Looking for amazing makeup without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place.
These five products all cost less than a tenner and honestly perform like they cost way more. I’ve tested each one myself and can confirm they’re absolutely worth adding to your collection.
Maybelline Instant Perfector 4-in-1

Okay so this product is basically four things in one, which already makes it a bargain. It’s a primer, concealer, highlighter, and BB cream all mixed together in this weird whipped formula that actually works really well. When you first twist the applicator, the product comes out on this sponge tip thing that makes application super easy.
Here’s the thing though—it’s definitely more of a “your skin but better” vibe than full coverage. The glow it gives is noticeable but not over-the-top shimmery, which I actually love for everyday. It does an amazing job at evening out redness and giving you that lit-from-within look without looking like you’re wearing much makeup. The shade range could be better (there’s only 8 shades), but if you can find your match, this is honestly such a good dupe for the Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter. The formula is pretty wet when you first apply it and takes a minute to set down, so if you have oily skin you might want to set it with powder. But for the price? It’s a no-brainer, especially for those days when you want to look put-together in literally two minutes.
Rimmel Lasting Finish 35HR Foundation

This foundation claims to last 35 hours, which sounds completely insane, but honestly? It really does stay put all day. The formula has SPF 20 which is great, plus it’s got hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and 2% niacinamide, so it’s actually doing good things for your skin while you wear it.
The coverage is properly full but it doesn’t feel heavy or cakey, which is rare. It blends out really smoothly whether you use your fingers, a brush, or a sponge, and it genuinely does not budge once it sets. Like, I tested this on a full school day and it looked exactly the same at the end as it did when I first applied it—no fading, no getting patchy, nothing. It’s also waterproof and transfer-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about it rubbing off on your clothes or your phone. The shade range is really good with 35 shades available, and the bottle has a pump which makes life so much easier. If you need a foundation that’s going to last through literally anything and still look natural, this is it. The only downside is it can be a bit tricky to remove at the end of the day, so make sure you’ve got a good makeup remover.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

This mascara went absolutely viral on TikTok and honestly, the hype is real. The brush is super thin and flexible with these short little bristles that grab every single lash. Even the tiny ones in the inner corners that most mascaras miss completely.
The formula gives you insane length without making your lashes look clumpy or spider-y. And that is exactly what I want from a mascara. It’s got bamboo extract and fibers in it that are supposed to be good for your lashes. It definitely makes them look naturally long and defined rather than obviously made-up. One coat is enough, but you can build it up for more drama without it getting chunky. The wand is so bendy that it takes a minute to get used to, but is perfect once you figure it out. It holds a curl really well and doesn’t smudge or flake throughout the day, which is huge. My only complaint is that it’s a bit stubborn to remove—you’ll need a proper eye makeup remover, not just face wash. But for under a tenner? This is hands down one of the best mascaras you can buy at any price point.
e.l.f. Camo Liquid Bronzer

This liquid bronzer is ridiculously pigmented, like scary pigmented. Start small and build up or you’ll end up looking like Claudia Winkelman :).
The formula is super blendable and lightweight, and it gives you this really natural finish that doesn’t look fake. The applicator is so easy to use—just dab it on your cheeks and blend with your fingers or a brush. It lasts ages too, like genuinely all day without fading or going patchy. There are lots of shades, for all skin tones. This is basically a dupe for the Rare Beauty bronzer that costs over three times as much, and I honestly can’t tell the difference when they’re on my face. If you’ve never used liquid blush before, just remember: less is more. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll be obsessed.
e.l.f. Glow Reviver Lip Oil

Okay so lip oils are having a moment and this one from e.l.f. is genuinely as good as the expensive ones I’ve tried. It comes with this massive plush applicator that hugs your lips and makes application so satisfying.
The formula is super glossy and non-sticky, which is the dream combo. It’s got nourishing oils like jojoba, apricot, and pomegranate that actually hydrate your lips instead of just sitting on top of them like regular gloss. The color payoff is pretty sheer. You get just a hint of tint that enhances your natural lip color rather than covering it up completely. There’s a subtle scent and a very light cooling sensation when you apply it, but not overpowering. It wears for a few hours before you need to reapply, which is normal for a lip oil. You can wear it alone for a natural glossy look or layer it over lipstick to add shine and make your lips look fuller. The shade range is limited but the colors are really versatile and wearable. For £8, you’re getting a product that feels luxe and actually takes care of your lips while making them look amazing. Definitely worth it.