Brilliant budget foundations

There are a lot of things in this world that get me really excited (what can I say? I’m a simple gal), but nothing gives me a natural high more than 1) a really good cheese platter, and 2) make-up that’s as brilliant as it is kind to my savings account.
Now while some of you may not agree with me on the whole cheese platter front (which is just ridiculous), I have a sneaking suspicion that you can whole-heartedly agree on the whole beauty bargain thing.
Which is why I present you with some of the best budget foundations around – none of which will cost you more than a red-hot 20.
MODE 2 IN 1 FOUNDATION AND CONCEALER, $2.45
Whether you use this pigment and blemish concealing stick as a foundation, concealer or both, you’re going to be stoked with the results. Plus, the handy packaging makes it easy to take with you anywhere you go.
LACURA LIQUID FOUNDATION, $4.99
Not only does this moisturising foundation leave your skin looking flawless and shine-free, but it’s also only $4.99. Which means that you can now buy that expensive punnet of blueberries you’ve been eyeing.
ESSENCE ALL ABOUT MATT! OIL-FREE MAKE-UP, $5.95
Not only will this oil-free formula not block your pores, but it’ll leave your skin with a gloriously smooth and matte finish, too. Want more? That flawless finish will last for up to 12 hours.
FACE OF AUSTRALIA LASTING LOOKS NATURAL FOUNDATION SPF15, $11.95
For $11.95, you can guarantee yourself an even skin tone, a natural matte finish, and sun protection. Plus, this nourishing foundation will ensure that pretty little face of yours is covered all day long.
AUSTRALIS FRESH & FLAWLESS MAKE-UP, $12.95
This is your go-to foundation if you’re looking for medium-to-full coverage that’s water resistant. Added bonus: vitamin E in the formula works to moisturise and soften your skin.
NYX COSMETICS STAY MATTE BUT NOT FLAT LIQUID FOUNDATION, $14.95
Thankfully you’re not paying per letter of this foundation’s name! This budget-friendly bad boy features an oil-free, water-based formula that’ll gives you lightweight, full coverage that’ll last from sunrise to sunset.
RIMMEL LONDON LASTING FINISH FOUNDATION, $17.95
Hate it when your foundation ends up everywhere but your face? Transfer-resistant technology in this long-lasting foundation means that it won’t rub or fade. Hooray to your white shirts staying white!
NATIO NATURAL SKIN FOUNDATION, $18.95
If you prefer a foundation that provides sheer coverage while giving your skin a beautiful natural glow, then this is bound to be your new staple. You’ll also love how easily the formula glides onto your skin.
COVERGIRL OUTLAST STAY FABULOUS 3-IN-1 FOUNDATION, $19.95
What’s better than getting an affordable beauty product that works? Getting three affordable beauty products for the price of one, that’s what. Although this looks like a simple foundation, it works as a primer and concealer, too. Win!
DESIGNER BRANDS NATURAL GROUND MINERALS FOUNDATION, $19.99
If you prefer a powder foundation, then this talc-, bismuth-, fragrance-, paraben-, and oil-free base is perfect for you. It’ll leave your skin looking gorgeously radiant while helping to reduce the visible signs of ageing.
What’s your favourite foundation under $20? What’s the best foundation bargain you’ve come across?
Have you tried any of the products mentioned above?
Review them now to earn points that you can swap for free beauty products in RewardsRoom.
188 Member Comments
I got the DB mineral foundation from Beautorium, can't wait to try it!
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Interesting! Never tried these before, my HG is the Covergirl one - very cheap too!
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Essence has a mousse foundation which is just as nice!
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I got to try the stay matte but not flat if its really long lasting :)
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Are these products that have been reviewed or are they just cheap ones the author found?
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amazing beauty budget buys!
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Don't get me wrong, I'm all for a bargain. But I have very problematic skin when I don't use good products on it. I developed acne from using a $15 foundation and it took over 2 years on medication to clear. Now I'm super careful about the ingredients in my products, and expiry dates and such. Does anyone else have this problem?
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Never tried any of these, But Essence and NYX looks great
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I've used a revlon foundation before but didn't like it. Haven't used any of the others.
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I like Rimmel's coverstick for a cheap concealer/foundation. I also adore Garnier's BB Cream. They work well together and suit my fair skin tone. :)
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I like Maybelline FiT me but I think my skin doesn't like it anymore.
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Can't believe i haven't tried any of these! What is wrong with me?! Must go shopping! :D
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The Lacura looks very nice
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I don't really like cheaper foundations on my skin. However I do like Bourjois as my quick go to xox
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I can't say I have any foundations under $20 that I like. I personally believe the base is the most important part of your makeup so I have no problem splurging on foundation.
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great prices, who needs to spend a fortune on a foundation, thanks once again Beauties:))
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I love love love the rimmel colour stay compressed powder
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I love love love the rimmel colour stay compressed powder
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WOW!!! So many great sounding foundations!!! All very affordable too. The essence matte foundation sounds perfect for my oily skin. I will have to give this one a try :)
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I am a sucker for Rimmel Londons Lasting Finish Foundation.
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Thanks for including WATER-BASED foundations for my oily, problem skin. I will try NYX and Natio. If the product washes off my fingers under the water tap, then Excellent results for me and my face break-outs. I've spent Thousands of dollars on foundation mistakes.
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I've never placed price as such an issue when looking for foundation cause it is such an important product. Best bargain I found was the bourjois healthy mix foundation for around $13 cause it was on sale at asos, so much better than going to priceline and paying like $30. Although I probably wouldn't try any of these, I wouldn't mind trying cheaper options for primer and BB cream, eg. Australis primer and Natio BB cream which are both cheap and have very positive reviews.
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Yes! More budget friendly articles
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Does anyone know where you can by NYX?
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