Buying makeup can get pretty expensive. A Pat McGrath eyeshadow palette can easily cost over $100. While we love it, it can be difficult to keep up with. However, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with low-quality makeup or pressed pigments with hardly any pigment. Getting brand-name makeup at Dollar Tree is easier than you think.
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Check Out The Makeup Aisle
The next time you run errands, run by the Dollar Tree in your area and check out the makeup aisle. You’ll instantly be amazed at all the products available for $1.25. You can find beauty sponges that work, more expensive brands, makeup brands that you would find at Ulta, and more! Granted, you probably shouldn’t buy everything at Dollar Tree, but it’s worth checking out and trying out a few products to see what you should and shouldn’t buy in the Dollar Tree cosmetics aisle.
Every Dollar Tree Is Different
My Dollar Tree never seems to have anything I would normally find in Ulta. However, I’ve seen videos and read articles from people swearing that they are finding $35 eyeshadow palettes for $1.25. You’ll also need to remember that stock at Dollar Tree is rotated out, including cosmetics. They don’t always have a particular lipstick in stock, and once they sell out, it’s likely gone.
Look For The White And Black Package
There are always exceptions, but, for the most part, drugstore brands at my Dollar Tree are usually in a white and black package. It looks plain, but the makeup inside is usually drugstore brand makeup that you’re about to get at a serious discount.
Check The Makeup Itself
Some black and white packages like Revlon will say the brand. However, that’s not always the case. If you don’t see the brand, grab the package and see if you can determine the brand based on the makeup itself. For example, I picked up brown Maybelline lipstick. The packaging did not say Maybelline anywhere on it. However, looking at the bottom of the lipstick tube while still in the package confirmed that it was Maybelline lipstick.
Discontinued Makeup
One thing that you need to keep in mind is that makeup you pick up may be so cheap because it’s been discontinued. For example, you can’t find this Maybelline Carnal Brown color readily available anywhere anymore. Companies can then sell the excess makeup cheaply to places like Dollar Tree to make a little money.
However, just because it’s discontinued doesn’t mean it’s expired. A makeup product usually has a non-opened shelf life of 2-3 years if stored properly. If not stored correctly, it’s more likely to expire sooner.
Signs that your makeup is expired include the makeup separating, not lasting as long, causing burning or irritation after application, not applying as it usually does, and a rancid smell. The rancid smell is particularly common with lip products, such as lipstick.
Personally, I’ve never had a problem with the makeup purchased being expired or causing a reaction. That includes the Carnal Brown lipstick by Maybelline.
Instead, try going by the best-by date that tells you when a product expires after you open it.
Other Ways To Get Cheap Makeup
If you’re looking for ways to get cheap makeup, Dollar Tree is a great place to start, but it’s far from the only trick in the book. There are plenty of ways to get affordable makeup, including brand-name makeup.
The Makeup Deals Section
There’s a section on the homepage of this blog that showcases the best beauty deals. You’ll discover exclusive coupon codes and some of the hottest deals, from discounts for signing up for a newsletter to excellent flash sales that feature entire sites 75% off.
Check Out Amazon
Amazon has sales just like every other site does. You’ll find last-minute discounts, drugstore makeup on sale, and coupons that help you save at the checkout. You can find every brand imaginable on Amazon.
Try Affordable Brands
Speaking of affordable makeup, some brands are notorious for providing amazing dupes and high-quality makeup at prices you can afford. If you’re searching for budget-friendly makeup, check out e.l.f. Cosmetics and NYX. They’re perfect if you want to look amazing without breaking the bank.
Get Crafty
Making your makeup is a fun DIY craft, and you don’t have to go overboard with products to make your makeup. A dab of Vaseline can easily be used as some sheer highlighter or lip gloss, for example. Use the products that you have available to save some extra cash.
Sign Up For A Subscription Box
Subscription boxes like Ipsy and Birchbox have been around for years. Different tiers are available, so you can enjoy sample sizes or get full-size products delivered to your door monthly. The money you save by getting name-brand products through these subscription services is unreal.
Final Thoughts
Enjoying brand-name beauty products doesn’t always have to break the bank. The Dollar Tree can help you save a ton, as can the other tips and tricks to help you save money on makeup. For more awesome advice and need-to-know makeup info, check out the rest of the site!
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