Every Malaysian twenty-something make-up enthusiast knows how expensive their makeup addiction can be. Let’s face it, none of us have the moolah to spend entirely on high-end makeups.
In the States, high-end makeup can be bought at 15 to 30 dollars – which is pricey, but not totally unreasonable, but over here, one high-end highlighter can run up to almost RM200 a pop!
Thus, if you were deciding to eat for a month or get that new Kat Von D collection instead, we’re here to tell you, you don’t have to starve to death. Here’s a guide at maximizing your savings without curtailing your beauty addiction. Scroll down to see all the best dupes for a fraction of the price!
1. Best dupe for Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge: The Blending Pearl by Breena Beauty
The Blending Pearl is nearly identical to Rihanna’s new blending sponge – especially the size, texture and baby pink tone. One small con: the Blending Pearl needs about 1 minute to sit before it can be used to blend. BUT! With a price that’s 40 bucks lesser yet performs perfectly, who cares about the extra 60 seconds?
2. Best Kylie Jenner Dirty Pink dupe: Teddy by Breenabeauty
Kylie Lip Kits are only available in Malaysia through resellers, and the prices range between Rm110 and RM180. The Breena Beauty Lip Kits? They only costs RM39. What an absolute steal, wey
In terms of long lasting colour, both are on par – and that’s amazing, especially when you look at the price range. Probably the only con for this dupe is that too much of the product gets on the wand stick, but you can do what I do – Swipe it at your cheeks for a long lasting cheek tint that matches your lips perfectly!
3. Best Estee Lauder Double Wear Cushion BB dupe: L’Oreal Paris BB Cushion
Fun fact: Lóreal is under Estee Lauder, so their formulas are literally the same. So what you’re getting is essentially a a high end product at a drugstore price.
4. Best Nars creamy concealer dupe: Maybelline’s Fit Me Concealer
The Nars concealer will always be on the top of the list for all beauty enthusiasts, but if the price isn’t in the cards for you, then try Maybelline’s Fit Me Concealer. This is basically the drugstore version of the Nars creamy concealer, especially since the formula feels so similar… creamy, lightweight with good coverage. The only key difference between the two is that Maybelline tends to be more sheer – you will need to apply a bit more than usual to get fuller coverage. But hey, at the price of RM27.90, we seriously don’t mind slapping a lil bit more on!
5. Kaleidoscope Rainbow Highlighter dupe: Zhuco Dream Highlighter
Want that luxurious rainbow glow at a fraction of the price? try Zhuco’s Dream Highlighter- it truly does work like a dream. Silky smooth and blendable, the Zhuco Dream highlighter is an essential must have as well as the perfect dupe for nearly ALL the high end and super difficult to get rainbow highlighters.
6. Benefit’s Ka-brow dupe: NYX Pomade
We all want strong, defined eyebrows, and for those lacking in that department, Ka-brow is a total life saver. However, the price is probably going to break your bank, so why not opt for NYX instead? The product is similar, and you’ll still get great brows! Seriously when it comes to ultimate savings, NYX never fails. P.S. NYX fan right here!
7. Benefit’s Benetint dupe: Labiotte Wine Lip Tint
I love Benefit as much as any girl, but really, RM160 for a lip/cheek tint is super uncool. That’s why you should switch it up once in a while and try the Labiotte Wine Lip tint. Just like the Benetint, it’s fast drying, weightless and buildable. The only con is that it’s a bit tacky, but the soft lacquered shine is pretty much identical to the Benetint. The pros? It only costs Rm69 and it comes in a precious little wine bottle. What’s not to love?
So that’s it so far. We know having premier brands in your make-up bag is pretty satisfying, but so is having money in your bank account. At the end of the day, it’s not the brand name that truly matters, it’s how good the product is.
Also read: 11 Secret Hacks to Save Hundreds of Ringgit in SEPHORA