While I think I can safely say that we'd all love to have a beauty budget of unlimited funds, the chances of such a dream happening is slim to none. So, the question is- which beauty products should you invest in and which ones can you pick up at a drug store for a fabulous bargain? ChickAdvisor had the opportunity to chat with make up artist Paul Venoit and we asked him this very question. He gave us some great insight into what pieces are worth the extra dollars and what products we can save a few bucks on (perhaps to put towards that pair of pumps you've been eyeing?).

Splurge: Foundations 
Paul suggests splurging on foundations and concealers because of the variety of skin tone colours that come in more expensive brands. Because coverage should be a priority when purchasing foundations, Paul told us that a good foundation is worth the extra bucks because coverage is often better with more expensive brands. 


Try these: Nars Sheer Matte Foundation (US$42.00), Makeup Forever HD Invisible Cover Foundation (US$40.00), MAC Studio Fix Fluid with SPF 15 (C$31.00) 
 
Save: Mascara 
I once heard, 'Mascara is mascara is mascara'. Meaning, one mascara is often very similar to another, especially in formula. While Paul loves the more expensive brands of mascara, it isn't necessary to purchase them to achieve a similar look! 


Try these: L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Mascara (C$9.29), Maybelline Great Lash Mascara (C$5.99), CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara (C$6.54)

Splurge: Powders 
Make up should always enhance your features- not cover or change them. A bad powder can look caked on and can clog up those pores. Splurge on a good quality powder to avoid the 'tanned mask' look and try mineral powders to let your skin breathe!


Try these: Makeup Forever HD Microfinish Powder (US$30.00), Benefit Hello Flawless! Custom Powder Cover Up (US$34.99), MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation (C$31.00)
 
Save: Lipgloss 
I don't know about you but I am constantly losing my lip glosses! After losing my millionth one, I decided to never splurge on lip glosses again, so I was glad to hear that Paul was on my side for this one. Lip glosses are definite "save-on" because there isn't much difference in the way an inexpensive gloss looks compared with an expensive one. 


Try these: Rimmel London Vinyl Lip Gloss (C$6.49), CoverGirl Wetslicks Fruit Spritzers (US$4.99), Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Lip Gloss (US$5.00)

Do you have a favourite bargain beauty buy? Let us know what it is!