There’s something deeply nostalgic about wandering the aisles of the local drugstore in search of a new beauty staple, but the drugstores of our youth are long gone (and that’s a good thing). Drugstores have had a serious makeover in recent years, and they’ve become a first-class beauty shopping destination in their own right. The gritty exfoliators, sticky glosses and chalky powders of years past have been replaced by surprisingly luxurious products made from top-notch ingredients, and it just keeps getting better.
From tried-and-true favourites to brand new picks, these are the best makeup, skincare and haircare products $10 can buy.
At just $5, this cult favourite is the definition of a bargain. The tapered brush allows for ultra-precise application and buildable volume, while the waterproof formula lasts all day without smudging or flaking.
$5, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Perfect for dehydrated skin, this nourishing foundation blurs imperfections without settling into fine lines or dry patches.
$9, wetnwildbeauty.com.
If you're missing your regular appointments with your hairstylist, this gentle at-home scalp treatment is the next best thing. It makes quick work of product build-up and contains peppermint oil to leave your scalp feeling refreshed.
$4, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
This heavy-duty micellar solution acts like a magnet to remove even the most stubborn makeup—your fave waterproof mascara doesn't stand a chance.
$9, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Packed with rich shea butter to soothe and hydrate cracked hands, this cream is a must-have for sandpaper paws. It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue behind, and the subtle orange blossom and pistachio scent is the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
$7, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Beloved by hairstylists, celebrities and beauty editors, Batiste Dry Shampoo revitalizes limp, greasy hair by soaking up oils. To give your morning routine a springtime refresh, snap up the new "Wildflower" scent.
$10, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Thanks to a quick-dry formula that's ready to go in under a minute—and a foolproof angled brush that allows for ultra-precise application—Essie's newest range is already a huge hit. Take your pick from 30 on-trend colours, ranging from "Taxi Hopping" (a ’70s-inspired chartreuse hue) to "Breaking the Bold" (a vampy dark purple shade).
$10, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
This richly pigmented lip crayon is infused with hydrating rose water to soothe chapped lips. Despite its glossy finish, it boasts serious staying power and minimal colour transfer.
$8 on sale, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
This affordable sheet mask is packed with vitamin C to boost radiance and help reduce the appearance of dark spots over time.
$4, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Wet n Wild's Icon 10 palettes each contain 10 buttery matte and shimmer shades that are designed to work together. Bonus: Several are dupes for raved-about luxury palettes.
$7, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Sure, you could splurge on one of those fancy vibrating silicone cleansing brushes, but this textured pad works just as well and costs a whole lot less. Just add a dollop of cleanser and you're set.
$6, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Infused with vitamin B5 to nourish and lipids to strengthen hair and restore moisture, this in-shower treatment helps repair strands that have been damaged by heat styling and colouring.
$5 for 3, walmart.ca.
The slanted tip on this lip liner makes it incredibly precise and easy to use. Plus, the "East End Snob" hue is a close dupe for a much pricier lip liner beloved by the beauty community.
$8, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
This creamy concealer is lightweight, but packs enough pigment to make dark circles disappear.
$10, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
This diamond-shape bullet—which closely resembles YSL Beauty's Rouge Pur Couture The Slim lipstick—allows for precise application and more voluminous-looking lips.
$10, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
When it comes to makeup application, nothing beats a good, fluffy brush. This option—created by British makeup artists and YouTube superstars Sam and Nic Chapman—is just the right size to apply highlighter or set your concealer.
$9, well.ca.
A light dusting of this highly pigmented powder blush is enough to give your complexion a lift. It's available in six matte and shimmer shades, so you're sure to find your perfect match.
$8, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
At just $2, this eyebrow pencil is a real bargain. “[The] is a great universal shade; it even works for dark-haired gals who want a full brow effect while avoiding the overly dark and angry look,” says makeup artist Susana Hong.
$2, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
It's a classic for a reason! Revlon's iconic lipstick is ultra-moisturizing and comes in all the shades you remember from the ’90s, like "Toast of New York" and "Cherries in the Snow."
$10, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Great for your gym bag and those nights when you just don't have the energy to actually wash your face, these gentle wipes are suitable for even the most sensitive types.
$9, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Editor’s note
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