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Think "Store Brand" Means "Generic Garbage"? Think Again.

Prepare to second-guess your entire makeup bag. These underdogs put pricey prestige brands to shame
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Ulta Lipstick, $8
"The Ulta lipstick in Red Carpet Red is vibrant and richly pigmented -- a perfect fire-engine red hue. The lipstick comes in dozens more shades, from delicate blush tones to deep raspberries, all of which I'm eager to try. The product has a nice, creamy application, and doesn't flake or dry out lips. At just $8 a pop, they're a steal. I also love how tiny and compact the lipstick tube is -- fits nicely inside a small clutch or the front pocket of your jeans." -- Amanda Montell, Editorial Intern

"This hand cream is fantastic! I actually get excited to use this in public (except when everyone gets a whiff of the invigorating scent and asks to snag a few squirts of it). It has shea and macadamia nut butter so it really moisturizes my hands and keeps them soft for hours at a time. I'll be carrying this in my purse at all times." -- Tiffanie Petett, Assistant Editor

"When it comes to volumizing and defining mascaras, I find most really only do one or the other well. This mascara actually does both. The wand is packed with bristles, but they never get clumpy and really work to coat each individual lash while separating them. I love that you can get very pretty volume with just a few swipes, or you can continue to build to get a more dramatic look that doesn't end up spidery. I have plenty of prestige brand mascaras in my makeup bag, but this one has moved up to the top." -- Erica Smith, Assistant Editor

"This kit is handy! Because I change polish colors often, I do my own nails. This set is amazing because it comes with six different tools -- nail/cuticle pusher, full-size tweezers, nail clippers, nail file, scissors, and toe nail clippers, (all nicely sharpened)-- and the studded case keeps everything organized. To be honest, the case is so cute I'd use it on a night out to carry my cards and cash. It's the perfect addition to my toiletry bag while traveling and I'll also use it to keep my nail accessory drawer tidy." -- Tiffanie Petett, Assistant Editor

"This product is quick, easy-to-use, and does a fantastic job of hiding any flaws on my face. I spray it on in a circular motion, then touch up any bare spots by spraying it on a brush and applying. I will definitely be buying more of this when my current canister runs dry." -- Megan Niquette, Video Production Intern

BY ERICA SMITH | SEP 19, 2013 | SHARES
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