Top 5 Drugstore Makeup Dupes That Beat the High-End Brands
If you’ve ever winced at a $60 foundation or a $50 highlighter, you’re not alone.
 |
| Top 5 Drugstore Makeup Dupes That Beat the High-End Brands |
The beauty world can get expensive fast. But here’s the secret that TikTok, YouTube beauty gurus, and even professional makeup artists have been spilling lately: drugstore makeup is having a major glow-up, and in some cases, it’s actually better than luxury brands.
Whether you’re a college student on a budget, a busy mom looking for quick essentials, or just someone who loves a good deal (don’t we all?), dupes are the holy grail of makeup shopping.
These are products that deliver the same—if not better—results than their pricey counterparts, at a fraction of the cost.
We’ve rounded up the top 5 drugstore makeup dupes that outperform high-end brands.
These picks are loved across TikTok, beauty blogs, and real-world users, and yes—you can grab them at Target, Ulta, CVS, or even Amazon.
1. E.L.F. Halo Glow Liquid Filter vs. Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
High-End: Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter – $49
Dupe: E.L.F. Halo Glow Liquid Filter – $14
Let’s start with a dupe that practically broke the internet.
Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter is a cult favorite for that radiant, glass-skin look.
It’s a highlighter-foundation hybrid that makes you look lit from within. But let’s be real—$49 is a lot for something you use daily.
Enter E.L.F. Halo Glow Liquid Filter.
TikTok blew this one up, with side-by-side comparisons showing almost zero difference.
It's buildable, glowy (not glittery), and can be worn alone, under foundation, or mixed in.
Why it wins:
✔️ Nearly identical finish
✔️ 70% cheaper
✔️ Comes in 12 flexible shades
✔️ Infused with squalane and hyaluronic acid
TikTok loves it: @mikaylanogueira and @glamzillaxo both gave it a stamp of approval—and their reviews never lie.
2. Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl Ink vs. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint
High-End: Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint – $28
Dupe: Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl Ink – $11
Fenty’s Stunna Lip Paint has been iconic ever since Rihanna launched it—it’s bold, long-lasting, and universally flattering. But if you’ve ever tried the Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl Ink, you already know: it’s a total game-changer.
It delivers high-pigment color with a shiny finish that actually stays put.
We’re talking meals, kisses, drinks, and full workdays without needing to reapply.
No cracking, no dryness.
Why it wins:
✔️ Stays shiny for HOURS
✔️ Transfer-proof once set
✔️ Feels light and comfy on lips
✔️ Amazing shade range from nudes to reds
Pro tip: Shake it up before applying—it activates the staying power.
3. Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation vs. Estée Lauder Double Wear
High-End: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place – $48
Dupe: Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 – $11
We all want that flawless, matte-but-not-cakey base.
Estée Lauder Double Wear has long been the gold standard, especially for oily or combo skin. But Milani’s 2-in-1 Foundation + Concealer is giving it a serious run for its money.
It offers medium to full coverage, blends beautifully, and really holds up throughout the day—even in heat and humidity (hello, summer weddings).
Bonus: it’s vegan and cruelty-free.
Why it wins:
✔️ Foundation and concealer in one
✔️ Sweat-proof and transfer-resistant
✔️ 45 shades (and expanding)
✔️ $37 cheaper than Estée Lauder
YouTube tip: Watch @AllieGlines’ side-by-side comparison—it’s wild how similar the finishes are.
4. Wet n Wild Photofocus Setting Spray vs. Urban Decay All Nighter
High-End: Urban Decay All Nighter – $36
Dupe: Wet n Wild Photofocus Natural Finish Setting Spray – $5.99
Urban Decay’s All Nighter Setting Spray is beloved for locking in makeup all day and night.
But the Wet n Wild Photofocus Setting Spray has become a solid dupe—without the $36 price tag.
It keeps makeup in place, helps control oil, and gives a nice soft-matte finish.
Plus, the sprayer is surprisingly good—no blotchy mist here.
Why it wins:
✔️ Sets makeup for 6-8 hours
✔️ No sticky feel
✔️ Lightweight and non-comedogenic
✔️ Great for sensitive skin
Fun fact: Many MUAs (makeup artists) keep this in their pro kits for affordable bridal looks.
5. NYX Brow Glue vs. Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter
High-End: Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter – $28
Dupe: NYX The Brow Glue – $8
Fluffy, laminated-looking brows are still going strong in 2025.
And while Benefit’s 24-HR Brow Setter gives amazing hold, NYX Brow Glue is almost identical—for less than a third of the price.
It’s clear, non-flaky, and truly keeps brows up all day—even stubborn, straight brow hairs.
Whether you’re doing full glam or a clean-girl aesthetic, this brow gel is a lifesaver.
Why it wins:
✔️ Dries down without crunch
✔️ Works on thick or sparse brows
✔️ TikTok-viral for a reason
✔️ Cute tiny tube = perfect for on-the-go
Hack: Use a spoolie to brush up brows after applying for a feathered, laminated effect.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Sleep on Drugstore Makeup
Once upon a time, drugstore makeup had a bad rep—chalky powders, weird undertones, and no staying power.
But now? It’s 2025, and drugstore beauty is killing the game.
These 5 dupes prove you don’t have to spend a fortune to get flawless makeup.
Whether you’re just getting into beauty or you’re a seasoned makeup lover, these wallet-friendly alternatives give you high-end vibes with low-end prices.
And hey, if TikTok’s biggest influencers and pro MUAs are reaching for these products—you know they’re legit.
Where to Shop
All of these dupes are available at:
🛒 Target
🛒 Walmart
🛒 CVS / Walgreens
🛒 Ulta Beauty
🛒 Amazon (if you want it like yesterday)
Pro tip: Use apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, or store loyalty cards to save even more.
Let’s Chat: Have You Tried These Dupes?
We want to hear from you! Have you used any of these drugstore gems? Got a holy grail dupe we missed? Drop your favorites in the comments, or tag us on TikTok or Instagram at @StayTuned4Ever 💄💬
