23 BEST Makeup Dupes That Are 100% Better (Sh, Don’t Tell!)
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Why pay more for high-end makeup when you can find amazing makeup dupes that are just as good?
You know the feeling when you find the perfect shade of lipstick or the best foundation for your skin type, but it costs an arm and a leg?
Or the new “truly miraculous” product goes viral, and you, for godsakes just cannot get ahold of that? I think every beauty aficionado has been there!
Enter makeup dupes!
I have compiled a list of the 23 best dupes of makeup that will help you achieve a high-end look without splurging. From foundation and concealer to eyeliners and lip glosses, all these products are just as good (and some are even better) as their expensive counterparts, so you can feel like your favorite celebrity for far less of the cost.
So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive right in and uncover the secrets behind this amazing drugstore hack!
23 best Drugstore makeup dupes ever
1. Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation Vs. LO’real True Match Lumi Foundation
Come on, who doesn’t want to look like Kim K? Well, it’s time to glow like a queen, honey! Giorgio Armani’s silk foundation may be her go-to, but you don’t have to break the bank for it. Instead, grab some LO’Real True Match Lumi to get a beautiful dewy, sheer but buildable coverage that’ll make your skin look lit-from-within gorgeous – just like KKW herself!
Can we talk about that satin finish though? Absolute perfection! Sure, it’s a little less coverage than Armani, but who cares when you’re shining so bright?
Don’t miss out on this makeup dupe, girlfriend! Trust me, it is pure gold!
Related: 13 Mind-Blowing Foundation Dupes That Will Save You Serious Money
2. Tarte shape tape concealer vs. LO’real infallible full wear concealer
If you’re a fan of Tarte shape tape concealer (who isn’t?), you’ll be thrilled to know that LO’real infallible concealer is the perfect drugstore makeup dupe!
It not only covers up dark circles and blemishes like a boss but also stays put all day long. And you get the same hydrating, full and radiant coverage for half the price. Plus, it comes in all kinds of shades to match your skin tone perfectly. So that’s that.
3. Laura Mercier loose powder vs Maybelline Fit me loose powder
There aren’t many loose powders that I recommend blindly, but Maybelline sure takes the cake for that.
And if you didn’t know it already, Maybelline Fit me loose powder is the ultimate makeup dupe for Laura Mercier loose powder. Yep, it’s true! Not only is it way more affordable, but it is just as soft and finely milled as Lura Mercier and has the same silky smooth texture that gives you that perfect, flawless finish.
Plus, Maybelline loose powder keeps your skin looking fresh and shine-free all day long, making it a must-have in any makeup bag.
Related: 15 Best Setting Powders For Mature Skin To Take Years Off Your Face
4. Nars laguna bronzer vs. Physicians Formula butter bronzer
I am absolutely obsessed with finding the best bronzers out there. Call me crazy, but I swear high-end bronzers just have that special something in them that makes them soooo gooood!
However, there is one drugstore brand that can hold its own against the big boys. I’m talking about Physician’s formula! Their Butter Bronzer in the shade ‘Bronzer’ is a bangin’ dupe for the famous Nars Laguna bronzer I SWEAR by.
They both deliver the perfect sun-kissed finish and blend like your fairytale dream. The big diff? With this baby, you’re getting way more actual bronzer for your buck and it’ll last you way longer.
Plus, you can rest easy knowing it’s cruelty-free (yay for our furry friends)! But, if you’re sensitive to smell, be warned – it’s got a beautiful (at least to me) tropical scent that might not be your jam.
5. Nars Orgasm Blush vs. Milani Dolce Pink Blush
Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to Milani – the new kid on the block that’s about to steal the NARS Orgasm crown. Their blush in the shade “Dolce pink” gives us all the feels with its striking resemblance to NARS’s holy grail product, and it lasts all day long.
Don’t let a slight difference in pigmentation fool you, they both have a pink base, light gold shimmers, blend like butter, and leave your cheeks looking oh-so silky-smooth.
I’m head-over-heels for Milani baked blush, which has quickly become my go-to for a natural, radiant look. It’s a steal compared to Nars, and you won’t even be able to tell the difference. Trust me, this is one of the best drugstore blushes out there – and that’s saying something!
Related: NARS Who? These 13 Mind-Blowing NARS Dupes Are Just As Good As The OG
6. Fenty gloss bomb vs. Maybelline lifter gloss
I was shocked when Maybelline launched their lifter glosses because just by the look of it, they seemed luxe! And I was right! They are a blind makeup dupe for fenty gloss bombs!
I mean, you get the same smooth and plush feeling on your lips as the iconic Fenty glosses, complete with a delicious caramel-vanilla scent, without breaking the bank. Plus, it has hyaluronic acid, meaning your lips will stay soft and luscious all day long. What’s not to love?
Now, I know some of you die-hard Fenty fans might be hesitant to switch it up, but hear me out. Yes, the Fenty glosses are a tad more pigmented, but the Maybelline glosses are just as smooth and apply just as beautifully that you won’t be able to tell the difference once you put it on your lips. So why not save some coins, huh?
Related: The Best Fenty Gloss Bomb Dupes To Steal Now
7. Milk hydro grip primer vs. E.L.F. Power grip primer
A primer that fills the pores, makes makeup last all day without a setting spray and hydrates the skin side by side is not short of a genius. But who’s got the money for that?
Enter E.L.F.’s newest launch – power grip primer. I LOVE it like it’s my baby. It is undoubtedly the perfect makeup dupe for Milk primer as they both provide a hydrating, grippy base that forces makeup to stick to your face all day.
Related: 5 Best Milk Hydro Grip Primer Dupes That Are Insanely Similar
8. Lancome Idole mascara vs. Essence Lash Princess mascara
Who needs high-end mascara when you can get the same results for a fraction of the cost? That’s right, Lancome Idole mascara and Essence lash paradise mascara are the ultimate makeup dupes!
On application, Essence mascara provides length, volume, and definition to your lashes, giving you that sought-after dramatic lash effect, just like your favorite Lancome mascara, if not better. Plus, they both come with brush applicators that make it easy to reach every lash for a flawless finish.
9. It cosmetics CC+ cream vs. E.L.F. CC cream
I. Am. Not. Kidding. If you don’t already know, E.l.f. Camo CC cream is supposed to be a dead ringer for the famous It Cosmetics CC cream. I’m talking same claims, the same ingredients, and even the same stylish packaging! Naturally, I had to do some investigating.
Turns out, E.l.f. uses titanium and zinc oxides, collagen, peptides, and niacinamide – JUST like It cosmetics! That’s what makes it the closest thing I’ve ever seen to the OG.
The only difference is the SPF; E.l.f. CC cream has 30 and It cosmetics has 50. But let’s be real, one percent extra protection isn’t going to make much of a difference.
This is undoubtedly one of my personal favorite high-end makeup dupes ever!! 😍
Related: 7 It Cosmetics CC Cream Dupes That Are A Clear Bargain
10. Mac oh, darling! Highlighter vs. Maybelline master chrome highlighter
Maybelline’s master chrome highlighter has got to be the biggest steal in town. Why splurge on Mac’s oh, darling! Highlighter when this drugstore gem is a spot-on makeup dupe? Not only will you save some serious cash, but you’ll also get the same blinding glow that’ll make you look like a goddess.
11. Rare beauty soft pinch blush vs. NYX sweet cheeks blush
Even people living under the rock know about rare beauty blushes, what can I say, they are just as fabulous as the talk!
But of course, the more viral the product, the slimmer the chances of you getting your hands on that. So I tried NYX sweet cheeks blush in the shade “baby doll” and girl, I cannot begin to describe how freakin beautiful and totally worth it this blush is. Also, a superb rare beauty blush dupe for the shade – grace.
They both go a long way, are insanely pigmented, absorb into the skin within seconds and blend like butter. Honestly, I love this makeup dupe to the core!
12. Dior addict lip glow oil vs. NYX fat oil lip
Ladies and gentlemen, the time has come to discover the ultimate dupe for Dior addict lip glow oil! That’s right, NYX fat oil lip is here to save the day. With its luxurious texture and rich pigment, this lip oil is not only the best drugstore lip oil ever but also goes on smooth and leaves a dewy finish that’s sure to turn heads.
And the best part? You’ll get the same perfectly plump pout as the Dior addict at a fraction of the price!
13. Clinique black honey almost lipstick vs. Covergirl lip balm
Of course, Clinique’s almost lip balm took the world by storm for their lip balm-lipstick amalgamation. I honestly love this universally flattering shade, but when I discovered Covergirl’s lip balm in the shade “bliss you berry“, my mind was blown. 🤯
Both of these makeup dupes are so so SO similar and nourishing that you really don’t need to spend that much money on Clinique. Really.
Not to forget, Covergirl’s lip balm is jam-packed with hyaluronic acid and pomegranate oil to hydrate your lips all day!
14. Charlotte Tilbury flawless filter vs. E.L.F. Halo glow filter
If you don’t already know, I’m telling you, Charlotte Tilbury’s flawless filter is IT. This bad boy is legit glow in a bottle.
But hold up – I’m about to blow your mind. The ELF Halo Glow Filter is the ultimate flawless filter makeup dupe that you cannot miss buying asap. I’m talking soft-focus radiance that smooths out all imperfections for that Insta-ready look.
Plus, it’s a total multi-tasker too, you can use it as a tinted primer, under foundation, mixed with foundation, or as a highlighter on high points of the face. What’s not to love?
Related: 16 Stunning Charlotte Tilbury Dupes That Are Pure Gold
15. Nars creamy concealer vs. Maybelline fit me concealer
Get ready to say bye-bye to under-eye troubles with Nars’ radiant concealer – it’s a total crowd-pleaser! But wait, have you tried Fitme concealer yet? Trust me, it’s just as fabulous and it’s giving Nars a serious run for their money.
I have talked about this dupe multiple times and in Nars concealer dupes posts as well, and I am still not over how goddamn similar they are in everything!
Smooth like silk, it glides on like butter and blends like magic, saying goodbye to that grey under-eye look. Plus, it’s a total steal at just $6.5 – yes, for real! Not only will it give you a flawless, silky finish, but you’ll also save some serious cash.
16. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow wiz vs. NYX micro brow pencil
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow wiz is the ultimate brow secret that almost every makeup artist and beauty junkie swears by – and for a good reason!
But the NYX micro brow pencil gives it a run for its money at just $10. That’s right, The precision, smoothness, and ease of these pencils are unmatched. So now you can get the same brow-perfecting results without breaking the bank.
Say goodbye to sparse brows and hello to defined and filled-in brows in minutes!
17. Kat Von D tattoo liner vs. NYX epic ink liner
I am not an eyeliner person, but if I was, pen liners would be my BFF. While Kat Von D’s tattoo liner is a total MVP to creating a killer eyeliner look, the NYX epic ink liner packs just as much punch with its waterproof, ultra-pigmented formula – and for less than a tenner!
I have loved the epic ink liner for yearssss now and the application is just so effortless and smooth that you’ll get bang for your buck!
18. Too faced better than sex Mascara vs. LO’real lash paradise mascara
If you haven’t tried Loreal Lash Paradise Mascara yet, you’re missing out on some serious magic. Trust me, you’re gonna want to add it to your cart ASAP. This drugstore gem gives you voluminous, lengthening, feathery lashes for less than 10 bucks!
The soft wavy brush has over 200 bristles that catch every single lash, giving you a full fringe that’s hard to resist. Plus, it looks just like our fave Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara (compare those pink tubes!).
What’s more? Both mascaras boast excellent black pigment and an hourglass-shaped brush wand for intense, fuller lashes. Some even say (I included) that Lash Paradise is a tiny bit better than Too Faced.
Related: The Best Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Dupes Ever (Must-Have)
19. Urban Decay All nighter setting spray vs. NYX matte finish setting spray
Well, ask any makeup artist about their absolute favorite setting spray and they won’t stop raving about Urban decay!
So if you have been looking for a more affordable alternative to the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray, let me introduce you to NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray! This bad boy is a gorgeous makeup dupe for the UD classic, with the same long-lasting hold and oil control properties.
And of course, it’s easy on the wallet, so you can keep your makeup looking fresh and fabulous without breaking the bank.
20. Smashbox photo finish Primer vs. NYX photo-loving Primer
If you don’t start off on the right foot, how are you gonna keep walking in style? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back (and your pores) covered! Smashbox makes a primo primer, but it’s a pretty steep $37. Lucky for you, NYX has a photo-friendly primer that does the job just as well, and it’s only a fraction of the cost. So go ahead, strut your stuff and save some dough.
21. Kosas super creamy concealer vs. NYX Bare with me concealer serum
I’ll be honest, if you’re looking for a concealer that feels like a dream, look no further than the Kosas super creamy concealer! This magic product glides on smoothly, providing amazing coverage that lasts all day.
And if you’re after something with a little more hydration, try the NYX bare with me concealer serum. Infused with aloe and cucumber, it leaves your under-eyes feeling cool and refreshed. Trust us, your search for the perfect concealer is over!
22. The Original Beauty Blender vs. Real Techniques Miracle Sponge
Original Beauty Blender is the holy grail of makeup sponges that guarantees a flawless, seamless finish with minimal product wastage. But let’s face it, not everyone is ready to drop twenty big ones on a sponge.
Enter Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, the affordable superstar of drugstore beauty blenders. Sure, it’s not an exact copy of the OG blender, but it still delivers a fabulous streak-free finish without breaking the bank.
Trust me, I’ve tried ’em all and this one takes the cake. It may not have the same high-quality material or durability as the Beauty Blender, but it’s only six bucks!
23. Fenty Beauty blurring skin tint vs. NYX bare with me tinted skin veil
If “my skin but a lot better” is on your menu, you’re going to love Fenty’s skin tint. But if $35 is hard to shell out, this little gem from NYX is gonna swoon you away!
These two products are so similar that it’s honestly hard to tell them apart. They both give you a flawless, even, and natural-looking finish, perfect for those no-makeup makeup days. And the best part? NYX’s skin veil is almost half the price of Fenty. I mean, who doesn’t love good makeup dupes?!
BTW, do you know what does dupe mean in makeup?
So, you’re probably wondering what the heck a “dupe” is in the world of makeup, right? Well, let me tell you – a dupe is short for “duplicate,” and it refers to a product that is a cheaper alternative to a higher-end product. Basically, it’s a way to save some moolah while still achieving the same look and quality.
The key takeaway on best drugstore makeup dupes
What do you think of these drugstore makeup dupes? Even though there’s no harm in buying high-end products, practically, it is not feasible enough for most people. Right? So staying on budget with drugstore dupes is the best way to look pretty and buy the best drugstore makeup.
That said, it’s a wrap for our drugstore makeup dupes post. So what makeup dupes are already in your cart?