Best Drugstore Beauty Products of 2016

2016 was a whirlwind year, but if there’s one thing I can say for sure, it is that the drugstore makeup was very impressive this year! As you all know, I’m a huge drugstore makeup fan, and for the most part about 75% of my collection is drugstore. I mean if you can get great quality products for a low price, why not? So today I’m sharing my 10 favorite drugstore beauty products for 2016.

Best Drugstore Beauty Products of 2016

Wet n’ Wild Megaglo Illuminating Palette– Forget paying $50 or more for a highlighting palette when you can get this one for $5 and it works amazing! Each shade is gorgeous and whether you’re looking to add a little bit of sparkle or a bronzed glowy look on the cheeks, it looks beautiful either way. Check out the full review over here with swatches.

Wet n’ Wild Megaglow Contouring Palette– I’m not joking when I say I use this palette on a daily basis for contouring. The contour shade is the perfect matte tone and the highlight shade works nicely as a setting powder. Again, at $5 you can’t beat it! I went through 3 of these puppies in 2016, so you could definitely say I’m a fan. Full review over here.

NYX Gotcha Covered Concealer– I just started using this a few months ago, but I always notice a difference in photos when I’m wearing this on my undereye area (a good difference). It conceals and brightens and a little bit goes a long way. Full review over here.

elf High Definition Translucent Setting Powder– When it comes to my undereye area, setting it with powder is a must. But because I have dry skin, I need something that isn’t going to make it look cakey which is why I’m in love with this product. Again, I use this on a daily basis and it was reviewed as a monthly favorite back in September.

Garnier Whole Blends Honey Treasures Repairing Mask– It was hard just choosing one favorite hair product for the year, but if I had to choose this Garnier repairing mask would be it. Every time I use it, my hair feels so silky, soft, and moisturized. I definitely recommend it.

Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer– I know you’re probably thinking I’m biased with this product, but seriously it works amazing at locking in that moisture during the winter months. I’ve been using it non-stop lately with the cold weather we’ve been having, and I can honestly say my legs are so smooth. See my full review + DIY with the Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer over here.

Rimmel BB Cream– When I want light/medium coverage for day-to-day wear, I always find myself reaching for this BB cream by Rimmel. I’ve also heard nothing but great things about the matte version of this too, and it was a beauty favorite of mine back in February.

Covergirl Lash Blast Supersizer Mascara– If you’re looking for a mascara that’s going to give you amazing length and volume at the same time, this mascara is perfect for you! I personally love how the wand is shaped to coat every tiny lash, making my lashes look gorgeous and long.

NYX Liquid Suede Lip Cream– I’ve really grown to love and prefer matte lip creams here lately, and this one is the best in its class. It glides on effortlessly and within just a few seconds it dries to a beautiful matte finish that is built to last.

Jordana Matte Lipstick– Last but certainly not least is my favorite lipstick brand of the year. Jordana matte lipsticks are amazing quality and they seriously last all day long. If you follow me on Instagram, 9 times out of 10 a Jordana lipstick is what I’m rocking in my photos.


Have you tried any of these awesome products yet?! If not, what are you waiting for? You can shop all my faves below!

Hope you  have an awesome week beauties! Thanks for stopping by!- Cara

Leave a Comment

 

112 Comments

  1. Claudia @ Justalittleblush.com wrote:

    How is it possible that I only have 1 of the items on this list? The horror!

    I use the Laura Mercier Secret Brightening powder for the undereye area. I love it but everytime I use it I remind myself I spent $38 on powder for my eyes haha. Once I’m out will have to try the elf.

    Posted 1.10.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      OH no! You’ll have to try some of these out! haha and yes the elf powder is awesome! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.14.17 Reply
  2. Lexi wrote:

    I love the NYX liquid suede! It’s seriously my favorite. I’ve been using Jergens Wet Skin since your last post and it’s been a game changer!

    Posted 1.7.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Aw yay! I love to hear when my readers find products that work for them! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.14.17 Reply
  3. Jennifer wrote:

    Thanks for sharing Cara! I’m always in search of a good moisturizer for the winter months around here especially. I will need to try the Jergens.

    Posted 1.6.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I think you’ll like it, Jennifer! They have several different scents to choose from too!

      Posted 1.14.17 Reply
  4. Sarah @ Bows & Clothes wrote:

    All of these products look so great! I need a new concealer, so I might try this one. Thanks for sharing!

    Sarah
    Bows & Clothes

    Posted 1.6.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      You’re welcome Sarah!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  5. Chelsea Pearl wrote:

    That Wet N Wild contouring duo has been on my list forever. Definitely need to buy it now! It’s an amazing bargain.

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      It has the best pigmentation too! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  6. Krysta Lynn wrote:

    I don’t know what I would do without my wet skin moisturizer! I can’t, for the life of me, remember to put moisturizer on 5 minutes after I get out of the shower. Being able to put this stuff on when I’m still wet is a dream. I also hate how moisturizer typically feels on your skin.

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      That’s why I love mine too! Plus nobody has the time to wait for lotion to dry for 5 minutes lol.

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  7. Nadine wrote:

    I love the Rimmel BB Cream and the Garnier Whole Blends!! I have the honey one and the cranberry one and they are both so good!

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Oh there’s a cranberry one?! Must try that one out!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  8. Tanya Dufour wrote:

    Great picks! Back when I first started my blog I was a huge high end makeup snob. But as time went on I have purchased more and more drugstore makeup. I still like SOME high end things but I MOSTLY wear drugstore too! Love the WnW Contour Kit and Highlight Kit and the Rimmel BB Cream.

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Yay! Don’t get me wrong there are certain items I won’t buy in drugstore like eyeshadow palettes, but the way I see it is if you can find something for $10 that works awesome, why not choose it over something that is the same thing for $87 lol. It just makes logical sense. šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  9. Erica @ Coming Up Roses wrote:

    I 100% agree on the Covergirl Supersizer mascara and Liquid Suede from NYX…both are AMAZING in my book!!!! I’m wearing that mascara today, actually. šŸ™‚

    Coming Up Roses

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Yay! It does an awesome job at lengthening! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  10. Kendra wrote:

    So many good choices here! I definitely want to try the Wet n Wild contour. I like the one I have now but my darker shade is just a tad off so maybe this will be better…and if it’s not its only $5! Thanks! Also, I need to try that lotion. Living in the north in the winter my skin is a messssss! Thank you for the suggestions.

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I think it comes in 3 different shade choices, so hopefully you can find one that works! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  11. Rachel Ritlop wrote:

    I’ll have to try the Jordana matte! I love drug store picks haha the fancy stuff overwhelms/ confuses me!

    Rachel | The Confused Millennial

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      It’s awesome! I pretty much pick up a new shade every time I make a K-mart run lol.

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  12. Kristin Cook wrote:

    Other than a few purchases, I have always used “drug store” brand products. They aren’t as nice, but many products (like or similar to the one’s you’ve picked) still do a great job and I am thankful for that because I just don’t have a big budget for makeup.

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I agree! My big thing is trying to help others understand that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get good quality makeup products that look great! I’m all about sharing my fave products, and glad you found this helpful Kristin! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  13. Hannah wrote:

    I loved reading this! Drugstore brands are really all I ever buy, so when people write posts about these really nice but insanely expensive products I’m always a little put out haha. I’ve never tried any of these but I definitely want to now!

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I know what you mean. Makeup is intimidating enough without adding a $100 or more price tag to it! Glad you loved it!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  14. Erin wrote:

    I love seeing which drugstore products other beauty bloggers are using. This is a great list and there are a few here I’ve been meaning to try! NYX is one of my fave inexpensive brands. Have a great 2017. šŸ™‚
    erin | sandsunandmessybuns.com

    Posted 1.5.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Thanks Erin, you too! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  15. Liz wrote:

    These are all amazing! I actually really love drugstore beauty products. Great round up

    Liz
    http://Www.lizzieinlace.com

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Thank-you Liz!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  16. jessica wrote:

    Great post and I love this one because sometimes I don’t want to spend $25 on mascara!!
    xo, Jessica || The Petite Diaries

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Thank-you! Mascara’s shelf life is so short, I don’t like spending a huge amount on it so I love finding drugstore options! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  17. Lindsay Latimer wrote:

    Love reading about drugstore products! Jasmine and I are working on a drugstore-only face post for Friday. And that Liquid Suede is one of my favorite products ever!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Oh I’ll have to check it out now! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  18. Mary wrote:

    great round up of products, i love a good drugstore product!
    http://www.layersofchic.com

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Thanks! Me too!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  19. Kristin Darhower wrote:

    I may have to try the wet skin moisturizer. I’ve been working my way through a giant bottle of unscented something or other for the last two years ha ha.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Yeah, they’re pretty awesome and I love that they dry so fast on the skin so you’re not waiting for your lotion to dry forever lol (I’m impatient). Plus they come in several different scents!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  20. Claire Melzer wrote:

    Jergens’ brand moisturizers are seriously the best! I use the tinted moisturizer but my skin has never been so smooth. And you can’t beat drug store prices!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I agree, Claire! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  21. Ashleigh wrote:

    I like to mix things up in the beauty depo and every now and every now and then I find some great deals on drug store products! I always seem to go for the BB or CC creams! Thank you for sharing your list, these are all good products!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      You’re welcome! It’s always good to know what’s available at the drugstore! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  22. Cori wrote:

    I have used a few of these products and they really help the budget. No point paying an insane amount of money for something you can buy for under $10!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Exactly! Plus when it’s something I’m not sure whether or not I’ll love, I’d much rather spend $5 than $50. lol

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  23. Alison @ Puppies & Pretties wrote:

    I have been thinking of trying to find a new concealer. I’m going to have to check that NYX one out!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      It has great coverage! Works especially great for under eye circles (The struggle is real over here! haha) šŸ˜‰

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  24. julie wrote:

    I so LOVE that your products are affordable, and what YOU use!!! Your photos are always so pretty, I am going to start using these! Especially the lipstick. I have been looking for a good one!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Aw thank-you! I’m all about finding inexpensive products that work well! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  25. Neely Moldovan wrote:

    The super sizer is my absolute favorite mascara!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      It is the BEST lengthener! Love it!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  26. Kate @ Green Fashionista wrote:

    Awesome round up! I still need to try that wet skin moisturizer, everyone keeps raving about it <3
    Green Fashionista

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      It’s been so amazing here lately with the colder weather!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  27. candy wrote:

    Cara thank goodness you are not a make up snob. So nice to see a person can get great products from local drug store.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Haha I’m absolutely not a makeup snob. I’d much rather buy something at the drugstore! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  28. Jessica Sheppard wrote:

    Thank you! What a fab post. When I run in a drugstore in a hurry, I’m usually overwhelmed with the cosmetic options. It’s so helpful to know some of the best picks. I’ve had great success with NYX and with Elf. So excited to try a few new ones.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      You’re so welcome! Both NYX and elf are awesome! I also swear by Wet n’ Wild products! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  29. Shearly wrote:

    I love all of my NYX products, definitely will try some of the other ones!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      It’s good to try out new brands every now and then! You never know what you might find and love! šŸ˜‰

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  30. Jasmine wrote:

    I’m with you on the Wet’n Wild Contouring palette. I freaking love that palette. So pigmented too.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I know! I originally bought it thinking it wasn’t going to be that great, but man I was wrong! lol

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  31. neha wrote:

    Awesome! Love the NYX concealer too, it’s magic

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      So glad you love it too!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  32. SMD @ Life According to Steph wrote:

    I’m almost out of BB cream, maybe I’ll try Rimmel!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      It’s a definite fave of mine!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  33. Heidi Dee wrote:

    I have been using the NYX Suedes for forever and love them! I will have to check out these other ones though.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      They work amazing!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  34. Sarah @ Foxy's Domestic Side wrote:

    That is my go to mascara too! So how do you use the translucent powder? I bought some a while back and have yet to really use it…so you put your under eye concealer on and then use that setting powder so it stays all day? Do you pat it on or brush it on? Thanks!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I apply my concealer, then I either take my damp beauty blender and dip it in the translucent powder and pat it on the under eye area to “Bake” for a few minutes before brushing off, or if I’m in a hurry I’ll take a small brush dipped in the powder and lightly dab it on in a stippling motion under the eyes. This makes sure I’m not removing any of the concealer product but instead I’m filling in any potential creases. Hope that helps! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  35. Erin | A Welder's Wife wrote:

    I really like NYX products! After reading your thoughts on the Wet n’ Wild Megaglow Contouring Palette, I am going to have to give it a try! I always love your recommendations!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Both the contouring palette and the megaglow palette are amazing! I use them constantly and love how it adds color/glow to my skin! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  36. Lily wrote:

    I see tons of my favorites! I’ve also been using the Jergens moisturizer daily…it’s amazing!
    xo, Lily
    Beauty With Lily

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Yay! It’s the best for combating winter dryness!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  37. Adriana Renee wrote:

    I swear by Rimmel’s BB cream! That is amazing. I always have to get a new tube.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Agreed! I think I’m on my 3rd one right now! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  38. Brittany wrote:

    NYX Liquid Suede was one of my favorite drugstore beauty products from 2016 as well! I have 4 or 5 different shades and I love them all!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I’ve yet to find anything else that beats them! They’re awesome! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  39. Mistle wrote:

    I have not used any of these products before! I have heard great things about the Jergens lotion though. I have been tempted to purchase it. I have also heard good things about the Garnier honey line. I think I’ll have to go purchase these products soon!!!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Normally my skin is just sad in the winter (especially my legs) due to dryness, so the Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer has been amazing. Hope you find some great products! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  40. Rebecca J Vincent wrote:

    I love the entire Whole Honey hair products. I dont care for the other blends in that line – but the honey? YES!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I agree, it’s awesome! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  41. Jamie wrote:

    Love drugstore beauty product roundups! There are some items here I really want to try!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Glad you liked today’s post, Jamie! These products are all faves of mine! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  42. Crystal // Dreams, etc. wrote:

    I’m on the lookout for a new concealer so I’ll have to check out that one from NYX. šŸ™‚ I’m using a Maybelline one right now and I don’t use it much because I can’t stand it.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Oh no! This one works awesome, but I’ll warn you a little of it goes a LONG way, so start out with a little and add more as needed. šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  43. chelsea jacobs wrote:

    NYX seriously killed it this year!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Agreed! They just keep getting better and better!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  44. Sarah Jean Althouse wrote:

    I keep seeing great things about the elf setting powder. Do you just use on eyes or all over? I have very sensitive skin so afraid to try new cosmetics but this one keeps coming up again and again!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I mainly use it under the eyes and a little on the t-zone to keep everything set for the day. I also have sensitive skin and haven’t noticed any issues. Maybe give it a try over a weekend to see if it works for your skin- I love it! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  45. Amber wrote:

    Love, love, love the wet skin moisturizer!! That Jordana Matte looks cute. I’ll have to try that!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      So glad to hear you love the Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer! It’s a definite fave of mine! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  46. Belle wrote:

    I love trying out drugstore products! Great picks!

    Belle | One Awesome Momma

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Thanks Belle!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  47. Kathy Brown wrote:

    Wonderful list. A couple of these products I already use and love. Think I’ll have to try some others on your list as well. I would add oil of olay products to the list. Always been a huge fan of their products.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I haven’t tried any of their products in a long time, but might have to again. Thanks for the recommendation! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  48. Andrea Nine wrote:

    Love posts about drugstore beauty products! You are so good at reviewing them. Love the lash blast and anything Jordana. Happy Wednesday!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Jordana lipsticks are the best!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  49. Helen wrote:

    Oh this is awesome! I’m always trying new make-up so I love finding new products that don’t break the bank.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Glad you enjoyed today’s post! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  50. Lindsay Rosasco wrote:

    So glad to hear about that concealer- I need something new for my under eye area!!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Happy to help! It works wonders for me! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  51. ellesees.net wrote:

    That Jordana matte is one of my faves!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I swear by those lip sticks! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  52. Stephanie J Parrell wrote:

    Great post! Like every gal I enjoy splurging on higher end products every once and a while but it is hard to afford those products for everything. It is nice to have more affordable options. It seems less and less people are leaving these kinds of reviews on blogs. Thanks for the help.

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Thank-you! Like you said, we all can’t buy high end products all the time, so I love being able to find great quality drugstore options. Glad you enjoyed today’s post! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  53. kara knight wrote:

    I love this post! I am not one to spend a lot of money on makeup, so it’s like you wrote this post just for me šŸ™‚ Thanks!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      You’re so welcome! I’m all about great products at a low price! šŸ˜‰

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  54. lesley sullivan wrote:

    Thanks for the post, I am always looking for new products to try! What type of drugstore brushes would you recommend? I am in desperate need of a replacement

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      I really love e.l.f. professional brushes (they have a black handle) or wet n’ wild’s eyeshadow brushes. Both are inexpensive options $1-$3 each and I’ve been using several of them for a couple years now and swear by them! Hope that helps! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  55. Timothy Ferguson wrote:

    Great Post!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Thanks!

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply
  56. Kiara Catanzaro wrote:

    I’ve been meaning to try the granier whole blends range, but I haven’t been able to find it at my local CVS. Hopefully I’ll be able to pick it up to try! Loved reading your favorites, Cara!

    Posted 1.4.17 Reply
    • Kindly Unspoken wrote:

      Thanks Kiara! I actually found mine at Wal-mart, so try there if you still can’t locate it! šŸ™‚

      Posted 1.6.17 Reply