11 of the best budget beauty buys

Lanolips 101 Multipurpose Ointment: Holding 200 times its weight in water and completely natural, the Lanolips formula is iconic for its multi-tasking abilities. Chapped lips? Scaly elbows? Cuticles need some love? This product has you covered.

Neutrogena HYDRO BOOST Mask: With Neutrogena’s new Hydro Boost formula, this sheet mask instantly relieves and hydrates dry skin, as well as locking in the moisture. Complement it with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturiser for supple, happier skin.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Ultra-Light Fluid SPF50+: I have personally spent more money and time than I’d care to admit trying to find an SPF that works under makeup and won’t clog pores, but also does a damn good job of protecting your skin…this sunscreen does all of the above, and won’t set you back more than $30. Plus, as the official sunscreen partner of the Australian Open this year, we’d say it’s pretty good at defending against sun damage too.

BIODERMA Sensibio H2O Micelle Solution: While new and innovative beauty products are great, there is something to be said for products that stand the test of time. The original micellar water, BIODERMA’s formula is gentle on your skin but works to remove makeup and impurities with a single swipe.

Pixi Glow Tonic: Much-loved in the UK, the brand is only recently available in Australia and people are going nuts for it. A chemical exfoliant, that is still gentle on the skin, Pixi Glow Tonic is the addition to your skincare routine you won’t be able to live without (find it at sephora.com.au).

Covergirl Melting Pout Matte: A lightweight matte finish but with serious colour payoff, this lip product won’t break the bank.

Maybelline Fit Me! Foundation: With the option for either dewy or matte finish formulas, this pharmacy foundation has a cult following. Blendable and buildable, Fit Me! also has Maybelline’s largest shade offering. Find the dewy finish here and the matte finish here. 

L’Oreal Paradise Mascara: A good mascara is worth its weight in gold - luckily it doesn’t cost that much. L’Oreal Paradise is relatively new on the mascara scene but it made serious waves in the beauty world, converting luxe mascara addicts left, right and centre (find it at priceline.com.au)

Batiste Dry Shampoo Original: A staple in everyone’s beauty cupboard, a dry shampoo is non-negotiable. After trying everything from budget to high end, Batiste still comes out on top.  

John Frieda Frizz-Ease Forever Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner: Frizz is an issue that affects almost everyone at some point, lucky for you: Frizz-Ease utilises coconut oil in order to penetrate the hair fibre and prevent frizz from the inside out.

Maui Moisture Strength & Anti-Breakage Agave Hair Mask: As important as a regular face mask, a hair mask is crucial to keeping your hair in it’s best shape (especially over summer). With aloe-vera, coconut water, honey and pineapple oil, this mask hydrates and repairs for stronger locks (find it at priceline.com.au).