Makeup doesn't have to cost a fortune to work wonders. Sometimes, it feels like you have to shell out $50 for a foundation or $30 for mascara just to stay on-trend. But here’s a little secret: some of the best beauty products out there come with a budget-friendly price tag. The days of assuming inexpensive means unreliable are long gone. These days, brands are stepping up their game, proving you can get impressive quality at a fraction of the cost.

Whether you’re new to makeup or just love discovering affordable gems, this guide is for you. We’ve rounded up seven beauty products under $20 that aren’t just good for the price—they’re good, period. These everyday essentials will elevate your makeup bag (and keep your wallet happy).

1. e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer ($10)

When it comes to prepping your skin for makeup, a reliable primer is key, and the e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer has become a cult favorite. Why? It rivals high-end primers while staying ridiculously affordable.

This silky, lightweight product minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines, leaving your skin with a smooth, almost airbrushed finish. It grips onto your foundation, helping it last longer—even on those long, sweaty days. It’s also enriched with squalane, which hydrates your skin without making it look oily.

If you’ve struggled with uneven foundation or makeup sliding off by midday, this gem makes a noticeable difference.

2. Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara ($11.99)

Finding the perfect mascara can feel like a never-ending quest, but Maybelline Lash Sensational checks all the boxes for under $12. It separates and volumizes your lashes without clumping, giving you that fluttery, wide-eyed effect.

The brush design is genius, with fanned-out bristles that coat each lash evenly (yes, even those tiny inner ones you always miss). Bonus? It’s available in waterproof versions that won’t budge no matter what the day throws your way.

If you’re tired of paying $30 for prestige mascaras, Lash Sensational gives you the same luscious lashes for half the price.

3. NYX Slim Lip Pencil ($5)

Lip liners are one of those low-key beauty items that can change your entire makeup game, and NYX Slim Lip Pencil is a budget-friendly must-have. It costs less than a fancy latte and comes in a huge range of shades, from classic nudes to bold reds.

This pencil glides on smoothly, making it easy to outline and define your lips for a more polished look. If overdrawing your lips for that fuller pout is your thing, this liner does the job without smudging or fading. You can even use it all over your lips as a base to make your lipstick last longer.

At $5, you can stock up on a few colors without breaking the bank.

4. Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder ($6.49)

Who doesn’t love a gorgeous, glowing highlight? The Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder delivers that perfect shine without making you feel like a disco ball. It’s pigmented, buildable, and blends beautifully over your skin.

Available in shades ranging from icy pearl to golden bronze, this highlighter works on a variety of skin tones. You can swipe it along your cheekbones, brow bone, or even your collarbones for that radiant, lit-from-within look.

For under $7, it’s proof that you don’t need to spend half your paycheck to achieve a stunning glow.

5. ColourPop Super Shock Shadows ($6)

Want to add a pop of color to your eyeshadow game without the splurge? ColourPop’s Super Shock Shadows are a total game-changer. Their unique cream-to-powder formula is lightweight, blendable, and incredibly pigmented.

The best part is the variety. Whether you like natural looks or bold, sparkly shades, ColourPop has something for everyone. With over 30 shades to choose from, these shadows are perfect for quick everyday looks or experimenting with fun colors.

At $6 a pop, they’re affordable enough to snag a few for the price of one higher-end eyeshadow.

6. Milani Baked Blush ($7.99)

For those who love a cheeky flush of color, Milani Baked Blush is a beauty bag essential. One of its most iconic shades, Luminoso, is practically a celebrity in the beauty world and looks gorgeous on almost any skin tone.

These blushes provide the perfect amount of pigment with a subtle shimmer that gives your skin a healthy glow. And because they’re baked, the formula feels soft and lightweight, blending like a dream. Whether you prefer a natural peachy hue or a warm rosy tone, Milani’s got you covered.

Plus, it comes in sturdy packaging with a built-in mirror, making it super travel-friendly.

7. Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge ($5.99)

A flawless makeup application starts with great tools, and the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge will take your blending game to the next level. Think of it as the budget-friendly alternative to Beautyblender, with the same softness and ability to blend foundation, concealer, and even powder seamlessly.

Its unique design includes a rounded side, a precision tip for hard-to-reach spots, and a flat edge that’s ideal for contouring. Whether you’re going for full coverage or a natural finish, this sponge helps your makeup melt into your skin for that pro-level look.

All this for less than $6? It’s functional, versatile, and a total steal.