, while it can be fun to indulge in the occasional splurge, it is far more thrilling to find the best drugstore products that work just as well as their department store counterparts.
Happily some of our favorite products of all time line the aisles of your local drugstore. Those rows of wallet-friendly products contain some genuine beauty gems.
Getting antsy and anxious to know which picks top our list of 12 drugstore must-haves? Start clicking -- a world of beautiful (and effective) savings awaits.
