I was doom-scrolling Instagram at 2 a.m. when I saw a makeup artist doing Zendaya’s makeup—and she casually reached for a $7 drugstore primer. Wait, what? These are the pros with access to every high-end product imaginable, and they’re using… Maybelline?
Turns out, celebrity makeup artists have been quietly relying on drugstore products all along. Here’s what I uncovered.
The $4 Mascara That Lives in Every Pro Kit
Expensive mascaras aren’t always better. Mario Dedivanovic, Kim Kardashian’s makeup artist, uses L’Oréal Voluminous (around $5.99) in his kit. Wet enough to build, non-clumpy, and flake-free under hot lights.
Other pros love Maybelline Sky High. Drugstore formulas now rival—or even outperform—luxury mascaras.
The Concealer Trick They Use
Under-eye magic comes from Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer ($7–8). Professionals apply it in a triangle under the eye, blend with a damp sponge, and set lightly with powder. No creasing, full coverage, and a natural look under studio lighting.
The Foundation Base Nobody Talks About
Celebrity skin often starts with NYX Angel Veil Primer ($16) or The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer ($4.90). These primers smooth pores, improve foundation glide, and last all day without heaviness.
The Blush That Photographs Like a Dream
Pros prefer Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso ($9). Matte formulas prevent flash reflection and blend seamlessly on all skin tones—perfect for photography. Expensive blushes often fail in this regard.
The Lip Combo Everyone’s Copying
Create high-end lip looks using drugstore products:
- NYX Slim Lip Pencil to line and fill ($3.50)
- Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink for color ($9.99)
- Clear gloss in the center for dimension
The result: long-lasting, vibrant lips that survive eating, drinking, and kissing.
The Setting Spray Secret
Forget $38 sprays—NYX Setting Spray ($8) works just as well. Application matters: spray 8–10 inches away, in an X and T pattern, and let it dry fully. Makeup stays flawless for 12+ hours.
Drugstore vs. High-End
Drugstore excels at mascaras, eyeliners, lip products, primers, and setting sprays. High-end is sometimes better for foundation shades, certain eyeshadows, and high-concentration skincare. Many luxury and drugstore brands share the same parent companies and formulas, so price isn’t always an indicator of quality.
Pro Drugstore Kit Under $62
Here’s my kit based on celebrity artist recommendations:
- L’Oréal Voluminous Mascara ($5.99)
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer ($7.98)
- NYX Angel Veil Primer ($16)
- Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso ($8.99)
- Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink ($9.99)
- NYX Setting Spray ($7.99)
- Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighter ($4.99)
Total: ~$62 for a full face used by pro makeup artists.
The One Thing That Matters Most: Skincare
Skincare is the canvas. Celeb makeup artists recommend investing in cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen first—makeup only enhances healthy skin.
What I’m Doing Differently Now
I shop smarter, focusing on products pros actually use. About 70% of my everyday makeup is drugstore, yet my face looks as good—or better—than with luxury products. No stress about using items sparingly, and huge savings.
Bottom Line
Celebrity makeup artists prove that effective, professional-looking makeup doesn’t require expensive products. Many of their go-to items are drugstore, under $15, and widely available. Focus on what works for your skin and your lifestyle, and save your money for skincare—the foundation for every flawless look.
Trust the pros—they’re shopping at CVS just like the rest of us.