We're all aware that high street brands are inspired by top-end beauty counters. Think back to last year when Estee Lauder released the vibrating mascara, only to be copied by Maybelline this year. We know it happens, and we don't really mind, as it means we're able to try out the latest shades on a budget.
Occasionally though, the budget version actually becomes better than the product it's based upon, and that's when us budget buyers get to feel ultra smug.
Here are the five best budget buys that beat the big brands hands down:
YSL Touche Eclat has long been a staple in women's makeup bags, due to its light reflecting properties and click pen application. Personally it has never convinced me, as though I like the gold tube, I find that the colour seems to sit strangely on my skin, making me look like I have shadows of light.
Collection 2000 Illuminating g Touch may not be as stylish to look at, but the application is incredibly easy (a quick twist of the base of the pen) and provides a creamy consistency on the skin. The colour is easily blendable and mattifies amazingly, diffusing light away from shadows. And it's a sixth of the price. Score!
One of the reasons brand such as MAC and Ilamasqua have such a following is that they produce shades which are very finely milled, and retain their colour. This means what you see in the pot is literally how it appears on your eyes, rather than turning into a light wash. Though both brands excel at creating great products on covetable packaging, prices are a little high for everyday purchases.
Sleek Makeup has created the iDivine palettes which contain delightful shadows, of varying shades. You can choose from neutral tones, smoky and neon (amongst others) and they're just as bright on as in the palette. The pricing for these is extraordinarily low considering the quality, meaning you'd be more than happy to wear these everyday, with MAC being left for special occasions.
I've tried wide variety of eye makeup removers in my time, from the famous Lancome version those cheap pads you buy for 99p in Boots. I tend to wear really heavy eye makeup so need something that's effective but doesn't irritate my eyes. Johnson's eye makeup remover has been a firm staple of years, beating pricier brands hands down.
The Body Shop ethically sources most of their products, so you feel comfortable using their brushes. They're ultra soft, and come in a wide variety of styles, so you can contour and powder to your hearts content. They're really well priced, and unlike some brushes, retain their shape after a wash.
There are a wealth of body butters on the market and it's hard to know where to start looking. With prices ranging from £5 - £500, quality is often associated with the price tag. That misconception needs to be addressed as often pricier products have no better ingredients as most will use paraffin and glycerin as a base and you're paying just for the fancy pot.
This thick body lotion has the most amazing smell (if you like cocoa!) and has a really rich consistency. It smooths easily into the skin, leaving you feeling moisturised and delicious.