Beauty products that feel expensive, but are actually cheap

BEAUTY editor Carla Gee has tried everything. But there are six products she keeps going back to, and they’re all under $15.

Beauty editor Carla Gee has tried it all, but there are six cheap products she keeps going back to.

HERE’S a truth bomb. Luxurious beauty products can be found at your local supermarket or chemist — and for a fraction of the cost.

I’m a beauty editor, which means that beauty products are my jam. From Chanel to Covergirl, I’ll slather it on with a huge smile on my face.

Unless the product doesn’t work. Especially if it’s an expensive designer product.

That’s just rude! I always think of all the groceries I could have bought instead.

So thank goodness for these cheap beauty products that actually work. They look and feel gorgeous, and you’ll have spare change for a Milky Way at the checkout.

NOTE: I’m not being paid to promote these and this isn’t an advertisement. It’s just my gift of knowledge to you.

Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Hand Cream, $4.39

Decadence for less than five bucks. Picture: Carla Gee

Decadent, moisturising and non-greasy, yet very affordable. It’s an enchanting riddle in a tube. And bonus, it smells like a tropical holiday crossed with that coconut dessert your paleo friend makes.

(PS. Palmer’s also make a Shea Formula Hand Cream that is equally delightful.)

Models Prefer Moisture Lust Lip Tint Matte, $7.99

Carla is wearing Cheery on Top in the picture above. Picture: Carla Gee

These creamy and lingering lip crayons come in six shades that, when purchased all at once, still cost less than one designer lippie. I’m fond of the fuchsia Meringue Kisses and the coral-red Cherry on Top, particularly if my bare face needs a boost of colour.

Cetaphil Moisturising Cream, $14.99

For $14.99 this tub is huge. Picture: Carla Gee

My desert island pick has all the benefits of a body butter — thick, hydrating and smooth — without the cloying Juicy Fruit fragrance, or the expense. On wet legs, a dab of this lotion doubles as a silky shaving cream, so you can moisturise as you shave.

Thankyou Foaming Hand Wash, $5.50

Just try not to be bothered by the grammatically incorrect ‘thankyou’. Picture: Carla Gee

The Botanical Red Ginger and Blood Orange scent, combined with the brown, black and white packaging, seems inspired by the high-end brand, Aesop. And, bonus: all profits go towards water and sanitation services for those in need.

Garnier BB Cream, $13.39

A BB cream is a moisturiser and light foundation in one. Picture: Carla Gee

I’ve tried BB creams for budgets ranging from Mariah Carey to, well, me, and Garnier BB Cream still hits all the high notes. The dewy, liquid texture and mineral pigments create an instantly improved complexion. The SPF 15 is a must, and surprisingly absent from many pricier brands.

Kmart False Lashes, $4.50

Candice and Carrie here we come.

Like everything at Kmart, these lashes have a designer look, but without the posh price tag. And with a well-placed wink, maybe these lashes could score you free drinks, too. Anything for a bargain, right?

Carla Gee is a Sydney beauty editor, writer, illustrator and podcaster. Find her on Instagram and Facebook.