My daily makeup routine – a soft makeup look using only drugstore products

Since I shared my vanity table with you all, I thought I’d also show you my daily makeup routine – the quick, effortless look I wear most days. The best part? Every single product I use is affordable, and I’ve included all the links.

There’s this idea that a flawless makeup look requires high-end products, but I completely disagree. Drugstore brands have come a long way and you can achieve a soft, everyday glam without spending a fortune.

Oh, and a little controversial opinion – I don’t use a primer. I’ve tried many over the years but they’ve never made a noticeable difference for me. Instead, I focus on hydrated skin and setting my makeup well for long-lasting wear.

So, let’s get into it.

1. Foundation – L’Oreal True Match (9.R/9.C Deep Cool)

I start with my base, and L’Oreal True Match has been my go-to for years. It blends beautifully, has a natural skin-like finish and feels lightweight while still offering great coverage. I apply it with my Maange brush set, buffing it in for a seamless look. Get it here.

2. Concealer – Elf Hydrating Camo Concealer (deep chestnut)

For under my eyes, I use Elf’s Hydrating Camo Concealer because it’s creamy, doesn’t settle into fine lines, and brightens my face beautifully. A little goes a long way, so I apply a small amount and blend it for a smooth finish. Get it here.

3. Contour – L’Oreal True Match Foundation (12N Neutral Undertone)

Instead of using a traditional contour product, I go for a deeper shade of foundation – L’Oreal True Match in 12N. It’s the perfect shade to sculpt my face without looking muddy. I blend it along my cheekbones, jawline, sides of my nose and forehead for subtle definition. Get it here.

4. Eyebrows – Maybelline soft khol eyeliner pencil

I use a dark brown pencil to draw my eyebrows and although I’ve linked the Maybelline one (which is quite soft), you can use any brand of eyeliner pencil.

5. First set – Elf ‘Makeup Mist & Set’ Setting Spray

Before moving on, I lock everything in with the Elf setting spray. This step melts the foundation and concealer into my skin, preventing that heavy, powdery look later. Get yours here.

6. Brighten – Sacha Buttercup Setting Powder

To highlight my under eyes, I lightly dust Sacha Buttercup setting powder in those areas. It brightens without looking ashy and keeps my concealer in place all day. You’re better off buying this one on the high street rather than online. It seems like thr product is being discontinued and so the only remaining few online have tripled in price.

6. Set the face – L’Oreal Infallible Powder Foundation (Deep Amber)

I powder my entire face with L’Oreal Infallible powder foundation to ensure a long-lasting, matte (but not flat) finish. This powder is amazing because it adds a little extra coverage without feeling cakey. Get it here.

8. Blush – Elf Putty Blush (Caribbean)

For a soft, flushed look, I dab a little bit of Elf Putty Blush on my cheekbones. It’s creamy, easy to blend, and gives a healthy, natural glow that lasts all day. Get yours here.

9. Eyeliner – Elf Expert Liquid Eyeliner

A quick swipe of Elf’s Expert Liquid Eyeliner on my eyelids adds subtle definition. It’s ultra-black, precise, and doesn’t smudge throughout the day. Get it here.

10. Second Set – Elf ‘Makeup Mist & Set’ Setting Spray

Yes, I spray again. This second misting locks everything in place, making sure my makeup lasts without touch-ups. Buy yours here.

11. Mascara – Collection Fast Stroke Mascara (17 Ultra Black)

I finish my eyes with Collection Fast Stroke Mascara, a super affordable mascara that lengthens and volumizes my lashes without clumping. Get it here.

12. Lips – Jones Road Cool Gloss (Boysenberry)

For my lips, I swipe on Jones Road Cool Gloss in Boysenberry. It’s the perfect hint of color – hydrating, glossy, and not too sticky. Unfortunately I cannot find the link for this shade but if you visit the Liberty site you’ll find other shades.

This entire routine takes me about 10-15 minutes and it gives me a soft, everyday makeup look without the need for expensive products. Most of these are available on Amazon.

My makeup brush set

This is a great and affordable makeup brush set. Get it here.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly makeup that actually works, these products are worth trying. Let me know – what are your go-to drugstore products?