The Ultimate Guide To TikTok's "Full Face Under $50" Challenge
Budget-friendly beauty isn't a myth!
If you're constantly scrolling through beauty TikTok, or BeautyTok, you've probably seen elaborate makeup looks that can cost hundreds of dollars. But let's be realistic – many of us are on a budget or simply don't want to prioritize looking glamorous over paying rent or having a nice meal. So, conveniently, beauty influencers on the platform have created a viral trend with the disclaimer that you can create a full face of makeup while spending only $50 – or less.
And the best part about it? Most of the products are drugstore brands, so they're not only super affordable but also accessible to anyone! Therefore, in this guide, I will break down the steps to TikTok's "Full Face Under $50" trend. From primer through eyeshadow palettes and highlighters to lipsticks and mascara, this guide will show you how to get a full face of makeup without breaking the bank or missing out on any of the glamor achieved by high-end products.
Let's get started!
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Primer
A good primer is an essential step in a full face of makeup. It helps even out your skin tone and texture, so that foundation can go on smoothly and last longer. However, a perfect blank canvas doesn't mean you have to break the bank. Plenty of primers on the market won't hurt your wallet but will still give you the desired results.
My favorite is the Almay Skin Perfecting Comfort Care Primer ($3.24) which provides a streak-free finish and keeps your makeup in place all day. Suitable for all skin types, this primer contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing panthenol, which work together to leave the skin feeling smooth and hydrated.
Foundation
Finding a foundation that gives you the coverage you need without feeling cakey or heavy can be tricky. But with so many affordable options on the market, you don't have to compromise. My top pick is the e.l.f. Flawless Satin Foundation ($6) which offers medium to full coverage and a natural finish that can be used to create the look you want.
Concealer
Concealing blemishes, dark spots, uneven skin tone, and other imperfections is essential for achieving a flawless look. To get the job done without breaking the bank, I recommend the L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer ($4.99.) This lightweight and creamy formula blends easily, provides natural-looking coverage, and comes in 31 shades to suit all skin tones.
Bronzer
Adding a bit of bronzer can give your skin that sun-kissed glow and define your features for a more sculpted look. My go-to product for a flawless bronzed finish is the Essence Sun Club Matt Bronzing Powder ($4.99) which comes in two adjustable shades. The smooth, buttery texture blends effortlessly on the skin, and the huge 0.52 oz pan means this bronzer will last forever.
Blush
When it comes to affordable blushes, no other brand can beat Essence. The Blush will only run you $3.99 and is a great way to add a subtle flush of color and brighten up your complexion on a budget. The powder formula is very blendable, so you can achieve a natural and luminous finish that won't look too overdone. Loved by makeup enthusiasts and professionals alike, Essence's blush is a must-have for any makeup look.
Powder
Another winner from Essence is their All About Matt! Fixing Compact Powder, which costs only $3.99 but offers an unbeatable matte finish in a universal shade that suits all skin tones. Great for finishing your makeup or touching up throughout the day, this versatile product will set your base and keep your skin oil-free like no other!
Highlighter
A highlighter isn't a must in everyone's makeup routine, but if you're looking for one on a budget, my top pick is the Makeup Revolution Candy Haze Jelly Highlighter. For only $2, you get a pot full of jelly goodness that will accentuate the highest points of your face and give you that natural glow.
Eyeshadow
If you've been in the market for a new eyeshadow palette, you're just in time for Essence's latest launch. Eight new eyeshadow palettes in a six-shade pan that range from neutral nudes, warm pinks, cool taupes, and bold mauves will only set you back $3.99. The velvety-smooth formula ensures an even and blendable application, and the buttery-soft texture makes it easy to build up the intensity as desired.
Eyeliner
No makeup look is complete without a bit of eyeliner, and if you're looking to save, I recommend the e.l.f. Cosmetics Expert Liquid Liner ($3) which will give you a precise and sharp line with a single swipe. The waterproof formula makes it perfect for those hot summer days, and it comes in black, brown, and navy for all your makeup needs.
Mascara
The final touch to your eye look is mascara, and for that, I love the Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara ($4.99) which has an unmatched pigment and longevity for the price. The conical shape of the brush will help define and separate each lash for a full, voluminous look that won't disappoint.
Eyebrows
Eyebrows are the most defining feature of your face, and to make them look nothing less than perfect, you need a precise brow pencil like the Wet n Wild Micro Brow Pencil that will cost you only $4.79. Available in three shades, the pencil has a tiny tip that helps you draw realistic-looking hair strokes with complete ease.
Lipstick
Lastly, to finish off your look, you will need lipstick, and my favorite affordable option is the Essence This Is Nude Lipstick ($3.99) which comes in 13 varieties ranging from nudes to deep plums. The creamy formula glides on effortlessly and provides full coverage with a semi-matte finish that will last you the entire day.
Closing Thoughts
At the end of this challenge, your wallet will be $49.96 lighter but with enough makeup to create stunning looks for any occasion. I hope this guide helped you find the perfect affordable makeup items so that you can look your best without breaking the bank. Happy shopping!
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