'I tried six lipsticks under £20 to prove make-up doesn't have to cost a fortune'
It's all too easy to fall into the trap of believing the more expensive something is, the better it must be. I've been there before, justifying spending almost £50 for lipsticks just because it was 'trending' or my favourite celebrity loved it.
The truth is, nobody knows how much your lipstick costs when you're out and about with your makeup looking good – and wouldn't you rather save your money for more fun things like dinner with pals and trips rather than overspending on make-up? To celebrate National Lipstick Day (July 29), I tried some budget lip products and picked out some of my favourites. They're all under £20, so they won't break the bank but will still leave you looking great.
1. Refy Lip Sculpt, shade 'Suede' –£18
Anyone who knows me will know that a brown-nude lipstick is my go-to. Mac Whirl (£25) is my favourite for a low-maintenance swipe of colour, so I wanted to try something that would give a similar dark nude with rosy-brown undertone vibes that would be equally low maintenance.
Enter Refy Lip Sculpt. I'm blown away by how a humble lip liner can have such great staying power. I went to a wedding wearing this and didn't have to reapply once, which has earned this product a permanent spot in my makeup bag.
2. UKLips Plumping Lip Gloss, shade 'Rose' –£16
If you're a fan of the 'your lips but better' look, this plumping lip gloss will work wonders for you and help you to achieve the perfect pout. It's rare that I'll opt for just a plumping gloss without at least a liner underneath, but this is the perfect shade for long walks and grabbing coffee with pals.
It makes your lips look incredibly luscious with zero effort, it's not sticky, and the applicator easily coats your lip in one swipe. Perfect if you're on the go.
3. P. Louise Lip Base, shade 'Semi Nude' –£10
When I tell you I was blown away by this product, I mean it. It's so packed with pigment that it almost looks like paint, but it feels so lightweight on the lips. When I first tried it, I was slightly concerned it was going to crack and look too matte on my lips. But my fears never materialised. It lasted hours and hours without budging and didn't feel like I had any product on.
I adore any product I can swipe on and not think about anymore, and while this colour was lighter than I'd usually opt for, it looked lovely in the daytime. This is another product that has earned firm favourite status in my makeup bag. If you'd prefer something a little deeper in colour, like I usually do, try 'No Censor' – the deep brown tones will look gorgeous.
4. Catrice Lip Artist Lipstick and Liner, shade 'Always Together' –£3.99
If you're a fan of something cheap, cheerful, and handy in your makeup bag, this is perfect. A two-in-one product is a fantastic idea, and the liner glides on with ease and doesn't drag your lips like some cheaper ones might. Instead, it's creamy, and the lipstick is a lovely texture as well. Plus, the colour is gorgeous.
This would be a perfect failsafe option for a night out and will fit even in a tiny handbag.
5. MAC Mini MAC Traditional Matte Lipstick, shade 'Lady Danger'–£16
I have always loved mini lipsticks because they're perfect for on-the-go. This lipstick doesn't budge, even when you're eating and drinking. Plus, it's a gorgeous, vibrant shade of red that suits any skin tone. I come back to it time and time again, especially if I'm not sure what to do with my makeup for a certain occasion, and I have it in many different shades.
For just £16, it's easy to apply and is the perfect size for any lips that won't have you colouring outside the lines – even if you're a make-up novice. It may be small, but it's mighty.
6. Collection Cosmetics Glaze High Colour Liquid Lipstick, shade 'Cinnamon Swirl' –£4.99
If you want a product that literally will not budge, then look no further – Collection Cosmetics have got you covered. Not only is this shade the dreamiest nude, but it will not smudge or fade, no matter what activities you've got planned.
The texture isn't drying, which is ideal, because nobody wants sore and flaky lips, and for £4.99, you can't beat it!
Final thoughts...
Ultimately, make-up doesn't have to cost a fortune to be amazing. You may be inundated with social media ads that tell you you need the latest product that costs a lot, but you don't. Buy some cheaper versions, treat yourself, and have fun with it. Make-up is supposed to be fun, so enjoy it!
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