Low-end (drugstore) versions of high-end cosmetics...info wanted.?

I went through the same thing, spending a fortune on Estee Lauder and Clinique UNTIL I saw them test these products on a talk show. Experts said that the ingredients in the high-end cosmetics were in no way superior to those bought at your local CVS. For foundation, I LOVE Maybelline "Dream Matte" which is light, airy and provides SPF 15 protection. I can't remember the name of my mascara, but it's the brand in the ugly pink tube with the bright, green top... it works great and stays on all day. For skin care, I swear by Olay products (exfoliants, masques, under-eye cream, night creams, etc.). The best thing about shopping at the CVS is that I can experiment without spending a fortune!

Honestly if you are wanting a really good product for a great price, check out Mary Kay Cosmetics. We were number one selling in skin care and color cosmetics 12 of the past 13 years. Plus the pricing is a little above drugstore but beneath the high-end department stores.

Also I would suggest that you check out my site to see the pricing and then even consider becoming a consultant and get your product at 50% off. You can do as much or as little with it as you want. I'd love to send you some info about it, email me through my site.

consumer reviews! Look at makeupalley.com for reviews people put up of makeup and products-I always look for the cheapest, highest-rated drugstore products. Usually the most expensive ones don't work any better. Or else take a look at Paula Begouin's Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter without Me, she's a makeup artist who rates products based on how good they actually are, regardless of whether they're upscale.

In addition to what NY... said, CVS often puts cosmetic items on clearance--you can buy them for up to 90% off, if they have not been selling well at your particular CVS. It's a great way to try things out without spending much at all. Olay, Loreal, Max Factor, and other decent brands are just as good as Estee Lauder/Clinique--I know, I worked for Estee Lauder in NY, and even with my 50% employee discount, I prefered other brands.

I would say I'm 90% high end. Urban, Benefit, Cargo, MAC, The Blam, NARS, Stila, Prescriptives, Tarte, and Too Faced, Bare Escentuals. 10% low; I have a milani blush and some garden botanika eye shadow.

I like Loreal products and they are made by the same parent company that makes Lancome. I also use Olay products for skin care underneath with the exception of my make-up remover/ cleanser. For that I use Neutrogena foaming face wash. I am older and have to be very, very careful about what I use on my skin and those products work best for me and have for quite a few years.