If you’ve been spending a fortune on your skincare regimen, start saving those dollars and take a trip to your local drugstore. There are so many great dermatologist-recommended skincare products that won’t cost you an arm and leg, and work just as well as their high-end counterparts. From creams to cleansers and scrubs, get all your bases covered for almost the same price as one high-end product; now that’s a bargain! Affordable skincare is the way to go.
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Everyone has beauty products that are tried and true, but if you’re in search of a replacement for an out of stock favourite, or are just looking to expand your beauty horizons, then this list is for you. With life moving so quick and us hardly having time to wash our hair, let alone test out new products, our patience is thin when it comes to experimenting. That’s where I come in with this list of beauty products that are total game changers.
From skincare and hair tools, to cosmetics, here is my list of 11 game changer beauty products that deserve a spot on your beauty shelf.
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When it comes to the beauty industry, products typically fall into two categories: hot and new and cult favourites. Think about it: The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid has reached cult status and is still quite often still sold out, while the beauty world is still buzzing about Fenty Beauty’s new Liquid Diamond Bomb Glitter Highlighter. This leaves us wondering what happens to the in-between products that aren’t quite brand spanking new, but they aren’t quite a cult favourite either (just yet, anyway).
These are the products that we frequently use and gush to our friends about. They’re the unsung heroes of our beauty repertoire. Despite some of these brands being a little lesser-known than some of today’s most popular beauty names, these products not only deliver on their promise, but many of them are insanely well-priced, which is why we think it’s time we awarded them a little extra love and attention.
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There was once a time when your local drugstore was the place to stock up on your beauty and skin care needs, but in recent years, women and men have been flocking to department and even online for their essentials. However, drugstores have really been stepping it up and now you can find an impressive assortment of new and affordable beauty products in countless shades, styles, and formulas. And really, what could be better than picking up all your household essentials and the latest lipstick without having to go to a crowded mall?!
Instagram/@nyxcosmetics_canada
If flawless skin and all-day coverage are what you’re after, look no further than this flattering foundation by NYX Cosmetics. It comes in 45 shades, glides on smooth and delivers matte coverage that stays put for up to 24 hours. Seriously, we put it to the test and wore it from work to a mid-day workout and then to post-work cocktails, and it stayed put through it all.
Instagram/@geniabeme
What we love about this Covergirl lipstick is not only is it infused with shea butter for a lasting and smooth application, but it comes in three different finishes for every mood: metallic, demi-matte, and cream. But more importantly, it comes in 27 rich shades and is such a steal!
Instagram/@natashankpr
This pressed powder with a matte finish will give your skin a smooth texture and last as long as your day. Plus, thanks to the powders mattifying effect, it absorbs excess oil to leave you with a flawless finish that looks natural, not powdery and cakey.
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This collection by OGX will help you attain ultimate #hairgoals thanks to ingredients like nutrient-rich sea kelp that’s blended with luxurious pearl extract. This will give you all the shine and smoothness that your hair needs this summer.
Instagram/@bioreus
Blue agave isn’t just for tequila anymore. It’s actually known for its conditioning properties that are able to survive in desert conditions and now it’s infused in Biorés latest collection. Bioré’s Blue Agave Detox Mask is great for combination skin because it deep cleans and eliminates impurities, conditions dry spots, and lifts away dirt and oil to purify pores, making it a must-have multi-purpose face mask that you’ll be bragging to your friends about.
Instagram/@wetnwildbeauty
You can unleash your inner makeup artist with this wet n wild palette that features ten stunning shades, giving us major vibes of (much) pricier options. The shadows are insanely pigmented and soft, and both the shimmer and matte finishes glide on and blend beautifully for a flawless sultry or subtle look that lasts all day and night.
Instagram/@elfcosmetics
This setting mist from e.l.f. is formulated with aloe, green tea, cucumber, and vitamins A, C, and, E, so you’ll get a much-needed moisture boost and long-lasting makeup. The ultra-fine light-reflecting particles mean you’ll get a little extra glow, too!
Instagram/@aru89
This longwear brow gel by L’Oreal fills and thickens brows that will stay put for up to 48 hours. Available in five colours from light brown to black, this brow gel comes with a dual-end brush, which makes it easy to control when you’re sculpting your dream brows. Plus, it’s waterproof and sweat-resistant so it won’t smudge or transfer.
Featured Image: Instagram/@covergirlph
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‘Tis the season to add a little moisture and shimmer to your look, whether you’re compensating for the lack of vitamin D or simply sprucing up. We believe you can keep it fresh and glowing all year long with the right lifestyle and products!
You don’t need to break the bank to live out all of your makeup fantasies!
In the words of Lil’ Kim — keep that “lip gloss poppin’” ladies!
Instagram/ @wetnwildbeauty
We love Wet n Wild for many reasons – especially for their Megaglo highlight products, which comes in the form of sticks, powders, bars, palettes and powders with their average highlighter product around $6. We love all of their makeup products for the quality and price points, ranging from approximately $4 – $12. Look like a dewy angel on a budget!
Instagram/ @nyxcosmetics_canada
Nyx is like that reliable friend you can always count on to lift your self-confidence and not suck you/your wallet dry. Too good to be true? Not with Nyx, consistently providing great cosmetics for urban life on a budget. Their foundation ranges from $11-20 and their mascara from $10-12. Nyx is a great one-stop makeup shop for top-notch beauty products to feed all of your alter egos.
Instagram/ @pacificabeauty
This brand speaks to our eco-friendly soul – they are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. They are also very conscious of their ingredients so you don’t have to worry about potentially harmful substances. The brand carries many great beauty products, including an awesome line of perfumes made with natural, essential oils for a very affordable price of $22 a pop. Their foundations and face products range from $12-18, their eye products from $11-20 and their lip wear from $5-10.
You can also get free samples if your order is over $25 and free shipping over $50!
Instagram/ @morphebrushes
Morphe is our go-to brand for amazing palettes and brushes that are budget-friendly (so we can do the things we love while owning a multitude of looks). Their palettes are to die for; face palettes range from $27-38 and their eyeshadow palettes on average range from $20-30. Their foundation brushes range from $7-20. Having fun with a variety of different colours and shades is more than possible on a budget with Morphe (bless).
Instagram/@marcellecosmetics
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and dermatologically tested – this brand is excellent for sensitive skin types. Their products will give you a classy finish with comfortable wear. If you have sensitive skin and don’t like to spend a fortune on makeup while keeping quality high — Marcelle is for you! Their BB creams are $22.99, lipsticks are all $12.95 and mascaras from $9.95 – 12.95 (we love their mascara as they are hypoallergenic without compromising quality)
Instagram/@maybelline
Maybe she’s born with it. Maybe it’s Maybelline.
Maybelline’s tagline remains true as ever with products enhancing women’s natural beauty from as long as our generation can remember. Fun fact: they founded in New York City in 1915.
Many makeup enthusiasts prefer their products over high end, particularly their Superstay foundation providing 24-hour protection for only $14.99. Their mascara is around the $10.99 price point and their eyeliners around $12.99. Let Maybelline be your little beauty secret for flawless enhancement and a full wallet aka live your best, beautiful and vibrant life!
Featured image: Instagram/@marcellecosmetics
If you didn’t get your fill of Black Friday deals, don’t fret — Cyber Monday is in full effect.
On this list, you’ll find sales happening in-stores, as well as some sales that are happening online only. All of the retailers on this list are offering a cool 20-60% off merchandise. Most end on Monday, November 26, so act fast and grab those deals while you can.
It’s likely that we won’t see any better deals until after the holidays, and you don’t want to miss out!
When: November 22-28
Where: All adidas outlet stores. Find a location.
What: Enjoy 50% off in-stores.
When: November 26
Where: In-stores and online at aritzia.com.
What: Take up to 50% off almost everything.
When: November 26
Where: Online at upandarmed.com.
What: Take 25% off a selection items and free shipping with the code “CYBRMONDAY”.
When: November 26
Where: Online at bananarepublic.ca.
What: Take 50% off everything online.
When: November 23 -26
Where: Online at bogs.com.
What: Take 25% off site wide.
When: November 26–27
Where: In-stores or online at callitspring.com
What: 30% off all regular priced items.
When: November 26
Where: Online at clubmonaco.com.
What: Take an extra 40% off sale items, plus save 25-35% on regular price purchases.
When: November 26-27
Where: Online at dynamiteclothing.com.
What: Enjoy 50% off from 7am to 10am (November 26), 40% off from 10am to 9pm, and 30% off onwards.
When: November 26
Where: Online at etsy.com.
What: Shop everything from personalized decor to one-of-a-kind presents at up to 60% off.
When: November 26
Where: In Fjallraven stores across Canada.
What: Take 20% off everything (excluding Kanken backpacks)
When: November 26
Where: Online at frankandoak.com.
What: Shop up to 50% off best sellers and 30% off everything else with the code “CYBERMONDAY30”.
When: Now – December 2
Where: 111 Bermondsey Road, North York, Ontario
What: All tuxedos are $99.
When: November 26
Where: Online at gapcanada.ca.
What: Take 50% off everything with the code “GAPCYBER”, plus an extra 10% off with the code “GAPYOURS” and free shipping.
When: November 26-27
Where: In-stores and online at garageclothing.com.
What: Enjoy 50% off from 7am to 11am (November 26), and 40% on everything onwards.
When: November 26
Where: In-stores and online at hm.com.
What: Take 20% off everything, plus free shipping when you shop online.
When: November 26
Where: Online at mejuri.com.
What: Get 10% off one item, 15% off two items, and 20% off if you buy three or more items.
When: November 26
Where: Online at michaelkors.ca.
What: Take up to 50% off select apparel, footwear, watches, bags, and more.
When: November 26
Where: Online at nordstrom.com.
What: Take up to 60% off clothing, footwear, accessories, and more.
When: November 26
Where: Online at nrml.ca.
What: Take 40% off everything with the code “CYBERMONDAY”. Brands featured include Nike, adidas, Vans, and more.
When: November 26
Where: Online at roots.com.
What: Take 30% off site wide, plus shop the special deal of the day.
When: November 26
Where: Online at sportchek.ca.
What: Take 20% off site wide and save up to 60% on door crashers.
When: November 26
Where: Online at stevemadden.ca.
What: Take 20% off everything and receive free shipping with the code “BLACK”.
When: November 26
Where: Online at theoutnet.com.
What: Grab an extra discount on all sale items with the code “LASTCHANCE”.
When: November 26-27
Where: Online at tissotwatches.com.
What: Take 40-50% off select items.
When: November 26
Where: Online at underarmour.com
What: Save 40% on Cyber Weekend exclusives.
When: November 26
Where: In-stores and online at zumiez.ca.
What: Shop BOGO 50% on clothing and accessories, and take an additional 50% off all clearance shoes.
When: November 26
Where: Online at annabelle.com.
What: 40% off everything online. No code required.
When: November 26
Where: In-stores and online at consonantskincare.com.
What: Take 20% off everything.
When: Now to December 24
Where: 6880 Columbus Rd., Mississauga, Ontario
What: Save big on CoverGirl everything at this warehouse sale. Use SD’s exclusive discount to get an extra 15% off.
When: November 26
Where: Online at cwbeggs.com.
What: 30% off everything online + free shipping.
When: November 26
Where: Online at fruits-passion.com.
What: Take 40% off individual products, BOGO free on holiday products, and free shipping.
When: Now to December 9
Where: 135 Commerce Valley Dr. East, Markham, Ontario
What: Save up to 80% cosmetics and fragrances from brands like Elizabeth Arden, Stila, Revlon, and more.
When: November 26
Where: Online at marcelle.com.
What: BOGO on the entire website and free shipping with every order.
When: Now to December 6
Where: 6819 Pacific Circle, Mississauga, Ontario
What: Up to 90% off retail prices on home furnishings
When: November 26
Where: In-store at the Waterloo warehouse or online at hauserstores.com.
What: Save up to 40% on indoor and outdoor furniture.
When: Now – December 21
Where: 114A Railside Rd., Toronto, Ontario or online at wildlydelicious.com.
What: Save up to 80% off kitchenware, dips, sauces, and more.
When: Now – December 2
Where: 111 Creditview Road, Vaughan, Ontario
What: Up to 90% off housewares, appliances, and more.
When: November 26-30
Where: Online at busabout.com.
What: Save 20% off their Unlimited Passes to the USA and Europe Hop-on Hop-off travel network that will allow you the freedom and flexibility to create your perfect itinerary using a private door-to-door coach network. Use code “BlackFriday”.
When: November 26-30
Where: Online at contiki.com
What: Save 20% off on twenty of their most popular adventures around the world (like New Zealand, Mykonos & Santorini, Bangkok to Singapore, Latin and South America Europe, and more).
When: November 26
Where: Online at gadventures.com.
What: Take up to 35% off over 500 tours and 10,000 departures.
When: November 26
Where: online at trafalgar.com.
What: Savings of 15% off per person on fifteen of their trips to Eastern Europe and Scandinavia.
Featured Image: Instagram/@watchgallery_al
When it comes to beauty, sometimes it’s difficult to know what to splurge on and what to save on — especially when it comes to products that you use on the regular. And while we love treating ourselves to expensive beauty buys from time to time, high price doesn’t necessarily mean high quality.
Experience has shown that some affordable drugstore products actually work better than their high-end rivals. So, if you’re hoping to save some money and still look your best, you definitely need to check out these beauty products.
This mascara will have people asking you if you’re wearing falsies. The brush is extremely easy to use and the results will surprise you – your eyes will pop with lashes thinner and longer than Kendall Jenner’s legs. We appreciate you L’Oreal.
If your eyeshadow needs an upgrade this summer, try this versatile easy-to-use Marcelle Smokey Eyeshadow palette that has all you need and more. Whether you’re getting ready for work or heading to date night, this timeless and versatile palette has got you covered. The nude shades will easily elevate any ordinary eye and add a splash of sophistication with its luminous shimmer hues.
Contouring has never been so quick and simple. Maybelline’s Master Contour V-Shape Duo Stick creates the illusion of shape and highlight in just two easy steps. Apply and blend the dark shade along the jawline and the hollows of your cheeks for structure then use the light shade to enhance the high points of your face.
This palette is great for those looking to contour AND sport an all-over shimmer. The compact includes four illuminating shades to blend or use alone; they can even be used as eyeshadows to create a monochromatic look.
This bronzing powder will help you create the perfect sun-kissed look and add that healthy glow to your skin. You can also use it as a contour to emphasize your features.
Micellar cleansing water is trending right now and we’re all about it. It’s a non-harsh way to remove all makeup, even waterproof mascara. If you haven’t tried this bestseller yet, you should definitely grab one next time you’re at Shoppers.
Ditch your foundation this summer and opt for a tinted moisturizer that’ll keep your face hydrated and protect your skin from UV rays at the same time! This amazing multi-protection tinted cream is supercharged with antioxidants, green tea, aloe and chamomile act like a shield to protect your skin from environmental stressors.
This face stick is hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, 100% vegan and comes in a small cute package that you can carry with you everywhere you go.
Soften your skin with this jasmine-infused mask that will leave your face silky-smooth in minutes. Made of 100% bamboo, this soft sheet is infused with fortified flower wax, boasting properties to effectively moisturize and hydrate. Just close your eyes and let the sweet scent of jasmine take you away.
Featured image: Instagram/ @marcellecosmetics
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My shopping trips to Costco for bulk household items and groceries would not be complete without a run to Costco’s beauty section. Yes, Costco has a beauty section… two to three aisles of personal care items, in fact (depending on which location you visit). When shopping for bulk beauty items at Costco, I tend to stock up on products like Q-tips, facial wipes and deodorant. Only recently did I begin paying attention to the savings on bulk beauty items like hair care, skin care and cosmetics available at Costco. Here are the 8 beauty brands you wouldn’t expect to find at Costco.
I love The Honest Company products. This two-pack of their best-selling face and body lotion is such a deal, and is a great buy if you’re looking to try out this brand for the first time.
Image: Cristina Avila
Bet you didn’t think you could find Dr. Brandt at Costco! His signature DNA (Do Not Age) line ranges in price from $90 to $160 at Sephora, therefore you’ll save a ton of money by picking it up at Costco.
Image: Cristina Avila
This Peter Thomas Roth mask is amazing and this price is unbeatable (compared to the retail price of $72 at Sephora). The container is huge, so don’t hesitate to split the cost with a friend and share the product.
Image: Cristina Avila
While this drugstore brand isn’t too costly or hard to come by in big box stores, you can’t beat Costco’s bulk pricing! Grab two full size Marcelle mascaras at Costco for the price of one.
Image: Cristina Avila
If you’re looking for a shampoo and conditioner free of sulfates and parabens, you can’t go wrong with the price of this LaCoupe two-pack. The cost of two 1L bottles is less than half the price of two 500 ml bottles at most drugstores.
Image: Cristina Avila
StriVectin is a fan favourite of spas and celebrities. While the price tag of this beauty brand is similar to what you’d pay at the Beauty Boutique, Costco throws in some bonus travel size items to make your splurge worthwhile.
Image: Cristina Avila
High-end beauty with a twist! Costco’s private label, Kirkland Signature, has partnered with luxury beauty brand Borghese on quality skin care and cosmetics at a deep discount. Shop their endcap display of serums, creams, moisturizers and mascaras.
Image: Cristina Avila
If you’re obsessed with argan oil, this shampoo and conditioner by Hask Beauty is a no-brainer! Costco gives you the best bang for your buck with two 1L bottles for less than what you’d pay for three regular bottles at Walmart.
Image: Cristina Avila
Featured Image: Instagram/@drbrandt
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