Best beauty bang for your buck

Are you looking for affordable, effective beauty products that are tried and true? We have compiled a list of the best cosmetics, skincare products, nail polish and haircare products. If you are looking to get your money's worth on beauty products, here's a list of the 35 best choices.

With the current state of the economy, a big factor in picking the products was "bang for your buck." Therefore, most of these beauty products are inexpensive and many of them you can find at your neighborhood drugstore. Whether you are looking for makeup, skincare products, nail polish or haircare items, you can find it here on the list of the top 35 beauty products.

Cosmetics

Best primer

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer is top-notch. It creates a smooth, silky texture that allows your foundation to glide on. Photo Finish diminishes the look of pores and fine lines, reduces oils and makes makeup up lasts longer. It contains vitamins and antioxidants so it's actually good for your skin.

Best concealer

NOC-Out Cover-Up Compact is more than just a concealer. It features three different products in one convenient compact - one combats redness/blemishes, one covers dark spots and one hides under eye circles. Apply with a sponge or brush for flawless coverage. You can get it online for DermStore or as part of the Beauty Fix package, which is a sampling program that allows you to try new beauty products without breaking the bank.

Best foundation

For liquid foundation, you can't go wrong with anything from Chanel. However, the best inexpensive foundation in my opinion is Superfit Makeup from Clinque. It controls oil, wicks away sweat and lasts all day long. If you like powder foundation instead, MAC Studio Fix is a fantastic choice.

Best loose powder

Laura Mercier Loose Translucent Powder offers a truly flawless finish. It's light, never cakes and leaves your skin looking and feeling beautiful. Keep in mind, this isn't an oil control powder.

Best bronzer

If you want to get that sun-kissed look without the damaging effects of the sun, turn to Jane Iredale So Bronze. It gives you a natural glow that never looks fake. It can also be used as a shimmery eye shadow.

Best eyeshadow

Speaking of eye shadow, L’Oreal HIP eyeshadow is a terrific choice. HIP stands for high intensity pigments. The colors are rich and vibrant. They go on smooth and evenly. Plus, you can't beat the price at around $7. If you prefer a cream shadow, Clinique Quick Eyes comes in a lip gloss-like wand for easy application and color that lasts.

Best lip balm

Burt's Bees Beeswax lip balm is perfect to keep your lips hydrated and smooth. It's natural, not greasy and not animal tested. It uses great ingredients like lanolin, coconut oil, sunflower oil and beeswax. Plus it's cheap!

Best eyeliner

There are so many eyeliners to choose from - pencils, pens, liquids and gels. If you are looking for something that lasts and lasts, get Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner. Apply the eyeliner from the little pot using a fine brush. It glides on smooth and dries quickly, staying on all day (and night) until you take it off.

Best mascara

Sephora Triple Action Mascara is a lengthening, curling and thickening mascara that maximizes the look of your lashes with one stroke. It's only $14 at Sephora and a waterproof version is also available.

Best blush

Nars Powder Blush cheek color comes in twelve shades. A favorite is Zen, which is a neutral, sheer brown that can be used as a blush or contouring powder. It's a light, natural color that works well on most skintones.

Best lipstick

For a long-lasting, smooth lipstick, try Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Silky-Sensual Lipstick SPF 15. This rich lipstick features dense pigments but it doesn't feel heavy. Priced at $34, it comes in array of shades from Nude Beige to Red Taboo. The SPF 15 is another big plus. For a drug store lipstick, Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick is a fantastic option. The silky rich colors are luscious and beautiful.

Best lip gloss

If you are trying to find a lip gloss that is shiny but not sticky, check out Clinique Superbalm Moisturizing Lip Gloss. It comes in 12 hydrating shades and contains antioxidants to protect your lips. Priced at $13.50, you can purchase it online or at your local Clinique counter.